breathe

YOGA FOR CHRISTMAS CHALLENGE ( A PRAISE SEQUENCE- FIND YOUR BLISS)

Posted on by pennyjoliver

This mini yoga sequence was created for us to release stress and gain peace during this Christmas season by getting into the true Christmas vibe…celebrating The Lord Jesus Christ!

As the count-down to Christmas approaches I don’t know about you but I can feel my stress levels rising. However, a simple 5-10 minutes of praising God can alter the course of our day leaving us refreshed, revived and strong all day long. Beware. God may fashion these few moments of praising Him into an inner and outer total body workout.

I designed this sequence using different versions of the warrior position to help us feel rooted and grounded. The hand and arm positions were chosen to lift our bodies and set our eyes toward heaven.

Although I included instructions with each position for this sequence there is no right or wrong way to do these poses. Simply let your outer movements be an expression of your inner heartfelt praise. It helps to pause at the moment you feel is the best version of the way you do that particular pose. Why not exclamation mark it with a prayer of praise!

All warrior poses will begin with your right leg forward. After you complete the entire sequence using your right leg forward switch to your left leg.

May you be filled with peace brimming over as you celebrate this most wonderful time of year!

1.) Seated Meditation

  • Take a few moments to relax and clear your mind by inhaling peace and exhaling peace!

2.) Heart Opening Warm-Up

  • Come to your knees, hip width apart.
  • Clasp your hands behind your back for an added chest, shoulder and neck stretch.
  • Or rest them on your hips.
  • Inhale as you lift your chest.
  • Exhale as you release and bow forward.
  • Repeat the process for 5-10 times.

3.) Twisted Praying Lunge Pose

  • From your knees step your right leg forward.
  • Keep your foot directly below your knee.
  • Straighten your back leg and lift your heel.
  • Place your left elbow over your forward right thigh.
  • Press both palms together.
  • Breathe deeply for 5-10 counts.
  • Move into the next position with the same foot forward.

4.) Warrior I Pose

  • Place your back heel on your mat.
  • Stretch your arms out to your sides.
  • With a big inhale slowly lift both arms up.
  • Let your palms meet overhead.
  • Stretch back, lifting your chest and chin.
  • Interlock your hands with pointed index fingers.
  • Continue a few more times with arms stretched out to your sides then lifted up in praise.
  • Move into the next position with the same foot forward.

5.) Humble Warrior

  • Clasp your hands behind your back.
  • You may also rest them upon your hips.
  • With a big inhale lift them as high as you can behind your back.
  • With a big exhale bow forward, allowing your hands to follow your head raising them as high and as forward as they will go.
  • Inhale and come up and back again.
  • Repeat 5-10 times.
  • Move into the next position with the same foot forward.

6.) Warrior I Pose

  • Stretch your arms out to the sides again as you lift them up in praise.
  • Interlock your hands with pointed index fingers.
  • Breathe deeply for 5-10 counts.
  • Same foot is forward again.

7.) Eagle Warrior

  • Bend both elbows in front of your chest.
  • Take your right hand placing it under your left elbow.
  • Continue sliding it under that elbow to the left side.
  • Continue to swirl your right arm up and around your left arm.
  • Lift your chin and stretch your head back.
  • Breathe deeply for a few counts.
  • Same foot is forward again.

8.) Warrior I Pose

  • Keep the same leg and foot position.
  • Lift your arms up from your sides.
  • Breathe deeply for 5-10 counts.
  • Same foot is forward again.

9.) Reverse Prayer Warrior

  • Place the back of both your palms on your lower back.
  • Let the tips of your fingers meet behind you.
  • Slowly turn your palms over pressing the insides of your palms together.
  • Slide them up your back as far as you can.
  • Stay here and breathe deeply for 5 counts.
  • Same foot is forward again.

10.) Warrior I Pose

  • Keep the same leg and foot position.
  • Lift your arms out to your sides.
  • Breathe deeply for 5-10 counts.

11.) Forward Bending Bow 

  • Step your right forward foot behind your left leg about one foot.
  • Bend your right knee.
  • Straighten your left leg.
  • Bow forward, inhaling and exhaling praises to the newborn King!

Now it is time to start again and complete this sequence with your left leg forward!

After you have completed all eleven positions with both your right and left leg forward lie down for a few moments allowing your body to absorb all that healthy yoga goodness from the inside out!

Go forth and have a most wonderful Christmas!

keep calm and yoga on

xxoo

Penny!

LUNGE POSE MINI CHALLENGE( GO FORWARD INTO 2019)

Posted on by pennyjoliver

Hi Friends!

This month “Yoga with Penny” features moving forward into the New Year with Lunge Pose!

In this New Year, let’s give ourselves permission to let go of whatever does not serve us. Let us dedicate these precious few moments to free ourselves from what weighs us down and holds us back. Let Lunge Pose serve as a symbol of our willingness to let go of the past and move forward into 2019.

Physically, a Lunge Pose can help us counteract the effects of desk-sitting. Sitting for long periods of time stresses our spine, hips and back. We may also notice our shoulders rounding forward and our chests caving in, which affects the way we breathe. Taking just five minutes for a few Lunge Poses (while breathing deeply) will help to revive us with energy and relieve stress. Deep breathing activates our parasympathetic nervous system, which slows our heart rate and helps us to relax. And, of course, Lunge Pose help us to build strong muscles in our legs, back and spine.

If you find Lunge Pose too challenging, simply lower your back knee to the ground. For more support, stretch your legs wider than hip distance. Try it out, and do what works for you. Yoga is also about you being good, to you!

 

Lunge Pose:

1.) Stand at hip width, bend both knees, and step your right foot forward.

2,) Keep both your hips facing forward throughout the position.

3.) Be sure your forward knee is directly over your foot.

4.) The further forward you step, the more challenging the pose becomes.

5.) Bend forward; use your hands for support, placing them on the inside of your forward leg.

6.) Keep your arms straight, relax your shoulders, soften your collar bone, and let your hips sink.

7.) Once you feel comfortable in a Lunge Pose, inhale peace and exhale your stress, breathing deeply for 10 counts.

8.) Step forward with your left foot into Lunge Pose, and breathe deeply for 5-10 counts again.

9.) Repeat moving forward in Lunge Pose on each leg a few more times.

As you work on your Lunge Pose, let it remind you to stop taking time from your life by looking in the rear view mirror. Instead, live in the present moment, fully alive, fully aware, and moving ever forward!

Thanks for Lunge Posing with me.

God Bless you as we Lunge into the next year!

xxoo

Penny

 

YOGA CHALLENGE FOR STRETCHING AND DE-STRESSING DURING THE HOLIDAYS

Posted on by pennyjoliver

Hi Friends!

Yoga on and let’s get into the Christmas vibe! This class should stretch, strengthen, energize and de-stress your mind and your body. However, if your stretched for time simply do a position or two. Every  position below includes detailed instruction with less challenging modifications and the benefits each pose.

May you be blessed with abundant peace and joy as you celebrate the true meaning of Christmas!

…and angel said, ” behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord!” (Luke 2:10-11)

This is your time to release the cares of your world and just breathe. Go ahead indulge. Being aware of this present moment will help. Sit comfortably, close your eyes and inhale peace and joy and exhale all your daily thoughts. Stretching with this mindset while breathing deeply will help to de-stress and bless you!

1.) Standing Forward Bend Stretch Variation

For a brain boost and energy buzz, perhaps this will do!

Forward bends stretch our entire back sides, relieving tension in our spine, neck and backs. While stimulating digestion they boost brain power, circulation, calms our minds and soothes our nerves. They may also act as a mild depressant. Getting merry never felt so good!

  • Stand with your feet hip width apart.
  • Place your hands on your hips or clasp them behind your back.
  • Point your left foot forward.
  • Slightly bend your right knee.
  • Fold forward over your left leg.
  • Breathe deeply for 10 counts.
  • Repeat with your right leg forward.

2.) Triangle Pose

Open relaxed hips help to relieve stress and aid digestion which Triangle Pose is known for.

Triangle Pose is a terrific hip stretching and strengthening position. It also stretches and strengthens our entire leg including our ankle joints, hamstrings and calves. It may also improve digestion, relieve stress and help with menopause symptoms.

  • Spread your feet apart approximately 2-3 feet.
  • The farther apart your feet- the more challenging the position is.
  • Let your heels stay on the same line but slightly turn your left toes toward your right ankle.
  • Turn your right leg toes directly to your right side.
  • Pull your belly in while standing up tall.
  • Extend your torso up and then over your forward right leg.
  • Gently slide your right hand down your leg, touching the floor if you can.
  • If you find it too challenging to touch the floor rest your hand on any part of your leg when you feel stretched but not uncomfortable.
  • Lift your left arm up.
  • Breathe deeply for 5-10 soothing deep breaths.

3.) Extended Side Angle

A great total body stretch that strengthens too!

Extended Side Angle Pose may relieve stiffness in our shoulders and back while strengthening and stretching our entire legs and ab muscles. While building stamina it expands our lung and chest area as well.

  • From your Triangle position, simply bend your forward right leg.
  • Extend your right arm up and over while leaning into the stretch.
  • Aim for keeping your entire torso facing forward as you stretch to the side.
  • Breathe deeply up to 10 counts.

4.) Side Angle Twist

Besides blessing us with all the Extended Side Angle Pose position benefits, adding a twist will tone our core and ab area while compressing internal stomach organs. As you release the twist, you send fresh blood to that area aiding in the release of toxins from your body.

  • Press your palms together while lifting your back heel to keep your body mobile to twist.
  • Take a deep inhale as you exhale gently twist over your forward knee.
  • You may rest your back knee on your mat for support while you twist.
  • Hold this position while breathing deeply up to 10 counts.
  • Switch legs and start Extended Side Angle with your left leg forward then do the twist!

5.) Star Pose Forward Bending Stretch

Like it’s sister Forward Bend, the Star Pose with a bend forward stimulates circulation to our brains increasing our energy, calming our minds and soothing our nervous systems. It aids in digestion and stretches and strengthens our entire legs and core. Stretching our arms out first, then down, engages our abs and strengthens our backs, shoulders, neck and spine!

You can also put a chair in front of you to rest your hands on if you can’t quite make it to the floor yet!

  • With both toes facing forward extend your legs to the sides.
  • The wider the position the more challenging it will become.
  • Keep both legs straight and clasp your fingers with pointed index fingers pressed together.
  • Inhale and stretch up with both arms and exhale slowly folding forward.
  • Rest your hands on the back of a chair or a wall.
  • OR continue to fold downward, resting your hands on your mat.
  • Repeat the stretch up with a deep inhale and the fold forward with a deep exhale.
  • Aim for 10 stretches up and 10 stretches folding forward.

6.) Star Pose Twist

The twisting action stimulates digestion while providing a great total body stretch!

  • Your hands may rest on a chair for support here or a yoga block.
  • Lower each hand while stretching the other hand up.
  • Aim for 10 stretches with each arm for a total of 20.

7.) Star Pose Leg Stretch

This extra stretch to the side will increase flexibility to your legs and improve the range of motion in your hip area.

  • Your hands may rest on a chair or yoga block here also.
  • Walk your hands over to your right leg.
  • Aim to touch your head to your knee.
  • Breathe deeply for 5-10 counts.
  • Switch legs.
  • Repeat a few more times with each leg.

8.) Star Pose Stretch

Adding a little weight to your upper arms, neck and shoulder area helps with fighting arthritis and osteoporosis while deepening your leg and hip stretch!

  • Your hands may rest on a chair or yoga block here as well.
  • Lower to your elbows and press your palms together.
  • Continue stretching those legs by sliding them out just a bit.
  • Continue stretching while breathing deeply for 10 counts.
  • Repeat a few more times.

9.) Tip Toe Squat With Eagle Arms

Can you hear them? Your ankles, feet, and toes are yelling hooray- we are being used! The Eagle position of your arms stretches your upper back and shoulder area.

  • Bring your heels together on tip toes if possible.
  • Extend your knees out to your sides.
  • Bend both elbows out in front of you.
  • Take your right hand and place it below your left elbow.
  • Now, swirl your right arm around your left arm.
  • When your palms meet clasp your fingers. If they do not meet keep them where they are and breathe deeply up to 10 counts.
  • Keeping both arms directly in the middle center of your torso helps in swirling them up.
  • You do not have to raise your heels the whole time. Lower and lift them if your just starting out!

10.) Tip Toe Extended Leg Squat Stretch

  • Extend your right leg out to the side.
  • Stay on your tip toes if possible.
  • If possible stretch over your extended right leg.
  • Place your hand on your mat for support.
  • Breathe deeply up to 10 counts.
  • Now stretch the other way, over your left bent leg and breathe deeply up to 10 counts.
  • Now repeat the process extending your left leg to the side.

AGAIN! Tip Toe Squat With Eagle Arms

I had really bad feet nine years ago as I was just getting into yoga. Today my feet feel fine!

  • Back to a Tip Toe Squat again.
  • Breathe deeply for 5-10 deep breaths.

11.) Butterfly Stretch

  • Sit down on your mat and place the soles of your feet together.
  • Pulling your feet in closer to your torso will give you a more challenging stretch.
  • Extending your feet forward will ease the difficulty.
  • Lift up with a big inhale while gently pressing your chest forward.
  • Exhale slowly folding forward.
  • Repeat 10 more times-then remain folded forward for another 10 counts.

 12.) Seated Spinal Twisting Prayer Pose

  • Place your right foot over your bent left knee.
  • Try to pull both feet towards your torso for a deeper stretch.
  • Now wrap your arms around your knee.
  • Press your palms together and breathe deeply up to ten counts.
  • Next, say a prayer if you like!
  • Switch legs and repeat!

Thanks for joining me!

Stay merry and bright!

xxoo

Penny

FISH POSE MINI CHALLENGE (boost your metabolism)

Posted on by pennyjoliver

I welcome you to the all inclusive” Fish Pose.” Practiced on a regular basis it can provide you with a host of heavenly benefits!

One of the most effective benefits of Fish Pose is that it can improve our thyroid function. Our thyroid gland is responsible for the health and function of our metabolism. Our metabolism is responsible for converting food to energy which affects every cell in our body.  Practiced regularly, this pose can also boost oxygen and blood flow to our lungs, improving overall circulation. It can also help to fight respiratory ailments while increasing our lung capacity.

Why not dim the lights and try Fish Pose before bed with deep breathing?  It may aid you in a restful night’s sleep!

To begin, sit with your legs extended in front of you.

Place your hands on your mat behind you with your fingers tucked under or at your sides.

Lower your elbows to your mat and lean backward.

Align your shoulders with your elbows.

Gently drop your head back as far as it feels comfortable with the aim of touching the crown of your head to your mat.

Keep your chest lifted and open-imagine a string pulling it up.

Keep your throat soft and ensure that your head is comfortable.

Breathe deeply for 5-10 counts.

Slowly and gently come out of it.

Repeat the process a few more times.

When you have completed Fish Pose a few times lie down and relax to absorb all the wonderful benefits of this amazing pose.

Fish Pose will also strengthen your upper back, neck, and spine, and it can relieve tension in your neck and shoulders too. You may also experience a throat, chest, ab, hip, and neck stretch. It is also said that if you perform this pose in water, you will be able to float like a fish!

Thanks for joining me…

may peace always be with you!

xxoo

Penny!

 

CHILD POSE

Posted on by pennyjoliver

The sweet Child’s Pose, practiced during every yoga class and perfect for the Christmas season!
Christmas maybe the most wonderful time of year but it is perhaps the most stressful time too!
But don’t worry, I’ve got you covered.
Join me and I will show you how to slow down to Christmas tree speed and still shine bright.
That way, all will be calm with you and you can bask in the warm glow of being all there in the moments you get to share with family and friends.

And now I present to you the gift of the basic, most essential Child Pose.
It’s the reassuring hug you been waiting for and the gift that keeps on giving.

Although it’s a warm-up or resting pose in a yoga class, it’s the perfect remedy to unwrap tension and stress anytime and a great antidote for a restful night’s sleep.

To enhance the healthy yoga goodness from Child Pose focus on your inhales and exhales.
Then let the soothing sanctuary of your Child Pose envelope you in a cocoon of warmth, comfort, safety, and ease!

You may fold up a towel to place between your heels and your sitting bones for comfort and support. You may also rest your head on a pillow for ease.
To begin, come to all fours and gently fold forward over your legs. Spreading your legs apart will provide a deeper stretch. Gently resting your forehead on your mat or pillow begin inhaling and exhaling slowly and deeply. Remember, it’s your time to relax and unwind so try to linger here for a few moments. One minute would be great, but longer would be better. The best scenario would be to stay as long as you need, not worrying about minutes or time simply enjoying the present peaceful moment. Besides relieving stress, practicing Child Pose on a regular basis stretches our lower backs, opens our hips, stretches our shoulders, ankles and ligaments. Therapeutic for digestion, it enhances circulation, calms our minds and fights insomnia.

Thanks for joining me!

May God fill you with peace and love this Christmas as we celebrate the most special child of all time – the Lord Jesus Christ!

And a very “Merry Christmas” every day of the year!

love to you and yours

Penny

 

 

 

Inhale Thanksgiving and Exhale Thanksliving!

Posted on by pennyjoliver

Join me as we bend over backward in these energizing yoga positions. We’ll not only flex our spine, but also stretch our hips, expand our shoulders and chest, and open up our hearts. The positions below progress in difficulty so start with the first few positions progressing only as you feel comfortable.

There are many health benefits of being grateful. A 2009 National Institute of Health (NIH) study showed that our hypothalamus, the part of our brain regulating a number of our bodily functions becomes activated when we feel gratitude or display acts of kindness. These gestures flood our brain with the chemicals called dopamine and serotonin-our happy feel good hormones. What’s fascinating is the neurological effects of gratitude open the door to many health benefits including better sleep, stress relief, reduced anxiety and depression, decreased pain levels and increased energy- boosting and enhancing overall health and wellness. Why not include a dollop of gratitude in this quick yoga workout and get a head start on Thanksgiving!

God told us long before science His simple prescription for health.

…in everything, give thanks. 1 Thessalonians 5:18

…kind words are like honey sweet to the soul and healthy for the body. Proverbs 16:24

When you are ready grab a mat, water and let’s get started!

 

1.) Cat/Cow Position

  • Lower your body to all fours.
  • Spread your palms wide below your shoulders.
  • Position your knees directly below your hips.
  • Inhale deeply lowering your head, rounding your back.
  • Feel as though your inhaling your stomach up to the sky.
  • Exhale releasing your breath while letting your hips and back sink while arching comfortably up.
  • Look up and stretch and tone your neck too.
  • Repeat the process from Cat to Cow 10-20 times.

 

2.) Knee/Back/Shoulder Strengthener

  • Roll up a towel, place it under your knees for support if you like.
  • Place your hands on your hips or clasp them behind your back.
  • Inhale, lifting your arms up behind you and arching comfortably back.
  • Exhale lowering your hips and siting back on your heels.
  • Place your head on your mat or place a pillow or a rolled up towel for your head to rest upon.
  • Keep pressing your hands up behind you as you exhale.
  • Repeat the process 10-20 times.

3.) Bridge Pose

  • Lie down placing your feet below your knees.
  • For a deeper stretch bring your feet closer to your body.
  • Place your arms by your sides or clasp your hands under your body.
  • Inhale slowly, lifting your hips as high as is comfortable.
  • Exhale slowly, lowering your hips.
  • Repeat the process 10-20 times.

4.) Half Camel Position

  • Rise to your knees.
  • Position your legs hip distance apart.
  • Curl your toes under or stretch them out on your mat.
  • Inhale deeply, slowing stretching back.
  • Place your left hand on your left heel.
  • You may also place your hands on your hips if it feels too challenging.
  • Breathe deeply for 5-10 counts then switch arms.
  • Go slowly and be gentle as you arch back.
  • Repeat on both legs up to 10 times.

5.) Full Camel Position

  • Once you feel comfortable in both Half Camel positions arch back while pressing both hips forward placing a hand on each ankle or foot.
  • Continue to press both hips forward while breathing deeply for 3-5 counts.
  • Slowly come up and forward placing both your hands in front of you on your mat.
  • Repeat Full Camel position 2 more times.
  • Lay down on your back and breathe for 10 counts.

6.) Table Top Position

  • Sit with your knees bent in front of you.
  • Place your palms behind you and directly below each shoulder.
  • Lifting your hips press them up through your feet and palms.
  • Let your head gently fall back.
  • Breathe deeply for 3-5 counts.
  • Next, press up into a Table Top position with a big inhale, then exhale as you lower your torso.
  • Repeat the process 10-20 times.

7.) Back Bend

  • Lie down with your legs hip width and bend your knees.
  • Position your palms next to your ears with your fingers facing your heels.
  • Push up through your feet and palms, gently lifting your hips and torso.
  • You may only be able to lift your body a couple inches, which is a great starting point.
  • Come back down taking a moment to rest before trying again a few more times.

8.) Seated Forward Bend

  • Sit with your legs stretched out forward.
  • Trying to keep both sitting bones on your mat stretch your arms up and over your legs.
  • Breathe deeply for 10 counts.

I hope you enjoyed this quick yoga workout. May God bless you with many reasons to always be grateful!

Until next time,

xxoo

Penny!

BALANCE AND STABILITY YOGA CHALLENGE

Posted on by pennyjoliver

I know your health and your time is important to you. That’s why each of our Halleluyah yoga workouts are short and have purpose. Today, the purpose is building strong legs, hip, knees, ankles, feet, wrists, abs, core, and more. This will ultimately lead to improved balance and stability. Stability at any age is important yet as we grow older it becomes vital. Start this workout by practicing all eight positions with your right leg forward. Then switch to your left leg. Holding theses positions with deep breathing boosts our heart rate helping us to burn more calories, providing us quicker results!

For more of a challenge, step out farther in the warrior positions below and hold each position for a longer count. Completing this sequence 2 or 3 times on each leg will increase the difficulty as well.

For less of a challenge, step in or lower to your back knee in the warrior positions. You may also hold each position for a shorter time and use a chair or wall to help support you. This yoga workout was designed to meet you where your fitness level is and to offer instructions to help you progress.

This is your time to do something good for you! Before we begin I ask that you sit down and take a few slow deep breaths to clear your head of the cares and worries of the day. Replace those cares with belief that YOU can do anything! Each of us could never even imagine what we could do if we had the faith to try. God left us stories of real men and women of the Bible to help us believe and to have faith. Take Peter. He could have stayed on the boat and never walked on water but He did! (Matthew 14:29). How about the little boy who gave up his lunch to Jesus. Jesus turned his little basket of five small loaves and two fish into a fast food feast that fed over 5,000 people! (John 6:1-14). And the list goes on and on…

…for nothing is impossible with God.

Luke 1:37

 

When you are ready grab a mat and some water and let’s yoga on!

 

1.) Mountain Pose Stretch

into 

2.) Praying Squat Pose

  • Stand with your feet at hip width.
  • Inhale deeply as you extend your arms overhead.
  • Exhale deeply, lowering your arms while pressing your palms together in a prayer position.
  • Bend your knees into a Squat Pose like the second picture.
  • Slightly turn out your toes.
  • Pressing your palms together while in a squat position will keep your back straight while opening up your hips.
  • Repeat the process from Mountain Pose Stretch to Praying Squat Pose 5-10 times, increasing the count as you grow stronger!

3.) Mountain Pose Reverse Prayer

  • Start with feet at hip width.
  • Stretch your arms behind you and place your hands on your hips.
  • Try to touch your fingertips behind you, with your pinkie fingers closest to your back.
  • Raise your palms up your back while continuing to press your finger tips together. Eventually, pressing both your palms together behind you.
  • Go as far up your back as is comfortable.
  • Once you arrive at your perfect place, breathe deeply for up to 10 counts.

4.) Reverse Prayer Tree Pose

  • Begin by placing your left foot on your right ankle.
  • If you feel comfortable, lift that foot up your leg to your inner thigh. Use your hands to help!
  • Breathe deeply while balancing for 5-10 deep breaths.
  • You may still do a Tree Pose with your foot anywhere on your leg.
  • You may also do a Tree Pose with your hands on your hips, or your palms pressed together in front of you.

5.) Warrior I Pose 

  • With your feet hip width apart, step out 2-3 feet forward.
  • The longer the step, the more challenging the pose.
  • Try keep your hips facing forward.
  • Do not let your forward knee extend beyond your toes.
  • Slightly let your back toes point forward.
  • Extend your arms out from your sides, and up over your head.
  • Sink your hips and keep your back leg straight.
  • Clasp your fingers together, letting your index finger point to the sky.
  • Breathe deeply for 10 deep breaths.

6.) Eagle Warrior I Pose

  • Maintain the same leg position as Warrior I Pose.
  • Bend your arms in front of you.
  • Take your right arm and move it under your left arm. When you see your right hand let it swirl up your left arm like a snakes. It both hands meet try to clasp them. If not stay where you are.
  • Lean back while lifting your elbows and look up.
  • Breathe deeply for 5-10 deep breaths.
  • Do the best you can with the arm position. Practice does help. You may also raise your arms like number five, Warrior Pose I.

7.) Humble Warrior I Pose

  • Maintain the same leg position as Eagle Warrior I Pose.
  • Place both hands behind your back.
  • Clasp your fingers. Lift your arms up behind you. Look to the sky with a big, slow inhale.
  • With a big, slow exhale bow forward over your knee while lifting your arms up behind you.
  • Repeat the process 5-10 times, inhaling deeply while stretching back, and exhaling deeply while bowing forward.

8.) Supported Warrior III Pose

  • Maintain the same Humble Warrior I Position.
  • On your last bow, release both hands to your mat.
  • Lift your back left leg directly behind you, maintaining the position of both hips. Even a slight lift will do!
  • Inhale while lifting your leg and exhale while lowering your leg. Repeat this for 5-10 deep and slow inhales and exhales!

  • Next, hold your leg up with the support of your hands on your mat. Breathe deeply for 5-10 long deep inhales and exhales. You can always use a chair for support. Even an inch is a great way to start!

  • As you progress you may be able to lift your hands off the floor and even clasp your palms up behind you! Oh and don’t forget to breathe!
  • Once you have completed this yoga sequence with your right leg forward, it is now time to start from the beginning with your left leg forward!
  • For best results, practice this yoga sequence at least three times a week.

There are many arm and hand positions that you can do in a Warrior III Pose, as well as any yoga position. You will find your favorite ones as you progress in your practice.

Thanks for working out with me. Until next time, may you believe anything is possible with God and fly high in yoga and your own life!

God Bless!

xxoo

Penny

xxoo

Penny

BOOSTING METABOLISM AND CIRCULATION YOGA CHALLENGE (for everyBODY)

Posted on by pennyjoliver

Yoga promotes health and happiness, helps us lose weight, burn calories, boost metabolism, and reduce stress. Twisting yoga positions stimulate our metabolism which helps our brain, heart, and kidneys to function smoothly. Back-bending yoga positions improve our breathing encouraging fat burning capabilities. Inverted positions stimulate our circulatory system while encouraging blood flow and oxygen intake throughout our vital organs and our entire bodies.

Chronically elevated levels of stress can cause weight gain – when we are stressed, our adrenal gland secretes the hormone cortisol. Cortisol is good for us, however too much cortisol flowing through our bodies can mess with our metabolism, causing us to be irritable, depressed, and unable to lose weight. Generally, yoga reduces stress. Studies also show that prayer and meditation help to reduce stress as well. As you practice this yoga challenge try to maintain a meditative state by refusing to let your mind focus on anything negative. Perhaps theses comforting words from our Heavenly Father may help!

Don’t worry about anything; instead pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done.

Philippians 4:6

Try to relax by breathing deeply in a seated position. When you feel you are ready, grab a mat, water and let’s get started!

1.) Forward Bend

  • Stand hip width.
  • Extend your arms out to the sides with a big inhale.
  • Press your palms together overhead.
  • Release your palms and slowly lower your arms with a big exhale.
  • Repeat 10 times.

2.) Forward Bending Twist

  • Lower your torso as far as you can, whether on your knee or on the mat.
  • Inhale deeply. Exhale deeply, extending your right hand up – if possible, bend your right knee.
  • Repeat, extending your left arm up while bending your left knee.
  • Alternate each arm and leg for a total of 5-10 repetitions.

3.) Lunge Pose Twist Variation

  • Lower your left knee directly below your hip.
  • Keep your right forward toes directly below your knee.
  • Take your left elbow and place it to the outside of your forward knee.
  • Let your palms meet and press them together.
  • It may be beneficial to inhale before you twist, and exhale as you twist. This creates more room for the twist!
  • If you can, tuck your back toes and lift your right knee off your mat.
  • Breathe deeply up to 10 times then switch legs.

4.) Warrior I with Eagle Arms

  • With your right foot, step to the top of your mat with your toes pointed forward and directly below your knee.
  • The longer you step, the more challenging this pose will be.
  • Both your heels should be on the same line, if possible.
  • Sink your hips and pull your torso up and out of your waist.
  • With both elbows extended and bent in front of you, slide your right arm under your left elbow. Continue to snake that hand around your arm until both palms meet.
  • Lift your Eagle Arms and look up to the heavens.
  • Breathe deeply up to 10 counts and switch legs and arms.

5.) Star Pose Twist

  • Come to the middle of your mat and extend both your legs to the sides.
  • If you find you cannot lower your torso to the mat, stay where you are. Place your hands on your legs and breathe deeply for 3 counts.
  • Lower both hands to your mat. Make sure your hands are directly below your shoulders. Inhale deeply. Extend your left arm up with a deep exhale.
  • Repeat inhaling deeply with both hands on your mat and exhaling deeply as you extend each arm up for a total of 10 times with each arm.

6.) Seated Spinal Twist

  • Sit with both legs extended in front of you.
  • Lift your left leg, taking a moment to stretch it.
  • When ready, inhale deeply and exhale deeply while extending your left foot over your right thigh.
  • Your exhales give you more space to twist, so try to remember to exhale as you practice each twist.
  • Sit up tall and hug your knee to your chest and breathe deeply for 10 counts.
  • Repeat on the other side by extending your right leg over your left thigh.

7.) Bridge Lifts

  • With your feet hip width below your knees, inhale deeply while lifting your hips up.
  • Exhale deeply as you slowly release your hips to your mat.
  • Repeat this 10-20 times.

8.) Camel Pose

  • You may want to roll up a towel and place it under your knees for comfort and protection.
  • You may keep your toes tucked for an easier version, or let your toes lie on your mat.
  • With your legs hip width and hands on your hips, inhale deeply and gently stretch back.
  • If you feel comfortable, release a hand to your foot. Then alternate reaching each hand back.
  • If you continue to feel comfortable, reach both hands back at the same time with a normal breath.
  • Stay in the pose for 5 to 10 counts.

9.) Seated Forward Bend

  • With legs stretched out in front of you, inhale deeply with arms extended out to the sides, then overhead.
  • Exhale deeply, releasing your arms while gently folding forward over your legs.
  • Repeat 10 times. Then stay folded over your legs with deep breathing for 10 counts.

10.) Low Lunge Twist and Stretch

  • Come up to your knees.
  • Extend your left foot forward, with your knee directly over your foot.
  • Let your hips sink forward.
  • Inhale deeply, then exhale deeply, gently twisting over your forward left thigh.
  • Hold the twist with 5-10 deep breaths, then release.
  • Clasp your hands behind your back. Gently lift them up and hold them there with 5-10 deep breaths.
  • Looking up will help your back arch. You may  place your hands on the back of your hips as well.
  • Repeat both positions with your right leg forward.

Lay down for a few minutes and let all that work you did for your body work for you now!

Try to complete this yoga sequence a few times a week for best results and thanks for joining me!

May peace always be with you!

til next time

Love, Penny

 

FALL INTO LOW LUNGE POSE MINI YOGA CHALLENGE

Posted on by pennyjoliver

Happy fall everyBODY!

My Burning Bush is gorgeous this year and just begged me to pose in front of it. Soon, my pumpkins rolled into the picture, and with the sun beaming down upon us the beautiful peach-salmon colored yoga outfit I was wearing was left without color. Oh well! At least the Burning Bush was burning – and my thighs too! Low Lunge Pose is one of my favorite yoga poses. It really stretches our entire body and we will certainly feel an energy buzz. As an added bonus, if we keep looking up, we will tone our neck!

 

Arching our back in Low Lunge Pose will certainly fire up our core, stretch and strengthen our legs, get our hearts pumping, our circulation flowing, our lungs working, and stimulate the thyroid gland located in our neck for a metabolism boost. Add deep inhales with exhales that are a few counts longer, and we can also encourage our parasympathetic nervous system to kick in leaving us feeling great!

As we look up, we can also thank God for this beautiful time of year!

“This is the day that the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it.” Psalm 118:24

 

til next time…

…love and blessings for a beautiful day!

xxoo

GRATITUDE YOGA CHALLENGE

Posted on by pennyjoliver

Want to start or end your day in a positive way?  Scientists and researchers agree that gratitude is the best attitude and one of the simplest ways to improve our state of health!

Researchers have amassed evidence that thankfulness provides a wide range of mental and physical health benefits. This attitude improves our sleep, deepens relaxation, builds better relationships, reduces pain, and decreases depression, anxiety and stress. Since the practice of yoga provides a mind-body perspective, thankfulness starts us off on the right foot!

In the Bible, there’s a great emphasis on feeling and expressing joy. The surest way to have heavenly joy is to pray and be thankful in all circumstances, as 1 Thessalonians 5:16 says. Again, in Philippians 4:6, God tells us not to be anxious about anything, but in every situation pray with thanksgiving and present your requests to God.

For the purposes of this yoga sequence, let’s thank God for this day while we practice yoga!

This is the day that the Lord has made let us rejoice and be glad in it!

Psalm 118:24

When you are ready, grab a mat and towel; let’s get started!

1.) Standing Side Stretch

  • Start with your feet hip-width apart, and stand tall.
  • With a deep inhale, extend your arms out to the sides and slowly lift them up.
  • Pause with your arms overhead and look to the skies.
  • Exhale deeply, lowering your right arm and stretching to your right side.
  • Repeat the above, stretching over each side 10 times.
  • Inhale as your stretch up and exhale as you stretch to each side.
  • Bend your knees slightly if you need more stability.

2.) Star Pose Stretch and Twist

  • Extend both your feet out to your sides.
  • The wider you place your legs, the more difficult the position will be.
  • Stay here with your hands on your hips while breathing deeply.
  • Lower both hands to your mat if you can! Extend your left arm and look up with a deep breath.
  • Then, with a deep exhale, lower your arm to the mat.
  • Repeat the above, with each arm extending up and looking up for 5-10 times on each arm.

3.) Extended Leg Squat Stretch

  • Bend your left leg while extending your right leg to the side.
  • Place a hand in front of you for balance.
  • Inhale deeply, lift your left arm, and exhale, stretching over your right leg.
  • Breathe deeply through the stretch for 5-10 deep inhales and exhales.
  • Repeat the above, stretching over your left leg with deep breathing.

4.) Triangle Pose

  • Pivot your right heel while pointing your toes to the right side.
  • Try to keep your legs straight.
  • Both of your heels should be on the same line. Move them apart if you need stability!
  • Pull your stomach in and stretch over your right leg to the side. Aim for keeping both hip bones facing forward.
  • Gently slide your right forward, with your hand down your right leg. Stretch your other arm up.
  • You may find your hand only makes it to your knee or thigh. This is no problem; simply do the pose from there!
  • Hold this pose for 5-10 deep breaths.
  • Repeat the above with deep breathing with your left leg forward instead.

5.) Warrior II Pose

  • With your feet hip width, step and bend your right foot out to the right side.
  • Keep both your heels on the same line if possible.
  • Do not let your bent knee go beyond your toes.
  • Extend both legs out wider for a deeper stretch or in closer for better stability.
  • Let both hip bones face forward.
  • Pull up and out of your waist.
  • Place both palms pressed together in front of your heart with a deep inhale, counting to 3.
  • With a deep exhale counting to 6, stretch both arms out to the sides with your fingers pointing up.
  • Repeat the above 5-10 more times.
  • Repeat the entire process with your left leg forward.

6.) Extended Side Angle Pose

  • With your feet hip width, bend and step your right foot out to the right side.
  • Both heels should on the same line, and your knee should not extend over your toes.
  • Lean and stretch over your forward right leg, resting your elbow on your thigh.
  • Hold this pose for 5-10 deep breaths.
  • Repeat the above with your left leg forward.

7.) Half Moon Pose

  • Stand hip width, with your spread toes wide.
  • Place a sturdy chair or wall beside you.
  • Slowly lift your right leg by leaning over.
  • Keep leaning until you find the floor, or use the chair/wall for support.
  • Keep your back leg up, even if it only comes off the ground a few inches. Practice makes perfect and develops strength over time!
  • Breathe deeply for 5-10 counts.
  • Repeat the above while standing on your right leg.

Always remember that yoga is about you. Where ever you find yourself in each pose is the perfect starting place for you!

8.) Half Moon Stretch (if you want a challenge)

  • While in Half Moon Pose, grab that back foot and then go for it!
  • Don’t forget to breathe!

9.) Warrior I

  • With feet hip width, step out forward with your right foot while keeping both hips forward.
  • The longer the step, the deeper the stretch, and the more difficult the position!
  • Do not let your knee go beyond your toes.
  • Swoop your arms up, lift your chin, and arch your back.
  • Interlock your fingers (or don’t, your choice).
  • Breathe deeply for 5- 10 deep breaths.
  • Switch legs and repeat the process.

Ahhh! Don’t you feel great?! Yoga with an attitude of gratitude is a vitamin for the soul!

I pray all your days are filled with joy!

xxoo