Week 176: Christmas Yoga Treat

I was treated to a lovely practice at a studio this week!

Cue the applause!

I actually made it to a studio to practice with other people! And LOTS of other people.

Of course the studio was packed with people, being the week between Christmas and New Years. Naive me, I thought it would be empty with barely a soul. People - not a problem with me! I even chatted with a lady who had only just started her own journey of yoga two weeks ago!

Note: I love hearing people’s stories about their physical activity! Did you know that?

The beauty of a studio class is that I have VERY LIMITED control. And that is one of the best things for me!

I attended a hip opening class at Yoga Central. It is one of my favourite places to attend in Edmonton as the studio is super clean and the owner Sheila, knows everyone’s (I mean, everyone’s) name! I lucked out and she was subbing the full house class.

The practice was in Yoga Central’s warm room which as an additional treat as I don’t usually crank the heat in my basement to practice. I settled into the warmth of the room and was ready to go.

I felt good and glided through the poses that were perfect for my *always* tight hips! But, one thing got me…

Let me just say, I feel like I’ve covered a lot of ground over 176 weeks of yoga. Have I done all possible asana…well, almost. But today was a day for a new one!

I love a good forward fold. I fully admit to love all the variations as well. From the forward rag doll, to the holding the elbows, to the placing the hands on the ground or maybe under the feet (okay - that’s my favourite) to taking the peace sign fingers around the big toe. Love, love. love it all! Yet, one version still remained.

Cupping my hands/palms under my heels!

It was like adding a kitten heel to my forward fold. You know I like fashion, right?

The amazing thing about this position is that the heels are in a lifted position which releases the tension though the calf and possibly through the hamstrings. This elicits a healthy release to two muscles that can be pretty darn tight!

Further, as most hand placements during forward fold are in front of the body, this pose gives the shoulders a chance to externally rotate. This gives some movement through the upper back and scapula/shoulder blades region whereby the trapezius seems to get a nice stretch as the head is hanging downward.

Well, I am continually amazed how yoga rocks my world with new and wonderful poses!
Happy Holidays!
LW