In this photo, Karen demonstrates Bow Pose. Photo by Fred Padilla.
By Karen Watson Reeves
Winter. That word/season brings different feelings and emotions to each of us. For some, winter is energizing and fun. Personally, I want to be like a bear and hibernate until the warmth and light of spring return.
Winter evokes color to me: blue as it is a cool color in the palette and white because on the sunny days of winter, the light can be blinding. Thus the setting for the photo, where the colors of blue and white and snowflakes are present, and the choice of the pose, Bow, because it is a heart-opening, light-entering posture.
When the temperatures drop, I tend to slouch, hunkering down under quilts and throws, seeking warmth. But besides the desirable warmth, poor posture is another result. Bow Pose allows the body to counter the “going inward” movement giving the entire front of the body a deep stretch, while strengthening the back side of the body. As the body lifts off the mat, squeezing the scapula together and further opening the chest can bring a warming feeling to the yogi.
I imagine light entering my body at the center of my chest. I like to visualize sending that light out to others who may be experiencing a dark place, physically or mentally or emotionally. When I have these feelings, it helps to get on the floor and practice this backbend.
January. A new calendar year. A new beginning. A blank slate. I encourage you to focus on “light,” however that may manifest itself to you. Light a fire within yourself and be a shining beacon for others. Happy New Year!
Karen Watson Reeves has called Hot Springs home since 2006. Owner of The Yoga Place, at 301 Whittington Avenue, she became a registered yoga/children’s yoga teacher in 2011. When not on the mat, Karen enjoys the beautiful outdoors of the National Park, especially from her bicycle. For more information about her studio and her schedule of classes, visit www.theyogaplacehs.com.
