Have ever picked up a yoga magazine with one of those beautiful tiny women in impossible poses on the cover and got discouraged? Fear not! Yoga isn’t all pretzel twists and peaceful thoughts. Here’s a secret, Yogi’s do yoga because we have negative thoughts at times too, not because we are already perfect. We just know that yoga can help to calm the mind and keep the body flexible and supple. Regular stretching can help prevent injury and even alleviate pain in some cases.
What is Yoga all About Anyway?
![Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@kikekiks?utm_content=creditCopyText&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=unsplash">kike vega</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/silhouette-photography-of-woman-doing-yoga-F2qh3yjz6Jk?utm_content=creditCopyText&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=unsplash">Unsplash</a>](https://totalapexentertainment.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/kike-vega-F2qh3yjz6Jk-unsplash-1024x645.jpg)
What is all the fuss over yoga? What is it, why do people love it so much, and … is yoga a religion?
People that do yoga regularly understand the benefits it provides to the body and the mind. On your yoga mat, you are intentionally putting yourself in difficult positions. In those positions, you are using controlled breath and mindful thinking. You are teaching yourself how to think and breathe through tough situations. Eventually, you will take this learned behavior with you off the mat and into your daily life, creating a mindset that is prepared for challenges.
Yoga; to yoke. As in creating union between two or more things. In this case, movement and breath. On a deeper level; mind, body and spirit. Yoga is a practice rooted in the philosophy that to be your most complete self, there must be a balance in all the essential parts that make up who you are. Which is why yoga, meditation, and ayurveda all go hand in hand in this lifestyle. So, to answer that last question: No, it is not a religion. Yoga doesn’t involve deities or worship in it’s practice.
Just remember that yoga should NEVER hurt. If a posture is uncomfortable to you, back out of it and avoid that position until you have spoken with your doctor.
Yoga Poses you can do Before getting out of Bed in the Morning.
![Yoga in bed](https://totalapexentertainment.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/pexels-photo-7113439.webp)
If you want to begin a regular yoga practice, you don’t need any special equipment or a membership to a yoga studio. You just need 5-10 minutes in the morning, before you even get out of bed to get yourself into a budding yoga practice. Begin and end your mini yoga sesh with three or four big breaths drawing each inhale through your nose and releasing your exhales through the mouth.
Good Morning Stretch
![Good morning stretch](https://totalapexentertainment.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/pexels-photo-3887608.webp)
You might already do this upon waking. That biiig luxurious stretch where you point your toes and reach your arms above your head. That one always feels so good, right? If you do this, Kudos! You’re well on your way to a regular morning practice.
Supine Twist
While laying on your back bend your knees and place your feet on the bed. Now while keeping both shoulders on your mattress, let both knees slowly drop to the right while you exhale. Hold this posture as long as you like, breathing normally and then repeat by bringing your knees back to center and then over to the left on an exhale.
Legs up the Wall
For this posture, you don’t have to use a wall if that isn’t convenient. You can simply raise one leg at a time, or both if it feels good and hold them up in the air for a few breaths. I like to point and flex my toes and make ankle circles in this position to help with mobility in my ankles.
Cobra Pose
“You’re as young as your spine is flexible”. This posture is great for keeping a flexible spine. From your belly, simply lift your head, neck and shoulders off the mattress, inhaling as you lift. You do not need to put any pressure into your palms or push yourself past your natural limits. (This posture is not recommended while pregnant.)
Seated Forward Fold
Some people prefer to do this posture with their legs straight, reaching for their toes. If you do prefer this version, remember to bend your knees as much as necessary to maintain comfort in your legs and back. It may feel more comfortable to point your knees out, like shown in the photo above. This stretches the lower back more than the hamstrings. It is ok to try this posture both ways to see what works for your body.
Savasana
In this final posture, the goal is to remain still, you can place one hand on your heart and the other on your belly and spend at least one full minute focusing on your breathing. You can remain in this position as long as you like, just try not to fall back to sleep here!
Congratulations! You’ve done Yoga!
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational and informational purposes only. In no way should it be considered as offering medical advice. Please check with a healthcare provider if you have health concerns. I am not a licensed medical professional and any health-related information found in this communication is provided as is without any representations or warranties, express or implied.
About Author
Tricia is a passionate writer, finding joy in both the creation and consumption of stories. As an avid reader, Tricia constantly seeks new literary adventures, drawing inspiration from the diverse narratives she encounters. When not immersed in the worlds of art and literature, she indulges her creativity in the realm of mixology, crafting unique cocktails that reflect her eclectic tastes and innovative spirit.
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