Variance: Stick Em Up

Today, we are going to explore a low-tech, physical disruption in order to activate better breathing.

Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, knees gently bent, with active alignment in your spine. By active alignment, I mean a spine that feels as though it is extending upward but remains pliable.

Take three deeps breaths observing your ribcage, your upper back, and the movement of your abdomen.

Now, put em up -- Your arms that is. Line up your upper arms with the line of your shoulders, bend at the elbow, and put your hands up. No need to flex your arms in any way, the hands can remain open. Still, this may immediately feel like effort.

Take three deep breaths. Observe the engagement in your shoulder blades, the movement of your ribcage and your abdomen. Slowly release your arms downward and try to retain the engagement and availability you just found.

As you move through your day, check-in with your breath. If you aren't sure you are engaged -- put em up.