The third Chakra (energy centre) known as the Manipuri Chakra relates to our willpower, ambition and ability to take action.  It is located just below the rib cage and above the navel. Manipuri is also the place of our intuition, it is our 'gut instinct'. When something is wrong we often feel the tension in our guts or when things are just right we feel warm and fusy inside. With the Manipuri Chakra out of balance we may have low energy, doubts, feel out of control of our lives, worry what others think or be overly critical towards others.

In a physical yoga practice core work, spinal twists and warrior poses help to ignite the inner fire (also known as Agni), helping us to access the energy within our Manipuri Chakra. We get a great workout and burn off impurities in the body and also in the mind. Next time you do a warrior pose, focus your on your solar plexus and see if you can feel the power within you. Doing this can simply remind us we already have  the ability, strength and knowing inside us to live a life true to ourselves.

Here are some tips to get create vitality, energy, action and balance the Manpuri Chakra.

• Work that core. Take a dynamic yoga class, do some Pilates exercises or simple hold a plank and feel that fire in your belly!
• Try positive affirmations. Focus on knowing you have the ability within you to make positive choices and live a life you love.
• Be good to your gut. Stay well hydrated and make sure everything is moving smoothly. 
• Trust your instinct. If something isn't right it probably isn't. Listen to your inner guidance. It knows!
• Stand tall. Good posture can instantly make you feel much better and improve energy! Instead of slouching down and hiding your wonderful self from the world, stand proud and feel empowered.

Thanks for reading.Until next time.
Lots of Love
Hana & Aya x

There are seven main energy points (Chakras) in the body which run run vertically upwards along the spine.  Muladhara is the first chakra, located at the base of the spine and is also known as  the root chakra. This chakra harnesses our ability to feel safe, steady and grounded. It connects us to our physical bodies, environment and the Earth. Our root chakra can be out of balance when we don't have this sense of stability in our bodies or our lives we may feel as if we are slipping and sliding all over the place, we may feel unsafe or fearful. ​

So lovelies, trust and love your beautiful bodies and feel the earth supporting you in all you do! 
Om Shanti xoxox

Plank, also known as a high Chaturanga is one of the simplest and best core and whole body strengtheners and we love it! Here is why;

• Intensely strengthens the deep abdominal muscles, toning the belly. It also works the hamstrings and buttocks.
• Great for improving your posture and preventing bad backs.
• Opens and gently stretches the muscles around the shoulders and upper back, hamstrings and even your toes.
• Leaves you feeling great. Gets the blood pumping,  and endorphins racing.
• There are endless exciting variations on this pose

 
Alignment is very important to do  pose safely and effectively. As in all dynamic Yoga postures direction is key. Checkout Aya in the picture below.We are lifting away from the floor are thinking about a horizontal direction. These directions can transform your plank from feeling like heavy lump to feeling long, strong and light.