Wife, mother, employee, employer, husband, father, writer, artist, or exercise enthusiast, what we do during an average week is surmountable. For instance, if I think of who I am and what I do during a one week span my list seems never ending.
I am an: Employee, Business Owner, Blogger, Marketing Chair of a non-profit, Running Coach, Nutrition Consultant, volunteer, wedding planner of my own wedding, daughter, and doggy mom.
Even though everything on this list of “who I am” are things I am involved with, all are a part of me. However, there are times when all of the things one is involved with seems like a never ending task. By being involved with so many things my head never shuts off, which leads to restless sleep and forgetfulness due to constantly thinking of “the next thing.” The most important thing is to take care of oneself. Without taking care of yourself it is impossible to be your best at any one thing, let alone many things.
Next time you are feeling anxious, take the time to breathe and do Yoga!
Yoga
Yoga is not only about physical health but mental as well. It is a mind, body experience that originates in ancient philosophy. It is composed of meditative movements that combine physical postures, breathing techniques, and relaxation. No matter what your age or exercise ability there are yoga options to choose from: Hatha, Ananda, Anusara, Ashtanga, Bikram, Iyengar, Kripalu, Kundalini, Yiniyoga and more!
Yoga and Health
Yoga has a multitude of benefits, not only physically but also mentally. Here is just a short list of some of those benefits.
- Yoga has shown to help people with chronic low-back pain reduce overall pain and improve movement and overall function.
- Yoga can help reduce heart rate and blood pressure
- Yoga can help reduce anxiety and depression
- Yoga increases flexibility
- Yoga increase balance
- Yoga increases muscle strength and tone
- Yoga can improve respiration, energy and vitality
- Yoga can improve athletic performance
- Yoga improves your posture while protecting your spine
- Yoga can prevent cartilage and joint breakdown
- Yoga increases blood flow
- Yoga boosts immunity
- Yoga helps you focus
- Yoga helps you sleep deeper
Yoga for Beginners
Now that you know some of the many benefits yoga provides how do you start.
First, contact your doctor to make sure he/she clears you for exercise.
Next, find a type of yoga that best suits your style. For beginners, a hatha or vinyasa class is most appropriate. Usually the classes will say if they are for beginners but don’t be shy to ask the yoga instructor.
Once you decide to try yoga and have figured out what class is best for you, don’t back out. Go to a class and try it out! If you have a yoga mat, great, if not, don’t spend all sorts of money preparing for your first yoga class. Instead, go to the class, or ask the yoga facility, if they have mats you can use until you purchase your own. Not only do you want to make sure you will make an investment into a mat that you are not only going to like but that you will continue to go to class. Also, your instructor will be able to provide recommendations on the type of mat to buy and where to buy it!
No matter what, take a chance and try something new. Yoga can be relaxing or it can be upbeat. Find what works best for you to help you center yourself, learn how to breath again, and take some of that every day “weight on your shoulders” off. Just don’t forget to bring a water bottle!
References
https://nccih.nih.gov/health/yoga/introduction.htm
The Benefits of Yoga: 38 Ways Your Practice Can Improve Your Life
https://www.verywell.com/essential-beginner-yoga-tips-3566732