It’s been a stressful week for me and so my workout for today is sun salutations. I love Yoga because it not only exercises the body, it also strengthens the mind. It forces you to slow down, quiet your mind, and just focus on your breath. And if you think that Yoga cannot be a workout, I challenge you to to do the following moves (in quick succession) and not feel sweat dripping down your back!
(if you are unsure of a pose, please visit Yogasite for detailed pictures of all moves.)
1. Mountain
Begin by standing in Mountain pose, feet about hip width apart,
hands by your sides . Take several deep breaths.
2. Hands up
On your next inhale, in one sweeping movement, raise your arms
up overhead and gently arch back as far as feels comfortable
and safe.
3. Head to knees
As you exhale, bend forward, bending the knees if necessary,
and bring your hands to rest beside your feet.
4. Lunge
Inhale and step the right leg back
5. Plank
Exhale and step the left leg back to join the right leg.
6. Crocodile
Exhale and slowly lower yourself as if coming down from a push-up. Only
your hands and feet should touch the floor.
7. Upward Dog
Inhale and stretch forward and up, bending at the waist. Use
your arms to lift your torso, but only bend back as far
as feels comfortable and safe. Lift your legs up so that
only the tops of your feet and your hands touch the floor.
It’s okay to keep your arms bent at the elbow.
8. Downward dog
Exhale, lift from the hips and push back and up.
9. Lunge
Inhale and step the right foot forward
10. Head to knees
Exhale, bring the left foot forward and step into head-to-knee position.
11. Hands up
Inhale and rise slowly while keeping arms extended .
12. Mountain
Exhale, and in a slow, sweeping motion, lower your arms to your sides.
Now repeat the sequence, stepping this time with the left leg.
Your final move will be Savasana, also known as corpse pose. (every yoga class ends with this pose)
Start by lying on your back, feet slightly apart, arms at your sides with palms facing up. Close your eyes and focus on relaxing every muscle in your body. Take deep breaths and allow your body to sink into the ground.
Relax your mind and think of nothing other than full body relaxation at this point.
Stay in the pose for at least 5 minutes. (Do not turn your mind back on just yet—give yourself five minutes and allow your brain to fully relax. You are worth it!)
Once you are done, you should feel sweaty and yet relaxed.
That is the power of Yoga!
{ 2 comments }
I find yoga to be a workout even besides the strengthening and balance-improving moves, because my crazy-tight rear chain is constantly fighting to pull my body out of the position I’m trying to put it in
I am so bad at yoga. My running leaves me with no flexibility at all. My downward dog is just sad…
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