We are concentrating on our 2nd Chakra this month as part of the chakra series. The 2nd Chakra, called the Svadisthana Chakra is located below our navel, and at our sacrum or tailbone. The sacral chakra is where our desires, creativity and self-expression is located. When I think of this chakra, I think of my desire to express myself creatively through writing, creating art, listening to music and dancing. If I am feeling blocked for new ideas, I work on activating this chakra. It’s earth element is water. It’s color is orange and its sound is “VAM.”
Yoga of Chakras
Different yoga poses can activate certain chakras. Here a few beginner-level poses I like to use to activate my sacral chakra:
Bridge Lifts
Our lower back and sacrum can get really stiff from sitting and holding in emotions. I like to practice activating my 2nd chakra by loosening up the sacrum and massaging my lower back. To set up for this, lay on your back with your knees bent and the soles of your feet on the floor, and have your arms extended on the floor alongside your body. Arrange your feet so that they are hips width. On an inhale, press into your feet and lift your hips up towards the sky – at the time lift your hands up and extend them to the back of your mat. On an exhale, lower your hips down, and return your arms by your side. Take 10 rounds of this, and make these motions fluid with your breath. This should feel really good on your sacrum and your upper back – like you are giving yourself a massage.
Windshield Wiper Legs
After completing bridge lifts, remain on your back with your knees bent, and soles of feet on your mat. Separate your feet as wide as the mat. Bring your arms out to the side like a “T.” Inhale as you take both knees toward the floor on your right side. Pause and exhale. Inhale and move your knees to your left, then pause and exhale. Continue for as many rounds as you like – this should feel amazing on your lower back.
Knee Circles
Still on your back, draw both knees into your chest. Place your hands on top of your knees, and start to slowly circle your knees – keeping them hugged together. Make complete circles, feeling the massaging on your lower back and sacrum. Circle your knees in the other direction. Complete by hugging both knees into your chest, then releasing.
Nutrition of Chakras
You can also nourish chakras through the foods you are eating. The sacral chakra’s element is water, so pure water is your best here. Also good are any liquids like freshly made juice, herbal teas, and infused water. Here are some recipes to try:
Cori Bernardo 