An Anchor for Relaxation
How to Develop Your Yoga Practice

Any time you want a yoga pick me up, try some spontaneous yoga. Grab your mat and find a quiet place free of distractions. Start in a comfortable seated position and remember what it feels like to be at yoga class. Tune into your inhale and exhale and try to visualize some of your favorite poses. Then if you feel like it, begin to do some of those poses.

In psychology an anchor is a stimulus that gives rise to a specific response. For example, at this time of the year the aroma of pumpkin pie might remind you of the holidays and spending time with family. Another example of an anchor is hearing a particular song that brings back good memories. Let your yoga mat remind you of that refreshing feeling of having just finished a yoga class and let that carry you into your own practice.

If you decide to try some yoga at home but have trouble thinking of what to do, I've listed a sample sequence of poses below to help you get started. And remember, only do whatever inspires and feels good to you - only you know what is best for you!

Wishing you joy and happiness, clarity and inner tranquility during the holiday season.

~ Michelle

Sample Yoga Practice

1. Seated Centering
Close your eyes and tune into your inhale and exhale. Become aware of any sensations in your body.

2. Cat/Cow
Inhale to cow and exhale to cat.

3. Downward Facing Dog
Alternate with child’s pose and breathe fully into both sides of the rib cage for these poses.

4. Spinal rolls or Sun Salutations
Inhale up and exhale down.

5. Warrior 1 or Warrior 2
Spend equal amounts of time on the left and the right.

6. Tree Pose
Spend equal amounts of time on the left and the right.

7. Corpse Pose or Legs up the Wall
Tune into your breath and sense different parts of the body softening and letting go.