Self Care during the Self Quarantine
Greetings Yogis,
We’re living through unprecedented times and with that comes a lot of fear, uncertainty, anxiety and worry. As yogis, we’re taught to honor the feelings that come up, they are all valid. In times like these it’s also helpful to not dwell on the negativity. Although it’s a difficult time, there is a lot of beauty in the way we are coming together (through staying apart) to support and protect one another. This solitary time is an ideal time to focus on self care so that we can all stay grounded and healthy during the self quarantine. Here’s a few of our favorite self care practices for your time at home:
Garshana + Abhyanga. This is a popular ayurvedic practice of dry brushing and self oil massage. Garshana uses a dry brush, loofa or some type of rough material to remove dead skin cells and stimulate lymphatic flow. Abhyanga is known to decrease stress and anxiety, settle your nerves, and promote healthy circulation and lymphatic drainage. The heaviness of the oil on the skin promotes a feeling of groundedness and is also believed to provide a protective barrier on the skin which plays a role in protecting ourselves from outside pathogens. All you need is an organic kitchen oil, like sesame or coconut.
These practices are not only soothing to the mind+body but also important to maintaining your health. The lymphatic system is vital to our immunity. It’s like a highway that travels through your entire body picking up toxins and fighting pathogens that enter the body. We need to keep the lymphatic system flowing to move the pathogens out and keep your immunity strong.
Here’s how to do it: warm 1/4-1/2 cup of oil and add a drop or two of your favorite essential oil (essential oil optional). Starting with your legs, rub the oil into the skin just like lotion. Use long strokes on the limbs and circular movements on your joints. Continue to move all the way up the body moving in the direction of the heart. Remember, the is a (social distancing appropriate) massage – don’t rush this! Spend extra time on tight knots or super dry spots and don’t forget often overlooked body parts like the bottoms of the feet and ears! Once you’ve applied your oil, wrap yourself in an old towel or bathrobe and let the oil soak into the skin for at least 20 minutes. This is a great time to roll out your mat and settle into a yoga nidra or guided meditation. After 20 minutes, hop in the shower and rinse off any extra oil. This practice can be done in the morning, evening, or anytime you need to press pause and settle the nerves.
Move your body. This is another key way to keep the lymphatic system moving while keeping your mind+body happy! At YogaVibes we have classes of all lengths, levels & styles to meet your needs! If you’re feeling particularly overwhelmed we recommend trying out our new experience, Yoga for Stress Relief with Gail Corvette.
Give yourself permission to rest. This is a hard one for many. When was the last time you had a clear social calendar and could sleep in, stay in your jammies all day and just do whatever the heck you feel like?! If you’re anything like us, we’re guessing it’s been a while. Self care challenge: choose a day this weekend to turn off the alarm, put away the to-do list, and let yourself just be (at home). Do whatever you want to do and try to find enjoyment and ease in this rare opportunity to slow down.
Cook whole foods. This is an important one, friends. As much as you’re able, continue buying and cooking fresh, whole foods. Fruits and veggies are packed with immune boosting vitamins, minerals and anti-oxidants essential to keep us healthy during this time. We suggest making a big batch of soup or stew and freezing half of it so you have nutrient packed meals for the future. Have a favorite recipe? Share it with us on social media (@yogavibes) so we can spread the inspiration!
Sending virtual hugs,
The YogaVibes Team