For the Whole Family
by Laura Brookover, Jenn Brookover Photography
Relax, refresh, rejuvenate with these restorative yoga poses designed to bring renewal to body, mind and spirit.
Now that the holidays are over, most of us are left needing a little pick-me-up. Parents and children alike, while enjoying the holiday and New Year spirit, often get caught up in a whirlwind of activity. Try these useful asanas or positions to reset your inner yogi.
Relaxation pose
Often referred to as “corpse pose,” this asana is deceptively challenging, especially after a long period of activity. The simplicity and stillness of it can seem impossible to those who need it most!
Find a comfortable, quiet place and five uninterrupted minutes, at least. Lie flat on the back with the hands facing up, palms to the sky.
Allow the body to melt into the earth below. Begin to focus on the rise and fall of the chest and belly. Try bringing an egg timer, and start with three to five minutes. When the mind wanders, simply turn the awareness back to the breath.
Hero’s pose
This one can be hard on the knees for some adults; most children have no problem with it. If it bothers your knees, simply sit either kneeling or in any comfortable seated position, including in a chair (but maintain good posture). Keep the spine long and tall. Again, focus the awareness on the breath for three to five minutes.
Embryo pose
This is a restful variation of child’s pose. This pose allows the body to melt into itself. Allow the head to turn to either side. Place the top of the head on the ground or yoga mat. The backs of the hands are to be on the ground, and the palms are to face to the sky. As you bring the awareness to the breath, notice how the body processes the breath differently in the embryo pose than it does in the other two poses; this is a more compact position. Feel the nurturing withdrawal of the senses as you slip into a cozy and protected state of heightened, yet relaxed, awareness.
Namaste!
Laura Brookover teaches a limited number of classes in San Antonio, including Prenatal & Mommy-Baby Yoga at Destination Maternity and Bikini Bootcamp at Anytime Fitness, (210)497-0000. For more information, log onto the Web site at www.laurabrookover.com, or E-mail info@laurabrookover.com.
