As a "wannabe" writer, I am always looking for inspiration for writing topics and, very often, this comes from the most unexpected sources. Indeed, within the last ten days, I have found myself compelled to write on a subject inspired, for the second time, by the musings of a fellow writer (if I can elevate myself to her status, for I'm only a novice, she's already got a signed book deal). Clare (you can find her under My Blog List opposite) recently blogged about her "Book With No Name". Her second book, however, does have a name, "Do No Harm". It is this which prompted me to write today.
Without going into an in-depth history of yoga, I'll just refer back to circa 300 BC! This was about the time when a certain Indian writer, named Patanjali, was born. But Patanjali was no ordinary writer, he turned out to be a pretty wise fellow, responsible for churning out the Yoga Sutras (the teachings behind yoga, as we know it today). By practising (not just reading about) these mystical teachings, one is supposed to experience a purification of the mind and body and, thus, get well on the road to reaching enlightenment or a full awakening of the Self.
So, what's Clare's book got to do with any of this? Well, she isn't writing about yoga philosophy, that's for sure, but her chosen title, Do No Harm, also happens to be one of those teachings. Being aware of Ahimsa - the sanskrit translation, which means non-violence or non-injury in thought, word and deed - we learn how to behave toward ourselves, our fellow human-beings and toward nature and the environment surrounding us.
My message today, however, is about being kind to yourself. As one who seems to suffer from the effects of the changing seasons, I have noticed a particular sluggishness of late, both in mind (can't think what to write) and body (got no get-up-and-go). So, instead of a video session today, I bring you this:
Viparita karani or Legs-Up-The-Wall pose - a passive, supported variation of the Shoulderstand (which you could do instead, if you are already practiced in the technique).
It's been said that taking just 10 minutes out of your busy day to practice this restorative posture is as good as the rest you get from a full night's sleep.....
I do believe it's a good all-rounder - both for relieving physical aches and pains and mental revival.
Try it whilst listening to some calming music or treat yourself to a meditation audio (there are plenty on YouTube).
You can keep your legs vertical against the wall or open them out into a "V" shape to get an extra stretch to the inner thigh - but take care not to strain your low back or groin. A belt strapped around your legs/above the knees might help prevent over-stretching and enable a more relaxed posture.
In addition to music or meditation whilst trying this out, you could also vaporise some refreshing essential oils. As I write this, I've dusted off my old burner and have some peppermint and rosemary on the go - excellent for clearing the head (and nasal passages) and uplifting mood - but you could also use lemon, grapefruit, may chang, clary sage or ginger (or a combination). Take care not to use these too close to bedtime otherwise you might be up all night!
I've also resisted the desire to have a second cup of coffee (something we all succumb to in times of fatigue and stress) and have poured myself a soothing peppermint tea instead. You could also try roibos (red bush) tea, which is naturally decaffeinated, green tea or lime & ginger for an extra kick.
And if your habit is also to reach for the biscuit tin for a pick-me-up, try something that'll give you a slow-release form of energy, like an oatcake with peanut butter (or hummus or cottage cheese) instead. Perhaps, a banana (or other piece of fresh fruit) with a few brazil nuts or a handful of seeds might do the trick. Whatever snack you choose, the aim should be to accompany your carbs with some protein. This will stop you "spiking" your blood sugars and keep energy levels more constant.
Enough of the lecture, just remember - be kind to yourself, as well as others.
Right, I'm off to dig out my dancing shoes :)
Without going into an in-depth history of yoga, I'll just refer back to circa 300 BC! This was about the time when a certain Indian writer, named Patanjali, was born. But Patanjali was no ordinary writer, he turned out to be a pretty wise fellow, responsible for churning out the Yoga Sutras (the teachings behind yoga, as we know it today). By practising (not just reading about) these mystical teachings, one is supposed to experience a purification of the mind and body and, thus, get well on the road to reaching enlightenment or a full awakening of the Self.So, what's Clare's book got to do with any of this? Well, she isn't writing about yoga philosophy, that's for sure, but her chosen title, Do No Harm, also happens to be one of those teachings. Being aware of Ahimsa - the sanskrit translation, which means non-violence or non-injury in thought, word and deed - we learn how to behave toward ourselves, our fellow human-beings and toward nature and the environment surrounding us.
My message today, however, is about being kind to yourself. As one who seems to suffer from the effects of the changing seasons, I have noticed a particular sluggishness of late, both in mind (can't think what to write) and body (got no get-up-and-go). So, instead of a video session today, I bring you this:
Viparita karani or Legs-Up-The-Wall pose - a passive, supported variation of the Shoulderstand (which you could do instead, if you are already practiced in the technique).
 |
| Feel free to place a cushion or bolster under your behind if it's more comfortable. Arms can be by your side or outstretched behind your head. |
I do believe it's a good all-rounder - both for relieving physical aches and pains and mental revival.
Try it whilst listening to some calming music or treat yourself to a meditation audio (there are plenty on YouTube).
You can keep your legs vertical against the wall or open them out into a "V" shape to get an extra stretch to the inner thigh - but take care not to strain your low back or groin. A belt strapped around your legs/above the knees might help prevent over-stretching and enable a more relaxed posture.
In addition to music or meditation whilst trying this out, you could also vaporise some refreshing essential oils. As I write this, I've dusted off my old burner and have some peppermint and rosemary on the go - excellent for clearing the head (and nasal passages) and uplifting mood - but you could also use lemon, grapefruit, may chang, clary sage or ginger (or a combination). Take care not to use these too close to bedtime otherwise you might be up all night!
I've also resisted the desire to have a second cup of coffee (something we all succumb to in times of fatigue and stress) and have poured myself a soothing peppermint tea instead. You could also try roibos (red bush) tea, which is naturally decaffeinated, green tea or lime & ginger for an extra kick.
And if your habit is also to reach for the biscuit tin for a pick-me-up, try something that'll give you a slow-release form of energy, like an oatcake with peanut butter (or hummus or cottage cheese) instead. Perhaps, a banana (or other piece of fresh fruit) with a few brazil nuts or a handful of seeds might do the trick. Whatever snack you choose, the aim should be to accompany your carbs with some protein. This will stop you "spiking" your blood sugars and keep energy levels more constant.
Enough of the lecture, just remember - be kind to yourself, as well as others.
Right, I'm off to dig out my dancing shoes :)
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