Runner’s Lunge

“Feel the rhythm, feel the rhyme, get on up, it’s bobsled time! Cool Runnings!!!”

Great movie. Great message. John Candy.

Man.

“Cooling Runnings” means “Peace Be The Journey.” I love that. That is what yoga is all about. It is not about mastering the poses but it is about getting there. I often hear the affirmation in yoga, “The journey is the reward.”

It is so true.

The practice of checking in and really being honest in the moment allows the journey to be so much richer and wrought with opportunity. Focusing on the journey rather than the outcome is the greatest gift yoga has to offer. By focusing on the process and the present moment we are really opening up a multitude of windows.

Imagine each beautiful window (you choose if its antique or modern- I’m a fan of shabby chic myself.) opening up into a new opportunity. Opening up to meet your heart's desire, your minds intention and the perfect version of your body that you could possibly imagine.

When we start paying attention and enjoying the ride we build awareness and unite the powerful mind with the rest of ourselves. We are able to meet challenges with more ease and grace and we are able to recover from any mistakes faster- learning from them and riding the wave.

Although this pose is a great asana for athletes and dancers, runners lunge is not just for runners. It is a great gift for all! It is a great pose to wake up the body and commonly used as a warm-up or transition pose in Hatha Yoga sequences. It is often overlooked and rushed so I encourage you to really “check-in” in the pose. See if you can spread awareness to every nook and cranny. See if you can create a nice bright line from your back heel to the crown of your head. Roll your shoulders open your hips. Breathe. Spread awareness all the way to that back pinky toe. Prepare yourself so that you can practice really being in the moment. Even residing in the present takes PRACTICE. Take your time. As I say in the video- don’t let anyone rush you. You are in charge. Here is a little clip from Cool Runnings for INSPIRATION. Enjoy and let me know how it goes.

Benefits

• Stretches legs and arms
• Opens heart and chest area
• Opens and aligns hips
• Can relieve indigestion and assist in constipation
• Great for Sciatica

Modifications

• Lower your knee and come into a low lunge for more support
• Keep gaze down if you are recovering from a neck injury or feel any fussy qualities in the neck