Autumn Vibe

It’s been a strange time recently with the worrying cost of living and the Queen passing marking an end to the Elizabethan era in England. Change and uncertainty can often knock us off ground and rock our foundations. During this time it is helpful to focus on grounding and gravitas to keep the mind and body and voice working well. It’s not easy though when the anxiety looms and the media keeps us in a state of fear. As always coming back to body practices keeps the mind in check and therefore the voice fully flowing. Let’s focus our attention on the root chakra; Muladhara*, to restore stability and strength in our practice.

Even if you don’t practice yoga you can help your spoken voice by being more rooted and grounded so why not try some of these simple exercises to feel the benefits and build self confidence?

Root Chakra in Focus!

The root chakra or Muladhara as it is known in Sanskrit (literally meaning root and base) is an energy centre in the base of the torso deep within the pelvis. It is responsible for your sense of safety and security. Doing exercises that activate the organs in this part of the body creates a solid foundation in your mind and body. This is particularly helpful in building confidence and gravitas.

Exercise 1: Badda Konasana

Sit with your soles together and allow the knees to drop out to the side. Aim to keep your back upright and lengthened. Rest here for 5-10 deep breaths.

The benefits of this posture are:

-increases blood flow and circulation to lower body

-stretches the groin and inner thighs

-eases menopause symptoms and menstrual discomfort

-calms the body and mind

Exercise 2: Tree pose/Vriksasana

Standing, transfer the weight onto one leg. Lift the other leg and place the foot to the inner thigh or lower leg, wherever is comfortable avoiding the knee area. Think about sending in imaginary roots from your feet through the floor. Then lift your arms up and balance. Hold this pose for 3-5 breaths and then repeat on the other side.

The benefits of this pose:

-helps to develop balance and concentration

-builds confidence and self esteem

-strengthens the legs and feet

Exercise: Warrior 1, 2 and 3 – Virabhadrasana 1,2,3

Move through the warrior sequence to connect to the strong leg energy that helps you to find your sense of rooting and grounding. All 3 poses build strength in the legs, hamstrings and glutes. Warrior 2 is a great hip opener too. Work with care and ease and always breathe deeply.

Try all these exercises with sound to connect to your voice!

Sounding hums and hahs as you rest in the pose can help to ease you into the posture and give your body a good internal massage too.