Venture

To VENTURE is to take a risk, to dare to embark on a path with an uncertain outcome. As you walk through the botanical garden of life, you expect to see beautiful and unique plants. But as you venture deeper into the garden, you are suddenly mesmerized by a bold glass sun warming the cacti surrounding it. An unexpected delight. What unique experience is waiting you? Go ahead. Be brave. Be daring. Be adventurous. Find your colorful moment.

Summer Sun, Chihuly in the Garden, Desert Botanical Garden, Phoenix, Arizona

"Today I venture out to

experience something new."

Yoga Pose: Standing Pigeon Pose (a variation of) Utthita Hasta Padangustasana

Take a risk and bring Pigeon Pose upright with this dynamic variation.

Foundation. Start in Tadasana - Mountain Pose. Set your intention.

Stance. Shift your weight onto your right leg, maintaining a strong foundation through the right foot. Keep your right leg straight without locking your knee.

Legs. Lift your left knee up toward your belly. Reach your left arm inside the thigh, cross it over the front ankle, and hold the outside of your left foot. [If your hamstrings are tight, hold a strap looped around the left sole]. Inhale, keep the left knee bent and tip the knee out to the side. Use your hand to draw the foot towards your heart while you push the foot away from you to create a dynamic interplay in a "push me - pull me" action.

Torso. Lengthen the spine. Relax the shoulders.

Arms. Float your right arm up to a diagonal, stretching your fingertips to the sky.

Gaze. Soften your jaw and eyes. Keep your head in a neutral position. Smile.

Timing. Hold for 30 seconds or so. Release your grip and maintain your balance as you lower the foot to the ground on an exhale.

B R E A T H E

[Repeat on the other side]

Pacific City, Oregon