HEALTH BEAT 5-1-2003

Meetings & Conventions: Short Cuts May 2003 Current Issue
May 2003
Short Cuts:
HEALTH BEAT

High on Yoga

More evidence the yoga craze is reaching new heights: Frequent flyers are now turning to the ancient practice to relax and keep the blood flowing during long flights.

It’s a natural fit. Experts say extended periods of inactivity can lead to a deadly condition called deep-vein thrombosis. Those flying for more than five hours are particularly at risk.

Carol Dickman (www.stretch.com), a New York City-based Kripalu yoga instructor, offers advice and educational products to help travelers endure hours in tight quarters, including this exercise:

Sitting with your back against the seat, place your feet hip-width apart.

Inhale while raising your arms, and breathe out while bending your elbows, grasping the back of your seat.

Inhale while lifting your chin, resting your head on the seat back.

While breathing comfortably, watch your chest lift and push forward with each inhalation.

Finally, inhale deeply and, as you exhale, let your body slowly return to a comfortable position.

• Bruce Myint