So what does it take to glide through Christmas, with energy and poise? Yes, you’re right, it certainly takes more than a few nifty stretches.However this is a great place to start.My 3 top picks, and why –
Stress-reducer – this is one I use multiple times daily; as it helps to release 2 areas we use for pretty much everything; our neck + shoulders.
To release each of the muscles attaching to these areas, and our upper chest – simply rotate your shoulders in big circles; 5 times forwards, and 5 times backwards.Imagine you’re drawing circles with the points of your shoulders in the air, and you’ll be away. Ideal for when you’re waiting at the traffic lights in the car!
Chest-release – this one’s not only designed to stimulate blood flow to our upper body (bringing fresh oxygen and nutrients and removing waste) – it can also help with our immune system function. And this is one system that can end up working over-time if things ever get stressful. I was taught this by my fabulous yoga teacher in Bali – Kay Balnaves, and I find it so beneficial for increasing my energy.
Sit in a place where you have plenty of space to have your arms reaching fully above your head. As you breathe in, take your arms up above your head and as you breathe out through your mouth, quickly bring them down by your sides. It’s even more effective when we make a ‘whoosh’ sound as we breathe out.Repeat this 10 times (pause if you need to catch your breath!)
Big balance! – this one is such a leveller. We all know the power of deep breathing to have us feel better; often within minutes. It’s especially powerful to take our breath in deeply to the lower and upper and side parts of our lungs, and let our tummy expand as we take this breath in fully.
Using a ratio of 1 : 4 : 2 (breathe in for 1 count, hold for 4 counts and breathe out for 2 counts) helps to increase our body’s ability to absorb all the oxygen from the air in our lungs, and make sure we’re getting rid of the waste carbon dioxide. It can also help to regulate our blood pressure and automatic (think ‘automatic’) nervous system.As with any type of exercise – if anything hurts and you’re not sure; make sure you check with your coach or primary healthcare practitioner.Take away – If you’re needing more ideas to feel as energised and juiced as possible through what can often be a busy festive season, then click on this linkand pop in your email address. You’ll be pleased you did!
Fi Jamieson-Folland D.O., I.N.H.C., is The LifeStyle Aligner. She’s an experienced practitioner since 1992 in Europe, Asia and New Zealand as a qualified Osteopath, Integrative Nutrition Health Coach, speaker, educator, writer, certified raw vegan gluten-free chef, and Health Brand Ambassador.
