By: Laura McDonald

Last night I went to yoga class at my local gym. Itʼs been a while since Iʼve taken a
class (though I do a little practice on my own and incorporate techniques with my
clients.) I was once again reminded how important the mind-body connection is. Within
minutes I was breathing deeper, my racing thoughts were slowing down, and I began to experience “flow”---an integrated consciousness connecting mind, body and sprit with fluid movement, an unbroken stream of consciousness and a peaceful connection to myself and the outside world.

The moves (asanas) gradually grew in intensity but in yoga you are encouraged to
accept “where” you are at at that moment. You donʼt worry about how limber the
neighbor next to you may be, or how you well did or did not do at the last class. You
become the moment you are in, listening and connecting to your body. You may also
rest in childʼs pose at anytime if you like. There is no judgement, on others and most
importantly on yourself. I left my class last night feeling relaxed and incredibly
rejuvenated at the same time, a part of the yin and yang of yoga.

I want to share some thoughts I have on mindfulness, and how important it is to take the time to make the mind-body connection. Most of us face serious life challenges that interrupt our natural hormonal rhythms and sleep patterns. The world is a stressful
place, now more than ever. Work, family, external stimuli, lack of sleep, poor eating
habits, all lead to a more stressful life. We must not underestimate how debilitating and
damaging living in this stressful, chronic state of worry is.

According to the American Psychological Association (2010), stress has long-term effects on the immune system,cardiovascular system, reproductive system, and skin and muscular system. When youʼre stressed out your immune system weakens, leading to illness more often. Higher blood pressure is also linked to stress and you may also suffer tension and/or pain in the neck, shoulders and back.

Time tested yoga and meditation techniques for developing mindfulness and flow not
only help you physically and mentally, but also helps you cope with stress in the outside world.

I encourage you to incorporate some type of yoga or meditation at least once or twice a week. (There are many dvdʼs and even online yoga classes if you canʼt get to a gym/
studio.) Or take a few minutes and do the following meditation exercises (2-3 minute intervals) once a day, or at least several times a week.

Quick Mediation:

1. Find a quiet spot. Start by sitting in a comfortable, cross-legged position or lie down.
You can play soothing music, dim the lights, set the mood.

2. Close your eyes and begin slow, deep breathing. Feel the breath moving in and out of the nose and filling your diaphragm. Imagine your breath slowly spreading throughout your body.

3. Focus on the consciousness of the cool breath in and the warm breath out.

4. As your mind wanders try to put those thoughts aside until your done with your
meditation.

5. Occupy your mind with a simple mantra. Example: I am life, I am peace, I am love.
Practice Mindfulness- - - - unifying the mind, body and spirit!

Have a Healthy Day,
Laura McDonald