Healing power

Healing is as natural as breathing for a woman. Throughout the ages we women have healed through every aspect of ourselves; through the compassionate touch of our hands, our poignant songs and art, the deep wisdom of our counsel, the conscious preparation of herbs and food, the life-giving milk that flows from our breasts... women's healing ways are infinitely creative and diverse. And through our deepest meditation we become the empty cup — a space that spirit fills to overflow. A woman in this state of consciousness heals with her presence. Her capacity to give is great, and she will often look to heal others before herself. Yoga and meditation serve to restore her so that she can go on healing the world.

Women and the moon are practically synonymous. We women resonate with the moon energy through our monthly menstrual cycle, our waxing and waning of thoughts and feelings, and most importantly, through our inborn capacity to reflect the light of the sun and shine it through every dark night. For this reason, many women find the practice of the Moon Salutation holds special meaning. Practice 4—12 rounds.

1: Stand upright with the feet close together Bend the elbows and bring the palms of the hands together at the center of your chest. This centers the mind and calms the body.

2: Inhale slowly and deeply as you raise and stretch both arms above your head. At the same time, arch your upper body backward in one smooth, unbroken line, as far as possible without restraint. Bend only to your capacity, without strain. This stretches and tones the abdominal area, improves digestion, and opens the lungs ready for step 3.

3: As you exhale slowly, bend forward until your fingers touch the ground to either side of the feet. Bring the head to the knees as far as possible without straining.

4: Inhale, stretch your right leg back as far as possible, and drop your right knee to the ground as you bend your left knee. The weight of the body is supported on both hands the left foot, and the toes of the right foot. Lift your chest, arch your back and head upward, and bring your inner gaze to the brow point this stretches and strengthens the muscles and nerves of the legs. Maintaining your balance, exhale and bring your palms together in front of your chest.

5: Inhale as you stretch both arms over your head, keeping the palms together Arch your back and look up, raising your chin as high as possible while inhaling to form a gentle curve resembling a crescent moon. Hold the position briefly, then exhale as you lower your hands to your chest.

6: Inhale and return your hands to each side of your left foot. Retaining the breath, bring your left leg back and place your left foot next to the right, with the toes pointing forward. Your arms are straight. Keep your head and hips in line with your spine. Your body should now be in a straight line, as in a push-up position.

7: Exhale, lowering your knees, chest, and chin to the floor. If this is not possible, first lower the knees, then the chest, and finally the chin. Inhale as you slide your body forward until the hips are on the ground. Arch your chest up and bring your head back into Cobra. Keep your elbows slightly bent as you curl back.

8: Keeping your hands and feet where they are, exhale and come onto the soles of your feet, lifting your hips into Downward Dog by pushing them up and back, away from your hands. Push your heels toward the ground and keep your knees straight. Stretch your spine and move your head inward, toward your feet.

9: Inhale and change legs1 bringing your right foot forward between your hands. Drop your left knee toward the ground and stretch your head up. If when you bring your foot forward it does not align with your hands, slide your hands toward your body so that they frame the foot.

10: Maintaining your balance, exhale and bring the palms together in front of your chest. Then stretch both arms over your head, keeping your palms together Arch your back and look up, raising your chin as high as possible while inhaling.

11: Exhale as you lower your hands to your chest, then inhale once again and return your hands to each side of your right foot.

12: Exhale slowly as you bring your left foot forward, straighten your legs, and stand up. Then bring your head down toward your knees.

13: Inhale as you slowly bring your arms up over your head and stretch back. Tip the head back only as far as is comfortable.

14: Exhale as you stand upright with your palms together at the center of your chest in starting position. Repeat the sequence or end the set.