Bow Pose For Naval Chakra Balance

We all have seven chakra points in our body: the top of the head, between the eyebrows (also known as the "third eye"), the throat, the chest, above and below the navel, and the base of the spine. Chakras are believed to be the energy centers of the body and are connected to our nervous and endocrine systems . If they are aligned, then the rest of our body works in harmony. If they are out of balance or if there is a "blockage", then the body is unable to circulate energy effectively. Numerous studies around the world have found that chakra balancing can be effective in treating depression, fibromyalgia, thyroid disorders and even some cancers.

Your third chakra is linked to your stomach, abdomen, upper GI tract, liver, gallbladder, pancreas, kidney, spleen, adrenal glands and the middle spine area behind your solar plexus. It is also responsible for the structure of your metabolic system.Your third chakra handles the energy of your personal power, self-esteem and personality. It is the place where you learn to create boundaries for yourself. Issues such as trust, fear of rejection, and self image are all part of this chakra. In opening, clearing and energizing your third chakra, you create a reconnection with self, allowing you to feel peaceful, calm and centered. This is also the center for action, energy and power. When your third chakra is balanced, you have the power to create and accomplish, to sustain intent.  In other words, you have the ability to manifest in the physical world.The following yoga posture can be very helpful to open, clear, and energize your third chakra.

Bow Pose 

Lie on your belly with your hands alongside your torso, palms up. You can lie on a folded blanket to pad the front of your torso and legs if that is more comfortable for you. Exhale and bend your knees, bringing your heels as close as you can to your buttocks. Reach back with your hands and take hold of your ankles (but not the tops of the feet). Make sure your knees aren't wider than the width of your hips, and keep your knees hip width for the duration of the pose.

• Inhale and strongly lift your heels away from your buttocks and, at the same time, lift your thighs away from the floor. This will have the effect of pulling your upper torso and head off the floor. Burrow the tailbone down toward the floor, and keep your back muscles soft. As you continue lifting the heels and thighs higher, press your shoulder blades firmly against your back to open your heart. Draw the tops of the shoulders away from your ears. Gaze forward.

• With the belly pressed against the floor, breathing will be difficult. Breathe deeply into the back of your torso, and be sure not to hold your breath.

• Stay in this pose for 20 to 30 seconds. Release as you exhale, and lie quietly for a few breaths. You can repeat the pose once or twice more.