Ah, the holidays are in full force, so I’ve got one more yoga pose to offer you in our second-to-last tranquil tip for healthy holidays! Be sure you’re drinking lots of water, dining on as much fresh produce as possible, getting ample rest, doing your yoga, and using your journal to write out any family frustrations that you’re experiencing. These simple tips can help keep you sane during the drama. This week’s dose is a pose that is easily done while on the go or in your chair.
Begin in a stable standing position that is evenly rooted on both feet (mountain pose) with your legs together. Bring your hands to prayer in front of your heart center and take a few deep breaths. Now inhale and extend your arms over your head. Keep your gaze straight ahead. Relax your shoulders away from your earsand slide your shoulder blades down your back as you lift your ribs off your waist. Exhale, side bend to your right. Activate your legs and move from your core. Take four deep breaths and inhale to the center. Exhale, side bend to your left. Take four deep breaths and return to the center on your inhale. Repeat three to 10 more times. To spice it up, increase how long you hold your side bend to a count that is comfortable, yet invigorating.
This pose lengthens your spine, awakens your core, opens the sides of your body and energizes your whole system. For a variation, it can also be done while sitting in your chair during a long flight or while watching the annual holiday movie.
Kimberly Wilson is the founder of Tranquil Space Yoga and Tranquil Space Foundation. Visit kimberlywilson.com.
