The Roving Yogi

http://www.sciencealert.com/world-first-evidence-suggests-that-meditation-alters-cancer-survivors-cells

World-first evidence suggests that meditation alters cancer survivors’ cells For the first time, scientists have found clear biological evidence that meditation and support groups can affect us on a cellular level. We’re often told that being happy, meditating and mindfulness can benefit our health. We all have that one...

Many people have remarked to me that they are hesitant to go to a yoga class because they have never done it, or they feel they are not flexible enough. One of the main concerns i hear is, "I can't touch my toes". This notion is completely understandable, especially considering the emphasis our western culture places on achievement based activity. I am here to tell you that yoga is not limited to that. The poses that many think of as "yoga" are only a part of the practice. Yes, they are challenging. They are also transformative. A well rounded yoga practice includes guidelines for living and treating yourself and others. Combining these aspects of yoga can have life-changing effects. Forget about not being able to touch your toes today and come to a class. I wager you'll find you aren't the only one. In my class, toe-touching is not a requirement, only a commitment to be compassionate to yourself for a moment today. I do not teach gymnastics, i teach LOVE.

Yoga pose of the week: Tadasana (Mountain pose)
This pose is the foundation for all standing poses. Just as in all aspects of life, you build your practice well, by starting with a strong base.
1. Feet hips distance apart, grounding evenly. 2. Firm the thighs and lift the knees 3. Navel draws back toward spine and tailbone lengthens 4.Shoulders draw back, then widen and release down the back. 5.Head lines up with the pelvis, ears align across the shoulders. *Variations: a.Palms face out, with fingers spread b.Arms sweep overhead c. Hands in prayer in front of the heart.

Yoga pose of the week: Uttana Shishosana (Extended Puppy)
This stress reliever is great for stretching the spine and shoulders. Be mindful not to tweak the knees in this pose. If it hurts, come out of the pose.
1. Come onto all fours, shoulders above wrist creases hips above knees. Walk hands a hand-length forward, toes curl under. 2. Exhale, move the buttocks toward the heels, arms are active. 3. Keeping a slight curve in the back, take forehead to floor. 4. inhale, find length in the spine. Exhale to deepen.

I will be in Framingham, MA from Sunday May 4-May 10.

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