january pose: revolved garland

parivrtta malasana

How to do it:

1. Start standing up tall. Separate your feet a bit wider than hip width, and start to bend your knees sitting low in a squat.
2. Root down through your heels. If your heels do not touch the ground, you may roll the back of your mat to rest them there or sit onto a block.
3. Separate your knees wider than your torso, lift the chest and draw your sitting bones down.
4. Bring your hands to your heart, pressing your elbows against your inner thighs working to bring your thumbs towards the centre of your chest
5. Keeping a nice straight spine, reach up through the crown of your head.
6. Straighten your left arm out on the inside of your left leg.
7. Revolve your chest open to the right and raise your right arm up. Gaze up towards the extended hand.

Hold for 5-10 breaths then release and switch sides.

Benefits:

• Opens the hips, chest and shoulders
• Improves digestion
• Relieves lower back tension 

2017...I'm ready for you!

As I look back on this past year, I can't help but smile knowing I am surrounded by such amazing people. 2016 brought on many fun times, challenges, tons of laughs, but also loss, tears and change. What's life without any of that? When we least expect it, life throws us curveballs and we either have to choose to sink or swim through it.

Now this new year is all about doing what I love, being with those I love and striving to be the best version of myself, 365 days of the year. Our bodies are put on this earth for a limited time, so let's make it worthwhile. Quit dwelling about the past and focus on the present. Stop convincing yourself you can't, just go for it. Negativity brings bad energy to your mind, soul and body and reflects back on those around you. Keep your true friends close and say goodbye to those that bring you down. This is all about new beginnings.

As my holiday break of sleeping in late and staying in PJ's comes to an end and turns into early morning rises and downtown commutes, my reality and vision is still going to be very prominent. Focus, learn, balance, educate, teach, reward and give...all while having fun. If it's not fun, move on. 2017...I'm ready for you!

"Don't let the lessons, the experiences of the past, dampen your enthusiasm for beginnings. Just because it's been hard doesn't mean it will always be that difficult. Don't let the heartbreaks of the past cause you to become cynical, close you off to life's magic and promise. Open yourself wide to all that the universe has to say. All parts of the journey are sacred and holy. Take time to honour the beginning" - Melody Beattie

image source: Jackie Laine Photography