Since I have broken my foot (in four places), I have been reviewing using Yoga for Pain Management.  Here is some information from yoga.org that I found interesting.

Yoga works on the body to reduce or eliminate pain by helping the brain's pain center regulate the controlling mechanism located in the spinal cord. Yoga also assists the brain with secretion of natural painkillers through the body.

The act of controlling the breath in yoga also helps reduce pain. The body has a natural phenomenon built in to the nervous system, which keeps tension in the muscles "on stand by" when the lungs are full, or "pressurized".

The muscles will relax when you exhale, deflating the lungs. So lengthening the time of exhalation can help produce relaxation and reduce tension in the body.

Awareness of breathing helps to achieve smooth, slow respiration and aid in relaxation and pain management.

 

The wave forgets the truth that it is ocean, thinking itself 
to be the grand shape, which it has temporarily taken.
For a while, it takes on the rupa (form) of wave.
Finally, it remembers its true rupa (form) of ocean.
The two coexist, though one is true, and the
other, though beautiful, is only relatively true.
So too, we humans forget our true nature,
but, through yoga, can remember.

Headaches, physical fatigue, or digestive problems can all accompany us to our yoga class.  If you have a specific issue as you walk into the Yoga Center, please privately let your teacher know.  She or he can incorporate specific poses that will help you and others in class will benefit as well. 

Bronchial problems during the fall and winter are also very common.  By practicing pranayama, we might create coughs or sniffles during our practice.  Inverted poses might create a runny nose.  Kleenexes should always be readily available for you to clear your nostrils during yoga.  If you are concerned about coughing during savasana, just turn over on your side and bring your knees towards your chest and relax.

See you in class!

Oh, as the weather changes, we suddenly begin to wonder ---- where did Summer go?  What about all of the things I had planned??  Getting into shape or really sticking to the fitness routine might have gotten pushed to the bottom of your list.  Dang it.  Well, there's no time like the present.  Get back on the Yoga Mat and rediscover your love for the practice. 

Commit for the next 30 days to find your new routine and include those things that have dropped off your plate.

 

See you in the studio!

We have had several new students this week in Pilates classes.  If you are new to Pilates, please listen to your body as you begin this very effective workout.  We will learn how to engage our core, hold our bodies and breathe in class.

Tips for a Successful Class:

• Wear comfortable clothing.  We will stretch and move during Pilates so make sure your clothes won't get in the way.
• Bring a towel and water.  Oh my it can get hot in Pilates!  We work up a sweat so you might want to bring a towel to help with sweaty hands so you avoid sweating.  A water bottle can be a welcomed companion as well.
• Choose light weights.  When the hand weights are used in class, don't feel pressure to grab a heavy weight.  We're just adding a little resistance to some of our exercises.
• Rest if you need to.  We have all been there!  Rest your head back on the mat, bring your legs down or just stop if you feel like you need it.  A short break with a cleansing breath can do wonders!
• Bring a friend. A workout buddy can be a comfort to you as you come to your first class.  :)

Have fun in class!!