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Life's Little Notes From Me to You
For the past month I’ve been trying out some new ideas to build my strength and stamina in the interest of health and longevity. I already have the habit of walking twice a day, so I simply started to up my game and put a little more oomph in my step. I push on the uphill, rest on the downhill, and maintain a pace throughout that makes talking a bit of an effort but doesn’t burn my legs or lungs.
Also, when I hit that final hill, I go all-out- now I can get up that slope without stopping to catch my breath and already I can feel the difference in my muscles and wind.
The secret to making changes in your health habits is to engage in exercise you enjoy and which fits into your routine conveniently. Before the holiday season ramps up, grab the opportunity to take some time for you and your health at the Mini-Retreat next Saturday!
Reconnect with Your Inner Self Retreat
Bring a friend to save $25 each, and book now as there's limited space.
Ancient Yoga Wisdom: Begin With Stability and Ease
by Frances Adamson
There’s very little in the ancient texts that describes Yoga Asana, the physical poses we do to strengthen the spine and stay mobile, although one directive has come down through the ages to inform our practice.
Sthira Sukham Asanam- Steadiness and Ease Practicing Yoga Poses
This principle can be adopted in all we do to stay healthy body and mind:
Back in the days of legwarmers when I was a teenager, I remember a yoga instructor loudly exhorting us to hold downward dog. It felt very uncomfortable both physically and emotionally. My legs and shoulders were shaking and all I was thinking was 'please let this stop'! While there is a place for pushing your body's limits, in the yoga tradition I teach we follow this guiding principle of stability and ease.
Steadiness in a pose begins from the ground up.
To prepare for a standing pose, distribute your weight evenly between each each foot and feel the support of the floor beneath you. Give equal weight to the big toe ball joint, the little toe ball joint, and across the heel: these three firm points of support form your base. When sitting the principle applies to the support of your buttocks from which the spine rises in it’s natural curves. Often sitting on a firm folded blanket or chair will ensure that the curve of your lower lumbar spine is natural, preventing it from rounding forward which causes strain in your back.
From a steady foundation ease will flow.
Moving into each pose notice if there’s any instability and as you stay in the asana if there's trembling or strain back off or stop and modify the pose. That the exercise is easy is as vitally important as the stability. When you start from a place of cultivating ease, you're beginning where you are on the physical level. In this way you’ll gain strength and flexibility naturally.
The breath must also be steady and easy, and to develop depth of breath and stability in your core you'll learn to gradually lengthening it mindfully. When staying in a posture, if you notice the breath becoming shaky, ragged, or labored it’s time to return to a resting position.
The key is to maintain a sense of ease- with practice your abilities will grow.
Being steadier on your feet and moving with ease has been proven as one way you can maintain a healthy body throughout life. You’re able to do the activities you love and enjoy with your family and friends, which keeps you active and emotionally fulfilled, and you're less likely to fall or otherwise injure yourself.
As you practice stability and ease in the physical postures, you’ll find that your mind also reflects these qualities: drama and self-criticism will be reduced, improving your relationships at home and at work, reducing stress, and improving quality of life. Gaining these benefits is also another predictor of a long and happy life.
This ancient wisdom, 'sthira sukham asanam', along with an experienced teacher to guide you, will ensure you get the most out of your yoga practice.
Your yoga teacher acts as a mirror, guiding you towards an understanding of what is safe for you in your body and when to explore going deeper or staying in poses longer.
Reach out to me for more information on the various yoga programs to meet all you needs and budget. And remember, the Joy Core Connection Retreat in Courtice is next Saturday- it's a great way to start or get back into yoga and nurture body and mind before the Holiday busyness takes over!
EVENTS
Time-Out for a Better You Retreat Day
There's only one week to go before the Joy Core Connection Retreat Day on Saturday November 18th. This is your chance to prioritize your well-being and immerse yourself in a transformative day dedicated to self-care and rejuvenation.
Imagine a serene day filled with invigorating yoga, a nourishing and delicious meal, and an opportunity to set powerful intentions for your overall well-being. Our carefully crafted retreat is all about providing you with the tools and support you need to alleviate stress, find balance, and rediscover joy.
Don't let this opportunity slip away, only a few spots left! Sign up now to secure your place and take that crucial step towards a more centered and revitalized you. Join us for a day that promises to leave you feeling refreshed, inspired, and ready to embrace life with renewed energy and clarity.
Click the link below to reserve your place and make this retreat an essential part of your wellness journey.
I'm in!
Let's get together November 18th for a day to remember!
RESOURCE: HOW TO DO YOGA THE RIGHT WAY
"Yoga of the Heart" by Mark Whitwell,
In "Yoga of the Heart" by Mark Whitwell, you’ll discover the essence of yoga in the tradition of Krishnamacharya. Whitwell beautifully intertwines the physical postures with the spiritual heart, emphasizing the interconnectedness of breath, movement, and inner well-being. In this comprehensive resource you’ll learn more than the physical exercise, and dive into the heart of authentic yoga practices beyond the mat. Whitwell's teachings encourage a deep connection with oneself and the universe, fostering a holistic approach to health and happiness. This resource is not just a guide to yoga; it's an exploration of the heart's wisdom, providing a roadmap to self-discovery and a more fulfilling life.
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