Tuesday 16 October 2012

Bolster Pillow

In yesterday's yoga session we used a bolster pillow, in a floor position, to stretch out the back and open the throat centre (Visuddha chakra). This really helped my breathing as the jaw is softened, the head is relaxed on the floor and the rib cage is lifted. The bottom of your legs and feet are bent under your thighs so you can hold your feet with your hands. I found it better to use two mats as the floor can be quite harsh on the front of the feet. According to the yoga philosophy the 'Throat centre' relates to communication, self-expression, and truth.    

Monday 8 October 2012

Head Stand

After a day on your feet, it's time for some yoga. Today, I focused on a Head Stand and felt the pressure from around my feet and ankles, mainly down to standing a lot in my job, drift away. Head Stand allows the upper body to do most of the work relieving your poor feet of anymore stress. Stabilised with a block supporting the top of my back and hands clasped against the back of my head, I felt I could hold this position comfortably for a few minutes. What a great feeling.