Most of us have heard of the “fight or flight”  response of the nervous system, the way in which the body reacts to stress or danger.  It is the sympathetic mode of the autonomic nervous system (ANS).  Many, however, may not have heard of the “rest and digest” response or parasympathetic mode. This response activates the more tranquil functions of the body; those that help restore a state of  calm,  and balance.  It is in this mode that the body heals. In a nutshell, spending more time in this mode, will lead to a healthier and happier life.

Most of our day is spent in the ‘fight or flight” mode.  Yoga is an opportunity for all of us to find more balance, feel more centered and calm by moving into the parasympathetic mode. For this reason, I will always include some if not all the following at the beginning of the yoga practice to help students move into the “rest and digest” mode.

Connection with the breath.  Being aware of how we are breathing before we begin the practice is important.  Time is taken to create a full  and relaxed yoga breath.  Savasana pose or simple arm movements or an asana can help us achieve this. Secondly, a full body stretch where we engage our muscles is an excellent way to help us relax.  When we engage our muscles, the brain tells these same muscles to relax.
Lion’s breath is sometimes also used.  It is amazing how much tension some of us  carry in our jaw.  Lion’s breath relaxes the jaw.  When the jaw relaxes, the entire body is more relaxed.  It relieves tension in the hips, the lumbar spine and the sacroiliac joint,
The chanting of the 3 ohms.  The ohm is the most powerful and calming mantra in the yoga tradition. The chanting of the ohm helps us to calm the body, mind and spirit.  It encourages to bring our focus inward and to deepen the exhale.  It connects all our energy as one.  It may be uncomfortable at first to chant the ohm.  I invite you to welcome the new experience and enjoy the relaxed feeling the sound creates.
By setting an intention, we give direction and a sense of purpose to our practice.  We are more grounded.  All of which help us to relax into the present moment.
Lastly, a seated twist, a challenging asana to awaken our core and a centering pose are always included.

I look very much forward to our first practice this week!  It is my  hope that you will find  each and every practice challenging,  empowering and relaxing.

To all returning students, welcome back!   It is great to have you on board for the Winter Session.  And to all of you who are new to DOWNdog, a very warm welcome.

Namaste!

(If you wish to do a drop-in, please let me know via email.)