Yoga At The Office? Sure, I'll Try It

All too often we plan our days around trying to get as much done as possible. We’re always moving forward and forgetting to pay attention to the present moment.

So when our Director of Culture Gabrielle Rickman posted the new schedule of yoga breaks and meditation sessions, you bet I was curious. Already, Digital Echidna provides us with memberships to YogaShack as part of our benefits package, so how would Gabrielle manage to offer something unique, and during the work day too? 

It wasn’t until I took part in my first session, which was chair yoga, that I realized, here I am at twenty-five years old, and I have the hips of an 80-year-old. Seriously, who knew doing yoga in a chair could be so much work and yet so beneficial? And I underestimated the benefits of at-work meditation as well. I mean, you just sit there and close your eyes, right? Wrong. It was sitting in one place, consciously keeping my core engaged and straight that made me realize -- my posture needed a lot of work! I could feel the discomfort in my spine after just 15 minutes.

Doing these exercises certainly opened up my eyes to how little we pay attention to our bodies. Even working using the stuff I do -- top quality ergonomic desks, chairs, and other equipment. Since taking that class, already I have become so much more aware of how I am sitting or standing while working and know to adjust.

The benefits were also emotional. When we’re busy, we forget to check in with ourselves and often that leads to anxiety and stress. It is possible to mindfully work more effectively and efficiently. Taking 15 minutes to tune into senses, consciously tap into any physical sensations - what can I hear? Feel? Smell? See? Focusing on all senses into the present moment brought awareness to my body and mind. I plan to use this more often during my day.  

So what can I say? Thanks, Gabrielle for introducing this into the Digital Echidna process. Taking part in these instructor-led breaks, my body felt relaxed and my mind was ready to tackle the rest of the day. I felt less tense and lighter which I know increased my productivity, patience, and brainpower.

Namaste!