feel the burn.

Yoga has been apart of my life for the past five years.

I can honestly say that I have seen an increase in strength and flexibility since I started. This past year I haven't been able to practice it as frequently as I would like because there are no classes in my town, but if I get to practice at least once a week I am pleased!

If you have never practiced yoga in your life--BE CAREFUL. You can easily pull muscles, twisting and turning, if you do not do each pose correctly.

The workout I did today I can thank my friend, Ilianna. She taught yoga while we were at Baylor and this workout has been one of my favorites ever since! (you can follow her here) This workout took me a little over one hour. I would say that this is a more advanced yoga workout. You can find beginner, intermediate, and other advanced workouts online. For most, if not every yoga pose, there are modifications.

My advice to anyone who is considering practicing yoga would be this: be patient and do not give up. I hated yoga when I first started. I promise it grows on you and you will love the way it makes your body feel & look!

Yoga Practice 1:

• 5 A series-- hold down dog for at least 30 seconds (pictures and explanations of poses here) 
• 5 B series (pictures and explanations of poses here)   
• Warrior sequence (here and here) I do not do the "humble warrior" pose. 
• Standing sequence (here) I also include "revolving chair, pyramid, and triangle" pose (on both sides).
• Inversions sequence (here) DO NOT try headstand if this is your first time practicing. 
• Spend your last five minutes completely relaxed. Lie on your back with your palms facing up and legs stretched out in front of you. If you relax your ankles and your tongue (I know that sounds weird) your entire body should be relaxed. 

Each sequence should take you about 10 minutes.

Here is a picture of all these sequences and poses! This girl is the real yogi.

Also, here is a post-run 10 minute yoga sequence (if you're a runner like me)!

Most gyms offer yoga classes. Call the gym nearest you to find out!

You do not have to spend a lot of $$ on a mat. Mine is from Wal Mart about $7.

I would suggest practicing in a quiet, still environment
if you live somewhere that does not provide yoga classes.
I use my back porch!

Everything is better outdoors.

I listen to Pandora. Choose your station!

P.S. I do not practice yoga for any other reason than to stretch and build strength. I always end each workout with a prayer to Jesus for giving me the mental and physical ability to practice!