Sa-va-san- what? When I first started taking yoga I remember thinking I was learning a new foreign language! Instructors would call out Mountain Pose (Tadasana), Chaturanga Dandasana, and Warrior II. While the poses challenged my balance and core strength, I noticed yoga started to become this enjoyable, constant reminder to slow down, be present and focus on doing one simple thing: breathe.
As a dietitian, I see my clients, family members, and even myself as multitasking machines in this day and age. I’m busy. You’re busy. The person in front of you at the car wash is busy. Nowadays busy is just who we are – but it doesn’t have to sabotage living a healthier lifestyle. I find I look forward to visiting my local yoga studio and powering down. Even if it’s just for 45 minutes, my body and brain crave this shift in energy!
Savasana, or Corpse Pose, is a pose of pure relaxation. Instructors often joke that it’s their favorite pose, yet the most challenging as well. Why? It’s easy to want to fidget, think of your to-do list or what’s for dinner, etc. Our minds are often thinking of what’s next rather than enjoying and being present in the moment. Practicing savasana helps condition the body to release stress by gradually relaxing one body part at a time, one muscle at a time, and one thought at a time. This in turn, helps bring the body back to homeostasis and lower cortisol levels (aka the stress hormone). Additional whole-body benefits may include:
- Improved gut health and digestion
- Strengthened immune system
- Better sleep
- Reduction in overeating and stress eating
- Improved mood
- Increased sense of mindfulness around food consumption and food choices
Set your intention. Yoga teaches us to be kind to our bodies, non-judgmental, and recognize that every day is different on and off our mat. I find these same principles easily relate to food too. My nutrition needs vary day to day, and it’s important for me to keep calm and chew with intention. Reducing stressful situations when we’re eating, like checking emails or having stressful conversations, can also help make sure our digestion is running smoothly.
While awareness is half the battle, take action and add more calm vibes to your life with my favorite yoga essentials:
- Gaiam Premium Reversible Yoga Mat
- Gaiam Yoga Block Strap Combo
- Regular Girl Pre- and Probiotic Fiber Blend
- Zico 100% Pure Coconut Water
The teacher and student in me, sees and honors the teacher and student in each and every one of you.
Namaste.
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*The blog articles, recipes and recommendations found on this site are not intended as medical advice and should not replace consulting with your medical provider. Please consult a medical professional for individual advice.
About the Registered Dietitian
Erin Good RD, LD received her Bachelor of Science degree in Dietetics with a Spanish minor from Iowa State University. She then completed a 12-month dietetic internship at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center, Children’s Hospital of Illinois and the St. Jude Affiliate Clinic in Peoria, Illinois. Erin underwent additional training in 2013 and received her Certificate of Training in Adult Weight Management.
