Meditation on movement

dushazmi

This is an example of a kriya (meaning
action, effort)—a cleansing practice used
in the kundalini yoga system to move
energy through the body, detoxify
and clarify, including out through the
skin. The continual movement through
the arms and shoulders while lifting
upright helps lymphatic drainage at the
collarbones. You can gradually build
up to continuing the motion for three
minutes, so you don’t add tension to
your shoulders. This is a helpful practice
for detox programs as it provides an
alternate deep sensation when cravings
for foods or substances arise.
1 Sit in a supported upright position, on a chair is good for
many, or at least on one block (two is best) to raise the hips
easily above the knees and lift up through the pelvis. Spend
a few moments settling into your breath and releasing your
shoulders, moving into them if you need.
2 Bring your fingertips onto your shoulders and lift
your elbows in toward your ears on an inhalation.
3 Open your elbows out and extend your arms (just
above shoulder height) on the exhalation. Feel the motion
supported by your belly and side ribs rather than lifting
the shoulders. Keep this motion following the breath,
allowing the exhale to reach its endpoint and stopping to
rest if you feel agitation.
4 Breathe fully into long, releasing outbreaths to ensure
a relaxed face and jaw throughout the movement—the
exhalation naturally releases toxins and waste products such
as carbon dioxide, but can be shortened by the stress
response or habits of shallow breathing.