On Monday, August 21, much of the country will get to witness a total solar eclipse, or at least see part of it. And while the eclipse will bring a shadow over the world, through yoga, we can revitalize and replenish ourselves, bringing a sense of renewal and enlivenment - especially during a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for us to connect more closely with the sun, earth and moon.
Carolan Hoffman is a longtime yoga instructor and founder of Hot Spot Dupont, Washington, D.C.’s longest-standing hot yoga studio. Hoffman says that through yoga, we can access the power and beauty of the eclipse - and what better time to do so ahead of this rare opportunity?
Carolan shared with Latin Times her top five yoga poses for the eclipse, which includes:
1. Dolphin Pose
HOW TO DO IT:
Place forearms on floor and interlace fingers, creating a triangle
Lift hips up, spine straight, legs straight
Engage abdominals and keep weight in core and forearms
Breathe normally
Release by bringing knees down to floor
BENEFITS:
Restores inner equilibrium
Develops balance and harmony
Strengthens spine, shoulders and arms
2. Boat Pose
HOW TO DO IT:
Extend both legs out in front of body
Lift both legs up and extend arms to side of legs
Spine is straight, abdominals engaged
Breathe normally
Release by placing hands and legs back on floor
BENEFITS:
Refreshes and energizes body
Eliminates nervous tension
Revitalizes the nervous system
3. Camel Pose
HOW TO DO IT:
Stand on knees with knees separated
Place hands on lower back
Drop head back, lean back and grab ankles
Breathe normally
Return to starting position by slowly bringing hands back to hips one at a time
BENEFITS:
Uplifting and Inspiring
Boosts energy
Relieves back pain
Releases tension
4. Spine Twist
HOW TO DO IT:
Extend left leg out in front of body and bend right leg
Place right hand on floor at base of spine
Grab right ankle with left hand and look over right shoulder
Breathe normally
Release by turning head forward and relaxing arms and legs
BENEFITS:
Rejuvenates body systems
Increases vitality
Improves digestion
5. Bastrika (Breathing Exercise)
HOW TO DO IT:
Comfortable seated position with straight spine and eyes closed.
Hands in loose fists at shoulders.
While lifting both arms straight up while opening fingers, inhale through nose.
While bringing arms down and making fists, exhale forcefully through nose.
Do 3 sets of 10 breaths
BENEFITS:
Energizes and Oxygenates body
Cleanses and detoxifies
Anti-inflammatory
Brings peace and tranquility
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