News flash! It turns out the holidays aren’t really about
buying presents, decorating trees, lighting candles or any of the other fun
traditions we participate in. In the
darkest days of the season, just after the days are at their very shortest, we
re-connect with the love in our hearts in order to cultivate something very
important to our survival: hope.
Yoga offers practitioners a way to open our hearts to
love. The outside world is a mirror of
our inside world. If we are fearful and
angry, the world feels scary and frustrating.
If we are loving and hopeful, the world appears joyful and full of
promise. Here are four heart-opening
poses to practice this holiday season.
As you practice, say to yourself “I love and approve of myself.” After all, love starts with you.
1. Penguin Pose
(Reverse Prayer) (Paschima Namaskarasana)
In a
seated or standing position, bring the palms of your hands together behind your
back with your fingertips pointing up.
You can also grab opposite elbows (if so, switch your grip for an equal
amount of time.) This pose makes your
arms look like penguin wings.
Breathe. Spread your penguin
wings.
2. One Handed Tiger
(Eka Hasta Vyaghrasana)
Begin on all fours with your hands directly under your
shoulders and your knees under your hips.
Inhale and stretch one leg back.
Exhale and reach the opposite hand forward. Feel as if the action in your extended hands
and feet are lengthening your spine. If
you feel stable enough, bend your knee and reach back to grab your foot. Inhale and press your foot into your hand to
lift and open your heart. Breathe
deeply, then switch sides.
3. Puppy Pose (Uttana
Shishosana)
From all fours, inhale as you slide your hands
forward. Keep your tail in the air. Your arms are strong and straight. Stretch your spine by pushing down on your
hands while you reach your chest toward the ground. Now you look like a playful puppy with your
tail wagging in the air. Yip! Yip!
4. Upward Facing Dog
(Urdhva Mukha Svanasana)
Lay on your tummy with your toenails pressing down. Place your hands under your shoulders. Inhale
and push into your hands to lift your chin, chest, and knees off the
ground. Only your hands and feet touch
the floor. Your bod
y should be curved
like a ski jump. Look up and breathe deeply.
Exhale and press back into Downward Facing Dog or Child’s Pose.
When you finish your practice, no matter how long or how
short, close your eyes and take a deep breath. Thank yourself for your time and
effort. May your heart be open and your holidays be full of
love, hope and joy. Namaste!
