As humans we can tend to shield our hearts as a way of protection. As animals, it's a very vulnerable place so to lift and open it up can be very uncomfortable to some.
Our lifestyles can cause the upper body to weaken through hours of staring at a computer or looking down at our phones, commuting in our cars, improper positions when working remotely, and just downright poor posture. We may find ourselves hunching over when we lack confidence or self love, or breathing improperly in the chest when faced with stress or anxiety.
All of these mental and physical variables can cause us to close ourselves off, become more judgmental, and lack gratitude, compassion and joy. It can also result in weakened and stiff muscles and fascia, restricting mobility in the chest, back, shoulders, and ribs.
Yoga asana is an excellent way to counter the habits of our daily lives and help us improve strength, mobility and posture. Heart opening poses create space by expanding and lifting the chest, creating freedom. Freedom to breathe, freedom to love.
We release tension and tightness both physically and emotionally. We improve our breath by creating a larger area for the lungs, improving blood flow and oxygen. We increase prana, life, and generally become happier with more love and compassion for ourselves and others.
The poses don’t need to be complicated. Anyone can reap the benefits from simple heart opening poses such as a supported fish (Matseyndrasana) or reclined bound angle (Supta Baddha Konasana) with a blanket or bolster under the upper back, baby cobra (Bhujangasana), sphinx (Salamba Bhujangasana) or puppy pose. Other, more complicated poses may include dancer (Natarajasana), camel (Ustrasana), king pigeon Eka Pada Rajakapotasana), or upward facing bow/wheel (Urdvha Dhanursasana)
Spend a few minutes each day opening the chest and see how you feel.
Peace and Love,
Jamie
Comments