SAHASRARA CHAKRA
KEY WORDSEnlightenment, yoga
BIJA MANTRASilent Om (pronounced
aum)
ASANASahasrara means
‘thousand-petalled’ and represents a
thousand-petalled lotus flower thought to
reside just above the crown of your head,
says Mari. “This chakra is the gateway to
enlightenment — the place where it’s no
longer possible to experience yourself as
separate from anyone or anything,” she
adds.
ASKWho or what represents that which is
beyond my egoic self?
How do I realise my highest Self?
SALAMBA SIRSASANA
Supported Headstand
From Tabletop, interlace your fingers and
set your forearms on the floor, elbows at
shoulder width. Roll your upper arms slightly
outward and press your inner wrists firmly
into the floor, then set the crown of your
head on your mat. Come off your knees and
onto your toes, carefully walking your feet
closer to your elbows. Exhale and lift your
feet away from the floor, taking both feet up
at the same time, even if it means bending
your knees. As the legs (or thighs, if your
knees are bent) rise to perpendicular to the
floor, turn your upper thighs slightly inward
and press your feet actively toward the sky.
Do this pose close to a wall at first, which will
keep you safe should you lose your balance.
Also, keep in mind that you should place
very little weight on your head; instead, use
the strength in your arms, shoulders, and
core to lift up through your toes, almost as if
you could lift your head off the ground.
Remain in Supported Headstand for 10
seconds or longer.Our Pro Bay Area-based teacher and model
Giselle Mari teaches at yoga studios, conferences,
and festivals around the world. She has trained
with Sharon Gannon, David Life, Sarah Powers,
and Jai Uttal. Mari also received her advanced
certification with Jivamukti Yoga and has served
as a faculty member in their teacher training and
as a mentor for new teachers. She is also a mother
and wife, and has four dogs and two frogs.