Day 55 Intention ~ Release Some of that Fire

Day 55 Intention ~ Release Some of that Fire

I was just reading about the manipura chakra, the navel or solar plexus chakra, and discovered that one of the characteristics if it is excessive is perfectionism. Looking back to how I have been feeling lately and this new type-A trait that I've been displaying, I think my 3rd chakra is out of whack. Over the past few months, I have been a little obsessive about core work in my yoga practice. All of this core work has had positive effects on my physical practice, but now, I think it's time to cool it off a bit for my mental practice. 

What to do? Well, if you find that you are feeling anger, stress or perfectionism taking over your life, you may have too much fire in the belly also. Try some nice gentle backbends to release some of that fire. A restorative bridge either on a block or bolster should do the trick. Hold it for several minutes or if on a block, do a few rounds. 

This can go the other way too, if you are feeling a lack of motivation or feeling insecure, or perhaps you are having some digestive issues (another thing this chakra governs), you may be lacking in this chakra. Working the core in navasana (boat pose) or performing some twists to stimulate the digestive system can help you regain some energy and confidence. 

So, I'm off to get a hold of my manipura chakra...til a more relaxed tomorrow....

Shanti, 

Marcia

Day 53 Intention ~ Give Myself A Break

Day 53 Intention ~ Give Myself A Break

I am not what you would call a Type A personality...not at all. But, it seems these days, I have become more of a perfectionist and always feel like I should be getting stuff done. And, well, it better be done right. 

In my yoga classes, I am always encouraging my students to accept where they are that day because each time one comes to the mat, it's a different experience, so drop any expectations. Not easy for a type A perfectionist, you can see them huff and puff to get into a position that they aren't necessarily ready to do. Not letting that go may be holding that person back from really getting it. 

Same thing off the mat. I make these lists for myself and huff and puff and stress myself out if they don't get done. Let it go. 

Of course things need to get done, but if quality suffers, what's the point? Just to mark a line through a "to do" list?

So, perhaps I am becoming more Type A, that's okay I guess. But, for this Friday, I am giving myself a break.

Til tomorrow...

Shanti, 

Marcia