Heart Opening Poses to Celebrate Valentine's Day
As we approach the season of love and affection, it's the perfect time to open our hearts and spread kindness to those around us. At Little Yogis Academy, we believe in nurturing not only the physical health but also the emotional well-being of our young yogis. Today, we're excited to share five heart-opening poses that will not only stretch our bodies but also fill our hearts with love. Additionally, we'll dive into a Valentine's-themed mindfulness activity to cultivate gratitude and appreciation for ourselves and others.
Heart-Melting Hug (Child's Pose):
Start by sitting on your heels with your knees wide apart.
Slowly lower your forehead to the mat and reach your arms out in front of you.
Feel the gentle stretch in your back and shoulders as you breathe deeply.
Imagine sending love and warmth to your heart with each breath.
Happy Heart Opener (Cobra Pose):
Lie on your tummy with your palms under your shoulders.
Inhale as you press into your hands and lift your chest off the ground.
Keep your elbows close to your body and your shoulders relaxed.
Feel the stretch across your chest and imagine your heart shining brightly.
Lovebird Wings (Heart Melting Pose):
Come to a tabletop position on your hands and knees.
Walk your hands forward as you lower your chest towards the mat.
Keep your hips stacked over your knees and your forehead resting on the ground.
Feel the gentle opening in your heart space and breathe deeply into it.
Heart-Opening Archer (Warrior II Pose):
Stand tall with your feet wide apart.
Turn your right foot out and bend your right knee, keeping it over your ankle.
Extend your left leg straight behind you and reach your arms out to the sides.
Gaze over your right fingertips and feel the strength and openness in your heart.
Joyful Heart Circle (Easy Pose with Heart Mudra):
Sit comfortably with your legs crossed and your spine tall.
Bring your palms together in front of your heart, touching your thumbs and pinkies together to form a heart shape.
Close your eyes and take a few moments to feel the love and gratitude within your heart.
Valentine's-Themed Mindfulness Activity: Gratitude Jar
Materials Needed: Mason jar or any clear container, small pieces of paper, pens/markers, decorative materials (optional)
Instructions:
-Sit in a comfortable position and take a few deep breaths to center yourself.
-Reflect on the people, things, and experiences that fill your heart with love and gratitude.
-Write down one thing you're grateful for on each piece of paper.
-Fold the papers and place them in the jar.
-Decorate the jar if desired, adding hearts or Valentine's-themed decorations.
Throughout the week, whenever you're feeling down or in need of a pick-me-up, take a moment to pick a gratitude slip from the jar.
Read the slip aloud and take a moment to truly appreciate the blessing it represents. Feel your heart fill with warmth and love as you cultivate a mindset of gratitude!
As we practice these heart-opening poses and engage in mindful activities, let's remember that love begins within ourselves. By nurturing our hearts and cultivating feelings of love, compassion, and gratitude, we can spread joy and kindness to those around us. This Valentine's Day, let's celebrate love in all its forms and continue to shine our light brightly in the world. Happy Valentine's Day, Little Yogis! Keep spreading love and positivity wherever you go!
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