Spaciousness. Lightness. Expansion. Balance. Equanimity
Inner Resilience
The element of Air reminds us of our natural lightness and ease. When we tune into the element of air, we invite freedom and expansion. As our beings are constantly processing our life events and experiences, what weighs us down can be breathed into, to create space and lighten the burdens. In order to lighten our emotional and mental load, we must cultivate the ability to let go. The practices of yoga and meditation support letting go in a gentle way, through compassion, cleansing and healing.
As well, air represents breath, the vital process through which our cells are kept alive. In the yoga tradition, this is also known as Prana, which is the vital life force energy which animates all of creation. When we practice Pranayama (breathwork), we cultivate the life force, enhancing our own vitality. As well, connection with the breath supports calming the mind and the nervous system, which is necessary in fostering inner resilience.
In the Yoga tradition energy anatomy, the element of air resides in the Heart Chakra – Anahata, associated with the physical heart and lungs. When we tune into the heart space, we welcome what is present in the heart, which may include sadness, grief, love, gratitude, and so much more. We practice being present with what is in the heart, inviting room to breath and to be with what is here. The medicine of the heart and the air element offers compassion, love, and balance. As air disperses evenly, we can draw upon this element to remind us of our own equanimity; our capacity to be with what is, letting go of the push and pull of expectations. The air element offers balance, ease, expansion, compassion, love, freedom, and spaciousness. Taking flight and opening up to possibility. This week, I have 3 practices for you, a Yoga practice, a Pranayama (breathwork) practice, and a Yoga Nidra (Yogic sleep meditation).
Air Element Yoga Practice:
Air Element Pranayama and Meditation Practice:
Air Element Yoga Nidra: Download and/ or stream
Practice Yoga Nidra (yogic sleep meditation) by finding a comfortable place to lay (your bed is fine, or a comfy set up on the floor or couch), make sure that you are comfortable with layers of warmth and supports for the head and under the knees. As well, you may place a covering like an eye pillow or light scarf, over the eyes. This is a relaxation practice, so listen to sound of the guidance, using headphones/ ear buds if possible. Know that every experience is unique in Yoga Nidra, you may or may not retain or recall what happened. Simply listen to the guidance, relaxing and letting your experience unfold.
Yoga Nidra Link: https://www.dropbox.com/s/83tdjis95nfwneb/Air%20Element%20New%20Moon%20Yoga%20Nidra.mp3?dl=0