Tuesday, April 7, 2020

Hello Dolly

I carry a lot of tension on a normal day.  The current abnormal state of the world has amped this tension up considerably.  I'm way beyond 11.  It's not a good feeling.  It leaves me sore, tired and about as flexible as a Barbie.  

(*Note: I do not resemble Barbie in any other way.  When asked, my sister suggested that I look like the Mrs. Beasley doll my aunt had when we were kids.  Now there's a blast from the past!)

Collectible Mrs. Beasley Talking Doll From Family Affair by The ...
We both talk, wear glasses and like polka-dots.  Other than that, I don't see a resemblance. 

I've been using the following online resources in an attempt to move from Barbie-esque stiffness to ragdoll-like softness. 

  • Yoga Download - I pay for a membership, but there's lots of free content too.  You can filter by workout intensity.  I always choose "Ahhhhhhhhh", though there are "Bring a Towel" classes if you are looking for something more energetic.  Some of my favourite classes, like Daily Decompression and Hummingbird Flow, are offered at no charge. 
  • Headspace - Hubby and I have a family membership, but they are offering some free resources.  A few are available through the website, but it looks like you have to download the app to access the free "Weathering the Storm" collection.  They are also offering resources for educators, healthcare professionals and workplaces.
  • Our local recreation centre has posted free classes on YouTube. I've done most of Ann Marie's NIA class.  Usually I do the first song and the last two songs.  The rest are a bit high-energy for my current needs, though I'm looking forward to doing the rest of the class at some point.  
  • Also from our recreation centre - my favourite yoga class!  The instructor is my friend Sheron, so not only do I get to participate in a super-relaxing class, I get so see her on my TV! (Hi Sheron!)  The class is gentle, with good suggestions for support and modification.  Sheron has also built a pause into the class for those who wish to stop and pursue more energetic activities.  I sometimes start with Sheron, switch to Ann Marie, then return to Sheron for the last pose and final relaxation.
  • Sheron is working toward offering other online yoga classes.  Watch her website for updates.  You can also follow her techie journey on her blog for a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the making of a yoga video.
      Picture
      Marvin enjoys yoga with Sheron too!
      We miss seeing her in real life!
(*Note:  I don't get anything for the links above.  They're there for your information.  Hope you find them useful.)




4 comments:

  1. :) Thanks for the plug Laurie! Also I LOVE your idea of yoga warm-up, then Nia and then yoga cool down. I think i will try that next - I have been doing the whole Nia session and then i do my own cool down but being lead is so much nicer! :)
    Hugs!

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    Replies
    1. You are welcome! It's an amazing, uplifting, relaxing, freeing combo. I hope you enjoy it.

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  2. I still have Mrs Beasley. Her glasses have gone missing and she can't talk anymore but I can't give her up

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    Replies
    1. That is awesome! It is so good to hear she is still around. I'd love to have a photo of her for the blog if you can get your hands on her easily.

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