Like the five layers of self (the physical, energetic, mental, wisdom, and bliss bodies), the five elements (earth, water, fire, air, and ether) have different densities.
Earth is the densest material, which represents our physical body. Ether, on the other hand, represents universal consciousness. Let’s look at air, which is the gaseous form that forms most of the matter.
The Air Element
The air element, also known as the wind element, represents the ability to move easily, freely, and without effort. The breath embodies it and puts us in touch with prana.
The chest and lungs contain the element of air, which is linked to the fourth chakra or heart chakra. The air element balances the body’s breathing, which is calm and stable.
The air element is related to our wisdom body or discerning intellect and is associated with traits such as mental flexibility, logic, and intellect.
The air element in our yoga practice invites us not only to breathe deeply but also to refine and perfect our poses. These three chest-opening postures will help you balance the air element and expand your lung capacity.
Locust Pose With Clasped Arms
This variation on Locust Pose will help you open up your chest and prepare your back muscles for Cobra Pose.
It is important to lift your upper arms, shoulder heads, and outer arms away from the ground. Also, it would be best if you widened your collarbones.
On your inhale, raise your body in a locust position and lower it on your exhale. As you start to find a rhythm, smooth out your breathing.
Bow Pose
After warming up, you can take your chest opener to the next level with Bow Pose. This is a safer version of the expansive Upward Facing Bow Pose. It’s just as effective.
As soon as you have both ankles in your grasp, it would be best if you kicked your feet as hard as possible away from the sitting bones. But don’t release your grip. As you lift your chest and torso off the floor, tighten your shoulder blades and widen your collarbones.
Instead of lifting your knees to the highest point possible, which can place the focus on your lower back, press your knees into the ground as you inhale.
Supported Bridge Pose
After you have expanded your chest and increased your lung capacity, breathe inwards with the Supported Bridge Pose.
When you have your block at the right height, lift each shoulder and bring your heart to your chin. Then, push the collarbones down toward the ground.
Keep your body and mind in the Supported Bridge Pose for up to 5 minutes.
Watch for the fifth and final part of our series, “Yoga Poses for the Elements.” Let us know which chest openers you prefer.
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