All Things Dog Blog

Saturday, September 27, 2014

Doga Variations: Side Angle Yoga Pose

by Carrie Boyko, CEB

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Are you tagging along on this Doga journey with us? Earlier we posted a series of short instructional doga videos, created especially for All Things Dog Blog Readers. Now we're circling back to share some variations on ways to make the poses a bit more easy. Sometimes we even share a tougher version, but it's all in fun. We want to inspire you to try including your dog in a home workout that will help you both bond more closely.

Today's pose is the Side Angle pose. You'll find the original video yoga instruction here. The classic version is a bit intimidating for some, but the images above show several ways that you can modify your angle to make it easier on your body. Take your time, working a single variations for as many practice sessions as you need, before moving down to a lower modifcation. Yoga should feel good, not hurt!

If you're already on top of the classic pose, try adding some weight or not using the floor to support yours. I've worked up to using my little 10-pound Oliver as shown at left. Believe me, that small dog feels quite a bit heavier when I hold him like this. It's a great workout for my oblique and ab muscles, especially after I hold him for a few extra breaths.

Since this photo session, I've been able to work my stance lower, continuing to improve my balance and stability, while still holding Oliver. #GottaLuvBonding

Just to be clear, there are still days when I do not feel up to this level of a workout. I often drop back to easier versions when I'm overstressed or tired. Floor poses and inverted ones seem to energize me.

Join me next week when I'll be sharing some ways to work on your balance with the

Airplane pose. If you don't have a larger dog like Tanner, you can use a chair, wall or dresser to aid your balance. Never fear, I'll also be offering some versions that don't have you lifitng your leg like Fido. ;)

Before I close, here's a list of our variations posts that you may find helpful in modifying your own home practice:

Namaste,

If you're new to Doga or Yoga, please be sure to do these three things: (1) Get your doctor's permission to start this or any other workout, (2) Check with your vet to make sure your dog is able to participate in simple Doga exercises safely, and (3) visit our introductory post where I've outlined a few tips that will help your experience go more smoothly and enjoyable. Keep in mind that you can always stop if a pose is uncomfortable, returning to a relaxing pose.

Saturday, May 10, 2014

Side Angle Pose with Fetching Fido:
Doga Pose Number 9

by Carrie Boyko, CEB

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Tanner Finally Joins In!

Although I've continued to have him at the corner of my mat, my Golden boy, Tanner, has not played much of a part in my practice until recently. This pose is such a perfect one for him, giving him a real job that is actually helpful to me. I can lean on him like I would a block, using him to help adjust my stretch and balancing myself at the same time--all good jobs for a bigger dog.

You may think this sounds cockamamie, but I think Tanner actually liked having a job with a purpose. He's not just there to be cute or held like a little dumpling. He's serving, a job generally left to Oliver in our home. I can't wait to show you what we have accomplished with the Airplane pose, coming next week!

Take your time with Side Angle Pose, trying various types of balancing objects, in addition to your leg. You certainly do not want to use your dog until you're comfortable with the position and your flexibility in it. Have a chair and a couple of blocks nearby to give yourself options. Here goes:

I'm still enjoying my reading in the Yoga Journal, where I found this tidbit to share for my weekly quote:

An important component of yoga is focusing on the present. Studies have found that regular yoga practice improves coordination, reaction time, memory, and even IQ scores. People who practice Transcendental Meditation demonstrate the ability to solve problems and acquire and recall information better--probably because they're less distracted by their thoughts, which can play over and over like an endless tape loop.

Wow, that last statement really hit me where I live--the thoughts playing over and over. Am I alone?

Our first 8 poses, published earlier, are at the following links, as well as at our dedicated Doga page. We hope you enjoy following along and that you'll offer your comments and ideas for incorporating your dogs easily and safely into your practice, either here or at our Facebook page where we can all support one another. The comment link is always open at the bottom of my posts.