Does simply looking at your to-do list of responsibilities seem to make your energy go into hiding? You’re not alone. With numerous obligations, it’s no wonder you feel exhausted.
But, we have a solution to put a little pep in your step no matter the time of day. YOGA. Of course, your first thought might be that yoga is all about soothing restoration and chanting OMs, right? However, yoga is also known for its amazing ability to energize your body and mind for any occasion.
Follow the series below to revitalize not only the physical body, but to give the heart + mind space a little oomph too. Set an intention of mindful movement and give yourself permission to take this time to reset and reboot your day.
BREATH (15 breaths)
Sit tall in an easy seated pose with your hands on your thighs. Begin lengthening your breath. If you’re new to breath work, start with a 3 count breath, with a one second pause at the top and bottom of the breath. Work your way to 4, 5 or 6 count breathing. The expansive inhalations and exhalations bring more oxygen to your brain and lungs. This type of mindful, deep breathing encourages mental alertness and physical energy, thus waking you up.
DOWN DOG (5-10 breaths)
This pose is a total body workout. It’s a mild inversion which speeds up your nervous system while simultaneously strengthening your upper back, shoulders, core, and legs. Additionally, it requires mindful breathing, important for targeting mental presence.
SPHYNX (10 breaths)
Sphinx pose strengthens the spine and opens the lungs, chest and shoulders. This pose is great for elevating your energy as you’re expanding your chest and breathing deeply into your lungs. Again, this pose signals the mind + body to get with it.
SPINAL TWIST (10 breaths each side)
Performing twists in yoga gives our bodies a chance to wring out tension and realign the spine. When we let go of tension, we make room for creativity, energy and mobility.
REVERSE TABLE TOP (10 breaths)
With so much rounding forward in our day (think driving, desk work, TV watching, texting, etc.) this pose helps counteract poor posture by opening your chest and sending oxygen to your heart – all while working your legs, arms and core, too.
BRIDGE
Bridge stimulates the adrenal glands. This is important because this boost in energy keeps us going throughout the day, inviting motivation and inspiration. When our minds are alert, we are more open to the flow of creativity.
CAMEL
Camel Pose increases flexibility in the spine, stimulates the nervous system and opens the chest and shoulders. These are all important for increasing energy levels, boosting mood and refreshing mental drive.
Finish your practice by returning to a neutral spine, seated or lying down, and draw attention to your breath. Observe the physical space in your body and come back to your intention. Notice the openness in your chest, the length in your spine and the shift in your energy. Allow 5-10 breaths to reset and transition back into your day. Now, open your eyes and smack a smile across your lips as you just reset your day on a different channel with a little more pep in your step.
About the Author
Tiffany Blackham is a YogaClub Tribe Leader, avid yogi, mom of 3, health & wellness advocate and creator of stonefoxfeather- a line of healing delights. She loves sharing her insights and daily doses of inspiration on living a life full of passion, balance, and soulful exchanges. More about Tiffany and her company can be found on her website TiffanyBlackham.com.
