Is Your Office Space Yoga-able?
Originally published in the Huffington Post by Lauren Coles
Is your office space yoga-able? Don’t assume there isn’t enough space in your office for a regular yoga or meditation practice. My clients are often surprised by how easy it is to convert their daily workspace into a refuge for inner peace. As the founder of an office yoga company, I have taught yoga in virtually every possible space. Here are my top five most yoga-able office spaces.
Office Lounge
In many new offices, especially at tech companies, there is desk-free space. Perhaps it’s the section in the center of the office with couches. Maybe it’s the room where the ping pong table lives. Even the kitchen/lunch room area can be used during off hours. Furniture in these spaces is easy to move, and a cheap divider or folding screens can be put up for added privacy if the space is open to the rest of the office.
Entryways, Foyers
Though this space isn’t ideal during business hours, the open entrance area of an office is perfect for yoga before the workday begins. If it’s big enough, it can be used during after-work hours, as long as people aren’t too distracted by their colleagues leaving the office. This is a good place to use a folding screen for added privacy.
Corners, Perimeters Around Desks
Once again, this space isn’t ideal during business hours. However, it can work when the office is empty. A yoga mat really doesn’t take up much space, and you’ll be pleasantly surprised by how little space seated meditation requires. Believe it or not, this space can work really well at the right time of day!
Conference Rooms
Don’t overlook the effectiveness of chair yoga. Often, a conference room can seat 20 or more people. A yoga or meditation session can be done here, allowing space for many participants. Bonus: People won’t have to change clothing to do yoga in this kind of setting.
Your Desk
Believe it or not, your desk can become a refuge! Try a short meditation or desk yoga pose at regular intervals during your work day. A solo practice is a powerful thing, and you will be amazed by how refreshing even one minute of meditation can be. Check out my blog about a fun one-minute meditation practice.
As you can see, office yoga is possible in your work space. Just look around and be creative. If your office has a budget for it, find a teacher who is experienced working in offices spaces. Soon, you’ll be enjoying the benefits of a regular yoga practice!
