Yoga for Every Body!

   Yoga is a century old practice that originated in ancient India. Nowadays, you can find a yoga studio on almost every corner! What is it about this archaic discipline that is so attractive to modern day yogis?
   Yoga is not only a fitness practice, rather a discipline of the body, mind, and soul. By doing yoga, you are learning to control your breath, body movements, and your thoughts. There are numerous other benefits of yoga such as:

• Increased flexibility and balance
• Dramatic mood improvement
• Decrease in pulse, respiratory rate, and heart rate
• Pain relief
• Improves concentration, memory, and learning efficiency
• Decreases bad cholesterol! 

    That's just a few of the bigger benefits! I use yoga daily to help control my anxiety without medication. A lot of people, however, might get anxious just thinking about trying yoga! I'll admit, some of the more advanced poses still make me a little uneasy (are you sure you're supposed to bend that way?). I assure you though, the benefits of even a light yoga practice are enough to get you hooked for life!
   Here are a few of my favorite beginner asanas to get you started!

                       Tree Pose:

Stand with both feet facing front and your hands at your sides. Slowly place your right foot on your left knee (or as far as you can). Bring both arms up and stand for 5-8 breaths. Repeat with other leg. Tree pose creates balance and stability.










                Forward Bend:

Stand straight and inhale. On the exhale, bend forward as far as you can. Stay for several breaths. (Don't fret if you can't touch your toes or even your ankles.. the more you practice, the more flexible you will become!) Pose helps to relieve stress and depression.









                  Childs Pose:

Kneel and inhale. On the exhale, bend forward and reach your arms behind you (shown). A variation I prefer is to reach both arms out in front of you. Hold for several deep breaths. This pose helps calm the brain and reduce fatigue.










   Yoga is a very therapeutic practice that I encourage you to try. The benefits are great and I guarantee it will add meaning and bliss to your life. So the next time you are waiting for your laundry to dry, try a few asanas, breathe, and relax. Namaste'!!!