Yoga for Geeks

Last month I was contacted by a writer - Vawn Himmelsbach - from IT World Canada. We chatted on the phone one afternoon, about geeks and yoga and why it matters, and today I was sent a link to the published article!

No Lululemon required, in Yoga for Geeks, Pullman keeps it simple. She includes postures for head and shoulder mobility, opening up the connective tissue in the upper body and opening up the hips, which get tight if you’re sitting all day. She also includes breathing and relaxation. “That’s usually enough for beginners,” she said. “I want them to leave feeling empowered rather than overwhelmed.”

I'm really happy with it. I feel like it does a good job summing up what I feel so passionate about these days. It's not about getting fit or even particularly flexible... it's about finding balance, finding comfort, and taking care of your body so that it will support you, rather than hinder you, over the long haul. I get so many people telling me they know they need to do *something* but are nervous about starting... and I just want them to know that it doesn't have to be scary, and it's never too late to start making simple changes in a positive direction.

Thanks for the write-up, Vawn! :)

I was recently sent a link to The Ultimate Guide to Workstation Ergonomics, over at HR World. While the tips offered are basic – though helpful – what I really think is great is the extensive list of links below, to all kinds of resources that might be useful if you're trying to learn more about ergonomics and your options. Check it out. 

To their list of recommendations, I would personally add:

11. Find a body-mind class of some kind, whether it's yoga or Feldenkrais or Tai Chi or whatever... just something that is going to help you start to learn to listen and respond to your body (as most people in our culture are pretty adept at ignoring its signals), while also building strength and flexibility. Just jump in – it's never too late to start.

12. Invest in bodywork (massage, craniosacral therapy, one-on-one Feldenkrais, etc) with someone who comes highly recommended. There are many different modalities out there, so ask around, and don't be afraid to try a few people until you find someone you want to work with. (Same goes for yoga teachers, actually!) Think of the money you spend as an investment in your well-being, rather than a frivolous splurge.  

Yoga and Linux?!?! (you might be thinking...)

Why yes! Yoga and Linux! October 13th is the Ontario Linux Fest, and I will be there to lead a lunch hour class for any and all interested open source aficionados. 

Join me for a 45 minute class before you grab your lunch. This will be mostly chair yoga, so no mats are required, and no fancy exercise attire either.

Think less about "yoga" and more about a chance to get to know your body better, to breathe deeply, to gently stretch, and to learn some good things you can do at your own desk to ease the common trouble spots (shoulders, backs, hips...)

As always, if you're interested in having a YFG session at your event or conference... drop me a line.

Have you ever suspected that sitting at your desk all day isn't very good for your body?

Do your shoulders ache, or your hips feel stiff? Is your back ever sore?

Do you have trouble chasing after your kids - or your partner! - when it's time to play, because you're feeling old and stiff?

Do you feel like you spend too much time in your head?

If you can relate to any of the above, then please join us for the Toronto launch of Yoga for Geeks! You'll learn some stretches to address common complaints, and enjoy an opportunity to relax. It's never too late to begin making friends with your hard-working, oft-ignored body.

WHAT: a short "yoga" class, specifically tailored for people (male or female) new to yoga, and/or people who would never in a million years set foot in a regular yoga studio. After class, we'll retire our relaxed selves to a patio nearby for beverages (can't have you getting too healthy all at once!)

WHO: YOU, and all the geeks you know. (invite others, or blog about it!)

HOW MUCH: pay what you can – $10 suggested donation

The Fine Print:

• please don't eat dinner right before class – though a snack an hour or two before is fine (this won't be strenuous)
• suggested attire – as long as it's not tight, you're fine. shorts would be good, especially if it's a hot day
• if there is sufficient interest, i will consider running a regular or semi-regular class