With the code red lockdown currently forcing Manitoba gyms and fitness centres to close their doors to the public, at-home exercise options have become much more of a focal point.
Research shows exercise can be very helpful in managing depression, anxiety and stress levels that have been heightened by the pandemic situation.
One form of exercise that’s proving to be quite useful is yoga — a practice of meditation and breath control which often involves moving through a series of body postures, akin to stretching.
Dauphin-based yoga instructor Erin Forsyth agrees yoga is a great option as it requires no equipment, little space, and can be practiced anytime.
“I find it’s the best at-home exercise. All you need is a comfortable spot, and there is a lot of free resources out. There are so many free yoga practices on Youtube,” says Forsyth.
She says the upside of yoga goes beyond the benefits to your body, and that people often feel mentally and emotionally better after their practice.
Her advice: start with what feels good in your body.
Erin explains there are many different types of yoga, some with more “meditative” options where you sit completely still and focus on the breath, and others that incorporate more physically challenging movements and body positions.
“If you are a little nervous about being in a yoga studio around other people, the nice thing about doing a yoga practice at home is there’s nobody else around. It might be more comfortable for you, and maybe as you get more comfortable in your yoga practice, you can go check out a group class once it’s allowed.”
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