2.1 (K) Exercise 1: Cat / Cow
Cat / Cow:
You can do this while sitting in a chair, or you can take it to the floor, as you see below.
You can do this while sitting in a chair, or you can take it to the floor, as you see below.
As you inhale, push your belly down towards the mat, (or outward if you’re sitting), drop your shoulders down and back, and raise the gaze.
As you exhale, draw your belly in towards your spine, tuck the pelvis and bring your nose towards your chest, rounding out the back.
Repeat.
Every time you inhale, push the belly outward and raise your head as you drop your shoulders back… then as you exhale, draw the belly in towards the spine, tuck the pelvis, and bring the nose towards the chest, rounding out the back.
Move with your breath. Close your eyes and listen to your body. When you feel the need to inhale, inhale in and press the belly out. When you feel the body needs to exhale, exhale as you pull the belly in.
As you flow back and forth, focus in on how good this makes you feel. Be sure you do this with your eyes closed, as the amount you stretch isn’t what matters here, its how you feel while moving back and forth. Closing your eyes will allow you to tap in deeper. Feel the natural rhythm of your body and breath as you feel your body relax. Feel the breath. Notice how good it feels to move with your body and breath. Notice how good it feels to be YOU inside.
Helpful tips: Smile when you do this movement, as it enhances the experience!
This my favorite exercise to practice self love. The natural flow of the body and breath feels so natural and good, and it’s a great way to tap into our inner self. If you are someone who doesn’t necessarily like this, it may be an indicator that you may need to do this more. You may want to find another self love exercise, as I have noticed that the clients who dislike this exercise, seem to have the least self confidence. Take the time to learn how to love yourself with this beautiful movement with breath.