Mantra of the month
Vulnerability is our most accurate measure of courage. Putting yourself in a scary, uncomfortable or unfamiliar situation is the best thing you can do to face and accomplish your fears. From fear we grow. If we can prove to ourselves that we can feel the fear and do it anyway, we are growing, learning, inspiring and teaching others that anything is possible. If you were to sit and write down your ultimate dream what would it be? Now write down what it is that is stopping you from working towards that dream? Are you scared you will fail? Scared people will judge you? Figure out what your fears are and make a plan to face those fears. Whatever you're scared of, go be vulnerable and face it head on. I promise it will be worth it!
Headstand (Salamba Sirsasana)
This pose is perfect to accompany the mantra. Headstand can be scary at first but the more you practice and feel the fear the easier and more enjoyable it will be. Starting in a kneeling position, interlace your fingers and lower your forearms down with your elbows no wider than your shoulders. Place the crown of your head on the ground, hands cradling the back of your head. Lift your hips, come onto your tip toes and slowly walk your feet in keeping your legs straight while pushing down into your arms to take weight out of the head and shoulders. Tilt your hips back so they are above your shoulders before lifting one foot and bringing the knee to the chest. Once you have the balance do the same with both legs keeping them tucked in and zipped together. Once you feel balanced and stable here you can slowly start to lift your legs high but try to keep them together to avoid losing control. Once lifted point your toes and zip your legs together. Stay here for 10 breaths before slowly lowering the feet down to the mat with control. Follow with a child's pose.
Kirstie Bird is a London-based yoga teacher and modern calligrapher (inkandflow.com)
Om Magazine
First published in November 2009, OM Yoga magazine has become the most popular yoga title in the UK. Available from all major supermarkets, independents and newsstands across the UK. Also available on all digital platforms.
