Support A Steady Yoga Practice: Lead With Your Heart

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“Let yourself be silently drawn by the stronger pull of what you really love.” – Rumi

A set of heart-opening poses may be the very most important piece of the yoga asana puzzle. Here are three reasons to lead with your heart:

#1: Emotional and Physical Revival – Psychologically, backbends can teach you receptivity, acceptance, compassion, and determination. Physically, backbends correct our tendency to hunch. Especially in this era of increased computer and cell phone usage, our “tech necks” and upper backs are in dire need of lengthening.

#2: Beat Bone Loss – The act of spinal extension or back bending can help to prevent or slow down the effects of osteoporosis or bone loss. Gentle back bends such as Salabasana (locust pose) or supported Setu Bandha Sarvangasana (bridge pose) were included in a long-term study of osteoporosis reversal (click here for details).

#3: Energizing – Back bends bring energy into our subtle heart centers. The heart or anahata chakra stimulates our love for self and others and permits our brilliance to shine. Often times in class following a back bend, I can feel my students’ positive energy level come alive.

Here are some heart-warming poses to ignite your flame. Try to incorporate one of these essential back bending postures into your yoga practice each day:
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Make Your Heart Beat!

love-313417__180This week’s challenge was to use the heart opening postures of yoga to balance the anahata chakra. Anahata literally means  “unhurt, unstruck, and unbeaten”. I equate this to having a fire within your heart.

If the heart pathway is made clear and energy is allowed to flow freely,  you become a more passionate person. Once you feed yourself, you find it easier to instill the qualities of harmony, peace and love in others. Remember, deep within we are all inherently seeking love.  Love is all you need, love cures all, love is the answer.

Here are some ways that you can nourish your anahata chakra:

  • Connect with nature – get outside and find a source of inspiration
  • Hug more
  • Do a good deed
  • Spend time with animals
  • Use the essential oil Rose – smelling it actually brings a smile to your face
  • Surround yourself with what makes you happiest – flowers, music and photos can trigger positive emotions
  • Live by this quote from the poet Rumi, “Let yourself be silently drawn by the stronger pull of what you really love”

If you would like more insight into my heart’s desires, click on my pinterest link . Feel free to like, repin, or build your own boards.  It’s a fun way to discover your passions and find new sources of inspiration.

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