Uplifting

When you start feel down, get discouraged or face a seemingly insurmountable task, what inspires you and gets your juices flowing? Stepping into nature can make all the difference, whether it be overlooking one of nature's grand miracles, hiking on a forested trail or simply tending your quiet garden. Take the time to breathe in the amazing, stunning, natural world and you will find inspiration, motivation and encouragement. Your heart will sing out with the uplifting feeling of realizing you are part of all this wonderment.

Crater Lake, Oregon

"My feeling grounded is uplifting."

Yoga Pose: Upward Salute Urdhva Hastasana (literally means Raised Hands Pose)

This is a basic pose often done as a transitional move. This time, take the time to explore the nuances of this grounding, yet uplifting, pose.

Foundation. Start with your feet about hip width apart and parallel to each other. Set your intention.

Stance. Center your weight so it is distributed equally between your heels and toes and the outer and inner edges of your feet. Lengthen your legs, yet keep a softness in the knees. Fully activate your legs.

Torso. Keep your torso and upper body upright, aligned in the center with your spine elongated and your pelvis in neutral.

Arms. With your arms by your sides, turn your palms away from your body. Then sweep your arms up overhead, ending in a V position or about shoulder width apart. Release your shoulders away from your ears.

Gaze. Soften your jaw and eyes. Gaze forward or upward. Root down through the soles of your feet to feel Mother Earth support you while your vibrant energy lifts up to the sky. Hold for several breaths. Release your arms back down to your sides.

B R E A T H E

After a 5K event, Port Susan Camping Club, Tulalip, Washington