tired Archives - Custom Calm

2 Ways to Slow Down and Enjoy the Holidays

Posted by Ellen Sichel on December 5, 2011

Holiday parties, eating, shopping, travel, visitors, end of year work are a few of the activities we participate in.

We socialize while holding our drink and food, really not tasting anything or hearing what is being said. The stores are busy, with decorations adorning the windows, walls and ceilings, yet we rush right by them.

These are mostly positive experiences, yet we end up stressed and tired.

Slowing down does not mean not going shopping or to parties. What it means is that while you are participating, be present.

Try this:

When at a party before biting into your food take a moment to look at the color and texture, smell the aroma, and then take one bite and savor it. You will probably eat less!

While shopping, take a moment to stand still and look at the decorations, colors and designs. Take it all in before going on with your shopping.

Let me know in the comments below how this worked. Were you able to stop for a few moments and be present? If not, what do you think got in your way?

6 Steps to Benefit from Yoga’s Relaxation Pose

Posted by Ellen Sichel on June 20, 2011

Yoga's Relaxation Pose is also called Corpse pose or Shavasana. The term corpse is used because the pose is about letting go completely and surrendering into the support of the floor. It can be quite calming and relaxing. For some it is challenging to get still without being asleep.

The pose is also a resting pose for the physical body and propping your knees either on a chair or with blankets is the most effective for releasing pressure on the lumbar spine.

Try this:

Lie on your back with your knees over a chair or rolled blankets.
Scoot forward toward your chair or blankets with your knee creases at the edge.
Prop your head so your forehead is level with your chin- you do not want your head to tilt back as this causes compression in your neck.
Allow your arms to rest near your sides with your palms facing up or you can bend your elbows and place your hands on your belly.
If your mind is busy place a few folded blankets on your chest.
Rest here for 5-10 minutes with easy breathing.

Use this pose when you are tired, stressed or achy and let me know in the comments below how it felt. If you were anxious, what do you think happened?

Tags: calming, corpse pose, easy breathing, lumbar spine, shavasana, tired, yoga's relaxation pose

Posted in: Technique of the Week