Warriors’ Pose
Where did all the, "feel good stories" in the news go? I mean after about ten minutes my body and mind feel stressed. And if I don't address that feeling, it sticks with me. So, what do I do? The Warriors' Pose.
I've included a picture above and here are the steps. Don't feel daunted, just give it a try. But, listen to your body. You can even hold onto something to feel more secure while trying it.
1. Start with your legs in a V, both feet pointing forward.
2. Then take your right foot and turn it so that it is perpendicular to the left foot.
3. Bend your right knee and make sure it's immediately over your right foot (if it is past it then slide your foot forward a bit until your knee and foot, line up.
4. Now look in the direction of your right knee but stay upright (don't lean forward).
5. Make sure your left knee is straight.
6. You can take your arms out in the direction of your legs, or not.
7. Once there just sink into the stretch until you feel a resettling in your pelvis, groin, hamstrings, quadriceps and gluteals.
8. Hold the position for about 20 seconds and breathe.
9. Now repeat this for the other side.
What does the Warriors' Pose do? It stretches and strengthens your psoas (pronounced so-az). Your psoas starts at the middle of spine, (right by the base of your ribcage on both sides of your back) and makes a deep diagonal line, forward, crossing your pelvis, groin, and finishing up on the inside of your thigh bone (femur). Can you imagine that?! It actually crosses 6-8 joints. It's responsible for stabilizing your pelvis so if you're in a fight or flight situation you can run like the wind. It also helps you hold a sitting position which is why standing up straight can be difficult after you've been sitting for a long time. The icing on the cake is that it's an emotional muscle too. Stress and emotion impact it. There's more but, this is where I'm stopping.
Give this a go because you'll feel better and more grounded. You'll even move differently. What a way to start the weekend... :)
And remember to share this with those you love.
xo Kathryn