2 minute read
COLOURS OF YOGA
Connecting to MOTHER Earth
BY TASHA BODNARCHUK
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Yoga happens both on and off of our mats. It is a lifestyle, a way of being and existing in this world. Yoga is movement, stretching and deep belly breathing. It is also complete stillness and quieting of our mind, or at least the process of working towards a clear mind. Yoga is the connection we have and the presence we can find in mind, body and spirit.
Copper is an energy conductor and represents our connection to Mother Earth/Mother Gaia. When we can ground, we are connected to the earth. From this spaceof being grounded, we then have the stability and strength to move forward.
My favourite yoga poses, as both a teacher and a student, are grounding poses. Poses which remind me of my connection to Mother Earth. They are sometimes simple and restful, like lying and meditating in Savasana (corpse pose). In reality, Savasana may not be easy for everyone. Some may find their mind wandering to their after class to-do list or their body may start fidgeting after only a few minutes. Other grounding poses such as Tadasana (mountain pose) requires your feet to be about hip distance apart, planted and grounded into your mat/floor with your arms resting by your side. This takes focus and balance.
Vrksasana (tree pose) has you balanced on one foot at a time. No matter where you are along your yoga journey, you can modify this pose by adjusting the location of the lifted leg and foot. You can also increase the intensity by raising your arms, raising your gaze or even closing your eyes. Tree pose helps improve your balance, strengthen your spine, as well as open your shoulders, chest, thighs and hips. It also aids with circulation, calms the mind and helps you focus.
Thinking about the colour copper and focusing on earthly energy for the beginning of 2021, grounding poses really resonated for me. I will share two of (what I consider to be) the most grounding poses you can do. First is Apanasana (knees to chest pose). This pose is has so many benefits. It stretches your spine and shoulders, it massages your abdominal organs and back and improves digestion. It also helps to open your hips if you move your knees apart. It can also help to alleviate stress and anxiety.
May you find the time to rest, re-set and ground for the New Year. Take time to connect to your breath and body. Namaste.
