AQUARIUS: Yoga, Herbs + Flowers
Yoga is a practice of observation. What do we notice in stillness? What patterns emerge when we take a step back? As the daughter of an astrologer, I’ve held space to notice and observe patterns from the stars too. And in collaboration with friend, Carrie McCann of Moonset & Co. , we’re sharing a little bit about what we’ve observed about the physical practice of yoga, herbs, and flowers that might support the Capricorn sign.
Aquarius Dates: January 20 - February 18
Anatomy: Ankles
Element: Air
Expect the unexpected with the air sign of Aquarius. Being born of the air makes this sign a natural intellectual though they are typically armed with intuition. Keyword that describe Aquarians are independent, freedom, eccentric, and loyal. The earth is closest to the sun during this period as we experience winter here in the Americas. This warmth and loyalty makes the best friends as they support humanity in their own unique way.
- David Shipman, Astrologer
Asana: TIP TOES MOUNTAIN POSE
The air sign of Aquarius corresponds with the ankles. Mountain pose on tip toes explores balance and ankle stability.
Begin in mountain pose by placing your feet about hip-distance apart, gently moving your feet closer together or farther apart depending on your own comfort. Ground down into your feet - noticing them resting and connected to the earth beneath you. With your hands at your sides, begin by noticing the natural rhythm of you breath. Notice your breath in. Notice your breath out. When you’re ready, gently lift your palms to towards the sky any amount. In this motion, rise to your tip toes grounding into the balls of your feet. Notice the activation in your lower body. Notice the sensation in your hands. If you feel balanced with your hands and heals raised, take a few breaths here. When you’re ready, let your next breath prompt you to release your hands down to your sides. Repeat as needed, being careful to rise to a height that makes you feel elevated and safe.
Hawthorn Berry: TEND
A member of the rose family, the berry of the Hawthorne tree or hedge shrub is best known for the many ways they support our hearts and circulatory systems. In some traditions they have also been used to help relieve pain, anxiety, and gastrointestinal discomfort. Delicious in teas, cordials, jams, and more this is a berry worth getting to know. In addition to supporting our physical hearts, this is a great plant to turn to in times when our emotional or energetic heart needs some extra care or attention.
Milky Oats: NOURISH
There is only about a one week period of time when this magical part of the oat plant can be harvested- after the oat begins to flower and before it goes to seed and becomes the oats that we eat- this is when the tops of the oats are in a milky stage. Full of vitamins and minerals, milky oats help to nourish our bodies and restore our nerves, especially great for someone who feels deeply exhausted and wants to reconnect with their creativity and sense of internal richness.
*A note on working with plants: The descriptions here are just small snapshots of one part of a plant. Always do your own research about plants (find at least 3 sources) if you’re deciding to turn to plants for their medicinal benefits and consult with your trusted healthcare professional, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or have major health concerns. If you’re looking for an herbalist, ask them about their background, their studies, and their specialties.
YOGAMOTIF LLC AND ITS INSTRUCTORS ARE NOT MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS AND THIS INFORMATION SHOULD NOT BE RELIED UPON FOR MEDICAL DIAGNOSIS, ADVICE, OR EDUCATION.