YYoga

Flowers are blooming, sprouts are sprouting, the sun is out in Vancouver, which means that it’s time to do handstand!

The seasonal shift from winter to spring often brings a sense of renewal to our spirits. As we begin to shed our winter clothing, we may also start to clear away things that managed to build up in the hibernation of the winter season and look to spring for a fresh and liberating start.

Vancouverites in the winter know all about patience. As we wait for the days to slowly get longer and the clouds to clear, we have an opportunity to slow down, soften our impatience, and rest in the process. During this time, headstand can be an excellent choice in asana - not just because the additional circulation to the brain is a welcome refreshment, but because the pose unfolds only when we can be patient and calm.

The shoulder is actually two joints in one: the gleno-humeral joint and the scapulo-thoracic joint.

If the head is sitting too far forward, as can become habitual when we are sitting in front of a computer or driving for extended periods of time, then the muscles on the sides of the neck (trapezius muscles) have to work harder to hold the head in place.

Who doesn't like sugarcane in the moonlight? De-lish.

Using yoga as a therapeutic practice is an old tradition.

Restorative yoga postures paired with yogic breathing processes are powerful antidotes that can balance our nervous system, restore and support our immune functions, combat stress, prevent injury and bring symmetry to our bodies. T.K.V. Desikachar once said that “the only authentic yoga is one that works for each person according to circumstance and need, and that there are many possibilities.”