A cleansing deep breath in through the nose filling the entire body and exhaling out of the mouth with an audible sound of rushing wind can make all the difference at the start of the day. Something about wanting to fill the lungs like giant hot air balloons all the way to their fullest capacity lifts the spine and elevates the mood. The rush of wind past a relaxed and jaw and slightly parted lips feels like the crisp, refreshing autumn air.
Our bodies are made to work extremely hard but after we put in that work or even before we need to relax. Muscles get tense and that can lead to injuries and insomnia. A relaxed body helps with a good night sleep, helps relieve stress and anxiety, helps make positive life choices, and helps with general all over health.
Meditation, stretching, and yoga are not just about the body but all three help with the mind. Scientific study has looked at what meditation does for the brain and health benefits associated with this practice. Some studies even suggest that meditation can actually change the brain and body and promote positive choices and change.
In my experience, when I meditate first thing in the morning and last thing at night even for just 5 minutes I find my spirited uplifted and my emotions are easier to keep in check. At night time, meditation helps me let go of the anxiety and stress I have taken on throughout the day. I have found that on my rest days if I engage in Yoga my body recovers more quickly and I am looser for the rest of my week. When I practice basic simply yoga every single day I feel more powerful and grounded.
For me, Yoga has been a great way to teach my mind to celebrate progress. In no other sport have I been able to see change as quickly as I can see in my daily yoga progress. Every inch gained in a stretch is a bolster to my confidence and energy levels. This confidence transfers to other parts of my life. Everything is connected.
If you are interested in learning more about Yoga and Meditation I recommend looking up some great You tube channels to guide you through the start of your practice. Personally, I love Yoga with Adrienne. She has been a great guide in my own practice. Once you start to get the hang of it yourself a good book or even Pinterest board is a great way to find inspiration. I have several different goal positions I would like to reach during my yoga practice. Topping that list are hand stands and inversions of various types like the one below.
Live Today Journal:
Gratitude Practice
1) I am grateful my body can change.
2) I am grateful for the cool early morning air.
3) I am grateful for peace within my mind.
4) I am grateful for the ability to bend and stretch.
5) I am grateful for experts like Adrienne who help guide me on my journey.
6) I am grateful for Pinterest.
7) I am grateful for YouTube.
8) I am grateful for words.
9) I am grateful for the ability to write.
10) I am grateful for Blogger.
Things I have Accomplished:
1) I have planned an amazing trip for my family on a tight budget.
2) I have potty trained my dogs.
3) I have given birth to three beautiful children.
Do you practice Yoga? What are some of your favorite Yoga or Meditation Resources?
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