We all look forward to New Year’s Eve. And, of course, to our beloved Father Frost. We write him letters, make wishes, and stay up until the presents finally appear under the tree.
However, recent research raises concerns about the health of everyone’s beloved Grandfather. It turns out the wizard is at heightened risk of falls while moving at night across dark, icy roofs. And heavy objects such as a sack of presents threaten his safety further still.
In the course of the study, doctors and scientists analysed and collected neuromuscular data from 17 Father Frosts, observing their coordination and gait both with the coat and sack and without them.
The results are sad. It turned out that the festive outfit, along with 20 kg of presents, causes a loss of coordination and an unsteady gait, which can only contribute to falls.
The Father Frosts’ cognitive abilities were tested too. They were asked to recite the names of all the reindeer, both standing and walking. In the latter case their coordination deteriorated further still.
The good news is that regular yoga practice does not only improve the attention and memory that Grandfathers need so much. Asanas increase stamina, correct the gait and help you keep your balance even on very slippery ice. Yoga also refines your sense of where your body is in space, and reduces fear and stress.
3 asanas for Father Frost, for better coordination and safety
- Stand in “tree pose”. Raise your arms above your head, close your eyes and say aloud all the greetings you will give on New Year’s Eve.
- Stand straight with your feet shoulder-width apart. Place the sack of presents by your right foot. Rise onto your toes, close your eyes, feel the central axis of your body and try to find your balance. Repeat the exercise holding the sack of presents in your hands. To finish, lower onto your feet, take a deep breath in and out, and open your eyes. Repeat the exercise 3–5 times.
- Stand straight with your feet wider than your shoulders. Turn your left foot 90 degrees and your right foot 45 degrees towards the left. Extend your left arm in front of you; your right arm is in line with the right side and bent at the elbow. Take the sack of presents in your left hand. Bend and straighten your left knee, lowering your body to a comfortable angle, for 1–2 minutes. Repeat the exercise on the right. Take a deep breath in and feel all the sensations in your body.
I wish you a bright and happy holiday, and may the New Year of 2020 bring us all love, laughter, a warm family hearth, health and prosperity!
