Favorite Posts of 2013…

As January approaches (how did that happen?), I wanted to gather up some of your favorite posts from this year.

Kripalu: What I Pack This was THE most popular post of the year, for sure. And timely, as I’m heading back up to the snowy Berkshires right after the holiday. Update on this post: I’ve upgraded my water bottle and now use and love my this one from bk – a lovely part of my Blogshop goodie bag.

Yoga in Bed: 8 Poses to Wake Up To I know. Sometimes it’s just too cold or too comfy to leave the sanctuary of our beds.

This & That: Moon Salutations I’m sensing a real Yin vibe from you guys this year. I think this is another perfect posture series to do around the holidays.

Have a wonderful year-end celebration everyone. And thank you for coming with me on the adventure.

Yoga In Bed: 8 Poses to Wake Up To

It’s cold. It’s dark when my alarm goes off. The comforter is so cozy, and the air is bracing. The solution? Yoga in bed. I’m linking here to a Sadie Nardini video that runs through a short series of bed-appropriate postures to get your blood moving in the morning.

Here’s a quick rundown of what she demonstrates:

1. 3-5 deep breaths with retention to start gently moving the body.
2. Inversion time! Place your pillows under the hips, just so they are higher than the heart. Lift one leg, then the other. She also suggests hanging the head off the side of your bed for more detox. Stay there for a minute or two.
3. Seated cat cow for about a minute. (I do this every morning. It’s reflexive.)
4. Gentle twist to each side.
5. Sit with your legs over the edge of the bed, and fold over your legs with closed fists. You can lift up slowly into a rag doll.
6. Sitting, clasp your hands behind you gently and fold over again.
7. Eagle arms with a slightly rounded back to open shoulders and upper back. Of course, do both sides to stay balanced.
8. When complete, stay seated, take deep breaths. You can even use the opportunity to set an intention for your day.

Again, the here is that video. She runs through the poses pretty quickly just to demo them, so keep in mind that your morning practice might be best slow, gentle and morning-y.

The image above is from Lady Love Daily, where she has another whole Bed Yoga series!