People fart in yoga.   There.   I said it.    Are you blushing?   Are you guilty?    Are you laughing at the mere thought of it?

I saw a tee shirt a while back that I was tempted to buy, it said something to the affect of  ”Yoga: an hour of trying not to fart”.  Should’ve gotten it. LOL
Maybe it’s just the body’s response to relaxing or maybe it happens when we do not engage the ‘Root Lock’.  Whatever the reason, it usually brings a moment of uneasiness to the individual and those within earshot.  Yes, I know we are all grown-ups… it happens.  However, there is still that little kid inside that wants to giggle.  During one of my classes a gal broke the sound barrier, I tried to ignore it and move on, but the doctor fessed up and said “oh… guess the Yoga’s working”.  Okay, that is when I started to laugh.  But it happens.  Plain and simple.  No reason to be embarrassed, it is a part of nature.  We all do it, but some are louder, some a little more aromatic.  It is what it is.   Are you still pondering what a Root Lock is… okay, I’ll get on with the next subject.

It is amazing how a Root Lock can help our yoga practice (and help with those unexpected releases). We all have a basic understanding of this Lock even if we’ve never practiced Yoga.  Ever heard of a Kegel? Had to stop tinkling mid-stream or praying #2 didn’t happen til we got to our destination? Those are the muscles that we use when we engage the Root Lock.  The whole pelvic floor lifts towards the belly button.  Once we get a bit more comfortable with this lock, we can begin to isolate the Perineum muscle (the muscle directly in the middle, not too far forward and not the muscle in the very back either).  You’re probably sitting down reading this article.  So go ahead, squeeze the pelvic floor.  For the guys, as a fellow Yogini says, “Lift the Luggage!”.      What did you notice? 

For those of us who have a pretzel-in-the-oven or are resistant to change (1st Chakra), this is extremely beneficial.  However, all of us can benefit from adding this into our practice.  So Lock and Load your Yoga!

Namaste’

Carrisa

Root Lock ~ mula-bandha

Each Yogi assumes responsibility for their own practice. Yoga Untwisted will not be held responsible for any injury obtained while practicing these postures. Always honor your ability & limitations.