admin This week, we arrive at the last of the five basic elements with three poses for the element ether or space.
The Element Ether
Ether is the lightest and most subtle element. It is the container of all manifested reality.
Space is described as being ethereal and airy. It is also spiritual and associated with consciousness. In the body, ether is associated with stillness, emptiness, and freedom.
The ether element is located in the area around the throat and represents the fifth chakra. It is associated with self-expression, acceptance, and communication.
These three yoga poses will help you to explore the element ether and bring more stillness to your practice.
Lion’s Breath
Lion’s Breath helps to stretch your face and jaw muscles and creates space in the neck and head.
Bring your knees together, and then sit on your heels. Place your hands on the knees. On your exhale, open your mouth wide, stick your tongue out, and widen your eyes.
You can do this two or three more times, then relax on your heels. Notice the slight buzz in your face. You can take a few deep breaths and focus on the space around your neck or head.
Waterfall Pose
Lie on your mat flat with your feet hip-distance apart and under your knees. Slowly lift your hips into the Bridge Pose. Slide one or two blocks under your sacrum and low towards your tailbone.
Wrap your shoulder blades around your upper back and turn your outer arms downward. Open your throat by widening your collarbones and lifting your chin.
If you are stable, lift both legs in the air and bend one leg at a moment toward your chest. Take five to six deep breaths while keeping your shoulder blades under.
Savasana
Savasana is a pose that allows you to experience the spaciousness and stillness of ether.
Allow your back to sink deeper into the floor next time you are in Savasana. Focus on letting your skin soften and allowing your boundaries to blend with the space surrounding you.
