The Paris Independent
26
December 2, 2023
H E A LT H Y L I V I N G Self-defeating behaviours like procrastination and (each side) and twists (again, each side). Doing all 6 excuse-making add to our stress levels which, in turn, movements puts your spine through its full range of tighten our bodies and keep our minds spinning. motion and will not only help ease tension but will also stretch muscles that holiday travel and stress 5. Be in the Moment. Most of us tend to be in our leave tight and stiff. Putting your spine through its full heads all day, thinking of all the things we still need to range of motion will also boost your energy levels by do before Christmas Day. Energy spent thinking about increasing blood flow to the large muscles that what still needs to be done is wasted energy and it support the back, leaving you feeling rejuvenated and really ruins our experience of what is happening in the energized. What’s more, by moving your body in all moment. Creating a plan and following it should help you be in the present moment as you will know that directions around its central axis—the spine—you’ll you have a realistic plan to follow and that you are feel more supple and free. A flexible spine clears the lines of communication between mind and body, chipping away at what needs to be done. helping you stay calm and connect with positive 6. Create a soothing environment. It’s amazing how a feelings like gratitude and joy. calming environment can soothe a mood. Listening to relaxing music (whatever yours may be) while doing Incorporating all, or even just a few, of these tips will tasks at home or driving in the car to do errands can help you make your way to Christmas Day with less stress and more enjoyment during this holiday season. help to keep you calm. The key is to always set some time for yourself and 7. Be mindful of what you eat and stay hydrated. Yes, for your own health and well-being. we all over-indulge over the holidays but we can still Heidi Pfleger has been a Yoga Teacher and Wellness Coach keep it somewhat in check. Eat your food slowly for more than 30 years and a student of yoga since the age of rather than shovel it down so that you don’t overeat. five. Born and raised on a farm in the Paris area, Heidi Make sure you get a selection of healthy foods on ventured further afield to study Yoga around the world in her your plate that includes lots of leafy greens and fruit. twenties and has since been sharing her experiences and continuing in her studies both on and off the mat. Heidi And, yes, don’t forget to drink lots of water. It’s a offers regular yoga classes and individual sessions as well as good practice to alternate your holiday drinks with a wellness coaching sessions and retreats throughout the year. glass of water to make sure you get your required For more information on her programs, contact Heidi at 519755-1447. intake. 8. MOVE YOUR BODY. If you are a seasoned yogi, get to a class regularly or else roll out your mat for a 15- 20 minute practice on your own. Cat stretches, balance poses, seated twists and a few Sun Salutations can be a real game changer for your body and mind. If you are new to yoga or have never done yoga, you can do a few simple stretches to help keep your body limber. The key is to stretch in a way that includes all 6 movements of your spine. These 6 movements are: forward and backward movements, side stretches
