Yoga for a Healthy Mind and Body

Many times as I am working with my patients, the topic of appropriate exercise comes up. For years I've been discussing the many benefits of low impact exercise on the body, such as Pilates and Yoga but I wasn't partaking in those activities myself. I've been weight training and running since I was 18 years old and I've always enjoyed it and how it makes me feel. What I've realized not only as I get older but as I gain more experience working with people of all shapes and sizes is that there is no cookie cutter protocol for success with exercise. One type of exercise may be more appropriate for someone than another. The most important tips I can give are listening to your body and being creative when it comes to moving it!

Although I've thrived, stayed healthy and strong over the past years with my regular cardio and weight regimen, I decided to practice what I preach and switch it up a little. Last December I began taking yoga. I happen to take hot yoga (which I love, but has it's pros and cons too...) but yoga at room temperature is great, as well.

There is no bouncing or landing hard on your joints, which ultimately can send stress up your kinetic chain (feet, knees, hips) and into your spine. The practice of yoga focuses on specific moves, in similar or different sequences. This allows you to really focus on your core, balance, and lengthen muscles in a more gentle way. I love where my practice has taken me in the last year. I find myself much calmer and at peace after a class and yet I had an amazing, sweat-producing workout that sometimes trumps a day at the gym!

Talk to your doc about what types of exercise may be most appropriate for your body, and get inspired to go out there and try something new! It took me 6 years to dive back into yoga after a bad experience turned me off. I am so glad I opened my mind and heart to the possibility of trying something new! I feel strong and energized every time I take a class! I encourage you to get outside of your comfort zone and try something new too!

Namaste!