The ancient discipline of hatha yoga combines slow movements and stretching postures with breathing exercises. Yoga is never supposed to be a huffing puffing ordeal, thus making it especially beneficial for the handicapped and the elderly, for anyone who has not exercised in a long time, or for those who suffer from chronic pain. The postures not only stretch the body, they also stimulate the nervous system and endocrine glands; activate circulation, digestion, and elimination; help to balance the energy flow in the right and left sides of the brain, and therefore in the rest of the body; align the vertebrae; and promote a deepened sense of inner peace.

There are yoga exercises for every part of the body, from the eyes to the toes. Try this simple stretch called the Lion Pose, which is designed to relax tension you hold in your face. It feels great and looks silly, so it should make you smile!

The Lion Pose

1. Inhale.
2. While you forcefully exhale, open your mouth as wide as you can, stick out your tongue, open your eyes as wide as they will go, and stretch your arms down with fingers stiff and spread apart.
3. Hold this posture, without breathing, for a few seconds. Notice how your facial muscles feel.
4. Release the posture. Close your mouth and inhale deeply. Your abdomen should expand as you do so.
5. Exhale slowly through your nose.
6. Repeat two more times.

Does your face feel warmer or more energized? Are you more aware of facial muscles that you never knew you had? Did you feel a stretch in other parts of your body as you did that pose with your face?

If you are interested in learning more about hatha yoga, refer to the the many sources available on the Web. Yoga classes are often taught at fitness centers.

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