VACUUM BREATHING:
Everyone desires
toned abs, but you
must start with
training the deep
transverse abdominal
muscles for core
stability. Work on
vacuum breathing
every day. Throw in
a few while you wait
for the coffee to brew,
the computer to boot,
or the stoplight to
turn green. Place your
hands on your belly.
Inhale and extend your
belly outwards into
your hands. Exhale
sharply and suck in
your tummy strongly.
You can repeat this
exercise anywhere
from five to thirty
times daily.
DOWN DOG: This is one of the most basic yoga poses. It
stretches your hamstrings, lower back, calves, and shoulders all
at the same time. You also give your internal organs a massage
and reverse blood flow to energize your brain. Breathe in and
reach for the sky. Exhale, tuck your chin to your chest, and
roll the spine down to the floor. Bend your knees if you need
to, and walk your hands forward so that you create an upside
down V with your body. Press your heels towards the floor, try
to straighten the knees, and press your shoulders towards your
thighs. Relax the head. Take five deep breaths, continuing to
gently deep en the stretch. Walk your feet to your hands and
slowly roll up one vertebrae at a time. Repeat as needed. This
is a perfect way to start the day, re-energize mid-day, or calm
your mind before bed. You may find this pose challenging at
first, but keep working at it and your flexibility will improve.
94 | Eydis Magazine