Creatures of Habit: Why Changing Your Spot in Yoga Class Could Change Your Perspective
Have you ever walked into your favorite yoga class, scanned the room, and instinctively made a beeline for your spot?
Maybe it’s in the back corner where you feel safe, or near the window for a bit of extra light. You settle in, roll out your mat, and breathe a sigh of relief—things feel just right.
But what happens when someone else is in your usual place?
If you’ve ever felt a moment of frustration, surprise, or even panic, you’re not alone.
As humans, we are creatures of habit. Our brains love routine because it creates a sense of security and predictability. In many ways, habits help us conserve energy, making daily decisions easier and more automatic. But when we always do things the same way—especially something as simple as picking the same spot in a yoga class—we can unintentionally limit ourselves.
The Comfort of Routine
There’s nothing wrong with having preferences. Seeking comfort in familiarity is a natural part of being human. It’s why we tend to order the same drink at our favorite coffee shop, take the same route to work, or stand in the same checkout line at the grocery store. These small habits create a sense of control in an often unpredictable world.
But what if shaking things up could bring something new into your practice—something you didn’t even realize you needed?
A New Spot, A New Perspective
In yoga, we talk a lot about perspective, both physically and mentally. The way we see ourselves, the way we see the world, and even the way we see our own reflection in the mirror are all influenced by where we position ourselves—literally and figuratively. By choosing a different place in the room, you might:
See your teacher from a new angle. A small shift can change the way you follow cues, making you more engaged in the present moment.
Notice different sensations. The temperature, the lighting, even the sounds of the room may feel different, helping you build awareness.
Connect with new people. It’s easy to stay in our comfort zones, but sitting in a different part of the room might introduce you to someone new.
Challenge your attachment to routine. Yoga is about flexibility—physically, mentally, and emotionally. Letting go of “your spot” is a small but meaningful way to practice non-attachment.
An Invitation to Shift
If you’ve been practicing in the same place week after week, consider this your gentle nudge to switch things up. Maybe next class, you move one row forward, or try the opposite side of the room. Notice how it feels. Does it bring up discomfort? Curiosity? A sense of openness? Whatever comes up, observe it without judgment—just as you would in any other part of your practice.
Yoga teaches us to be present, adaptable, and open to change. Something as simple as moving your mat could be the first step in shifting your mindset. So the next time you walk into class, take a deep breath, look around, and see if a new perspective is waiting for you.