Get Happy Hips In 5 Minutes Or Less

Hi!

Today, I’m going to show you another pose that’s great for the fall season! It’s also great any time of the year if you’re working on re-aligning a vata energy issue. What’s a vata energy issue? Ayurveda describes Vata as the energy of Air and Ether. If you know your Ayurvedic constitution, then you know if you have a high level of vata energy. If you have no idea what I’m talking about when I say “vata issues,” no worries! For today’s blog, know that this is a great pose for the season no matter your underlying constitution. And, you can check out my library of Ayurveda blogs anytime to get more info on Ayurveda!

For today, let’s dive right into the pose! It’s called Reclined Pigeon and is a great stretch for the hips. This is what makes it such a great pose for the Fall. The Vata energy that governs the Fall season is also related to our hips. That means the energy of the season has the potential to affect your hips (joint pain, stiffness). Depending on the variation you choose to practice, reclined pigeon is also a great pose for digestion. Experience is the best teacher, so let’s do it together! Follow along here, or watch the video:

1. Lay on your back
2. Bring the soles of your feet down to the Earth and then draw your right knee into your chest.
3. Open your right hip out to the side so that your right ankle comes to the top of your left leg. Flex that right foot to protect your knee. You might already be feeling this stretch in your right hip. If so, then hold here.
4. If you’re looking for a deeper stretch, then continue to the next step. Note that I don’t want to you experience any pain. Listen to your body and if you’re feeling pain, then back off from the pose. You’re looking for a lovely stretch without any pain.
5. If you choose to, take your right arm through your legs and your left hand to the outside of the left leg. You’re bringing your hands to your left leg, drawing it into your chest. Keep your left foot flexed. You want to keep both feet flexed here to protect your knees. In this variation, you are causing a slight compression of your abdominal cavity. This aids in digestion.
6. Pay attention. Are you noticing any sensations in your body? Let go of judgement and notice how your body feels in this pose. Hold the pose for 5-10 breaths before moving onto the other side.

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Leave a comment and let me know how you enjoyed this pose! Any questions or challenges? Let me know of that too!

Love,
Sheetal

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