If you have ever been to one of my yoga classes, you have probably heard me say something like the quote above. In my 200hr training through YogaFit we practice transformational language. The goal, to create a nurturing and supportive environment for everyone in class. So I usually try to incorporate, listening to our bodies, letting go of competition, judgment and expectations into my class intro to give people permission to be kind to themselves and create the practice they need.
Just because yoga has this image of zen and peacefulness, does not mean that everyone walking into class has that mindset. Usually there is a lot of fear, criticism and judgment about what a yoga practice should be.
Alright, who has said:
- "I'm not flexible enough for yoga."
- "I've seen people doing yoga, and there is no way my body can do that"
- "I need a more challenging workout than yoga."
I have said all 3 of those statements at one time or another. What I discovered is that there is such a vast variety of yoga that with a little looking and curiosity, you can find a style of yoga that you can benefit from.
Asana (yoga poses) are really only a tiny part of a yoga practice. There is a much lengthier post I could write about that, but not today.😉
Today my purpose is to show you that there is a way to incorporate yoga into your life no matter where you are on your fitness journey or in life. I am highlighting 3 poses that I love and that I return to time and again.
*Side note: These are videos I did about 2 years ago, and I honestly struggle with how different my body looks now to how it looked then. There is always a split second where I see old video/photos and I automatically think “Dang I need to get back on a diet.”, but that is diet culture telling me that I am worthy only when I have a smaller body. When I really reflect on that time in my life, and if I am honest with myself I wasn’t really happy. Just a reminder that you don’t always have to live in a place of body love and acceptance. It will always be a process, be gentle with yourself. ❤️
Child’s Pose
I LOVE child’s pose. This is an instant stress relief pose for me. It does wonders to stretch the back, arms and legs. It also allows you to block out the world for a bit and focus on your breath.
Triangle Pose
This is just an ideal stretch for me. I love how there are so many variations so that I can tailor the pose to how I need to move my body on a given day.
Hip Flow
Okay, so this is a bit different in that this is a mini-practice that focuses on your hips. I am usually pretty tight in my hips and I compiled my favorite hip stretches in this quick video. Do all 3 or pick your favorite, and take 5 minutes, focus on your breath and stretch. Trust me, your body will thank you.
So, there you go, 3 ways that if you can breathe you can do yoga. I love answering yoga questions so email me or message me and let me know how I can support you in your yoga journey!
