Mother’s Day – a day brimming with flowers, laughter, and heartfelt gestures. But for some, it can be a painful reminder of absence, longing, or complicated emotions. This Mother’s Day, whether you’re celebrating with joy or navigating complex feelings, let’s find solace and connection through the grounding practice of yoga.
As an artist who finds solace and inspiration in the creative process, I’ve also discovered the power of yoga in healing and self-discovery. It’s a journey inward, allowing us to process emotions, release tension, and reconnect with ourselves. This Mother’s Day, I’d like to share a gentle yoga sequence that has brought me comfort and a sense of peace.
Embracing Tranquility: A Yoga Practice for Mother’s Day
This sequence focuses on poses known for their calming and grounding effects, allowing you to tune into your breath and find a sense of presence.
Finding Solace in Child’s Pose (Balasana)
Child's Pose on a yoga mat
Child’s Pose: A Moment of Peace and Grounding
Child’s pose is a haven, a place to retreat and reconnect. It gently stretches the spine, hips, and shoulders, releasing tension and inviting a sense of calm.
Variations:
- Place a bolster or pillow under your chest for added support.
- Walk your fingertips to the right and left for a gentle side stretch.
Benefits:
- Promotes relaxation and eases stress
- Gently stretches the back, hips, and shoulders
- Calms the mind and soothes the nervous system
Flowing Through Cat-Cow Pose (Bitilasana/Marjaryasana)
Cat pose
Cat Pose: Gentle Spinal Flexion
Cow pose
Cow Pose: Gentle Spinal Extension
This dynamic duo warms up the spine, increases flexibility, and invites a sense of fluidity.
How to:
- Inhale into Cow Pose: Drop your belly, lift your chest, and gaze forward.
- Exhale into Cat Pose: Round your spine towards the ceiling, tuck your chin, and draw your navel inward.
Benefits:
- Increases spinal mobility and flexibility
- Improves posture and balance
- Stimulates digestive organs
Finding Grounding in Plow Pose (Halasana)
Person in purple leggings in plow pose
Plow Pose: A Calming Inversion
Plow pose is a calming inversion that stretches the back, shoulders, and hamstrings.
Tips:
- Use blankets to support your shoulders and protect your neck.
- If you feel any strain in your neck, come out of the pose slowly.
Benefits:
- Calms the nervous system and reduces stress
- Stimulates the thyroid gland
- Stretches the shoulders, back, and hamstrings
Embracing Serenity in Supported Shoulderstand (Salamba Sarvangasana)
Shoulderstand – Halasana
Shoulderstand: A Rejuvenating Inversion
Known as the “queen of asanas,” shoulderstand is a rejuvenating inversion that calms the mind and soothes the nervous system.
Tips:
- Use blankets to support your shoulders and neck.
- Keep your core engaged to protect your lower back.
Benefits:
- Calms the mind and relieves stress
- Improves circulation and lymphatic flow
- Strengthens the shoulders, neck, and core
Releasing Tension in Seated Wide-Legged Forward Fold (Upavistha Konasana)
Seated Wide Legged Fwd Fold
Seated Wide-Legged Forward Fold: Releasing Tension with Support
This deeply relaxing pose stretches the inner thighs, hamstrings, and spine.
Tips:
- Use a bolster or pillow to support your torso for added comfort.
- Allow your head and neck to relax completely.
Benefits:
- Calms the brain and relieves stress
- Stretches the inner thighs, hamstrings, and spine
- Stimulates digestive organs
Finding Peace Within: A Mother’s Day Reflection
This Mother’s Day, as you flow through this sequence, remember to breathe deeply, be present in your body, and honor the emotions that arise.
“Yoga is not about touching your toes. It’s about what you learn on the way down.” – Jigar Gor
I encourage you to explore these poses and discover how they resonate with you. You can even share this practice with your mother or a mother figure in your life as a gesture of love and connection.
What are your favorite ways to find peace and solace? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. And if you’re looking for unique, handmade gifts to celebrate the special people in your life, explore the beautiful creations on Robert Kline Art.