In August 2009, during the international H1N1 (swine flu) pandemic, yoga master BKS Iyengar shared two immune building yoga sequences. One was an energetic morning sequence, the second was a quieter evening sequence. Both sequences included: inversions that use gravity to help stimulate the lymphatic system chest opening backbends to support cardiovascular and respiratory health […]
4 Easy Restorative Yoga Poses
By Ann West These four easy restorative yoga poses can be practiced independently or together in the sequence below. If time is short, it’s preferable to practice fewer poses for longer holds, so the body and mind have a chance to completely rest in each position. Practice Tips Darkness: Try using an eye cover of […]
Restorative Yoga: 6 Excellent & Healthful Reasons to Practice
By Ann West Restorative yoga is for everybody It’s not uncommon to encounter yoga students who feel they don’t need restorative yoga. They come to class for other admirable reasons – to train and stretch their body, to heal from injury or disease, or to experience an inner connection that they can’t quite find with […]
4 Yoga Poses to Stimulate the Heart
The poses below stretch the heart and strengthen its pumping action. Poses with the arms above the head stimulate the heart and can raise the blood pressure. The continuing level poses below are contraindicated for those with non-medicated high blood pressure. Utthita Hastasana (beginner) • Press the feet into the floor and stretch the legs […]
4 Yoga Poses to Calm the Heart
The poses below calm the heart and quiet the brain. Supporting the head below the level of the heart in forward bends is restful for the brain and heart. Resting in Savasana on a foam block expands the chest, which encourages relaxed, deep breathing, soothing the nerves and heart. Uttanasana (beginner) • Place the feet […]