Fitness
The next time youre feeling mentally fuzzy, unfocused, or fatigued, drop into these.
The crown chakra isone of the seven chakras, or energy points, in your body.
It also plays a role in your lifes purpose.
Choose postures that feel calming, as well as ones that bring awareness to the top of your head.
Read on for the eight best yoga poses for unblocking your crown chakra.
As you stand tall and breathe, imagine all your energy flowing to the top of your head.
Stand tall with your feet hip-width apart on your mat.
Spread your toes and press into your standing foot.
Look ahead and settle your gaze on a spot for balance.
Tune into your breath.
Take three to five breaths.
Savasana
Savasanahelps you feel relaxed and centered so you might tap into your crown chakra energy, says Artymiak.
Life flat on your back and let your legs and arms spread out.
Close your eyes and breathe to let the body relax.
If your mind starts to wander, focus on your breath.
As you exhale, picture the light returning in the reverse direction.
Stay in savasana for as long as you need.
Lotus Pose
To balance your crown chakra, try relaxing in this cross-legged pose.
As you sit, bring your attention to the top of your head.
Sit tall with a straight back.
Cross your legs in front of you.
If you could, bring your feet on your thighs.
Rest your hands on your knees or in your lap.
Focus on your breath.
- Stay in the pose for five breaths, or as long as you need.
The blood rushing to your head will give you a nice energy boost, as well, she says.
- Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart.
Keep a bend in your knees.
Bend forward and let your head hang towards your mat.
Grab your opposite elbows.
Sway back and forth and bring your weight into your toes.
Take a deep breath in through your nose and out through your mouth.
Stay for about 15 seconds.
Seated Forward Bend
If you prefer to sit, try a seated forward fold.
Sit on your mat and press your sits bones into the floor.
Inhale, then lengthen up through your spine.
Exhale and reach forward towards your toes.
Keep your back straight.
Move your head closer to your toes.
Use a yoga strap or towel if you cant reach your toes.
Supported Headstand
Aheadstand, while tricky, is an excellent way to activate the crown chakra, says Artymiak.
A proper headstand can offer feelings of balance, support, and steadiness, he notes.
If youre able to do it and dont have any neck issues its worth a try.
If you are new to headstands, practice against a wall.
Start by sitting on your shins.
Lean your head towards the ground.
Keep your elbows shoulder-width apart on the ground, then interlace your fingers to create a cradle.
Place the top of your forehead/crown on the ground within the cradle.
Lift one foot at a time but dont kick up.
To get some air, try alternate nostril breathing.
Sit comfortably with a tall back.
Use your thumb toclose one nostril.
Inhale through the other.
Unplug the closed side and breathe out of that nostril.
Continue to alternate as you breathe in and out.
Rabbit Pose
Berger also recommends rabbit pose thanks to the way it brings attention to your crown.
Try it if youve been experiencing a lack of direction, connection, or an inability to set goals.
Start in childs pose.
Reach back and grab onto your heels.
Move your forehead in towards your heels until the top of your head is resting on the floor.
Inhale and lift your hips.
Breathe into your back.
Exhale and lower your hips to release.
