Daily Health Tip | The nose - the gatekeeper of life
Our nose provides the jet way to our brain and is the entrance for prana, the breath and energy of life. Also, the direct influence of consciousness comes through the ability of the breath through the nasal passages. One of the Pancha Karma rituals in Ayurveda for cleansing and healing is Nasya, which will purify and stabilize congested breathing to facilitate proper flow of prana throughout the body. During Vata and Kapha seasons (fall, winter and early spring) excess of mucus and bodily fluids harbor in the head, nose and throat that wreck havoc on the sinuses. A comforting blend of Ayurvedic oils and herbs called Nasya oil is used to achieve lubrication and to reduce tension and stress in the head and sinuses. Nasya oil is balancing for all doshas - especially vata and when uses regularly will strengthen vision, and promote mental clarity. Try this easy step:
One drop of Nasya oil on a Q-tip for each nostril after warm shower in morning and evening. It is also helpful for those that spend the majority of their week on a plane where the air significantly dehydrates the sinuses. I get mine from Banyan Botanicals and could not survive without it!
Namaste.
Taylor
Comments, questions and concerns contact Taylor @ fourcornersyoga1@gmail.com
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Daily Yoga Tip | Parivrtta Utthita Hasta Padangusthasana
Revolved Hand to Big Toe pose, Parivrtta Utthita Hasta Padangusthasana: Whoa it’s a mouthful, but easier said than done. It’s a challenging pose balancing and twisting. My trick: I keep both legs a little bent throughout the formation of the pose, and I take my sweet time. First find your midline: balance on the standing leg and grow tall in the spine. Maybe linger here for a moment. Next add the twist by revolving around your midline. Then start to find more extension pressing the lifted heel forward and reaching back with the arm. This part could be in stages: press forward a bit and reach back a bit, repeat. Lastly, if/when you feel truly anchored in your center, fully straighten both legs.
