In the midst of working hard, it's important to remember to destress and take time for you.
Every Sunday morning from10:00 am – 11:00 am the city of Kingston offers free yoga classes at Confederation Park - Arrive early to find your instructor and set up your mat in your favourite spot.
Each class is taught by a different yoga studio exposing you to a variety of yoga practices and yogis.
Sunday, July 16, taught by Yoga Academy
Sunday, July 23, taught by Symphony Spa & Yoga
Sunday, July 30, taught by Yoga Academy
Sunday, August 6, taught by Morro Yoga
Sunday, August 13, taught by Studio 330
Sunday, August 20, taught by Symphony Spa & Yoga
Sunday, August 28, taught by Salti Yoga
Sunday, September 3, taught by Morro Yoga
Sunday, September 10, taught by Studio 330
Sunday, September 17, taught by Salti Yoga
If you are unable to attend in person, consider Yoga with Adriene (and her dog Benji). ranging from targeting certain areas, to certain themes or times of day to providing a set number of days in a yoga challenge.
To make the most out of your yoga practice, I encourage you to set aside your graduate stressors and your countless to-do lists.
Slow down and focus on your breath. If you’re anything like me, you’re often hunched over a computer, a book or any number of research material. Open up your torso, push down your shoulders and extend tall through your spine. The stretch feels good and makes room for your deep breaths. When your mind wanders, which it will, acknowledge your thought and then calmly let it go. Always try to bring your attention back to your breath.
Tune into your body, it will tell you what it needs. If a particular pose or stretch feels good, it is ok to hold it a little longer. And the reverse, ask for modifications if something does not feel right. The view of Lake Ontario is not only beautiful, but it also reminds us to focus on how our bodies feel instead of how we look in a mirror or what others are doing. To build strength and flexibility, try to push yourself a little more each class.
Lastly, enjoy Savasana. Remember to get comfortable (I often like to put on a cozy sweatshirt) and embrace this time for rest and retreat. You deserve it!
Namaste