10 August 2008

stinky, sweaty, stretchy


Can I just say that I love yoga class? Well I do. 

On Sundays I go to a fantastic, challenging, twisty flow class at my gym. The instructor is tough in the sense that she challenges but gentle in that she encourages moderation and taking it little by little.  There's also something really nice about starting the week with a nice full length yoga class. I always feel 3 inches taller afterward.

My regular exercise routine will include daily short practices, about 20 minutes in length each morning and my regular Sunday class. I will be working with 2 great instructors via podcast and DVD.  

PODCAST-
Yoga Journal Faculty Teacher Jason Crandell has made a great selection of short practices called Yoga Journal TV. They are available online HERE for free, you can also get them through iTunes, again for free.

I like Jason's videos for a couple of reasons. They are a manageable length of time, averaging about 20 minutes making them perfect for a busy schedule. Additionally, Jason is a good instructor, plain and simple. He uses clear, easy to understand language and doesn't get super "New Age-y". He also uses a lot of encouraging dialogue and points out specific details of poses that make the entire experience enjoyable and safe.


DVD-  
Sara Ivanhoe's 20 Minute Yoga Makeover series is fantastic. They are available HERE  for purchase, as well are her extended length practices. I have to admit that I am a bit biased when it comes to Sara, she is an old friend but she is also and excellent instructor. She is another instructor who uses really simple terms to explain things, you never feel like you need to look something up and then go back to the video. She has a great flow to her routines and the 20 Minute Series is really good for all levels. She explains modifications and always reminds you that everyone does yoga at their own pace and that even she falls down during balancing poses too.

I think starting the day with some nice centering and stretching will really motivate me to do more exercise throughout the day. I was just talking with my friend Keriann who reminded me of the importance of looking at yoga as "something in everything" instead of just a workout you do at a specific time once or twice a week. There's something to be said for that, the idea that everything you do, if you are mindful of it, can be yoga. 

Well got to run, I need to wash my yoga mat, like seriously, it's stinky!

xoxo
martha mac

Digg! Stumble Upon Toolbar

2 comments:

Zeolite said...

Hi Martha .. this is a great blog you've started. I will be checking back often to see your progress and for inspiration. I just decided to look into yoga myself, as well, so if you've got any tips I would love to hear about them.
Many Blessings,
Shelley
Be Naturally Well forums JUST launched!

Martha Macarthur said...

Shelley,
Thank you so much for the encouragement. I will be posting more yoga info very soon.
Martha