Fitness is crucial to quality life. Ill health can definitely diminish our happiness quotient and who can understand this better than a woman who performs varied roles. Nature bestows us with the responsibility of childbirth and she prepares by giving us the strength, endurance and patience to shoulder this role with a smile.

A support system collapses when the lady of the house begins to crumble under health issues. “I was quiet depressed when health issues slowly started disturbing my life. Back pain, sciatica, gastric problems, and regular migraine attacks put me in a spin. My home looked aghast and children neglected, but I was so helpless. Life became a burden! Then I visited a doctor who, surprisingly, told me that I would find relief in pranayama and yoga. Initially, I stabilized myself with medication but then it was time to revamp my life for a new beginning,” recalls Tara.

Tara realized that her health should be her first priority; and with this resolve, she created time for herself and chalked out a personal schedule. She was surprised to find time in her packed schedule to befriend health once again.

To her surprise, Tara discovered that she was a born yogi. Her Sri Sri Yoga instructor shed light on this reality by informing her that nobody is born rigid or inflexible. Soon after, Tara realized how everyone is blessed with the knowledge of breath and yoga from our natural fitness trainer - Mother Nature. We just need to revise our lessons that lay camouflaged in our system.

So, what are you waiting for? Dorn your yoga outfit and let’s embark on a journey to a healthier you! But first, don’t forget to discuss these issues with your Sri Sri Yoga instructor before beginning your practice:

• Your age and genetic issues that may manifest or have already manifested.
• Medications that you take, either under supervision or on your own.
• Any type of addiction.
• Be frank and completely honest about your health issues that include daily aches and pains. Remember some breathing techniques and yoga postures may prove to be wondrous but some may not be recommended for you to begin with.
• Any symptoms of mid-life crisis, like menopausal symptoms.
• If you experience any discomfort, report it immediately.
• Food habits, even if unhealthy, need to be discussed as they may hinder your progress.

Positive Changes You Can Expect

• On the first day, you will definitely experience the feel good factor but go slow and remain steady to win back your health.
• Initially you will realize the positives of deep breathing and the crucial importance of ‘breath’ that is life.
• Chanting ‘Om’ will give you the power of the vibration that emanates to give us peace and liveliness.
• Your energy levels will soar and you will smile more often as your mind and body get relaxed.
• You will be your natural self and patient as you will feel much better.
• You will be quick to start your day.
• Your positivity and renewed vigor will vibe well with people around you.
• You will definitely love yourself.

Now let’s discuss a few warm-ups and yoga postures that will help you along the way:

Warm Ups

A slow jog as you stand at your place will give you a smile. This is followed by neck rotation, shoulder rotation, wrist and hand rotation, feet rotation and knee rotation. You will receive great-relaxed vibes from these organs.

Marjariasana

• Brings flexibility to the spine.
• Strengthens wrists and shoulders.
• Massages the digestive organs and improves digestion.
• Tones the abdomen.
• Relaxes the mind.
• Improves blood circulation.

Shishuasana

• Deeply relaxing for the back.
• Relieves constipation.
• Calms down the nervous system.

Ardha Chandrasana

• Strengthens the ankles, knees, legs, abdomen, buttocks and spine.
• Opens chest and shoulders.
• Improves digestion, balance and coordination.
• Reduces Stress.

Naukasana

• Strengthens the back and abdominal muscles.
• Tones the leg and arm muscles.

Bhujangasana

• Relief from stress, anxiety and depression.
• Gives relief from stiffness of legs and back.
• Helps to strengthen the back, neck and abdominal muscles.

Shalabhasana

• Removes pressure from sciatic nerve and gives relief from back pain and sciatic pain.
• Improves appetite and blood supply to lower back and neck areas.
• Strengthens thigh and abdominal muscles.

Shavasana

• Gives deep rest.
• Experience of meditative state.
• Rejuvenating and healing effects.

Remember, a step taken in the right direction will promise you good health for your own self and even for the family. Be the perfect role model for your children, friends, and other loved ones. Your success story will definitely inspire them to tread your path. Enjoy life and come alive with yoga.