Downward Dog Lifts Up the Spirit

It’s hard to feel low in the low country, but it happens. Work pressures pile up and the national news hits hard. That’s when it’s time to take a break from the desk and TV.

My favorite cures are sitting quietly on a dock along the Wando River, a leisurely ride on my beach cruiser or a yoga class.

Today, I woke up tightly wound and holding my breath. I headed for a yoga class taught every Wednesday morning at the club house in my neighborhood. Several studies have shown that after just one class there are immediate benefits, including:

• improved brain function;
• lower stress levels;
• improved immunity;
• increased flexibility.

The results after months or years of practice are amazing. Read about them here.

An hour or so later, I do feel restored and ready for what comes my way. Atmah Ja (Aija is her nickname) Naro is our instructor and you can experience her healing by booking a private class or massage therapy through massagebook.com. She works out of Coastal Body in The Brickyard. My highest recommendation goes to her.

Are sun salutations in the sand more your wavelength? Serenity Tree Yoga offers classes on Sullivan’s Island and Folly Beach. Folly Beach Island Yoga is another option. If you love the great outdoors but prefer terra firma, Charleston County Parks offer a variety of yoga programs to residents.

If breaking a sweat is the best way to end a bad mood, then Bikram yoga will heat up your happy. Drink lots of water. The room is kept at 105 and 40% humidity. Try it out at Bikram Charleston Yoga in Seaside Farms.

Of course you can always go solo and stream online classes from Gaia. My back porch overlooking the calm pond seems ideal for a daily dose of serenity.

Namaste.