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RELAXING AND UNWINDING YOGA CHALLENGE (stress relief you can do in your jammies)

Posted on by pennyjoliver

Put on some relaxing music, light a candle, maybe get into your pajamas. Do whatever gives you a relaxing vibe before moving into this soothing yoga flow. Resting in your Heavenly Father’s arms, you need not worry anymore, for He says that you may cast all your cares and worries on Him. (1 Peter 5:7) He’s calling out to each of us (Matthew 11:28) to come to Him, because only He has the deep abiding rest that our bodies and souls crave. The Psalmist sums it up beautifully: “My soul finds rest in God alone” (Psalm 62:1).

During these 16 yoga positions, designed to flow into each other, try to inhale all the good and restful thoughts of our Heavenly Father’s care. Remember, He knows how many hairs are on your head this very moment (Matthew 10:30). He also loves each of us mightier than every wave in the sea (Psalm 93:4). And, His thoughts toward each of us outnumber the grains of sand in the entire world (Psalm 139:18)!

Breathe, relax, in the flow, let it go…

1.) Cross Legged Twist

  • Sit cross legged.
  • Keep both sitting bones on your mat and your chin up, shoulders down, and back straight.
  • Inhale deeply.
  • Exhale as you twist to the side.
  • Place a hand on your opposite knee, the other hand in back of you, for a more intense twist.

 

 

2.) Cross Legged Stretch Variation 

  • Clasp fingers behind your head.
  • Inhale deeply while stretching backwards as far as is comfortable for you. Let your chest lead the stretch. Keep your chin and eyes up. Let your head rest in your palms.
  • Exhale, rounding your back as you lower your head forward.
  • Press your chin into your body and  use a little pressure with your hands as you pull your head down.
  • Feel a great neck stretch and repeat the process at least 10 times.

2a.) Side Stretch

  • Simply inhale deeply in the middle and exhale as you stretch to the side.
  • Repeat the process on each side 10-20 times.
  • Inhale deeply in the middle and exhale, folding over your knee.
  • Repeat this process to each knee, 10-20 times each knee.
  • Remember to inhale in the middle with sitting bones down, chest lifted, chin up, and exhale as you move to each side.

3.) Cat/Cow Pose

  • Start with hands below shoulders and knees below hips.
  • Inhale deeply. Gently drop your head and rounding your back.
  • Exhale deeply. Arch your back with chin up.
  • Repeat the process 10-20 times. Remember to breathe!

 

4.) Child Pose/ Shoulder Stretch

  • Sit back onto your heels.
  • Stretch your arms out in front of you.
  • Breathe deeply for 10 counts.
  • Slip your left arm under your other arm.
  • Breathe deeply for 5-10 counts.
  • Repeat this process with your right arm.

5.) Baby Down Dog

  • From a Child Pose position, lift your sitting bones.
  • Slide your hands and arms forward.
  • Arch your back or stretch farther forward.
  • Breathe deeply for 5-10 counts.

At this point your right foot will remain forward through out exercises, 6,7,8, and 9.

6.) Low Lunge Stretch

  • From Child’s Pose, come to your hands and knees.
  • Slip your right foot between your arms.
  • Stretch your back leg out behind you as far as you can.
  • Breathe deeply for 5 counts.
  • Straighten your forward leg and fold over it.
  • Breathe for 5 counts.
  • Repeat this motion for 5 breaths in each position for a total of 10 times.

7.) Low Lunge Twist on Both Sides

  • As you go into Low Lunge Stretch, lift your back knee off your mat.
  • Place your left hand on your mat, beside your forward foot and directly below your shoulder.
  • Stretch your right arm up and twist.
  • Look up and breathe deeply for 5 counts.
  • Switch hands. Your right hand should be on your mat now, with your left hand lifted up.
  • Breathe deeply again for 5 counts.

8.) Low Lunge with Shoulder Stretch

  • Gently lower your back left knee to your mat.
  • Your right knee should be directly on top of your right foot.
  • Stay here and breathe deeply for 10 counts.
  • If you can, place your hands on your hips.
  • Clasp your fingers behind you and look up for an extra heart, lung, shoulder, neck, and arm stretch
  • Hold the stretch for a good 5-10 deep breaths.
  • Lift your wrists and arms behind you. Stretch your back leg out farther for an even deeper whole body stretch.

9.) Low Lunge Hamstring Twist

  • Release your Low Lunge Shoulder Stretch by placing your hands on each side of your right foot.
  • Place your left hand next to your right foot.
  • Bend your back leg.
  • Hold your foot and bend it toward your body as far as you can.
  • Breathe deeply for 5 counts

It is time now time to repeat positions 6,7,8, and 9 with your left leg forward and your right leg behind.

10.) Upward Dog

  • Start by lying down.
  • Place your hands directly below your shoulders
  • Press through your arms and lift your chest and head backwards (see the picture!).
  • Breathe deeply for 3 counts.

11.) Downward Dog

  • From Upward Dog Position, curl your toes, lower your head, round your back, and lift your sitting bones.
  • Your hands should be shoulder-width. Your legs should be hip width apart.
  • Keep your heels down, and keep pressing your sitting bones up.
  • Stay here until you feel a good stretch in the backs of your legs and shoulders.
  • Breathe deeply 3-5 counts.

Move into Upward Dog position and then Downward Dog position, for 3 more counts in each position.

12.) Child’s Pose

  • Sit back on your heels.
  • Lower your head to your mat, or place a pillow below your head if necessary.
  • Keep your arms back, beside your torso.
  • Let your shoulders release.
  • Widen the distance between your legs, or rest your head on your arms.
  • Breathe deeply for 5-10 counts.

13.) Rock and Roll

  • Sit with your legs forward.
  • Rock backward, then rock forward.
  • Do this for 10 counts.

14.) Butterfly Pose and Stretch

  • Sit and press the bottoms of your feet together.
  • Hold your feet,inhaling while arching your back with your chest and chin up.
  • Exhale and fold forward.
  • Repeat for 5-10 deep breaths.

 

15.) Reclining Butterfly

  • Lie on your back with your knees up and your arms at your sides
  • Inhale and lift your arms up over your head. Let your knees gently drop to the sides.
  • Don’t force your legs apart! Let them gently release to the sides.
  • Exhale. Close your legs and rest your arms to the sides.
  • Repeat this process 5 times.
  • Stay in the open legs position for 5-10 deep breaths.

16.) Legs Up a Wall

  • Rest your legs on a wall or a chair. Bend your legs and res them on the seat.
  • Make your sitting bones touch the wall, or get as close to the chair as possible.
  • Stay here and breathe deeply for 1-3 minutes.
  • Lie on your back, breathing deeply for as long as you like.

PEACE AND FLEXIBILITY YOGA STRETCHING CHALLENGE ( A calm peaceful yoga class of deep stretching for flexibility)

Posted on by pennyjoliver

The benefits of stretching our wonderfully made bodies can be pretty incredible. Muscles loosen, blood flows, circulation improves, and our range of motion gets better. Joints, ligaments and tendons become well lubricated, while chronic pain and arthritis can actually improve over time. Stretching offers a sense of well being too. Stretching deeply and breathing deeply while you stretch helps your body release pent up stress and tension. Less stress is more peace. Peace is more calm.

Yoga is definitely a great de-stresser. But for true heart and soul peace… God tells us that it is possible to have a peace that surpasses human understanding! (Philippians 4:7) And, if we keep our minds on Him, He says He will give us “perfect peace.”(Isaiah 26:3) Even in a raging storm we can still have peace. (Psalm 107:29) Belief in what God is saying to us enables us to have what He is saying. May peace be with you, as you stretch and flex!

The ten yoga stretches below, target big muscle groups for a deep release. Simply start your stretch at the place that is right for you and take it from there. Complete this yoga workout on a regular basis and your flexibility will greatly improve. Remember that detailed instruction is always provided for every Halleluyah yoga workout, whether you are a beginner or seasoned yogi master!

1.) Cross Legged Stretch 

Sit cross legged. Then inhale deeply, stretch your arms up, and press your palms together in a prayer pose. Slowly release your arms with a deep exhale, lowering them to your mat. Repeat 10 times. If you like, on your inhales breathe in God’s peace. On your exhales, release your care worries fears and doubts to God. Don’t rush; just breathe.

2.) Side Stretch

With a big inhale, stretch your arms up once again. This time, with a deep exhale, stretch your arm to the side. Try to let your elbow drop to your mat. Stay stretching and breathing for 5-10 deep breaths.

Continue stretching to the side and extend your leg to the side. Bending your extended leg is perfectly fine. Do what is best for you! Continue stretching to the side for another 10 deep breaths.

Come back to a cross legged position. Then repeat the process on your other side.


3.) Butterfly Stretch

Press the bottom of each foot together. Pull your feet as close to your body as possible. Stretch and breathe for a few counts. If the stretch is too intense, simply move your feet forward until it feels good.

Now inhale deeply, arch your back, lift your chest, and stretch your neck and head.

Now exhale deeply, round your shoulders and back forward while stretching over your feet. Try stretching your head to your feet. Repeat the process at least 10 times with deep breathing.

 

 

 

4.) Wide Legged Stretch

Extend your legs to each side. Lower your torso. If possible, stretch your arms out to the sides. Breath deeply and linger in this position, which will allow you to stretch deeper. You can always keep your knees bent and and legs out to the front more than the sides if you cannot extend your legs out all the way

Try walking your hands out or lean on your elbows. 1-3 minutes in this position will seriously improve your flexibility and bring a sweet calmness to your body. You may even realize after a few minutes in this position that you can stretch a little deeper!

After you linger, stretch to each side. Try to get your face to your knee and your hands behind the bottom of each foot. Now linger here with deep breaths and then switch sides. Continue switching sides and breathe for 10-20 stretches each side.

When you are finished, release your legs and shake them out.


 

5.) Seated Forward Fold

Sit with your legs extended forward, with palms together and index fingers sticking straight up. Inhale deeply, stretching over your extended legs. Try to lead with your chin. Exhale, grasping your feet if you can. Bend your legs if you can’t hold them straight. Repeat the process at least 10 times. After this, fold forward one more time and stay there for a few deep breaths.

6.) Body Hug

Lie back, pulling your knees to your chest. Wrap your arms around your legs and give your entire body a big hug.

You can release your body hug and stretch out on the floor with a deep inhale. Then exhale and pull your body in again, giving it a big hug! Repeat a few more times. Lift your head if you can. Roll around in this ball if it feels good, massaging your spine and back.

If you cannot hug your knees in, bend them into your chest as far as you can.

7.) Bridge Lifts

Lie flat and bend your knees. Pull them toward your back if you can. Grasp your ankles. Inhale deeply while lifting your sitting bones as high as possible. Even one inch is a great starting place! Exhale deeply and slowly lower your sitting bones. Repeat this 10-15 times. Go slow.

When you are finished, try one more time to lift your sitting bones up. Stay here for 10 deep breaths if possible.

8.) Happy Baby Pose

Lie flat and raise your feet. Try to grasp each one or grab your ankle or calf. Then pull them down from your heels as far as possible. Breathe deeply for 10 counts. Now have some fun by rolling around while holding your feet. It will also massage your spine and back.

 

9.) Reclining Split Stretches

Hug your knee into your chest as best you can. Breathe deeply for a few counts.

Grasp your leg where you can and pull your knee down.

If you can, pull your foot down. Lift your head to meet your knee. Breathe deeply for a few counts.

Do the whole process with your other leg.

Remember that your current ability to stretch is perfect for you. Just keep practicing, and with consistent stretching you will see your flexibility increase!

10.) Reclining Spinal Twist

Lie back and bend your knees. With a big inhale, let your knees fall to the side. Keep your shoulders on your mat with arms extended to the sides. Breathe deeply here about 5-10 times. Come back to the middle with knees up. Repeat on your other side.

I hope you enjoyed this stretch!

Peace be with you always!

YOGA STRETCHES FOR BETTER GOLF SHOTS YOGA CHALLENGE (8 Yoga stretches with your irons to de-stress before you shoot)

Posted on by pennyjoliver

Up your driving tee shot with these eight simple stretches, targeting your shoulders, arms, sides, hips, waist, abs, core and more! Breathe deeply as you stretch into each one.  It will relax your muscles and allow for a deeper stretch. Breathing deep and steady will also relax your mind, allowing clarity and focus as you warm up for that perfect first shot!

All of these stretches require your driver to accompany you! Remember to take each one slow and always remember to breathe! I know from experience that golf can be quite a mind game. Focusing all your attention on your breathing and these stretches instead of allowing yourself to tense up before that first shot can really do wonders to up your game! 

1.) Driver Stretches

Take your driver and lay it on your shoulders behind your head. Relax your forearms upon it. Feel your shoulders and arms open up. Give yourself a few deep breaths in this position. It will relax your upper body and allow you to stretch even deeper.

2.) Driver Side Stretches

Let your driver slide down your left shoulder and arms. Follow the driver and stretch to your side. Hold the position  while breathing deeply again. Look up for a deeper stretch. Repeat the stretch on your right side. Do this on each side 4-5 times and don’t forget to breathe!

3.) Driver Twists

Hold onto your driver where it is a comfortable stretch for you. Your legs can be hip width apart or stretched a little farther to the sides, depending upon what feels good for you. Gently twist to the right, then gently twist to your left. Repeat the twist 5-10 times on each side.

4.) Driving Stretch and Lift

Take your driver and inhale deeply, stretching it over your head. Slowly lower it while exhaling. Lower and lift in the same manner up to 10 times.

5.) Driving Side Stretch

Take your driver, inhale deeply, and lift it up again. Exhale deeply as you stretch over your hips to the side. Repeat this by inhaling in the middle with the driver up over your head; then, exhale deeply as you stretch over to each side for a total of 5-10 times.

6.) Driving Forward Stretch

Stretch and lift your driver up once again while slowly inhaling. Slowly exhaling, gently bend forward. Lean only as far as you feel comfortable.You may bend your knees for added support and balance. Hold this position for a few breaths and lift back up to the starting position. Repeat for a few more stretches. Leading the stretch with your chin will increase the intensity of the entire exercise!

7.) Triangle Driving Stretch

Widen your stance about two and a half feet apart. Point your toes to the right side with your right foot. Slightly point your left foot in. Keep both heels on the same line. Lay your driver down for support. Hold it while leaning up and over to the side. Your face should be able to look forward. Slowly lower your hands until you feel a nice stretch. Hold this position with a few deep breath to relax and allow for a deeper stretch.

8.) Driving Warrior Stretch 

From the same leg and foot positioning as the Driving Triangle Stretch, simply bend your forward knee. Step in for a less intense stretch. Then, take hold of your driver and slowly lift it up and over your back. Go slow and be gentle as you raise it over your head. If you find it a challenge at first, simply position your driver without raising it at first to gain familiarity with the stretch.

Look up and bend your forward leg a little more for a more intense stretch. Come out of the stretch and get back in it a few more times. Try to remember to breathe; it will help you release your muscles so you can stretch farther!

HALLELUYAH IN DC!

Posted on by pennyjoliver

 

Recently blessed with the wonderful opportunity of spending time with my son and my sister in DC, we also spent time at Awaken the Dawn. This was the second year a gathering of Christians met on The National Mall, worshipping God and praying for America. I’m honored to have taken part in this God centered celebration. Is it just me or is there not nearly enough celebrating of God these days? And I’m also in love with the fact that nothing was bought or sold there and no company, no person, no ministry and no church was highlighted there. Just God. Just praise. All to the glory of Him!

During our stay, I had to stop and strike a pose in front of The Capitol Building. Soon I found myself surrounded by large group of Chinese tourists. It wasn’t long before they wanted in on our pics! One of the women assumed leadership of the group and soon she was weaving her Chinese friends in and out of our pics. About 8 pics in, our camera would not work; however, the camera clicks continued on. Our new Chinese friends went home with many of my smiling praying tree poses and they managed to get my sister in some of the pics too. My heart smiles, remembering that after they decided they were done with me, speaking in bare- bones English, they told me I was most welcome in China, anytime!

Yoga proved it’s universal power of connecting and uniting people in those few moments that day. Perhaps even to open doors that might be closed in other ways. As the tourists continued on in the direction of the Awaken The Dawn gatherings, hopefully God used those posing moments to open the tourists hearts. Then again, isn’t it always the simplest things that go unnoticed here on earth that God uses in the most amazing ways?  Perhaps, something as simple as a Chinese tour in DC, maybe a smile and a camera, possibly even a basic yoga tree pose!

To that I say, “Halleluyah

xxoo

<3

 

REVIVE TIRED LEGS HIPS AND FEET YOGA CHALLENGE

Posted on by pennyjoliver

Our lower half holds us up all day. Every now and then, shouldn’t we show it some love? Ta- dah! Below, a healthy dose of yoga goodness to the rescue!

Research published in the journal “Evidence Based Complimentary and Alternative Medicine” has found that regular yoga poses and stretches can help ease restless legs, help you sleep better, feel less stressed and even lower blood pressure.

Think about it: God is never exhausted. Instead, He offers us His strength and His rest!

The Lord will not grow weary, and His understanding no one can fathom. He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.

Isaiah 40:28-29

Breathing deeply and lingering in each stretch will allow for a deeper stretch and release. Let our inhales lift and refresh our tired cells with new energy. Let our exhales release tension and built up stress. With a tireless God to help us, we can’t help but revive and come alive!

1.) Star Stretch Twist

Spread your feet apart to where you feel comfortable. With a big inhale, lift your arms over your head, interlocking your fingers at the top.

Exhale, slowly extending forward while stretching your arms out.

Try to touch your mat, but if you can’t, hold your knees or your hips with one hand while stretching the other arm up.

Alternate arms for 10 times each and remember to go slow and breathe

2.) Intense Stretch Pose

From Star Pose, turn your left toes in while extending your right toes to face the right side.

Please keep your hips squared to the side as you extend over your forward leg.

Go slow, be gentle and breathe.

Hold for 5-10 deep breaths to feel the stretch and the release.

3.) Lunge Pose With Twist

Bend your right leg into a Lunge Pose. Hold for 10 deep breaths.

Lift your right arm up and twist. Hold for 10 deep breaths again, then come back to Lunge Pose.

Lift your left arm up. Hold for 10 deep breaths again.

Do not repeat on your other leg yet. Move on to the next exercise.

A less challenging way to do this exercise would be to bend your back leg.

4.) Deep Lunge Pose with Simple Twist

From Lunge Pos,e simply bend your back leg to your mat. Stretch your arms up and arch back for 5-10 deep breaths.

Place your left elbow over your forward right leg. Place your right arm behind you. Hold this for 5-10 deep breaths.

Do not repeat on your other leg. Move on to the next exercise.

5.) Lizard Pose

From Lunge Pose, with your right leg forward, place your hands on the inside of your right leg.

If that feels comfortable, bend both elbows and slide your right foot forward while release your knee to the side.

You can always lower your back knee to your mat and keep your arms straight if this is too difficult.

6.) Forward Bending Twist

Stand tall. Extend up and over your legs.

Place your hands on your mat. Place your hands on your hips, thighs, knees, or ankles to make it easier.

Inhale in the middle and exhale as you lift each arm. Repeat this 5-10 times with each arm.

7.) Tip Toe Squat into Side Stretch

Lift your heels, bending your knees out to the sides.

Place your hands on your mat in front of you or place them into Prayer position.

Hold this for 5-10 deep breaths.

Extend your right foot to the side. Place your hands on the mat in front of you for support.

Lift your left arm and stretch over to the right side. Hold this for 5-10 deep breaths.

Repeat with your extended left leg.

You can alternate stretching over your right, then left, extended legs for 5-10 deep breaths, inhaling in the center and exhaling out to the sides.

8.) Star Pose Forward Bending Twist

Widen your legs sideways to a place that is comfortable for you.

Inhale, stretching your arms up over your head.

Exhale, extending over each leg with opposite hands to their opposite ankles. Extend the same arm up to twist.

Come into the center with a deep inhale.

Repeat this 10 times on each side.

9.) Seated Leg Stretch

Sit with bent knees in front of you.

Hold your right leg, gently lifting it up.

Massage the back of your leg if you like.

Point and flex your ankle. Linger and stretch.

Bring your leg to your torso.

Hold for 10 deep breaths.

Repeat the process with your left leg.

10.) Cross-legged Side Stretch

Sit cross-legged.

With a huge inhalem stretch your arms up from your sides.

Look up. Arch back and hold for a moment.

Exhale, releasing the hold and stretch up and over to your left side.

Repeat on your left side. Come to middle and stretch to each side for 10 deep breaths on each side.

 

 

I’m feeling better now. I sure hope you are too! Let me know how it goes…

Thanks for joining me and we’ll see you soon…

stay strong and yoga on!

xxoo

<3

 

YOU ARE LOVED MINI YOGA CHALLENGE

Posted on by pennyjoliver

It’s called, “Fierce Pose” in Sanskrit, “Chair Pose” in English and “Squatting” in Body Building. This pose gets its name because it’s based on where and how we perform it. Isn’t that kind of like love? We love one other based on “something” like emotions, feelings or desires.

Fortunately for us God is Love and the Creator of love. He loves with a pure and holy love that surpasses all human comprehension. Not only has He always loved each of us unconditionally, He also extends His love for each of us for all of eternity!

Give yourself a daily dose of Fierce Pose and based on nothing you can do or not do, be loved today, tomorrow and for all eternity!

God says,

I have loved you with an everlasting love.

Jeremiah 31:3

 

Don’t be afraid of it’s name. Fierce Pose is an approachable full body pose that builds leg strength, stabilizes your core, improves lung capacity, stretches your shoulders and opens your heart and back. Breathing deeply while holding this pose will help you enjoy its invigorating qualities. Below are four variations of a Fierce Pose. Enjoy the health benefits and know you are loved, as you practice this short but powerful yoga sequence!

1.) Fierce Pose

Stand tall with your feet together, back straight, shoulders pressed down, neck long, and face relaxed. With a deep inhale, slowly sit back like you are sitting on a chair. Lead with your sitting bones and raise your arms. Do not let your knees extend beyond your toes. Hold this position for 10-30 seconds while breathing deeply. Repeat this 5 times.

For an easier version, sit back just a little. Spread your feet apart for even more support.

2.) Praying Fierce Pose

Come back to a standing position. Sit back into Fierce Pose with a deep breath. This time, pressing your palms together in prayer position. Hold for another 10-30 seconds while breathing deeply. Extend your prayer pose to the floor by lowering your head and straightening your legs. Go to a standing position, then repeat the process 3 times more.

 


3.) Praying Fierce Pose Twist

Go to standing position – then, inhale and exhale, twisting to the right. The inhale lifts you up and provides room to twist, and the exhale lets you twist deeper. Your left elbow should extend beyond your right thigh. Press your palms together while trying to look up! Hold the position and breathe deeply for a few seconds, then repeat on your other side.

4.) One Legged Flying Fierce Pose 

Stand tall. Place your left leg over your right thigh, inhaling deeply. Exhale, lean back, and lift your arms back behind you. A longer exhale allows for a deeper stretch. Hold the position for 10-30 breaths. Repeat with your left leg on the ground.

…always remember that somebody loves you at this moment and every moment in the future. No conditions necessary!

xxoo

<3

 

BREATHING WARM UP YOGA CHALLENGE (Seated breathing exercises to begin each yoga class or for a quick pick-me-up/stress buster)

Posted on by pennyjoliver

Join me for a quick pick me up/stress reliever. Or take 5-10 minutes before each Yoga Challenge to complete this. It will fire up your body, boost your energy, relieve stress, and get you focused and ready for your workout!

Below you will find 9 basic exercises with focused deep breathing. Breathing with movement will improve your circulation, remove toxins from your body, and keep your body running on optimal!

You can also fill your lungs with the peace of God as you breathe and soar above circumstances that may be weighing you down. Let go and enjoy the ride, for God says that,

…those that hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles.

Isaiah 40:31

Eagles fly the strongest, swiftest and highest of all birds. They are also dependent upon storms and high winds – it’s what makes them soar!

1.) Cross Legged Breathing Meditation

Try to surrender all thoughts. Give up your cares, worries, doubts and fears.

Meditate on the Bible verse as you inhale and exhale slowly, deeply and deliberately.

Focus and breathe for 5-10 long deep breaths. Have fun and really try to remember to inhale and exhale, deep, strong and long!

When you are ready, proceed to the next exercise.

2.) Neck Stretch

Sit up tall.

Make sure your hips are on top of your sitting bones with your stomach pulled in, face relaxed, neck long and shoulders pressed down.

Take it slow and inhale like you are pulling all the air around you into your lungs.

Exhale slowly, turning your head to the right.

Repeat on each side, slowly inhaling in the middle and slowly exhaling as you turn your head for 5-10 times each side.

 

3.) Arm and Upper Body Stretch

Deeply inhale, lifting your arms slowly up from your sides.

Look up for a deeper stretch. Hold it for a few moments.

Slowly exhale, gently releasing your arms to the mat.

Repeat for 5-10 long, deep, slow breaths.

4.) Seated Side Stretch

Inhale slowly lifting your arms up from the sides, just like #3 above.

Exhale, gently leaning over to the side.

Repeat for 5-10 deep, slow breaths on each side.

 

5.) Neck, Shoulder, Heart Opener

With hands clasped behind your head, inhale deeply.

Exhale deeply, folding forward. Round your torso as you fold.

For a deeper stretch, inhale again and slightly lean back. Push your chest forward while your elbows back, and look up.

Repeat with the inhales, stretching up and back with the exhales rounding forward. Repeat the process for 10-25 deep breaths. Try it 1-3 minutes and see how you feel! Go slow and stretch!

6.) Neck and Shoulder Side Stretch

With hands clasped, inhale deeply while stretching up.

Exhale deeply, folding gently to alternating knees for 10-25 or longer deep breaths.

7.) Intense Side Stretch

With hands clasped, inhale and stretch up like #5 again.

Exhale, lean over to your side, and touch your elbow to your knee, if possible.

Repeat with big inhales in the middle and big exhales out to the sides for 10-20 deep breaths each side.

8.) Seated Eagle Arm Stretch

Bend both elbows out in front of you.

With a normal breath, slide your left hand under your right elbow. Let that hand continue sliding up and around your right arm. Your palms should meet.

Hold for 5 long inhales and exhales. Remember to keep your shoulders down, neck long and back straight.

Repeat with right hand sliding under your left elbow and circling your arm.

9.) Cross Legged Forward Stretch

Inhale deeply, keeping your back straight, shoulders down, neck long, and your stomach pulled in.

Exhale, slowly folding forward. For a deeper stretch, lead with your chin as you fold, keeping your back straight.

Slowly, and with deep inhales and exhales, repeat the process up to 10 times.

You can walk your hands out and lower your head for an even deeper stretch!

Breathe deeply and yoga on!

xxoo

<3

 

STRETCHING YOGA CHALLENGE

Posted on by pennyjoliver

Join me in this quick stretch to loosen up your tense muscles and get a new perspective on stretching!

If we are willing, we can stretch ourselves to achieve great things – but God has better for every one of us!

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not unto your own understanding.

Proverbs 3:5-6

For with God nothing shall be impossible.

Luke 1:37

Do you remember? Peter walked on water. Sarah gave birth at age 90. Mary was a mother with out knowing a man. Jesus’ disciples fed over 5,000 people from one kid’s lunch. Moses parted the entire Red Sea for the Israelites to cross. Little boy David killed an armored giant with a stone. Daniel a slept all night in a den of lions. Deborah saved a nation. The list goes on!

Though the people of the Bible were just normal people, they did amazing things! But they had one thing in common: they were stretched! Day by day, year by year, little by little, God stretched their faith. At the point when they were fully able to rely on Him, God blessed them; they accomplished above and beyond what they could possibly imagine!

Now is your opportunity to go deeper in your yoga practice with these Asanas below. Remember to breathe deeply, this will relieve stress and tension, allowing you to stretch deeper. I know God is stretching me – where might God be stretching you?

1.) Standing Stretch

Start by standing tall with your abs pulled in, your butt tucked under, your chest lifted, your shoulders down and your neck lengthened. Lift your arms to the sides, inhale deeply, and stretch them up. Exhale deeply and lower your arms. Repeat 5-10 times, depending on how much time you have.

2.) Forward Bend

In this stance, when you exhale down, extend your torso over your legs. Whereever your hands land on your legs is the perfect place for you. Once you feel comfortable in the Forward Bending stretch, put your left hand near, in front of, or touching your right foot. Stretch your right arm up and gently twist. Repeat on your other side. Stretch each side 5-10 times.

To make it slightly easier, bend your knees. You can also play around with your legs by bending each one separately.

Do number 3-8 with your right leg forward. Then do number 3-8 with your left leg forward.

3.) Intense Pose Reverse Praying Hands

Extend your right leg to the side with your toes pointed. Slightly turn in your left toes. Press your palms behind your back in a praying positio,n lifting the palms as high up your back as you can go. Stretch your entire torso back with a deep inhale. With a deep long exhale, extend your torso out and over your front leg. Lead with your chin. Stretch as far as you can go in this position.

You can always step your back leg in to make it easier, or slightly bend both legs. You can also place your hands on your hips, or clasp your wrists in back instead of the reverse prayer hold.

4.) Intense Pose Stretch

Once you can no longer hold the Reverse Prayer Position, release you hands and stretch deeper over your leg. Try to get your head to touch your knee and breathe deeply, for up to 10 counts.

Step your back leg in for less intensity and slightly lean forward to make this pose less challenging.

5.) Deep Lunge Pose

Bend your right knee. Place your hands on your mat on each side of your foot. Step your back leg in for less intensity, or place your knee on your mat. Breathe deeply for up to 10 counts.

You can always bend your back leg for less intensity or place your hands on your thigh.

6.) Lunge Pose Twist

Raise your right arm and look up. Stretch that body. Hold for 5-10 deep breaths.

Bend your back knee if it becomes too challenging.

 


7.) Deep Lunge Stretch

Drop your back knee to the mat. Stay here and breathe deeply for up to 10 counts. If you can, grasp your foot; stretch and hold this position for 5-10 breaths.

Take it farther by lifting your forward arm up and pulling your foot to meet your sitting bones. Breath 10 long and deep breaths again!


8.) Bended Knee Prayer Position

Place both your hands on each side of your foot and slide your knee below your sitting bones to come out of the intense stretch. Then bring your palms together. You are ready to pray!

Sit and breathe for a few moments. Enjoy the rewards that any kind of stretching can bring!

Let me know how it goes…

yoga on

xxoo

<3

PEACE BE WITH YOU!

Posted on by pennyjoliver

The world is all stressed out! But you can still have peace!

The American Psychological Association states that chronic stress is linked to six leading causes of death and disease: heart disease, cancer, lung ailments, accidents, cirrhosis of the liver and suicide. They also state that 75% of all doctor visits are stress related ailments and complaints. The American Medical Association has noted that stress is the basic cause of more than 60% of all human illness and disease. In this chaotic world, how can we not have stress?

What actually happens to our body when we are stressed? It defends itself, of course!Amazingly, God has created us with an entire defense system that turns on as soon as we become stressed. Esther Sternberg, physician and author of several books on stress and healing, explains how it works.

Immediately, our heart rate speeds up and diverts blood away from our guts and to our muscles so we can run away. The pupils of our eyes constrict, so we can keenly focus on our attacker. The bronchii of our lungs increase blood oxygenation and convert energy stored in the liver into fuel for strength and stamina. She also states that if we are stressed for too long, our body starts to release stress hormones and nerve chemicals that we do not want floating around in our body. It is these stress hormones that are so dangerous to our overall health. That is why it’s important to our health to chill out as soon as possible. Perhaps God designed our bodies with that in mind: that we might trust in Him for help.

God’s remedy for stress:

Don’t worry about anything, but pray about everything. With thankful hearts offer up your prayers and requests to God. Then, God will bless you with peace that no one can completely understand. And this peace will control the way you think and feel.

Philippians 4;6-7

Next time you feel stress coming on, give yourself a “Halleluyah Moment!” Drop and give yourself 10 long and deep breaths while meditating on the above verse of Scripture and just breathe… let God take care of it all. Let, “Peace be with you!”

Halleluyah!

WARRIOR POSE (Slay your hunched over shoulders)

Posted on by pennyjoliver

Got a few moments? Can you join me for 5 minutes of Warrior training to counter the effects of sitting at a desk all day? We will stretch and strengthen our entire body with the all-inclusive ” Warrior Pose.” With a simple clasping of hands behind our backs, we optimize the pose by opening our hearts, chest, and lungs, reversing the hunched back posture.  Add a bow forward, and we up our training by causing our core to kick in to help keep our body up!

1.) Warrior Pose

Step to the side. Keep your heels on the same line and your back toes slightly turned in. Your hips should face forward. Step in with your back leg if the pose grows challenging. Bend your right knee. Place your hands in a praying position. Breathe deeply through your nose for 5-10 counts. Surrender your thoughts and be present for these few moments.

Your inhales should be long and deep through your nose as you go back. Your exhales should be long and slow as you bow. Hold the breath in at the top of the stretch. Hold your breath out at the bottom of the bow. This will enhance the effects of the pose.

Just a quick reminder to all the warriors out there….

Stand tall and be proud that you are a warrior in God’s army, for He thinks you are a mighty warrior! He says it many times in His word. Below is just one example. Best part? You already “own” the victory, when you placed your life in God’s hands!

The Lord is with you mighty warrior.

Judges 6:12


2.) Peaceful Warrior Pose

Clasp your hands behind your back. Look up. Inhale deeply and hold it.

3.) Humble Warrior Pose

Keep tension in the clasping. Bow forward. Lead with your chin. Exhale slowly. Extend up and over your forward leg. Hold the bow and the exhale.

Inhale and slowly come up back to Peaceful Warrior Pose. Repeat the process 5-10 times and try it with your left leg forward.

With God at your side you can do mighty things.

Be the Warrior He created you to be!

Yoga on!

xxoo

<3