Thunderbird bar ambassador Gustavo Padron is taking over the blog today to share his holiday yoga routine. Gustavo teaches at Wanderlust Yoga in Austin, Texas and he was recently voted the best yoga instructor in Austin for 2016. Read on to find out how you can destress and reset through yoga.
The holiday season can be a very stressful time for most of us. Whether you are running from family gatherings to holiday parties, or attempting to buy the perfect gift for your loved ones, there is a high expectation to show up and be jolly. No matter how stressful this time can be, take time to check in with your energy and remind yourself to enjoy the moment without sweating the small stuff.
Below is a simple grounding sequence that has been so helpful for me and when I'm stressed out. Give it a try if you find yourself feeling antsy, nervous or stressed out. Follow along and experience what 5 minutes of slowing down and breathing mindfully can do for you.
Ready. Set. Destress.
1. Seated Pose
-Sit comfortably with your eyes closed. Take 3 breaths to ground (inhale through the nose, exhale through the mouth)
-Then begin to incorporate 3 rounds of equal count breath (inhale for 4 counts, exhale for 4 counts) through the nose.
Three Rounds of Cow & Cat
2. Cow
Come to hands and knees. Track your shoulders over your wrist and your hips over your knees.
Inhale lift your head and your tail high as you arch your back.
3. Cat
Exhale round your spine as you curl your chin to your chest
4. Child’s Pose
Bring your big toes to touch, knees as wide as your mat and your forehead to the ground - arms can be extended or by your side.
5. Seated Pose
Finish with 3 rounds of equal count breath (inhale for 4 counts, exhale for 4 counts) all through the nose.
Bring your palms together in front of your chest. Acknowledge the peace within you and around you. Let this feeling be a reminder that peace is always within reach no matter how stressed out you are.
Namaste
