Tricks of the trade #2:squat on the loo

Part of the ‘How to do yoga when you don’t have time to do yoga’ series

www.newnessdance.org.uk

Okay, I know that toilet topics are not that glamorous but…

…if you’re going to open your hips and do your insides a favour then the squat is the answer!

The squat (or malasana ~ garland pose) is great for all sorts of things:

• Opens hips• Helps minor back pain and sciatica• Helps strip fat from the mid-section• Strengthens the internal body• Energizes the body

Many people in the world use toilets that look like this.

The squat is a natural position in our human development.

…but something happens to us along the way.

And we end up with attitudes like this…

…and bodies that feel like this.

So squatting may open your hips and mind but look what’s happening internally.

Squatting is actually better for your insides!

So this may look glamorousbut he who sits upon this is going to end up with all sorts of problems!

Squat.(be happy) Squat.(be flexible) Squat.(be

healthy)

For more in this series see www.newnessdance.org.uk

Contraindications: knee issuesBe confident in your squat before attempting this. It

may be useful to practice your squat against a wall or with blocks or books under your heels first.

There are many companies that manufacture special foot stools to help facilitate a squat position at the loo. See: http://www.squattypotty.co.uk or http://www.lillipad.co.nz or you can make your own!

More in this series of “How to do yoga when you don’t have time to do yoga” coming soon! www.newnessdance.org.uk