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by LuAnn Schindler
In the midst of winter, it's sometimes difficult to take a break from the computer screen and head outside for physical activity. But writers need to make time to step back and give their minds and bodies a rest from the office chair and the written page.
When I'm in the middle of a long stretch of writing or editing, I work for an hour to 90 minutes, and then I take a break. Then, I strike a pose - a yoga pose - and clear my mind and stretch my body. The Sphinx pose restores the curve in the lower spine. When you're sitting in the office chair for extended periods, it flattens. Sphinx also gives a boost of energy to the chest by giving the heart and lungs more space to operate.
How does the position affect your disposition? An open chest encourages an open heart, preventing depression from setting in. It also gives an individual a feeling of support.
It's easy. Lie on the floor on your stomach. Feet should be shoulder width apart. Rest the tops of the feet on the floor. Prop your torso up on your forearms, keeping your elbows underneath the shoulders. Forearms and fingers point forward. Lift up your heard and keep the chin level to the floor, eyes gazing ahead. Pull shoulder blades toward each other. Stay in the position for at least five deep breaths or up to two minutes. To come out of the pose, lower your torso and head to the floor. Move the arms next to your sides and turn head one direction. Rest for several moments before resting in child's pose.
Balancing work and rest helps creativity. Take a few minutes for yourself throughout the work day. You'll be amazed at how your productivity increases!
I don't do yoga--but what I do is lay on the floor with my dogs and snuggle. I shut my eyes for 10 to 15 minutes and it is refreshing! :) So, maybe not as good for the body as yoga, but it's good for my soul. :)
Happy New Year!
Margo
http://margodill.com/blog/
Thank you so much for this! The past couple of weeks I have been nose deep in writing articles, writing a book, and well more articles. When someone mentions the word deadline I panic and dive in.
It is good to have a reminder that getting away for a couple of minutes is not only good for my body it is also good for my writing!
Thanks!