Express Yourself

We’re continuing our exploration of Unity Consciousness and the Chakras as we move up the spine to the Sacral/Pelvic chakra. There are different parts of the body where this chakra is said to reside—the sacrum at the base of the spine, the pelvic bowl, just below the navel or the womb. Its name in Sanskrit is Svadisthana which means “one’s own dwelling place.” This makes me wonder: What energies do we carry in the lower abdomen that connect us to our true selves?

Svadisthana chakra is associated with many interrelated energies--

Creativity, or expressing ourselves through art, music, decorating, cooking, work projects, hobbies, etc. Through our creativity we can express our deepest commitments.

Intimacy, being genuine and appropriately sharing our true selves with others.

Pleasure and enjoyment, or the ability to let go, have fun, and not take ourselves too seriously.

In Yoga philosophy, Svadisthana chakra is associated with the water element. We use water to cleanse, nourish and purify. Water is at its best when it can move and flow because water that does not move becomes stagnant. All reminders that our true selves are healthiest when we keep energy flowing gracefully through body and mind.

A favorite pose that connects us with this chakra is Extended Side Angle, or Utthita Parsvakonasana. Stand in Mountain Pose and turn sideways on a sticky mat. Step the feet wide apart to a comfortable distance. Turn the left leg in 45 degrees and turn the right leg out 90 degrees. Keep the back leg straight and bend the front knee. With palms together in front of the heart space, turn the upper body toward the left and look over the left shoulder. Reach the left arm over the back leg parallel to the floor. Turn the head to the right and reach the right arm over the front leg parallel to the floor. With an exhalation, bend the front elbow and bend to the right side until you can rest your forearm on the front thigh. Bend the top elbow to place the hand on the shoulder. Open the left arm pit and slide the shoulder blade toward the spine. Now reach the top arm over the head so the upper arm is almost touching the top ear. Hold for 5-7 breaths. Lift out of the pose, turn the legs to center, and practice on the second side.

Self-inquires for Svadisthana Chakra: How do I express myself creatively? When was the last time I had a genuine and meaningful encounter with someone? What made this encounter so genuine and meaningful? Remembering a time when I was able to “go with the flow,” what qualities did I bring to the experience that I might be able to repeat again in the future? Do I need more fun in my life? If so, how could I make this happen?