With winter weather upon us and increased time in our homes, we have to be creative with ways to get the family physically active. Yoga is a great way for the whole family to get involved. Globally, yoga addresses flexibility, balance, strength, and endurance by holding body weight in specific poses. Additionally, according to this article by the Harvard Medical School, benefits also include improving focus, memory, self-esteem, academic performance, and stress. “Through yoga, kids start to realize that they are strong and then are able to take that strength, confidence, acceptance, and compassion out into the world,” says pediatric yoga instructor, Jessica Mei Gershen. More benefits can be found here!
Below are a few examples of Valentine’s Day yoga poses that can be done at home:
Heart Pose (Butterfly Pose)
Sit upright on the floor with legs bent so feet are touching each other. Have weight evenly distributed. Legs should remain relaxed. Look down! With your feet together, your legs make a heart just in time for Valentine’s Day.
Cupid Pose (Warrior 2 Pose)
Keeping feet wide apart, stretch arms with palms facing down. Front leg should be slightly bent with toes facing forward. Back leg should remain straight with toes facing the way out. Hold for a few breaths and switch sides. This pose must give Cupid the most stable position to make his arrows fly.
Open Heart Pose (Cobra Pose)
Lie flat on your belly with legs stretched out. Place palms on either side of your body near your shoulders. Push through hands to lift your chest off the mat. Hold for 30 seconds. With your chest off the floor, your heart is open to all!
Written by: Kelsey Conway, PT, DPT