Photo by Sandra Seitamaa on Unsplash
A pose of a child .....
This is the first pose of 53 in the “Journey Into Power” sequence that we practice in every Baptiste Power Vinyasa class . It lives in the Integration Series whose intention is to re-connect the breath to mind and body and to disconnect from the outside world.
Child’s pose is often used as a position of rest when needed, in between more poses. The word "Balasana" comes from the Sanskrit words "bala" (meaning "child") and "asana" (meaning "pose").
Wisdom Pose
Did you know it’s also called the Wisdom pose? It’s because when we lose our breath, our focus or our stability, we can rediscover our breath and stability here. It takes wisdom to know when to find rest in all aspects of life.
Yin Benefits
Annnd....... Did you also know there’s an acupressure point on your forehead that softens and relaxes your entire body in this pose….??!?
Now you know!
It’s probably why there’s a magical feeling of surrender, of not “doing”, not striving - just being.
Bonus…
It’s also a great hip opener, it stretches the back and relaxes the organs.
How?
Do it anytime - knees together or apart; Arms by your side or extended above the head (like in picture). Head on bolster or a block. (You can even prop up your hips). Ankle issues - rolled towel underneath ankles.
Add it as an integral part of your own home practice and/or as “waiting-for-class-to-start-asana” at the studio.
Do it when you need a breather or when you don’t think you need it (as that’s when probably you need it most).
Balanced Action (Sukha Stira)
If it’s uncomfortable, can you find a way to make it easeful? If it’s too comfortable, stay and consider if you want to do nothing (and you can), or put in more effort to find equanimity.
It’s your practice.
My favourite time to do the pose?
On the bed, with 2 pillows scrunched under my body, in between my knees.. perfect pre-bedtime routine.
Resources:
Yogaoutlet.com
Journey into Power by Baron Baptiste
Birth Wisdom Yoga by Julia Piazza