yoga4healthyliving

Feeling the inner you

A few years ago I learnt the Alexander Technique to ease my lower back problems and very effective it was.  I was reminded of the sensations experienced during the practise of the Alexander Technique when I recently read Echart Tolle's latest book, 'New Earth', which suggests the practise of listening to your inner body.  I also encourage my yoga students to 'go inside' both during relaxation and asanas to feel the inner you, listen and see what is going on inside you. 

Tolle suggests starting with thinking about your hands and once you feel a sensation there, move on to allow the feet to join in, followed by the abdomen, chest etc.  It really is a wonderful way to be present, in the moment and enjoy time away from the past and future which is where our mind resides most of the time.

If you want to go further, notice what emotions arise as you put your mind in certain parts of your body.  Do pictures appear?  This is an excellent way of boosting the immune system and beginning self healing.  Whatever you pay attention to changes.  When your mind is focussed on one part of you, extra blood is drawn there bringing with it oxygen and nutrients to assist healing.  It is also an excellent stress management tool.

Please don't take my word for it, just try it and see how you get on.

Yoga for Golf

Both my teenage sons are golfers.  They are keen to develop their strength and flexibility.  They have only now, having been players for nearly 2 years, switched on to the fact that Yoga could be of great benefit to them.  Last night, my eldest son, nearly 17, tried out the sequence: bridge, plough, shoulderstand and fish.  Well for someone who has really never tried it before he did quite well.  However it soon became clear as he went into plough, that his hamstrings were tight tight!  His sitting forward fold, left him at almost a 90 degree angle! 

So, though they are not keen to be seen doing yoga at one of my classes, they have asked me for private lessons at home!  Though I don't suppose they will tell their friends!  Anyway the important thing for me is that they recognise the benefits of keeping their back free for that all important swing and strength in their arms to give the ball distance.  So plank and spinal twists are next for them, followed by postures which develop strength and flexibility in their wrists, hands and shoulders...I wonder if Tiger Woods needs a yoga teacher?!

Yoga Time

Frequently my students ask me when is the best time to practise yoga.  Firstly on hearing this I am thrilled that they are inspired to practise yoga on their own!  I advise them that if they can fit in a little yoga as soon as they get up. before eating, then they have a great feeling, you know halo shining, that they have started their day by balancing their chakras and energising thier minds and bodies.  However also bear in mind that the body is stiffer in the morning.  If mornings are not possible, then last thing at night, three-four hours after eating their evening meal, releases the tensions of the day.

Faking it...

Have you ever noticed that the more joy you fake, the more joy you make?