A stretch a day …
Whether we run, surf or walk in the cool of the evening, we move
our muscles, breathe and relax. Simply stretching and taking in
oxygen is invigorating.
A stretch a day …
Whether we run, surf or walk in the cool of the evening, we move our muscles, breathe and relax. Simply stretching and taking in oxygen is invigorating.
While the children still are asleep and dew sprinkles the fresh green grass, I lay my mat down.
Dr. John Kabat-Zinn, a John Hopkins doctor, advocates getting down on the ground at least once a day. Even if you have never taken a yoga class, it is possible to stretch.
First, stand in a comfortable position and stretch your arms to the sky. Bend to the ground and let your hands hang. Slowly, gently, one vertebra at a time, allow your back to realign. Imagine a string from the top of your head connected to a cloud.
Allow shoulders to relax. Breathe. Feel each breath. One breath in. One breath out.
As you reopen your eyes to the world that is gifted to us, feel your feet firmly anchored to Mother Earth.
Now lie down on a large beach towel or mat. Allow your body to sink fully and feel totally comfortable and relaxed.
Imagine your breath going to your toes, heels, calves, and thighs. Breath naturally, feeling good coming into our bodies that work so hard for us all week. With the outflow of air, feel any stress or tension float away.
Dr. Zinn invites us to move our arms in an arc, stretching above our heads. Slowly move them in the curve of a rainbow. Then, rest your arms on the mat at our sides.
While still lying down, bend the knees. Move your arms to the right and rest them. Allow your legs to rest gently to the left.
Now stretch the other way.
As with any yoga or other movement practice, always check with your physician before beginning a new program.
Gently roll over onto your belly. Get up on your hands and knees. Arch your back like a cat. Then, let go and relax. Curve your back in the shape of a U, pushing your belly toward the earth. Do this three times.
Rest your forehead to the mat. Then kneel upright, take a deep breath and slowly stand up.
Raise your hands over your head and then shake out your arms, releasing any energy.
When Dr. Kabat–Zinn has trained people in his movement practice, they are amazed at how much stretching can take place in a small place.
You have taken time for yourself. And when we start our day taking care of ourselves, we are better able to care for others.
Enjoy this time of rest and relaxation of summer.
