As we begin a new week, we dive into the beautiful yogic principle of Aparigraha—non-attachment. Aparigraha invites us to release what no longer serves us, to let go of the need to control or hold onto things, and to trust in the flow of life. It’s a principle that asks us to surrender, create space, and allow new opportunities to enter with openness and grace.
In this week's practice, we’ll explore how deep stretches like Pigeon Pose can help us embody the art of letting go—physically, emotionally, and energetically.
Alongside this heart-opening asana, we’ll be guided through a calming Reiki visualization, encouraging us to breathe deeply and release any lingering tension or attachments that may be holding us back.
Letting Go with Aparigraha
Aparigraha teaches us that holding on tightly—whether to physical possessions, emotions, or even thoughts—can block us from experiencing the fullness of life. This week, let’s explore the subtle ways we can release, not just on our mats, but in our lives. Through mindful movements, deep breaths, and intentional stretches, we can learn to trust in the process of letting go and making space for peace.
Yoga Asanas
🌿 Pigeon Pose (Kapotasana)
Pigeon Pose invites deep hip opening and releases stored tension. As we soften into the stretch, we are asked to surrender to the present moment.
✨ Benefits:
Opens the hips and groin
Releases lower back tension
Encourages emotional release
🧘♀️ How to:
Begin in Downward-Facing Dog. Ground through your hands and feet, finding length in your spine as you prepare to step into the pose.
Inhale deeply, then exhale as you bring your right knee forward, placing it behind your right wrist. The right shin can be angled towards the front of the mat or kept closer to the body depending on flexibility.
Extend your left leg back with the top of the foot resting on the mat. Keep your hips squared to the front of the mat, ensuring that they remain even.
Inhale, lengthen through the spine, and lift your chest slightly. Feel the expansion in your heart space as you create length from your hips to the crown of your head.
As you exhale, gently fold forward over your front leg. You can rest your forearms on the mat or use a block or bolster under your chest or forehead for support.
Breathe deeply into any areas of tightness or tension. Hold the pose for several breaths, allowing the hips to soften with each exhale.
To come out of the pose, tuck your back left toes, lift your hips up, and step back into Downward Facing Dog.
Repeat on other side.
Props: If your hips are tight or uneven, place a folded blanket or block under your hip for support. You can also place a bolster under your torso for a gentler stretch.
Visualization Exercise
During this deep stretch, take a moment to center yourself with a gentle Reiki visualization. As you breathe in, imagine gathering all the energy, emotions, and thoughts that no longer serve you. With each exhale, consciously release them, feeling lighter with every breath. Picture these attachments dissolving into the air, leaving you with a renewed sense of peace.
Repeat the affirmation:
"I release what no longer serves me and make space for new blessings."
Herbal Support: Mellow Mood Aromatherapy Blend
To enhance relaxation in your practice, I warmly invite you to incorporate my Mellow Mood Aromatherapy Blend. This soothing blend, featuring ylang ylang, lemongrass, and sweet orange oil, is designed to cradle you in calm and invite you to surrender to a state of relaxation.
Reflect for a moment on the burdens we sometimes carry—those nagging toxic thoughts that linger in our minds, casting shadows over our light. It’s easy to let these thoughts take root, causing stress and anxiety that hold us back from fully embracing our true selves. But what if we could cultivate a sense of mellow calm, allowing ourselves to let go of those burdens, even just for a moment?
As you incorporate this aromatherapy roller into your practice, let it be a reminder that you have the power to let go. The comforting scent of ylang ylang wraps around you like a warm hug, inviting you to soften and breathe deeply. With each inhalation, visualize those negative thoughts melting away, replaced by the uplifting energy of lemongrass, which clears the mind and revitalizes your spirit. Sweet orange oil adds a touch of joy, reminding you that it’s okay to embrace happiness and let your light shine.
Roll the blend onto your pulse points, close your eyes, and take a deep breath. Allow the aroma to guide you into a peaceful state, where you can gently release what no longer serves you. Picture your worries drifting away, like clouds parting to reveal the sun. In this sacred space, give yourself permission to reconnect with your inner joy and strength.
This aromatherapy blend is more than a tool; it’s an act of self-love that nurtures your spirit. It reminds you that it’s okay to be mellow—to embrace stillness and reconnect with your inner peace. Allow yourself to simply be, celebrating the journey toward your most authentic self.
🌿 The Herbal Goodness Inside
Ylang Ylang (Cananga odorata)
Known for its sweet, floral scent, Ylang Ylang promotes relaxation, reduces stress, and uplifts mood. It helps to release emotional tension and fosters a sense of joy and connection.
Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus)
With its fresh, citrusy aroma, Lemongrass enhances mental clarity and cleanses the energy around you. It’s known for its ability to reduce feelings of overwhelm, helping to clear the mind and create a calming environment.
Sweet Orange (Citrus sinensis)
This bright, citrus oil has uplifting properties that help to alleviate anxiety and tension. Its soothing scent promotes optimism, warmth, and emotional balance.
Journal Prompt
After your practice, spend a few moments reflecting in your journal. Consider the following prompt:
Where in your life are you holding on to something that no longer serves you? How might letting go of attachments bring you more freedom and peace? Write about a time you were able to release control—what did it feel like, and what impact did it have on your well-being?
As we move through this week’s practice, may you feel empowered to release the old and welcome in the new. Pigeon Pose, and the soothing aroma of Mellow Mood will guide you to a deeper state of surrender and peace, both on and off the mat.
Wishing you a week of clarity, release, and renewal.
Namaste, Samantha Lynn
Comments