It's the Season for traveling. Traveling is often fun or necessary, and summer months are traveling months. They are for taking the family to visit family; taking advantage of summer travel promotions; attending special retreats or training camps; or just visiting other countries. Right now many of you are away, or about to be away, from Saipan. In fact, all three Gold's yoga instructors, myself included, will be away at almost the same time. I am taking our kids and grand kids for a three week tour. While we are all away, some yoga classes will be canceled. (please check schedule on bulletin board) So what to do to continue the practice?
Take the practice with you. Yoga practice is not just limited to the confine of the yoga mat and yoga room. Yoga practice is a life style incorporated into your daily living. Whether you go to yoga class or practice at home, you merge the concept, philosophy, and poses into a day's various activities.
For instance, one day I showed the class how to practice balance in the shower, bathroom, and the kitchen, on one leg; or how to do a twist or two in the car at the stop light; or how to stretch the spine and hamstrings while brushing teeth and washing face. I also encourage everyone to sit on the floor as much as possible while reading, or watching TV. It is not even necessary to carve out special time for the practice if you are really, truly busy. However, there are some very short routines you can fit in when you wake up in the morning, without even getting out of bed, or just moving right onto the floor for a firmer support. These are the reclining twists, knee to chest, full body stretch, etc. Another short routine is the Sun Salutation (Surya Namaskar) that is a wonderful set of poses that stretches all parts of your body and build strength in the arms.
Many of you don't attend yoga class regularly anyway, so it is important to continue some sort of practice at home. Our body has a way of tightening up rather quickly, from activities such as running, biking, playing games, walking, or even just sitting. It needs regular reminder to loosen up by gentle stretching.
Another important practice is the yoga breathing. The deep and slow breathing (through the nose) is crucial to the practice. Breathing also helps to relax the tight muscles when we are stressed. A few minutes of gentle breathing can release the achy feeling from tension.
So don't be discouraged by not attending classes. Yoga can be with you wherever you go. Of course the best way to make progress is still going to class! Have a happy summer...
Namaste,
Clarie
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