There’s a lot to love about yoga! The gentle stretch as you push your previous limit. The wellness culture of mindfulness that makes you feel good body and mind. And, of course, simply participating as part of a community and tradition is something that many Canadians crave. Unfortunately, as the snow comes down and our lives get busy, it can be difficult to plan and make it to scheduled classes. But that doesn’t mean you should give up your yoga routine!

 

Water or Aqua yoga is a new trend in Canada that’s gaining a lot of traction! This is because aqua yoga offers many of the same great benefits of traditional, land-based yoga but with the benefit of buoyancy. The water helps to support your body, taking pressure off your joints and reducing discomfort. This makes aqua yoga the perfect fit for those struggling with joint mobility, pain, or who are new to yoga and want to improve their flexibility. Here are some poses to get you started!

 

The Wave

This aptly named position is a great place to start your aqua yoga routine. Stand in the middle of your hot tub with your feet shoulder width apart. Keep your left arm against your body as you raise your right arm high over your head and towards the left. Stretch gently, then lower your arm as you return to rest. Repeat on the other side.

 

The Half Boat

Sit on the very edge of your spa’s seat; keep your hands to the sides for balance. With your back straight, bend your legs and lift your knees towards the surface. When your knees and shins are horizontal and parallel to the water (your feet should be sticking out), straighten your arms to be in line with legs and hold.

 

The Half Moon Pose

Return to the middle of your hot tub, and place your hands on the small of your back. Learn backwards, while pushing your chest out and arching your back to create a C shape. For extra challenge, try to touch your elbows together behind your back. Mind your balance, so you don’t fall!

 

The Driftwood Pose

Make sure you’re still in the middle of your spa. Lift your hands as high above your head as you can, then touch your palms together. Lift your right leg and touch the bottom of your right foot to the inside of your left thigh. Hold the position, then lower your right leg, and repeat using the opposite leg.

 

The Hide Tide Pose

Still in the middle of your hot tub, lift your right leg to the right, and grab your toes with your right hand. While holding your foot, extend your right leg until your foot pokes out of the water. Lower your leg and repeat on the opposite side.

 

There are a ton of great poses for practicing hot aqua yoga in the comfort of your home. Check out YouTube or Google for more ideas, and if you find you need a little more room in your spa or something else isn’t quite right, call the Calgary hot tub experts at RnR Hot Tubs and Spas. We’re here to help!