ILLUMINATION CHALLENGE 100 — DAY 12

The Lost Art of Pandiculation

Surprising Health and Emotional Benefits!

Pandiculation means full-body stretching and yawning usually done when waking up. It is what my baby daughter does every morning, stretching like a lazy cat with an adorably goofy smile on her face.

In some ways, it is very similar to the Indian “Surya Namaskar” (Salutation to the Sun), a 10-step exercise that is part-yoga, part-prayer. Yoga practitioners will enthusiastically tell you of its many health benefits and how it is perfect for people of all ages, skills, and flexibility.

My grandmother used to insist we do simple stretching exercises in the morning and before going to bed to prevent sore muscles and stiff limbs. (such a wonderful family bonding exercise!) G GVSomehow in the busyness of adulthood, I stopped doing them in lieu of gyms and workouts and other fancy exercise regimens.

Coming back to my baby, she looked so happy doing that instinctive morning reflex that I decided to imitate her too!

It has been a week now and I love it! Honestly, it is such a childish and silly thing to do that you can’t help but smiling and feeling buoyant about yourself!

Pandiculation — Such a powerful but easy way of practicing self-care and mindfulness!

The way you stretch is not as important as that minute you spend on yourself! First thing in the morning. A moment of mindfulness. Recognizing that you have a whole new day to write a beautiful new chapter of your life. Thankful to be alive. Thankful for the joy of good health. Grateful for any exciting new opportunities that the day might bring.

So tomorrow, try it out. Try the Lost Art of pandiculation.

You may be too busy to exercise, meditate or indulge in self-care. But all of us can spare 30 seconds for a full-body stretch.

So imagine yourself to be a happy little toddler, free from the cares of the world (at least for a few moments). And see your day transform into something vibrant and joyful.