YIN YOGA AND THE SEASONS: WINTER PART II
In our second session today we used acupressure on one of the points on the kidney meridian line to fortify kidney essence, or qi. Acupressure is an Asian bodywork therapy (ABT) with roots in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). Acupuncture or acupressure is be used along the meridian lines that correspond to vital organs when there is an imbalance to restore balance.
Locating and Checking Inner Ankle Point
To locate the inner (medial) side above the ankle, start by sitting in a comfortable position and gently flexing your foot upward to expose the area. With your thumbs or index fingers, press firmly on the inner side on the point above the ankle bone. Alternatively, you can gently tap the area. Evaluate both legs to compare and identify any differences.
Interpreting Tenderness
If you notice tenderness during this check, particularly on one side, it might indicate an imbalance in kidney qi. Sensitivity or discomfort in this area could suggest an imbalance in the corresponding organ system.
Taking Action
If you do find tenderness, consider staying with the tender side for a bit. Some of the Yin poses we did today allowed access to this point near the ankle, making it easy to add acupressure while in asana! Bringing mindful awareness to these subtle signals from the body during your practice can contribute to a more holistic and balanced approach to your well-being.
SUPPORTS: water regulation, kidney yang, urinary issues
The Wisdom of Water
Water teaches us adaptability when faced with obstacles; it flows over, through, and around. What can you release that’s holding you back from moving through life with ease? Our thoughts can affect the watery beings that we are, as well as our planet. Scientific researcher and author, Dr. Masaru Emoto wrote The Hidden Messages In Water in 1991 and theorized that our thoughts, words, and feelings can influence molecules of water. Additionally, he discovered that certain types of music have healing healing properties on a cellular level.
Here is a piece of music by Claude Debussy, Prélude à l'après-midi d'un faune
Two books you might find interesting:
The Miracle of Water Water Crystal Healing
“Using high-speed photography, Dr. Masaru Emoto discovered that crystals formed in frozen water reveal changes when specific, concentrated thoughts are directed toward them. He found that water from clear springs and water exposed to loving words shows brilliant, complex, and colorful snowflake patterns. In contrast, polluted water, or water exposed to negative thoughts, forms incomplete, asymmetrical patterns with dull colors.”
Imagine the impact on our bodies, and our planet.
Next week: How to Nourish Yin Essence with the Foods We Eat