Thursday, July 02, 2009

Yoga for the Season

Summer is a great time to loosen the spine and make some progress in your back bends. This is not about getting anywhere, but more about expanding your ability to open the front body and heart center to experience more joy, bliss, compassion and your fullest potential. Begin with spine warm ups like cat cow and forward bends. Once the spine is warmed, you can begin to play in the following poses in order of range of motion...

Sphinx Pose to Cobra and/or Up Dog
Camel
Bow Pose
Wheel

After each pose, spend equal time in a counter pose like child's pose or down dog. This will create even more flexibility in the spine and balance out the energy. Backbends can generate a lot of energy, openings and compassion. If you feel chatty after a yoga session like this, I encourage you to reserve that prana for Self and not give it all away. Choose carefully how you want to use this precious summer energy. Notice if you feel drained by expending too much energy. If this happens, balance the energy with a restorative practice.

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