September 25, 2014

Yoga in the hot tub boosts flexibility.   That’s no secret. But until now there hasn’t been a good how-to guide for adapting dry land yoga poses for the hot tub.

Stretching in the spa is as good for you as it feels. Yoga positions can ease back, should, neck, and hip pain and the warm, buoyant water makes the exercise easier. Susan Atkinson, creator of a new DVD “Hot Tub Yoga Therapy & Massage for Individuals & Partners”  explained how to perform just 3 of the more than 20 poses on her DVD in an issue of SpaRetailer. 

• Hamstring stretch. Hold a strap or band around one foot, stretch your leg as far as possible, and bend your knee to your chest. On the third cycle, sit tall, hold the stretched leg for three deep breaths, and flex the foot for added reach. Then exercise the other leg.

• Shoulder and upper-arm stretch. Reach one arm up and bend your elbow so your hand is on your back. Grab the elbow with your other hand, pull it toward the center of your head, and lean your head back against your arm for three deep breaths. Then exercise the other side.

• Core strengthener. Sitting with your hips and hands on the bench, let your feet float up so you’re balanced on your tailbone with your face relaxed. Lift the legs so your body makes a V, bend your knees to your chest, and extend them straight for 10 repetitions.

The strengthening especially supports your lower back and helps prevent injury. And the hot tub relaxes you inside and out.  I can’t think of a better way to get the kinks out after 8 hours (+) at a computer.

Susan Atkinson is a yoga instructor, massage therapist. Her new DVD “Hot Tub Yoga Therapy & Massage-For Individuals & Partners” is the best we’ve seen for yogis who want to hot tub as while they practice. Here’s what she says about her new DVD: “For “Individuals and Partners” is an easy to follow, beginner level DVD for doing yoga poses in your hot tub. The warmth of the water nicely prepares our muscles & joints for stretching. Over 20 poses for your neck, back, shoulders, hips and legs. Great for athletes, 50+, and busy, stressed people. Practice individually, or with a partner.” 

Give hot tub yoga a try.

As the Romans said it, Sanum per Aqua. Health through water.

More on hot tubbing and exercising:

Is it Better to Hot Tub Before or After a Strenuous Workout?

How to Exercise in Your Hot Tub To Improve Flexibility and Muscle Tone

Tired, Aching Feet? End Foot Pain with These Easy Hot Tub Exercises