As we’ve seen in our time as a student, before we start learning something new, we usually review what we have already learned. This can be helpful in refreshing the memory and in providing a foundation for new learning. Reviewing the basics before we dive deeper can also help us gain a fresh perspective on … Continue reading Beginner’s mind for basic movements
The past few days, there has been an unmistakable snap in the air, the snap this signifies Autumn is fast approaching. Though the sun is still shining brightly on my face and shoulders as I walk my dog each afternoon, the wind is ever more persistent, and I find myself shedding layers and then putting them … Continue reading Balance through movement
In order for stretching to be an effective tool for easing aches and pains, it should first be used only in cases where it is indicated. As I wrote a few months ago in an article for massage therapists, according to Traditional Thai Medicine, stretching is indicated when the tissue layer of the body is tight. … Continue reading When stretching helps, and when it hurts
As an advocate for spending more time on the floor, I was thrilled to be recently introduced to the original yoga prop: the strap. Unlike the modern version of a yoga strap, which is frequently used as a prop in Indian hatha yoga classes for a variety of purposes, the original yoga strap was usually … Continue reading Old Ways for Modern Times
This summer, when you find yourself bustling from one activity to the next, take a moment to come back to center and connect with your root. (And gardeners, spend some time off your knees during those weeding sessions. Instead, plant your own root into the earth.) Garland Pose Variation (Malasana) aka Squat 1 – From … Continue reading Garland Pose
Adding twists to your Springtime movement practice has many benefits…increased mobility and awareness, a longer, more supple spine and a detoxifying effect. Twists can help to empty the abdominal organs of old blood and fluids, making space for freshly oxygenated, nutrient-rich blood to rush in when you unwind. Spring cleaning! Try this gentle reclining twist … Continue reading wring out the old
Spring has arrived early in Seattle. Everywhere, there are stems, trees and shrubs with buds in various stages of opening. Outside of my house, I have watched as the nearby magnolia awakens, first vibrant folds of green appeared on the branches, only to give rise to supple buds holding all of their promise tucked within; then, slowly at first, each bud extends itself, petal … Continue reading Embody spring with uttanasana
I dream of giving all of my living room furniture to Goodwill and replacing it with a few low tables, a couple of floor mats and an assortment of cushions. I want to spend more time on the floor. On the floor, I can put my legs up the wall while I read. Or, I … Continue reading More on the floor
July was HOT. Have you been feeling sluggish? What about weary and swollen? As much as we can relish these beautiful, sunny summer days, heat can cause vasodilation, meaning our blood vessels expand, causing us to feel fuller, heavier and slower. With the help of gravity, legs up the wall can support healthy venous return–the rate … Continue reading Legs Up the Wall
Release and restore with reclining bound angle – Supta Baddha Konasana Too much heat can make us irritable and frustrated or just empty us of energy. Coupled with an increase in our overall activity levels during the summer months and it’s all too easy to get fired up and then burn out as we head into … Continue reading It’s still hot out!
The Iron Bird Way 