Thursday, May 21, 2009

Breakdown: Standing Forward Bend





Consider the forward bend the hub of all poses.
If you begin with, insert between each pose and end
with a forward bend

you will most likely feel the neutralization of the spine.
Every time the spines twists, turns laterally, bends back or extends-
surround that movement with a forward bend.

Some forward bends on the knees include-
cakravakasana
(moving from table to child's pose)
and vajrasana
(moving from standing on the knees to child's pose).

Some forward bends on the back include-
apanasana
(lying with knees at chest with palms on knees- fingers facing toes...
inhale extend arms away- back rocks gently off the mat-
exhale pull knees to chest- low back presses into mat.
and the "L" pose
(lying with knees at chest- hands at sides...
inhale reach heels to ceiling, arms overhead and rest behind you-
exhale- return to neutral).

Let your breath facilitate the movement in this pose.
In any pose always
but the standing forward bend
has such a logical utilization of breath
as it
lifts you out of the pose
and pours you right back in.

A stay
(breathing in the forward fold for 3-5 breaths-)
will stretch the low back and hamstrings.


Practice it for yourself using your breath to guide you.
Any questions please let me know!
~Namaste~
Suz

Ps- the sacrum
is the large triangular bone
at the base of the spine connecting in part
to the coccyx (tailbone).
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sacrum


Wednesday, May 13, 2009

Self Study- How many times a day do you hold your breath?



I've discovered a fun little game.
In trying to just focus on my breath throughout the day-

I'm shocked again and again at
how many times I catch myself holding my breath.

While driving.
When playing video games.
When waiting for the thrill in a movie.
When in anticipation of anything- even a restroom...

By focusing on your breath throughout the day-
Notice -make no judgment- the quality of your breath.
Is it shallow, smooth, deep, or hurried...
Just for fun.
Make it a game.

You may be surprised at what you find.
How easy it is.

Just notice your breath...