Good morning to my yogi virtual school mamas!
Who knew the 20-21 school year would start off like this?
We’ve got this!
I wanted to share something I am posting on my son’s desk to help him when he gets overwhelmed or stressed, especially during these next three weeks of virtual learning. It is something I am applying in my life as well.
The Five P’s:
Pause
Pranayama
Praise
Pray
Pivot
Pause – Stop what you are doing a take a few seconds or longer to pause.*
Pranayama – Breathe! Pranayama is one of the eight limbs of yoga. Prana means life force; when we are stressed, our breath becomes very shallow. In times of constant stress, this shallow breathing can affect our immune system negatively. Learning to take deep breaths and practice breathing techniques such as the Victorious (or Ujjayi) breath that we have learned in class is scientifically proven to calm the nervous system and reduce stress. (I will review this again in class on Wednesday morning.)
Praise – Find something to thank God for! He has done so much for us; sometimes we forget how blessed we are. When we cultivate an attitude of gratitude, it can override our stress.
Pray – Ask God to help you with whatever you are struggling. You might not have an immediate solution but know that He hears you and cares about every minor detail in your life.
Pivot – Sometimes we need to change our course of action, perhaps switching to another activity or subject temporarily before coming back to the problem at hand. This might mean physically moving, incorporating a few yoga poses or taking a quick walk to reset. There are specific poses that reduce stress, such as Legs Up the Wall and Child’s Pose. (Remember, every pose in yoga has a purpose!)
*Another note on Pausing: 1. Make sure you are taking time to feed your soul! Read your Bible and devotionals daily. Even if it is quick, it can set the tone for your day. 2. Take time to care for your body; you are investing in your mental and physical health when you come to yoga every Wednesday at 9 a.m. You cannot serve from an empty vessel.
You’ve Got This! Praying that this year will be fantastic for all!
See you at 9 a.m. this Wednesday in my backyard for yoga! Go to the FB group for sign up info.
Love & Peace,
Lori
Isaiah 40:29-31 “He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary; and young men stumble and fall, but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles, they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”
Whole-Hearted Yoga 