Achievement Unlocked: Crow Pose

Me in Crane poseFor the first time last night, I successfully took off in crow pose for 3 tiny seconds, something that has been a low key bucket list item since my first intro to yoga class, which OSU offers for free to health plan members! No risk; all reward.

People always say “I’m not flexible enough for yoga.” That’s like saying “I’m not fit enough to exercise.” Don’t be intimidated. Yoga is nothing but a fancy name for organized stretching, and you only need to go as far as is comfortable for your body at the moment. I’m always surprised at how great I feel after a session, so I’m renewing my effort to practice at least once a week. Come on 5-second-crow!

Element Yoga DVD cover. Woman in white pants and top in a standing yoga pose with arms raised. Beach in the background.If you’re not into the group fitness thing, I highly recommend Ashley Turner’s Element Power Yoga DVD. It’s less than $7 on Amazon right now. She goes through the poses and explains slowly enough that beginners can follow along, while the emphasis on strength and balance will definitely give intermediate yogis something to work toward.

Photo of the book The Science of YogaJust remember: feeling the stretch is good, but if it hurts, stop. When you hear about people getting hurt in yoga, it’s usually from a lack of being in touch with what the body wants. Pushing the pose too far, being too hard on yourself, or showing off will get you hurt. As long as you are honest with yourself and take care of your body, you will reap amazing benefits. Read more about both the risks and the rewards of the practice, as well as its history in the book Science of Yoga.

3 thoughts on “Achievement Unlocked: Crow Pose

  1. Yoga is such a great mindful discipline for the body and a way to live life to the fullest. I also believe that a balance of nutrition and detoxing is essential for optimum health. Looking forward to checking out those books. Thanks for the post.

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