Military Appreciation Month

May is Military Appreciation Month. We all know about Memorial Day on the last Monday of the month, but there’s also Military Spouse Appreciation Day and Armed Forces Day. While Memorial Day is to remember those who have fallen, Armed Forces Day is specifically to appreciate those who are still actively serving. While our Instagram bio mentions that Big Stretch Yoga is Veteran-owned, I'm proud to share that it's also a military spouse-owned business. My husband has been serving in the Air Force for 9 years.

I enjoy a good BBQ as much as the next person, but for some people Memorial Day is a more somber occasion. Many military families have lost loved ones and are reminded of their grief on this day. Growing up we would volunteer to place flags on the graves of passed veterans, making it known that whether they served a year or 30 that they are not forgotten. I started my Yoga journey before my military service by going to the local library. After I joined it became my rock. From day one in basic training it is pure chaos. For someone who’s 18 years old and has never been away from their family it can be terrifying, especially when you add in the pressure to succeed. The breathing techniques I learned from practicing Yoga helped me immensely, specifically while wearing the gas mask. It taught me resilience before I even shipped out. 

While most of my old teammates would roll their eyes at doing Yoga for PT, (that was the LAST time I was in charge of planning PT) deep down they knew it was good for them. It reduces stress, increases flexibility, and mobility. The physical and mental challenges of serving in the military can be eased by a consistent Yoga practice. Whether its preparing the body for a long ruck march or calming the nervous system before a big meeting with the General, there is a place for Yoga. I’m working on a 4 part series called Joint Armour that will be posted to the YouTube Channel. I’ll also have the opportunity to teach it to my husband’s unit. It will be a great intro to people who might be a little intimidated to start. 

Stay tuned for the class and don’t forget to sign up for the newsletter so you don’t miss anything. As we continue towards Memorial Day I invite you to keep our service members, their families and the fallen in your mind. I am extremely grateful for those who have served and their families. I also want to thank TRIBE, Warriors at Ease, and Veterans Yoga Project for continuing to tirelessly bring Yoga resources to the military community.