By Bronwyn Ison
A contemporary yogini is how I would describe myself. Yes, I drink wine and teach yoga. Of course I am not practicing these activities simultaneously. For several years fitness studios and yoga retreats have been designed to specifically bring wine and yoga together. Yoga, meaning to “yoke” and experience unity — wine is similar as it brings people together.
Pairing wine and yoga may sound contradictory. Yoga can be detoxifying. Many people may adopt the thought that wine is introducing toxins into the body. Yoga trains us to find peace and harmony within mind, body and spirit. Alcohol generally elevates our spirits, enhances and relieves our inhibitions. How do the two compliment each other? Yoga instructor, David Romenelli (a.k.a, Yeah Dave) explains, “Yoga teaches you how to age gracefully just like a great bottle of wine ages gracefully.” I can appreciate this analogy. Many yogi’s and yogini’s may frown upon this merger.
As you may agree, moderation is everything. It is important to be flexible on and off your yoga mat. If you have an active lifestyle, as many of us do, taking a time-out is essential. Of course we want to incorporate these activities responsibly. We know too much yoga could be taxing on the body. Just as too much alcohol is damaging to the mind, body and spirit. While yoga may help relieve hangover symptoms, it is germane to find just the right balance and not to over indulge.
Women’s Health Magazine tells us, “The phytochemicals in wine raise your good cholesterol, while its antioxidants protect the lining of the coronary arteries. One or two glasses of red wine a day is the optimal amount to help you realize this effect.” We also know, “Alcohol improves the body’s response to insulin, which regulates blood sugar. And when your blood sugar is under control, your body won’t store as much glucose as fat. Score!”
The benefits of yoga are plentiful. Yoga increases stamina, drains your lymphs & boosts your immunity. It also strengthens your bones, reduces stress, decreases your blood pressure, lower blood sugar, increases your heart rate, regulates your adrenal glands, improves balance, maintains your nervous system, helps you sleep deeper, releases tension in your limbs, improves your lungs, prevents IBS plus mitigates digestive issues, gives you peace of mind, increases self esteem and benefits your relationships. These are just a handful of benefits you can realize by practicing yoga.
Pairing wine and yoga is something fun you can engage in to wind down. Your yoga practice should be enjoyable. A smooth glass of pinot noir every so often is simply extra relaxation post savasana (last posture in your practice.)
Join Bronwyn Ison at Whole Foods/Taproom Patio, February 11, 2015 at 6pm for a one-hour Vinyasa Flow class paired with Vino & cheese after class. Cost: $5.00 ~
RSVP sp.pmd.events@wholefoods.com
Bronwyn Ison is the owner of Evolve Yoga. www.e-volveyoga.com 760.564.YOGA
