Change for the better, continuous improvement is the Kaizen philosophy.
Kaizen means ‘good’ and ‘change’
The Kaizen philosophy, originating in Japan, emphasizes continuous improvement in all aspects of life. While initially intended for corporations such as Toyota, it's a methodology that advocates consistent and incremental progress towards achieving set goals.
Quality and small changes = incremental progress to your personal goals.
By applying the Kaizen philosophy to Yoga, I break down goals into manageable chunks. Achieving 1% better in each practice adds up, like compound interest in your movement "bank account."
To stay on track, here are 4 essential foundations of Kaizen:
Consistency
In regards to yoga, a consistent practice will help to build strength, increase your flexibility, develop your body awareness and improve your balance. You’ll gradually advance your technique, skills and deepen your understanding of the practice for your body.
Set Goals
I believe the best way to do this, is the write your goals down and review them daily and weekly. Set achievable goals - bite size goals, so that you can work on them incrementally. Try holding a strong fully engaged Plank pose for 30sec, building up to 1min. By starting at a minimal time, allowing yourself to increase time under tension will not only help you master the pose, but avoid overwhelm and feeling discouraged. Don’t forget to celebrate small wins!
Metta Practice
Kaizen way is actually very mindful, it works so closely together with Metta an emphasis on being present, engaged and kind to yourself. Breathe slow and steady, focus and concentrate on the quality of your movement. Let go of distractions or that Monkey Mind that often demands your attention. Lovingly, allow yourself the full experience, your yoga experience, not what it ‘should’ be.
Reflect and Adjust
I have often said that our body is always very quietly speaking to us, but how often do we take the time to stop and listen? Pay attention to your practice — is it causing you discomfort or pain, do you need to adjust or modify? Are you feeling tired during practice where the poses are too challenging and your body is begging for a slower therapeutic flow? You can avoid injury and make progress when you pause, reflect and modify.
Whether you're a novice or an experienced yogi, practicing yoga with the Kaizen philosophy will yield rewards. Allow yourself the gift of time, effort, dedication, and patience, and you'll progress in your yoga practice, experiencing yoga's transformative benefits.
Enjoy the Kaizen journey!
Janel 🧘♀️🦎
DISCLAIMER: The content of this video is for educational and informational purposes only, it is not intended as medical advice or treatment. The information in this video is not intended to be used to diagnose, treat or prevent any disease, health issue, or illness. The purpose of this video is to encourage you to make cognizant decisions about your body and overall health after consulting with your physician or a qualified health professional (QHP). By watching this video and reading this blog post, you acknowledge that you are responsible for your own health and fitness decisions. You need to consult with your physician or a qualified health professional (QHP) prior to making any health or fitness changes, especially any changes related to a specific diagnosis or condition.
I am not a medical doctor or medical professional and I do not dispense medical advice or prescribe treatment. If you feel or believe that you have a medical problem or concern, contact your physician or health care provider immediately. Always consult with your medical doctor and/or health care provider before and/or making any other health/fitness related changes.
I am not responsible for any adverse effects or consequences that might result if you choose to make use of this video and blog post or apply any of the information that you have read on janelduross.com. By watching this video and blog post, visiting janelduross.com, and/or otherwise engaging with this information, you agree that you are solely responsible for any health and/or fitness decisions you make.
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