Written by Vapur Pro Team member, Anna Levesque.This week my theme for my yoga classes is ‘Cleansing and Replenishment.’ This theme is easy for a paddler to appreciate. When it rains the rivers are replenished with water and anything that was stagnant or stuck on the river is washed away downstream. Our bodies also replenish and cleanse themselves without us even thinking about it. Every inhalation oxygenates our blood and our heart pumps that blood out to the rest of our body where it nourishes every cell. With every exhalation we expel the waste product of oxygen - carbon dioxide. In this way, every full breath we take replenishes and cleanses the body and the blood. If you pause right now and bring awareness to your breath you’ll tap into this natural cycle.During this busy Holiday season turning to your breath can also be very useful for reducing stress and taking a little time out for yourself. Breathing is the best stress reduction because it’s always available and it's free! At the top of challenging rapids that I’m nervous about running, I pause and take at least one full, slow breath. Breathing mindfully creates space in between my thoughts which allows me to relax, focus and tap into the flow of paddling well. It helps me to ‘cleanse’ my mind of negativity and see the perfection of the moment. In this way, the breath not only cleanses and replenishes the body, but also the mind. You don’t have to be paddling a river, or SUPing in the ocean or climbing a mountain to use your breath in this way. You could be at a family gathering or out last minute gift shopping – anytime you feel nervous, anxious or overwhelmed.Another replenishing cycle that is good for the body and mind is proper hydration. De-hydration can lead to your muscles getting fatigued and not performing at optimum level. And, considering that fluids make up 60% of your body and assist with proper digestion, circulation, and transportation of nutrients, getting dehydrated can affect how you feel physically and mentally. That’s why the Vapur Anti-Bottles are a key piece of gear for me whether I’m on the river, in the yoga studio or heading out for a family Holiday gathering. Having filtered, fresh water with me at all times is key to feeling replenished and energized in any situation.So this Holiday season if you find yourself feeling stressed or fatigued take a moment to breath deeply and have your Vapur Anti-Bottle filled with fresh water close by to give yourself a little gift of replenishment.Happy holidays,Anna[caption id="attachment_1730" align="aligncenter" width="500"]
Vapur is key when I'm kayaking, when I'm paddle boarding and during the busy Holiday season![/caption]
Vapur is key when I'm kayaking, when I'm paddle boarding and during the busy Holiday season![/caption]
