Props are a wonderful way to enhance your practice - either by adding elements of support or mixing up the variables to build strength and stability. This week we're exploring creative ways to use a blanket in your yoga practice. Below you'll find postures that build strength, offer support, and encourage a sense of calm, all using a blanket!
Don't have a blanket? You can find the blankets we have at our studio here: https://www.yogaaccessories.com/handmade-traditional-mexican-yoga-blanket.html Strength Sequence
Swiveling Table - feet active, knees hip width distance apart. At top of mat, place blanket on wood with hands at least shoulder width distance. Squeeze in on the legs to stabilize the pelvis, and sweep the blanket from side to side. Try to avoid swaying the hips as well and letting them "bump" to one side.
Want to play? You can link these 3 poses together in a flow. Starting in Wide Leg Standing Forward Bend, squeeze the legs together as you lift your hips high, then push the feet back into Plank Pose. From Plank, step on foot forward and come up into Warrior 2.
Support Variations
Challenge Pose: Swiveling Plank
From Plank Pose, keep your shoulders over your hands, as you sweep your left foot in front of the right, then switch. Remember to breathe easy!
Calming Sequence
Belly Pose - This is a great position for aiding in digestion, as your breath moves your body against the blanket, which massages your digestive tract. Additionally, this face down position naturally calms the nervous system - helping you to feel more grounded and protected.
Place a folded blanket across your mat. Lay on the blanket with your belly button *on* the blanket. Make sure your belly button isn't above or below the blanket, but on the the blanket. In this position, you'll be able to feel the blanket with each breath. Take a few easy breaths, it can feel a little unusual and uncomfortable at first. If you can't get settled after a little bit, then shift until you feel better. Then, with the head supported by stacked hands, or with one cheek on the ground, allow your breath to become longer, especially on the exhale. Stay here for up to 5 minutes.
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