Energy-Opening Poses
Life energy flows up and down the spinal column. In
yoga, the seven chakras are connected through three
energetic pathways known as Ida,Pingala, and Sushumna.
Ida carries prana through the left side of the body,
conducting feminine, lunar energy. When you are
breathing through your left nostril, your Ida channel is
open and receptive energy is active in your body/mind.
Pingala is the conduit for energy on the right side of
the body, transmitting masculine, solar energy. When
you are breathing through your right nostril, your active,
goal-directed energy is more dominant.
Sushumna runs up the middle of the body, providing
the connection between the root chakra at the base of the
spine and the lotus center at the crown of the head.
When these channels are open, vital energy is able to
flow freely. The vital energy rising up through the spine is
known as the awakening of Kundalini,
sometimes visualized as the uncoil-
ing of a snake at the base of the
spine. These final poses are
designed to release congestion
in the spine, enabling prana to
nourish every organ, tissue, and
cell in your body.
MATSYENDRASANA—SPINALTWIST
(LORDOFTHEFISHPOSE)
Sit on the floor with your legs out in front of you. Bend
your left leg and place your foot on the floor next to your
right thigh. Place your right arm around your left knee and
Consciousness in Motion 165