be a vira or hero in warrior two

“The simple act of caring is heroic.” –Edward Albert

Weekly Focus: Vira / brave person, hero

Vira is derived from the root word “vir” meaning to overpower.

This week we ask ourselves how we can show up as a hero or brave individual for ourself or someone else in our life. 

We often think of a hero as something or someone bigger than ourself. Perhaps we think of a hero as a person of recognition, perhaps we hold a certain image or occupation in our mind, or we place narratives on what it means to be a hero. Do you believe that you can be a hero, a brave person, someone to help overpower and overcome difficult situations for yourself or even for others?

So many individuals show up as unsung heroes everyday. As infinitely potent beings, we have the ability to touch lives, to enact change, to create ripples. Where can we open up our limitations and allow ourselves to step us as a hero for someone in our community? If we believe that we can have impact, we will find the courage to tap into our auspicious natures.

Consider the quote about: “The simple act of caring is heroic,” — what a powerful statement. In a world and society where we can so easily be caught up in ourselves or the way in which we are impacted, to look beyond our own space and truly care about someone else is heroic. How do you feel when someone truly shows care, kindness, sympathy and helpfulness towards yourself? Imagine how it feels for others.

Here are a few practices to help your step into your most heroic nature:

  1. Text, call or write a letter to someone you haven’t spoken to in some time. Try to consider someone that may appreciate the attention — an elderly family member, a friend in a difficult situation — choose the one that feels a little outside of your comfort zone.
  2. Give genuine recognition to someone you work with. Either thanking them for what they do or calling out something awesome they have done recently. Let them know they are seen.
Passive Pose of the Week:  Virasana (hero’s pose)

pronunciation CLICK HER

Ground into your courage and bravery in this stable seated posture.

  • Come to a kneeling seat.
  • Rather than sitting back on your heels, allow your seat to settle in between your calves and feet. 
  • Set a time for [3] minutes and hold in stillness. Practice with deep and full breaths.

This pose may not feel great for everyone’s knees. With that in mind, if it isn’t comfortable to get your butt all the way to the floor, try elevating the floor by sitting on a block, a blanket, or, our personal favorite, straddling a big bolster. This may offer more support to sustain this position well, and remove distraction of pain or discomfort.

If you are familiar with Ujayii breath, this is an awesome pranayama practice to bring into this pose!

Active Pose of the Week: Virabhadrasana II (warrior 2)

pronunciation CLICK HERE

Step into the seat of hero with fearlessness with this powerful lunge. 

  • Begin in mountain pose.
  • Step your left foot back 3 – 4 feet into a lunging position.
  • Your right toes will point forward as you bend the knee towards 90 degrees. The left toes will point to the long edge of the mat.
  • Open your arms wide front and back, as you look forward over your right hand.
  • Hold this position for 3 – 5 breaths.

As you stand in Warrior II, focus on the feeling of your feet connected to the floor. Let this feeling help you find a grounding and confidence. The floor, your legs, all support you and hold you up. When we are confident and support, we may feel emboldened to be more brave!

Join us in class this week to step into your heroic nature! See the fulll schedule HERE.