july 2017yogajournal.com.au62 ASANA PHOTOS: JEFF NELSON; MODEL: BRIOHNY SMYTH; STYLIST: JESSICA JEANNE EATON; HAIR/MAKEUP: BETH WALKER; TOP AND BOTTOMS: ALO;
The
MAYAN FIVE ELEMENTS
CONNECT TO AND HONOUR the five elements found in ancient Mayan practices
with these movements passed down to Miguel Angel Vergara Calleros and Kat
Tudor. Each set of movements is designed to evoke the healing power of one
element. Start with your eyes closed, setting an intention to connect both to the
heart of the earth and the heart of the sky. In the Mayan tradition, you are always
touching both the earth and sky—and these two meet at your heart. As you
work through the poses, keep moving and find a steady rhythm. Afterward,
pause for a few breaths with eyes closed and see if you notice an energetic shift.1 EARTH
Rhythmically stomp your left foot forward, back, and out to
the side, then back to centre. Repeat with the right foot, and
end by stomping your left foot 9 times. Repeat the full sequence 2 more times,
speeding up with each round. Afterward, sense the energy in your feet, your
connection to the earth, and your root chakra.2 FIRE
Hold your palms as if carrying a large conch shell—used in ancient
Mayan culture to call people to ceremonies. Inhale to bring your
arms overhead and touch your fingertips together. Then, release your
hands out to your sides while you exhale sharply several times through
your mouth. With each exhale, briefly stop moving your arms. Repeat this
sequence 2 more times, connecting to your internal heat and power.