Being Yoga while Weight-lifting

Inspiration: To practice being in the moment, even during weight-lifting.

Yoga. The term often brings to mind a group of like-minded people
assembled in a studio to chant, breathe, practice poses and to contemplate. My intention is to expand this belief and take it into everything we do; especially the gym arena.

The majority of individuals I watch while exercising vary: male/female, small/large,/low intensity output/large intensity output. What I like to see is if these people are present with what they are doing and breathing fully; on the inhale and the exhale. To my surprise, most of the individuals I watch are not at all!

Of course they are breathing, but what I am referring to is conscious in the moment breathing. Grunting and making loud noises, means our bodies are being taxed beyond their comfort levels and beyond what we need. Unless you are an elite athlete or training for some kind of event, personally, I feel this is unnecessary. The slower and deeper your breathing, the lower your heart rate on any perceived exertion. This in term translates to better performance, less stress and more joy.

Most recently I have become more conscious of breathing in my own workouts. I am able to lift the same workloads with less effort and more ease. I invite you to explore your breathe while going about your regular gym activity. If you focus on the inhalation and exhalation, you will be surprised at how much you can accomplish.

Have a very "peaceful" day.

Warmly, Denise