Lunch time yoga has been going really well.  I have approximately 6-12 students each week that take time out of their busy day to relax and join me in a quick 30-minute yoga practice.  I wish more employees would take advantage because I know that many can use this time to reflect and relax in the middle of the work week.  We have focused a lot on downward facing dog and Surya Namaskar A (more details on this asana in a future post).  I have been trying to think about why people are intimidated by yoga?  What are some of the reasons people haven’t tried even though they have told me over an over again that they could really use the flexibility and relaxation in their lives.  So I figured I would tackle some of these ‘obstacles’ and maybe you can help me think of others…

#1 I don’t want to take off my shoes and socks.

You don’t have to take off your socks if you don’t want to.  However, you will find that the mat will be a little more slippery if you are wearing socks.  Remember that your practice starts and ends on your own mat and not on anyone else’s.  I always promote to my students to try not to think or look at others and if possible keep your eyes closed during the majority of the practice.  We too often allow our egos to get the best of us and are always trying to compare ourselves.

#2 I’m afraid of passing gas (you might laugh but this can happen!)

Try to avoid gassy foods before you practice including broccoli, beans, etc. and drink lots of water to promote good bowel movements. If you are still concerned than use the time to meditate instead of doing the asana (exercise).  It’s important to have time to yourself.  I provide relaxing music to help you let go of your stress and reflect within.

#3 I don’t have workout clothes.

I rarely wear workout clothes to practice in at work.  A comfortable legging or workpants will do fine.  As well as a tight fitting top so that it does not distract you from moving in the poses.  However you are welcome to change into something more comfortable for you if you would prefer.  I personally wear a workout t-shirt and work pants while I teach and model the poses during class.

#4 I don’t have time in my day.

We all need breaks in our day whether you sit at a desk or walk up and down stairs carrying boxes.  Its important to rejuvenate yourself and not push yourself too hard.  We as Americans work so hard and don’t take enough time for ourselves. 

#5 Yoga is for women, not men.

More men are taking advantage of the benefits of yoga these days.  A flexible man can lift more weights, prevent injury, and have more longevity in the gym or during his workouts.  My husband does a little yoga in his workouts every day.  He is a strength coach and understands the benefits of flexibility for his athletes.  Yoga doesn’t have to be all about chanting and spandex.   Yoga is for everyone!

What are some of the reasons you haven’t tried yoga yet?

Tree Pose – Vkrsasana

Yoga in general has so much to do with balance…  Balancing your mind and body through your practice.  This pose is no exception.

Some Benefits of this pose include strengthens legs, ankles and spine, Stretches inner thighs, chest and shoulders, improves balance, and eases sciatica pain.

Begin by standing in Tadasana. Shift your weight slightly onto the left foot and bend your right knee. Reach down with your right hand and clasp your right ankle.   Draw your right foot up and place the sole against the inner left thigh; if possible, (or on to your calf, but not against your knee) press the right heel into the inner left thigh.  Firmly press the right foot sole against the inner thigh and resist with the outer left leg.

Make sure your pelvis is in a neutral position. Lengthen your tailbone toward the floor.  Bring your hands together in prayer pose.

Gaze softly at a fixed point or drishti in front of you on the floor about 4 or 5 feet away.  Note:  a drishti is a point of focus where the gaze rests during asana (form of exercise) and meditation practice.

Stay for 1 minute. Return to Tadasana and repeat on the other side.

You can vary this pose by stretching your arms straight up toward the ceiling, or form a V with your arms, similar to a standing tree.   Additionally, to help aid in balance, you can stand with your back against a wall in this pose. For more of a challenge, try practicing this pose with your eyes closed, balance can be very challenging without the ability to focus on an outer object or place.

Namaste