(Adept’s Pose)
Sit in a comfortable cross-legged position. If your
knees are higher than your hips, prop yourself
up on a blanket or two. Rest your palms on your
knees, and on an inhalation, lengthen the spine,
reaching up through the crown of your head.
Close your eyes and draw your attention inward,
practicing Apa Japa, or breath awareness. Try not
to change the way you are breathing; instead, fol-
low a natural rhythm. Focus on the length of the
inhalations and exhalations. Notice the breath com-
ing in through the nostrils and into your lungs. Feel
the expansion and contraction of your ribs as you
breathe in and out. This will help you feel present
in your body and life, and grounded and connected
to your center during this chaotic time of year.
Sit here and breathe for at least 2 minutes.
1 SIDDHASANA
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Practice this 60-minute restorative sequence
as often as you can this busy holiday season.
Or if time is limited, you can reap the rewards
by indulging just once a week. Find a quiet,
dark space, set up your props (if you don’t have
traditional blocks and bolsters, use books and
pillows), and settle into poses that will help you
rest, digest, and ultimately recharge. Restorative
yoga is a receptive practice, so you’ll feel open
afterward, interacting with yourself and others
in a more loving way.