I’m sure you each have a favorite pose! Happy Friday
TGIF
Tag Archives: asana
Yoga Therapy Thursday
Every yoga pose has a variety of effects on all the systems of the body.This variation of a high lunge is a great way to strengthen the quadriceps, stretch the iliopsoas and open the shoulders. You can strap the wrists or elbows and slide a wedge under the back foot too. Great energizing asana and helpful for balance.
posture
A yoga posture is not a performance. 
It is a way of connecting inwards.
Feel it, breathe into it, sense what is happening in your entire body…get “in touch with the within” as Erich Schiffman says in Yoga: The Spirit and Practice of Moving Into Stillness
core work
“At our core lies our innermost wisdom. So the knowledge from outer perception and inner wisdom should always be in contact in your posture. At that time there is no duality; you are one; you are complete.” ~ BKS Iyengar, Light on Life
Teaching Tip Tuesday
Teachers – give some thought
to the pace of your yoga class. Students, practice with the pace of your breathing
Motivation Monday
morning
what’s your favorite way to start your day?
Morning is the time you want to use your time on the yoga mat to get focused, energized and loosen any kinks from sleep time, while the evening can be a time for winding down.Today’s tip is to treat each side of the body as it is asking you to; one side may be tighter than the other. This promotes symmetry and balance.
no pain!
Remember Jane Fonda ? She coined the phrase “no pain no gain”. Well, in your yoga practice, pain is not gain. Here are a few review tips for practicing pain-free yoga
1. Embrace your experiences.
2. You are unique. Three people in the same class have different needs. Inform your teacher of any health concerns and/or seek qualified private instruction.
3. If you have any health concerns, are new to yoga or unsure about something, have questions, anything, take a private class.
4. Are you going into a yoga class with an old injury or weakness?
5. Are you easily distracted and miss directions?
6. Are you looking (secretly) to push yourself to the point of pain?
7. If you practice on your own, are you organic in your flow, or do you do go on autopilot?
8. A Teacher is a guide, but your own knowledge and instincts should override outside directions and you can and should be able to skip/omit/modify/rest
9. Go mindfully always.
10. Do your research. If your knees are stiff, but you are dying to do the lotus pose, read and see if there are contra-indications (there are). Be prepared to be appropriate in class, and consider whether the one “everyone” is doing is right for you. If you do Group classes, find one that feels right and stay present on your own mat.
Yoga is a system, not a sport. Most people need enough physical challenge to heal a tense body and calm a busy mind…the path of moderation and meditation awaits you.
inversions
inversions supply additional blood flow to the head; it’s amazing what you can discover about yourself !
Breathe with Purpose
Hope you will save the date for my workshop at YOCOMO June 2nd, 1:30-3:30 pm
This workshop will focus on breathing practices, with a hint of asana and a dose of self-reflection and inquiry. The breath is the link between the mind and the body in yoga. Learn how to use it to relax, energize, and create mental focus.
Language: English
Level: all levels