Yoga for Youth - Everyday

We all know, by now, that practicing yoga implies increasing flexibility, strengthening muscles and the core, and lengthening the spine. But are we practicing yoga as often as we can?

I used to take yoga classes for years. I think they're great for people to start and get an idea, especially if the instructor can explain what to work towards with each position, for example, feeling the stretch along the side of the body, etc. Then I realized that with a couple simple DVDs and maybe some books, I can do it on my own in the comforts of my home with music I love, everyday! I can even throw in a few dance moves if I'm feeling it with the music, you know? Anyway, not too long after I ditched instructor-led classes, I developed my own flow of yoga routines. (You can email me if you're interested in my routine). I play some Bebel Gilberto or Radiohead (especially their latest album, In Rainbows) and now I do yoga with giddiness. It used to always be a little weird to be in a room filled with people breathing, sweating, stumbling, and no one saying a word, except for the instructor's constant - voice. So I've met with some internal resistance to going to class in the past.

Anyway, my point is that practicing yoga should be almost daily. Even if it's just 20 minutes. It increases flexibility which keeps us younger, especially if we can maintain a flexible and lengthened spine. This can help with our daily posture and stride. So, we don't need to wait till our next yoga class, now!