5 Yoga Poses to Try Before You Fly
(Being a seasoned traveller now, of what feels like infinite lifetimes, I found this article offers a side benefit that can be acquired through yoga. It is no secret that airliners are squeezing more passengers into the same space. It is also no secret that they are not padding the seats in the same way as they used to.
Recently I flew United from Newark, NJ to Denver, CO. Sitting next to me was a former Continental Flight Attendant, now working for United. I noticed how she sat bolt upright in her seat for the early part of the trip. Once we engaged each other she commented on the fact that posture was something that had been disregarded in the name of profit on all the mainstream aircraft of United. I agreed, having found that my neck was pushed forward due to the poor design of these seats. As my new found friend continued she explained that for her on trips back and forth as a passenger, she was unable to not get a back ache and or neck discomfort from these seats. She also explained that it was a growing and common complaint for the passengers as a whole.
Enter Yoga. Yes, Yoga is a spiritual practice. Yes, Yoga is far more than a fix for bad posture. However, if you need a good reason to try it out, here is one for you. Try travelling on an uncomfortable aircraft seat, but take note of the sharings of this article. Do what the author suggests and see for yourself. If you like that, then maybe it’s time to start Yoga. Enjoy. Nigel)
By Jake Panasevich
Practicing yoga before you travel can help prevent plane pains and alleviate airport stress.
Airports might be more stressful than a daily commute through heavy traffic. Between delayed, canceled and overbooked flights, it often seems you’re more likely to have a headache than a relaxing flying experience. Once you board your flight, the seats are designed to misalign your back. The scoop-shaped chairs are reclined just enough in their “upright” position that they almost force you to slouch. Plus, navigating your personal space when a stranger’s arm and leg are spilling over into your tiny allotted area makes the whole experience a little too close for comfort.
1. Down Dog
2. Side Angle
If you were to practice one standing pose, this one is the most beneficial. There is a big release in your lower and middle back when you stretch the sides of your torso laterally through this pose. Collapsing through the sides of your body or slouching is a recipe for pain. Start in Warrior II, with your front foot pointing straight forward and your knee pointing straight over your front foot. Bend your front knee until your knee is right over your ankle and your front thigh is parallel to the floor. If your right foot is forward, bring your right forearm to rest on your front thigh, and stretch your top arm alongside your ear with your palm facing down. Stamp your back foot down heavily to set your back upper thigh into its socket. Keep that form as you tuck your front hip down and under and lengthen your back. Read more…