Anger: we all experience it, and it’s a valid emotion for each and every one of us (no matter the sometimes silly or unimportant seeming reason). One thing to always remember is that your feelings are legitimate, and while there may be an underlying cause for anger that you’re not quite aware of, it doesn’t make your emotions any less important. However, when we do not honor these emotions in a healthy way, whether or not the true cause is an underlying emotion we’re not yet aware of (such as frustration, disappointment, or confusion), anger can result in not only an overall negative feeling, but also in sometimes regrettable overreactions – particularly to those closest to us.

The poses below can help any yogi express and acknowledge their anger in a healthy and fulfilling way, hopefully resulting in an understanding of the true reason of the anger, an acknowledgment of who or what the anger is related to, and how to remedy the situation in a constructive and respectful way – to yourself and to others.

1. Child’s Pose

This is an especially beneficial pose for grief related anger. The calming, protective, and relaxed position of the body can help to offer a soothing way to let out whatever you need to – whether it is a few tears or just a much-needed moment for quiet contemplation and reflection.

While in this pose, allow yourself to feel nurtured and protected while you acknowledge the cause for this grief and anger, allowing it to be released.

2. Half Twist Pose – also know as Half Lord of the Fishes pose

Feeling grouchy? Just wring out the anger, man.

This pose is a wonderful way to get a satisfying stretch in and relieve tension that can often rest in the areas of the hips and back.

3. Vigorous Sun Salutations

You know that feeling of punching the bag in a kickboxing class? You may not know it, but that feeling can be translated to yoga as well! Try a few sets of vigorous sun salutations on your favorite mat – enough to work up a good sweat and allow yourself to work out any frustrations of the day, leaving yourself relaxed, rejuvenated, and with a renewed lightness.

4. Woodchopper Pose

This is a great way to release tension, especially when used with a loud and energetic “AH!” as you bring your “woodchopper” arms down.

5. Lion’s Breath

Okay, so this one isn’t technically a pose, but it’s an awesome and empowering Pranayama breathing technique! Set your hands on top of your legs as you breath in through your nose, releasing a loud and breathy exhale from the your belly all the way out as you open your expression as wide as you can while sticking your tongue out. This is a fun and rejuvenating way to release stress and negativity in a way that may or may not have you giggling by the end of it.

Thanks for reading! We hope you enjoyed the post above.

For all of  your yoga needs, come visit us today at BarefootYoga.com!

Posted under Health and Fitness, Styles of Yoga, Yoga Mats, Yoga News, Yoga Supplies

Photo ©Evan Lovely

Yoga continues to grow in popularity throughout the world, and many workplaces are getting on board! As part of corporate wellness initiatives, companies including Apple, Google, Nike and General Motors have begun to offer yoga classes for their employees.

Benefits of yoga in the office include overall health improvements, stress reduction and promoting a community atmosphere among coworkers. Regular practice can increase productivity, concentration and energy levels throughout the work week. Office yoga is designed to be entry-level and low impact, so it’s easier for beginners and those with limited flexibility to participate and see the benefits of regular practice. It also helps to lessen the effects of sitting at a desk all day, where issues like neck strain and carpal tunnel can begin to take a toll.

Want to get a yoga program started at your office? First, you’ll need a quiet and comfortable room that’s large enough to accommodate your employees. You can set aside a lunch room, conference room, or other space that will be free during the class period. And of course you’ll need an instructor! Yoga Alliance is an excellent resource to find instructors in your area. Finally, each participant will need comfy clothing, as well as their own yoga mat, towel  and water bottle.

For all the supplies you’ll need for your office yoga program, visit www.barefootyoga.com!

Posted under Health and Fitness, Styles of Yoga, Yoga Clothing, Yoga Mats, Yoga News, Yoga Supplies

Although the back-to-school (or work!) time of year is fast approaching, let us not forget that we’re still in the sweet spot of summer – perfect for beaching, paddleboard yoga-ing and yoga festival going!

Take a look at our fav picks below for a yoga festival look that brings together style and function seamlessly.

The Look:

For any festival go-er (yoga or otherwise!), day to night mobility is a must – and the look above captures exactly that. Pair the vibrant and fun Practice Pant Ink Brush OM with the Mindful Tank Lucky Bamboo for a combination that offers extra warmth on your legs when the cooler evening temperatures set in, but will keep you cool with the lightweight tank during the hotter parts of the day.

Feeling extra chilly in the evening? Throw on a stylish and supremely comfortable Hybrid Wrap for extra warmth!

The Accessories:

Hmmm…where to start?

How about with the basics – mats!

For a mat that’s lightweight and easy to keep clean on the go, our favorite is the classic Hybrid Mat. Throw in a pack of Yoga Mat Wipes for a sweet smelling mat even in the most outdoorsy of settings!

And, for an even more comprehensive collection of props to address all your festival needs – whether you’re squeezed into a not so roomy tent or practicing solo on a grass hill – try it paired with a Mysore Practice Rug! This is our go-to yoga superstar for ultimate slip resistance, traction, and texture.

(Looking for a combo deal? Check out our Yoga Packages!)

To top off your ensemble, throw all your props into a stylish and sturdy Indian Pattern Yoga Mat Bag (the classic Panipat Pattern pictured above) and hit the road!

Or, for a super soft feel, try out our Cotton Velvet Mat Bags. They’re sturdy, breathable, and made from 100% cotton, but with the plush feel of velvet.

Come visit us at BarefootYoga.com today to find all of your festival needs!

Posted under Eco-Friendly Yoga Products, Health and Fitness, Mysore Practice Rugs, Yoga Gift Ideas, Yoga Mats, Yoga Supplies