Time: 30 minutes
Effects: hip opening and lower back stretch
Equipment: 1 block
Note: hold each pose for 5 breaths
For me, the chariot is all about willpower. The chariot confidently moves forward using only his internal powers to steer, as there are no reigns seen. While this is an admirable ability, it takes a lot of energy to sustain. Though there are no reigns, the sphinxes pulling the chariot are being controlled. They are both looking in opposite directions, indicating that if the charioteer lost control of them, they would dart off in different directions. They are not being allowed to go where they would like to.
rest here a moment learning to let go. To release more to the natural flow of life. Try to control things less. This is what this class invites us to do today. Physically, to fully release into each pose, without forcing anything. Breathing slowly and deeply throughout the class, to fill the body with a sense of calm. And mentally, by releasing all thoughts of the future and the past. Allowing our minds to rest only in this present moment. Calmly, gently observing the moment we are in. Releasing the need to control and just allowing our body to go where it wants to go.
come to seated on your mat
extend your legs in front of you toes pointing towards the ceiling
place your hands palms on the floor next to your hips
extend through the crown of your head to help lengthen your spine
keep your feet flexed
staff pose
on your next inhale raise your arms up overhead
exhale fold forward bringing you hands to rest anywhere on your legs or grab your feet
seated forward fold
on your next exhale slowly rise up
take whatever version of crossed legs you prefer
crossed legged seat
on an inhale bring your arms up
exhale place you right hand on your left knee
bring your left hand to rest on the floor behind you
open twist to the left
on an inhale bring your arms up
exhale place you left hand on your right knee
bring your right hand to rest on the floor behind you
open twist to the right
on an inhale bring your arms up
exhale place you right hand on your left knee
bring your left hand to rest on the floor behind you
exhale come back to center
bring the soles of your feet to touch
knees come out wide
place your hands near your ankles
extend through the crown of you head while expanding your chest
bound angle pose
place the soles of your fe