Downdog to updog

By Debbie Wyer on 06 August 2021

Have you noticed how every time an animal gets up from a nap, they ALWAYS take time to stretch.

What do we do when we get out of bed in the mornings, or after a stint on the sofa, or being sat in front of the computer all day? I am guessing if you are anything like me, not a lot! We move from one task to another and don’t think how taking a few moments to stretch or move our bodies differently could help release any tension we may be feeling.

Cookie (our pup) no matter how excited she is to see us, tailing wagging, looking like she is about to take off,  she will always jump off sofa (yes she is allowed on the sofa) and without fail do an updog then a downdog (guess where yoga gets the names from) on her walk to greet us.

Our bodies were made to move.

Stretching can lead to better posture, reduce aches and pains and give you greater confidence. This is because stretching increases your blood flow and circulation and sends oxygen to your brain for a clearer mind.

This doesn’t mean you have to do a updog and downdog every time you get up (although I think it would make life more fun if we all did) or over stretch, but take a moment, notice where you feel tightness or tension and then maybe do some arm circles with a little tension through your shoulders, chest and abdominals, maybe a cat and cow. Then do another set with a little more resistance as you warm up and feel how your body feels more mobile and looser.

Instead of thinking “I’m so tight!” replace this with “this is just what I need”

So, I challenge you today, to take a few minutes, notice where you are tight and move, stretch and release. Let me know how you get on.