I learnt this pose in a yoga class many years ago and it's something I revisit frequently. I find it really brings me into my body and into the present moment – I love it and hope you will too. If you can do it outside in Nature - you are definitely onto a winner!
Sit on your heels, or in the lotus position, half lotus or in a chair – whatever is comfortable to you.
Put your arms behind you, resting on the lower back (against the Mingmen) and clasp your left wrist with your right hand and make a circle with your finger and thumb [left hand].
Check in with your body - any resistance? any tightness? just observe and breath into it.
The pose opens up the entire lung area, in addition you are making a Metal Mudra with the finger and thumb of the left hand - i.e. joining Large Intestine and Lung via the meridians located on the index finger and thumb. Metal is the element all about unshed tears, grief, letting go, processing and is deeply relaxing and balancing in the sense that it encourages the release of deep seated emotional baggage. In addition, it's great for stress reduction, stretching the back, opening the Mingmen and kidney area, but for me, it helps keep my Metal Element in balance, letting go of that which no longer serves me and helping grief pass through in a gentle and organic way.
OK back to doing it!
Lean forward as far as you can.
Stay comfortable, going a little bit further with each out breath.
Come out of the pose slowly and sit quietly, perhaps saying your personal prayer or read an inspirational quote and ponder upon it. Use this as an opportunity for a minute or two of quiet contemplation.
For example ..
To those with wisdom, happiness is not about getting what you want; it’s about wanting what you’ve got.
Or a longer prayer which I heard many years ago, I think it is by Denise Lynn – scroll down:
A MORNING PRAYER
I give thanks and praise to the Creator who
has given me this day.
I call on the Goddess to be with me.
I ask for her peace, love and guidance.
May my guides and companions be with me, to shield, guide and protect me and may I be open to their communication.
I ask for the presence of heavenly messengers
to guide me,
and for the protection and wisdom of my ancestors.
Let the Elements and Gatekeepers of the four directions light my way. As I open to Spirit this day, show me a way to receive the abundant gifts and blessings that are bestowed upon me.
As I open to Spirit this day, show me a way to be of service to the ‘greater good’ of all beings
– in the most divine way.
AND SO BE IT – THANK YOU
Maddie is doing a live class on 17th September on LUNGS and grief - see www.madisonking.com - replay with handout will be available if you miss it.