Yoga for Cross Training by Sue Gold

It is truly a challenge to try to fit everything we want to do in a given day. We have to make choices often as to what is a priority and once we make that decision, follow-up is the key. It was a great gift to myself when I discovered yoga and made it part of my routine as an athlete. You don’t need to be a competitive athlete to reap the benefits of a yoga practice. All you need to do is “show up” and be present on your yoga mat.

Yoga should be part of every athlete’s training program. You’ll discover the amazing benefits that a consistent yoga practice has on the body’s ability to train and perform. Yoga and breath is like medicine for your muscles. The challenges of trying to achieve a particular pose is not dissimilar to the challenges you will find off  your mat, and the focus and determination you bring to your practice, you can carry with you throughout your day, and the benefits are powerful.

Speaking of being powerful, who doesn’t want to be defined and flexible? Yoga is one of the most effective ways to achieve that tone, stability and strength. The beauty of the practice of yoga is that it is a life-long journey and the results are immediate.

Vinyasa is a Sanskrit term to describe a broad range of yoga styles.  I offer a Yoga Class on Wednesday evenings at 7pm that embraces a flowing and core strengthening practice  designed for all levels so that everyone can progress at their own pace. Poses can easily be modified to each person’s capability and more challenging versions are always possible.

What is most important is that you enjoy what you’re doing and that you learn to cultivate patience and self-compassion. You want to give yourself permission to grow in a way that is authentic for you. Take that leap of faith and the results will astound you.

Think of yoga as an invitation to discover and uncover more about who you are. What a blessing to be able to build a practice into your training that can only bring you joy, contentment and a sense of peace.

In sum, yoga for cross-training will build strength and flexibility in your hips and legs. You will find more stability and increase your balance and focus. As a road racer for many years, the breathing, focus and concentration I practiced in yoga was invaluable to me at the start of every race.

Yoga will help build heat or tapas in the body that will open up the heart center and give you greater flexibility in the shoulders and chest. Deep breathing in and out of the nostrils is a very effective form of breathing for all kinds of exercise. The rhythmic flow of yoga to awaken and strengthen the body will help you de-stress.

Yoga will help you breathe better, become strong and compassionate with others, relax, restore and energize.

 I hope you will join me on this journey and make yoga part of your life. Life and happiness happen in the now. The best of times is always now.

With peace, light and love, Susan Gold

Susan’s evening yoga class will begin on Wednesday, September 19^th from 7-8pm. Kathy Salvo will also be teaching on Monday's and Friday's at 12 PM.  All classes take place at TT Westport.