To All College Graduates: a Letter From Your Yoga Mat

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Hey there,

It’s me— your yoga mat. I sit under you as a quiet source of comfort and confidence, always there for your needs. No matter how angry, sad, or frustrated you are, you can step onto me and find a sense of peace and relaxation. You’ve had me for quite a long time, so we’ve gotten to know each other pretty well. But I’ve been silent for too long— it’s time for me to speak up.

I know you just hit a weird time in your life. After who-knows-how-many hours spent in classrooms absorbing knowledge like a sponge, suddenly, things are different. No longer will you have to stay up until 4am frantically finishing that paper for class. No longer will you have scheduled classes and activities throughout the day, with breaks to finish homework and catch up with friends. Now, your life can literally take you anywhere. Oh, the freedom!! We mats don’t have such opportunities, so take advantage of it! I’m sure it’s both exciting and terrifying, but I’ve seen firsthand your strength and poise under pressure.

So what are you going to do? How will you deal with this new chapter in your life? The interviews, the minimum wage filler jobs, living back with mom until you get on your feet… the list goes on (and, I must admit, it looks quite intimidating). Don’t get me wrong— there are many positives to this time in your life— endless possibilities, connecting with new friends, reconnecting with old friends, and even reinventing yourself. But it is especially easy during this time to panic, because it may be the first time in your life that things aren’t planned out for you. You will need a way to cope with the rejection emails, the late night shifts, and feeling uncertain about your future.

Well, here’s the thing. I’ve been banished to the top stair of the basement since you left for college. I’m a bit dusty, but with a quick wipe down I’ll be good as new. If you take me out, I promise that everything will seem much easier. When you’re stressed, you can flop down on me with all of your weight. I’ll support you—I always have! When you’re sad, you can curl up on me and watch a movie, with my comforting ridges pressing into your skin. And when you’re in a particularly good mood, you can show me the latest poses you’ve been working on. I love to watch you practice!

When everything else seems unstable in your life, you can always turn to me. We’ve been through thick and thin, and I’ll always be here for you. No judgment, no criticism—just love, acceptance, and the support you need to make your wildest dreams come true. Congratulations on graduating college. Relax, breathe, believe in yourself, and DO SOME YOGA!!!

With love,

Your Yoga Mat