Improve Your Yoga Asana

Improved Yoga Asana through IntegrationBy James Foulkes

Alignment is a principle often emphasized in Yoga classes, but what does it really mean? Alignment moves way beyond straightness of limbs and the holding of tense rigid postures for the sake of a perceived “correct” external shape. When elements of the physical structure align with each other (for example knees, ankles and hips) physical integration is encouraged, reducing unnecessary strain on bones, joints and tendons during asanas. Practitioners of other movement disciplines, such as dance, are also required to consider the alignment of their bodies, not to mention their breathing and body awareness. Martha Graham, one of the worlds most creative dance teachers states that:

“Any movements should enable alignment of the skin, muscles, and bones so that the internal rivers of energy and fluids can flow unobstructed, creating wholesome functionality and fluid movement.” - Graham (1989)

The other aspect to alignment which is less commonly focused upon is with the natural forces of the planet. Esther Myers, who trained with Vanda Scaravelli, states that:

“Through continued focus on the force of gravity we bring ourselves into alignment with it. Our emphasis on alignment… is partly to prevent injuries and improve our functioning on the bio-mechanical level but also to bring us into optimal alignment with this universal energy field (gravity.)” - Myers (1996)

Yoga can be used as an approach to injury recovery and prevention, such as in the field of Structural Yoga Therapy. It includes alignment of structure, effectively relating to gravity, and a holistic understanding of the nature of the bones and tissues of our body (the focus of the forthcoming workshop at City Fitness on April 12^th 2008.) These combine to make Structural Yoga Therapy effective, which helps the practitioner to maintain a safe practise, whilst promoting a sense of wholeness.

Yelp on City Fitness Gym

Yelp is a website that allows readers to review businesses including restaurants, shops, nightlife, beauty salons and spas, gyms, etc. Sadly, many businesses are only given feedback when someone has a bone to pick, not always when people are happy with it. For any of you wordsmiths out there that LOVE City Fitness Gym, please log on and tell the world how you belong to DC's favorite neighborhood gym! http://www.yelp.com/biz/city-fitness-gym-washington

Cancer Control Month

In addition to celebrating the earth this month, also note it is Cancer Control Month. There are several organizations promoting cancer prevention including http://www.preventcancer.org. Good at cards? Join their Bad Beat on Cancer Annual Texas Hold'em Tournament May 6. Check out that page and http://www.cancer.org and join a golf tournament or walk. This site also has lots of resource information available.

Reduce DC's Carbon Footprint

City Fitness Gym member Mary F. posted this and we thought it important and so we are highlighting it - "Sign up for the Cool Capital Challenge (coolcapitalchallenge.org) You can sign up your company or do it with a group of friends and help reduce DC's carbon footprint."

Cherry Blossoms by Bike!

Burn some calories and enjoy the Cherry Blossoms!

Date(s): through Apr 13, 2008 Time: 3-5 pm Daily - Additional Weekend Tours from 9:30 - 11:30 AM & 12:00 - 2:00 PM Location: Bike the Sites Kiosk, rear of Old Post Office Pavilion - 12th Street between Pennsylvania & Constitution Ave., NW Map

Cost: $32/adults and $22/children under 12

Description: Celebrate the arrival of spring with this two-hour guided bike ride designed specifically for the National Cherry Blossom Festival. The trip takes cyclists past the Potomac park blossoms and highlights the Jefferson Memorial, Haines Point, Japanese Lantern and more!

Spread the City Fitness word!

Click on the above title to be directed to our widget - add it to your own website or blog and let us know you did! We'll give you a mention too.

Reusable Water Bottles

Lots of people have a goal of consuming more water (the basic recommended amount being 64 oz. per day). It seems that every time a new product comes on the market to help make this easier (various plastic water bottles) studies come out that show they have potentially harmful side effects. SIGG water bottles are the "new thing." They are made of metal and are said to not leech harmful materials into the water you are drinking. How about setting a goal of reducing your own footprint on the earth by ditching the tossable plastics and going to a SIGG or other brand of reusable? I know, I know, next we need to figure out the whole "what's in our water" issue too...demand more from the water providers on that. I wish it was as easy as clicking on a link like the water bottle thing is.

The Cherry Blossoms Secret Stroll

From the official website: The annual cherry blossom display is guaranteed to dazzle your senses. But have you ever wondered why the trees are planted along the Tidal Basin? Why cherry trees? Whose idea were they anyway? Hear the stories and secrets behind the delicate blossoms during a walking tour featuring not only cherry trees, but also noteworthy arboreal cousins. Learn about the woman whose cherry tree vision lives on today, a Japanese lantern older than the United States itself, and where you can discover even more pink and white blooms.

Secrets Stroll: Apr 4, 5, 6, 7, 11, 12, 13

Mondays & Fridays at 10:00 am; Saturdays & Sundays at 2:00 pm - Tours last two hours Meet the guide outside the Smithsonian Metro station's Independence Avenue, SW exit - 12th St NW & Independence Ave SW Map

Cost: $10 per person; Free under age 3

Related Information http://www.washingtonwalks.com

April's theme is GREEN!

Our April blog posts and featured events will focus on "being green." Please do feel free to add your own comments and ideas as we go....and bookmark the blog and check back often!

The Annual Manna Fun Run 5K

Another City Fitness Gym "get outside" recommendation:

Date and Time Saturday, April 12, 2008 8:15 AM Program Starts 8:30 Race Starts! Post-run activities begin at 9:45

Rock Creek Park - Fitzgerald Tennis Center 16th Street at Colorado Avenue, NW Ample parking is available at the Fitzgerald Tennis Center. Enter the parking area off Colorado Ave, NW. Please do not use the Kennedy Street NW entrance.

This family, stroller and pet-friendly event is held at Rock Creek Park. Please call Jennifer McAllister at 202-832-1845 if you’re interested in volunteering for the event. Volunteers who sign up early can volunteer and run the race for free!