Hi everyone, hope you are all well. We are about to enter the month of February. The word February was born from the latin word februarius meaning 'to purify' or 'purification'. In ancient Rome it was the month of purification and so we should try and devote this month to cleanse and purify our bodies by trying to make healthy food choices and to try and spend some more time for just ourselves, even if it is only 10 minutes a day set aside for yourself to relax, read a book, do some yoga! And of course February is also the month of love. As we are approaching Valantine's Day the pose I have chosen is wonderful for opening your heart! So our power yoga pose of the month is THE WHEEL!!!. This beautiful pose not only helps cleanse the body it completely opens the lungs, chest and heart. It brings openess, balance and strength into every aspect of your life. The pose draws energy into every part of your body and as the pose opens your heart it brings compassion and love also.
- Stretches the lungs and chest; heart and shoulder-opening
- Strengthens the arms and wrists, legs, buttocks, abdomen and spine
- Stimulates the thyroid and pituitary
- Increases energy and counteracts depression
Pratice the pose each day at home, starting in BRIDGE POSE first then if you feel happy you may take it into the WHEEL POSE. If you wish to take the pose even further you may EXTEND 1 LEG followed by the other. You will gain strength through your core, legs, arms and shoulders and your lungs will also strenghten. Remember to keep breathing throughout this intense pose!!
1-Lie flat on the floor press your whole spine into the floor.
2-Bend your knees and place your feet hip distance apart close to your glutes pressing down into your heels
3-Arms by the side of your body pressing the palms down into the floor.
4-Draw your chin into your chest lengthening the back of your neck.
5-Contract your core and lift your hips towards the sky, keeping knees inline with your ankles.
6-Stay here in BRIDGE POSE or to go into WHEEL POSE place your hands by your ears, press down into your palms.
7-Inhale and using the strength in your arms push your body up straightening the arms, allow your head to drop down and relax.
8-Press into your heels and palms, relax your face and stay here for as many deep breaths as you can - aiming for 10 as you become stronger.
Take care everyone and hope to see you all soon
Namaste, Lucy x x
