So I’ve been having a hard time doing a daily practice because of this head cold/sinus infection/pressure inducer/filling rattler. And it was really getting me down. Then I realized MY SINUSES AREN’T IN MY HIPS. Go figure! So this opens up a whole new practice idea…hip flexors, baby. Yes, those hip flexors and the groin. Stretch those hip flexors and you’ll help the back. Don’t believe me? Google it. I did after I wrote that and this is what I got.
I taught two classes tonight. I love all of my classes but this particular intermediate class just steps up. They want to push themselves within their limits and they do it. I had them doing hip openers, groin openers, chest and shoulder openers then, in the end, offered up the backbend. I was definitely inspired by this post over at WoYoPracMo.
It’s not easy getting into a backbend if you’ve not done one for years. Or years and years. And these students just stepped up and tried. Not all of them, mind you, because I’ve drilled into their heads that they have to honor their bodies and they SHOULD NOT go beyond the limits of their bodies ever. And I’m proud of those students, too, the ones who know their limits. I assisted a few, having them hold my ankles so they can push up. And they had a sense of accomplishment! The energy that flows in a room like that is amazing. Just amazing.
So, back to my own practice. I worked through my hip flexors tonight as well and loved every minute of it. I was able to keep my head up and, therefore, the pressure from increasing, and was able to breathe and make it work. I got in the workout I needed and was able to help others deepen their practice. I am determined to remember this feeling of peace and share it with those around me. Namaste.
