Travel Yoga (4 page)

Let arms rest at your sides. Turn your face to one side.

Let your body relax, and breathe deeply.

Repeat this mantra: “I will stay calm and patient throughout my journey.”

Before you jump into the fray at the terminal, work out a game plan. Make sure your possessions are organized and handy, with your ID and travel documents easily accessible. When you arrive, pause before you step out of the vehicle, take a deep breath; the journey has just begun. And remember: The most important part of your plan should be to arrive early. This will allow plenty of time to practice Travel Yoga.

             Relax … breathe …

                          imagine getting lost in the Sahara Desert.

                   Travel through the vast emptiness;

                          all is quiet, a gentle wind blows,

                   your worries simply fall away,

                          you let the stillness take over.

Have a vision not clouded by fear
.

—Cherokee proverb

For most of us, standing in line is nerve-wracking, especially when we're in a rush. The following exercises will help you limber up and take your focus off your wait
.

Standing on your left foot only, cross right foot over left. Right toes should not touch the ground.

Put your hands on your waist and focus your gaze on a spot a few feet in front of you.

Feel the sole of your left foot rooted into the floor, balance on your left leg, and feel your posture rise upward.

Take five deep breaths while focusing on being patient, and then switch legs.

Start by doing what is necessary, then do what is possible, and suddenly you are doing the impossible
.

—St. Francis of Assisi

To ease strain on your lower back, stand with your feet hip-width apart and knees slightly bent.