“What you think you become. What you feel you attract. What you imagine you create.” —Buddha

Weekly Theme: Manifest

The seeds of our intention are in full bloom. We look to the new moon to consider how we wish to manifest these seeds. What will they grow into? Manifestation is an embodiment of your beliefs, values + desires. Our internal thoughts reflect our external reality. In order to see our intentions come to fruition, in order to act fully on who we are, we must first believe that it is possible. Sitting in the darkness of the New Moon is an opportunity each month to return to our internal dialogue. The darkness reminds us to take a break. If we find ourselves filling with doubt, this is the time to reset. We can believe the Moon will return to light, fulfilling her cyclical nature. Can we believe the same of ourselves? Can we fully embody our desires + live to our highest values?

Passive Pose of the Week: Ardha Padmasana (half-lotus pose)

Take time to reflect on our desires with this seated meditation posture. A traditional meditation posture, this seat helps us connect to our intuition and center of knowing. To come into half lotus, sit in a cross-legged position, with the foot of the top leg resting atop the opposite leg/hip crease. This pose is hhhhiiiiipy. To reduce excessive pressure or strain on the hips, try propping your seat on a folded blanket, cushion, or block. Be sure to set the bony part of your bottom closer to the edge. This tilts the pelvis providing more space for the hips to open. Another pro-tip: if you intend to sit in meditation for a few minutes here, you might even come near a wall to help support the spine.

Active Pose of the Week: Anjaneyasana (low crescent lunge pose)

Utilize the essence of the new moon to manifest with this moon-honoring posture. Anjaneyasana is a low lunge position, with our back knee connected to the floor. The arms sweep up towards the sky, lined up near the ears. There are many ways to play with this shape. Some days, it may feel better to keep the hands grounded to the floor or blocks for stability. Other days, it may be nice to keep the hands resting on the thigh or hips to feel grounded and strong. If you are feeling very inspired and expressive, it may be nice to reach the arms up overhead and even offer a back bend in the upper body! We love this pose because it can so easily become a true expression of what you are looking to feel in the moment. Be intentional with your anjaneyasana and consider what is speaking to you.