How Do You Geezer Jock: Claudia Simpson

 

We promised to get into Yoga at Geezer Jock. Here are some reflections from a pro (certified in Kripalu Yoga, Cardiac Yoga, Reiki, Phoenix Rising Yoga Therapy).

Yoga means union of body, mind and spirit. Some guiding principles can be useful for any athlete to help minimize injury and maximize long term performance.

Non-violence (Ahimsa).

Many athletes, in their quest for achievement, treat the body more as an adversary than an ally. But instead of pushing the body to do x number of sprints or sucking it up to do more hill repeats, yoga teaches us to listen to the body. It knows exactly what you need to do.

When the mind and body are in balance, we feel better physically, mentally and emotionally. Working out is more fun.

Contentment (Santosha).

Even when we give it our best shot, we don’t always break records, make the finals or land on the podium. What we appreciate about “competing” with other masters athletes is how fortunate we are to still be in the game at all. Santosha is being aware that we’re moving forward and being satisfied with our progress.

Let it go. (Ishvara-Pranidhana).

We carry the stress of our lives in our bodies. You probably know your particular stress and where it’s affecting your body. Through gentle movement, guided breathing, deep relaxation and meditation, yoga invites us to let go of that stress, so we’re calmer in general. We’re less prone to injury and accidents when we’re relaxed and focused. We move with greater ease when we’re gently stretched. We’re happier and open to something greater than ourselves when we’re fully engaged in the present moment.

Integrating the mind, body and spirit is the key to an enjoyable sport that can last for the rest of your life.

Namasté