This year has been a very stressful time for so many people and businesses in trying to stay healthy, alive, employed, business open, caring for another person to putting food on the table and paying the mortgage or rent. COVID-19 Pandemic negatively touched lives, businesses and the economy and still ongoing right now. COVID-19 is not like our cell phone that we can push a button and turn it off. It is scary time and one way to turn off the “button” to relax and destress is adding yoga to your day. Breath and move…simple as that.
Yoga is a mind-body practice that combines physical poses, controlled breathing, and meditation or relaxation. Yoga — a mind-body practice — is considered one of many types of complementary and integrative health approaches. Yoga brings together physical and mental disciplines that may help you achieve peacefulness of body and mind. This can help you relax and manage stress and anxiety. Many yoga students often refer to “savasana” as their favorite pose (the end of class) as it is one of most relaxing poses that just leaves the person in a state of “bliss” or “relaxation” after class. It is the hope that we bring what we learn and feel on the mat into the rest of the world right after class and thereafter.
Yoga is safe for most people, yet it is suggested to see your health care provider before you begin yoga if you have any of the following conditions or situations:
- A herniated disk
- A risk of blood clots
- Eye conditions, including glaucoma
- Pregnancy — although yoga is generally safe for pregnant women, certain poses should be avoided
- Severe balance problems
- Severe osteoporosis
- Uncontrolled blood pressure
While one can learn yoga from books, TV or an app, it is suggested that you learn from a training Yoga Alliance certified instructor. Every person has a different body composition and abilities. The instructor can modify poses to ensure safety and techniques to sooth the mind, body and inner self. A good instructor will listen and help you explore each posture and breath while ensuring safety.
Namaste,
Toni Ann