Yoga Blog

Feeling Stiff and Stagnant?

This class was created to shift the stiffness and stagnant energy in our bodies. Often not doing as much as we normally would, can cause stiffness, such as lots of sitting, causing the hamstrings to tighten. The hips are also a place in which we tend to hold stagnant energy, again creating that tight feeling around the hip flexors. Try to lubricate the joints by just getting on your mat and moving. If you feel your body is holding onto stuck energy, one of the best things you can do is some yoga. Remember 30 mins a day is more beneficial than 3 hours on a Saturday. 🥰

 
 

Inversions & Changing Perspectives

A practice of inversions can be a great way to change your perspectives in daily life. Inversions are fantastic in shifting stagnant energies and clearing the mind, leaving you feeling refreshed and centred. I am demonsrating Sirsarsana (Headstand)

Here are some of the benefits from a regular practice of this asana

  • Increases vitality of the body.

  • Purifies the blood, creating better concentration

  • Promotes better sleep

  • Improves functionality of the internal organs for better health.

  • Detoxifys our brain- clears the mind of negativity, creating a sense of calm

The importance of Repetition in Yoga

Repetition in yoga sequencing is key because It helps the body remember. Yes! our bodies have a memory just like our brain, so be kind to your body. Repetition creates openness in the body and helps blood flow.

I am demonstrating a repetition of Downward Dog, 3 Legged Dog and Wild Thing.

Notice my right side on the 1st round of 3 legged dog is stiffer than the 2nd. This is due to on/off Piriformis syndrome, which can come and go. It is important to keep active to prevent the Piriformis muscle from tightening, so regular stretches are good for sciatic nerve and muscle pain.

Health Benefits of Wild Thing (Camatkarasana)

• Helps relieve fatigue and mild depression.
• Opens chest, lungs, shoulders, thighs and hip flexors.
• Strengthens shoulders and upper back.

 
 

Studio Vs Outdoors

We often become fixated on yoga being confined to a studio, where you take off your shoes at the door and make your way into a seemingly well lit ambient room smelling of incense. Often some of the most beautiful & serene yoga themed music is heard in the background, from a well thought out playlist and you touch down on your mat ready to become one with the universe.

 
 

How about tuning into Mother Earth…

I’ve taken my practice outside so much more during lockdown, I feel more connected to the earth and at one with nature. Yoga means ‘union’ and when we practice outside in the open air, we are more in union with the earths elements. We can fill our lungs more freely on a gentle breeze and experience the sweet smell of summertime or Autumn leaves. Give your body a treat to experience openness which naturally occurs with the suns energizing rays. Being outdoors adds another dimension to your practice which links yoga to nature. Savasana is more delicious and earthly when listening to the sound of a tweeting bird on the breeze, or the waves rippling onto the shore at the beach. I feel inclined to set intentions of gratitude, which flow to me effortlessly when I’m outdoors in mid flow. I feel focused, grounded and alive!