Om Yoga Magazine: Summer

The new issue of Om Yoga Magazine has arrived; rather appropriately in the middle of this heat as this month's is a rather summery issue. There was lots that caught my attention in the issue, from heart opening sequences, to "yogging", a blend of running and yoga, alongside a collection of quotation from major figures in the yogic communities.

I am always quite taken by the Natural Born Beauty section that talks about the benefits of seasonal changes, and how you can incorporate the fruits of these as a part of your natural beauty routine. This month focused on the lure of the sea, so I of course had to include it in this month's post. In the UK, we have a fairly narrow window in which to enjoy the coast in warmer conditions, so the author, Denise, encourages you to make use of the benefits of seawater by taking a dip. In yoga, a common breathing technique is called ocean breathing, and so it seems only fitting to sit meditatively at the edge of a beach and breath in and out in time with the crashing waves. One thing that can be enjoyed almost all year round is taking beach front walks, particularly in morning or evening when the shoreline is a little quieter.

To receive the energy boosting benefits of the sea when inland, Denise recommends using marine-based beauty products, and eating Dulse, a form of red seaweed. I thought that I would share some seaweed derived products with you today.

1. Seaweed salt scrub, £12.95 | Neals Yard Remedies
2. Seanik solid shampoo, £5.95 | Lush
3. Bath and shower gel, £35.00 | Darphin 
4. Seaweed and Sage body wash, £15.00 | REN
5. Deep cleansing facial wash, £8.50 | The Body Shop

I love how many of these products use a variety of seaweed varieties, or incorporate other natural ingredients such as sea salt and lemon. Do you use any seaweed products or natural skin and body care? Comment below; I'd love to know!

Om Yoga Magazine: SUP Yoga

I remember trying my first bit of stand up paddle boarding (SUP), quite a few years ago now, on a sunny canal in Wiltshire. I instantly loved it; more steady and versatile than a surfboard, and have often grabbed at the opportunity to try more, either during a surfing session or on a calm day. Whilst I have yet to experience a formal SUP yoga class, I can never help but hold a few asanas on the water.

In this issue of Om Yoga magazine wellness consultant and yoga instructor Helen Cloots demonstrates ten poses to start you off with some SUP yoga, with Austin Cox talking you through them all.

I love how practicing yoga on the unstable surface of a board really changes your perspective -in more ways than one! Firstly, balances that you may normally be comfortable with, such as tree pose, can be really challenging, whereas others, particularly wheel pose and headstand, are still as accessible as before. Plus, you'll get a few whoops from your fellow surfers and swimmers as it looks pretty impressive! Secondly, SUP yoga really changes your perspective of the water. You find yourself floating on the surface, either working on poses or just taking the time to breath. When a pose changes your orientation, the world looks so different. I am sure that I am not alone in loving wheel pose for this. My best memory is of balancing in wheel pose on a gentle swell, watching the horizon slowly rise and fall away. Plus, if you feel like it (or a wobble dictates it!) jumping and falling into the water is so fun and really get the arms going!

On another note, if you have any interest in yoga teacher training, then I would really recommend this issue of Om Magazine! It is chock-full of advice, courses, and there's even an interview with the awesome Anne-Marie Newland, who founded Sun Power yoga, which I practice when staying in Yorkshire. By following the my link below, you can purchase an issue of Om Yoga magazine for £1.99, or start a subscription at a discounted price!

Disclaimer: I am an Affiliated Blogger with Om Yoga Magazine. Each issue I will write a post on an article from the magazine and share it with you. Have a look here to find about the other lovely affiliated bloggers. All photos in this post taken from the Om Yoga magazine.