The stress of the holidays doesn’t evaporate when the ball drops on January 1; science tells us we retain experiences in our body as much as our mind. “We all are biologically and neurologically programmed to deal with emergencies, but time stops in people who suffer from PTSD. That makes it hard to take pleasure in the present because the body keeps replaying the past. If you practice Yoga and can develop a body that is strong and feels comfortable, this can contribute substantially to help you to come into the here and now rather than staying stuck in the past.” (Bessel Van der Kolk, author of The Body Keeps the Score).

The good news: you don’t have to carry the frustrations of this season with you. You can teach your body to respond to stress using mindful breathing and movement. By arranging our bodies in particular ways, we train the nervous system how to approach challenges with openness. The process of exerting effort and relaxing throughout the body helps dissolve tension, which is stress manifested in your body tissues.

While this time of year often seems too busy, perhaps it’s even more important to establish a yoga practice so you can move through the hustle and bustle with strength and ease. Avoid the additional stress of venturing to a class by scheduling your private yoga session with Michele Minehart, Mind Body Health Associates’ in-house yoga instructor. Michele will work with you personally to address any challenges and help develop a sequence of postures for home practice. Individualized yoga introduces you to postures and concepts, a great starting point for those interested in eventually taking classes in a group setting from any of the fabulous yoga studios in town.

You can call the office to schedule your one-hour session, or consider a gift certificate for someone you think would appreciate it.

Students aren’t the only one feeling the back-to-school adjustment period. Educators and school staff often feel a similar exhaustion from meeting the needs of students in the midst of transition.

On August 18, therapist Holly Schweitzer Dunn, LISW and yoga instructor Michele Minehart, RYT, visited the Montessori School of Bowling Green to consult with teachers about the importance of self-care and to provide breath, movement and mindfulness practices for personal and classroom use.

If you’re interested in a similar classroom or professional training, talk to Holly or Michele about opportunities for your building or district.