Death Valley 083Summer time always reminds us of vacations, either taking one or remember one longingly.  There are many studies supporting the benefits of vacation such as:  Living longer, being happier, improving sleep, improving productivity and solving problems.  When I look at this list of benefits, you know what I think of, YOGA.  I love vacations, and wish I had more time to take some long needed time off.  While our studio is coming up to speed and that long needed vacation is near in sight, I take mini Yoga vacations by just grabbing my mat.  I begin my mini Yoga vacation with Supta Baddha Konasana (Reclined Bound Angle Pose) and immediately my body starts to relax.  This simple pose begins to lower my Sympathetic Nervous System (the fight/flight response system) from the high gear of running a studio, and my Parasympathetic Nervous System (rest/digest response system) begins to improve my immune system, improve digestion and help with a more restful sleep.  This follows by a Yang practice to awaken my body and some Yin poses to open those deep soft tissues and muscles.   I end my mini Yoga vacation with a big smile on my face in Savasana (Corpse Pose) with a quiet mind, body and spirit.  So while you are between vacations your mini Yoga vacation can keep that vacation smile on your face.