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The Water element in yoga

Writer's picture: Soma Yoga PilatesSoma Yoga Pilates


Yoga and the Water Element

The practice of yoga is deeply rooted in the balance of the elements of earth, water, fire, air and ether, each representing different aspects of our being and the natural world. Among these, the water element is associated with fluidity, adaptability, and emotional depth.


Characteristics of the Water Element

  1. Fluidity and Movement: Water is inherently fluid and adaptable, capable of changing shape and flowing around obstacles. In yoga, this is mirrored in the graceful transitions between poses and the emphasis on smooth, flowing movements.

  2. Emotional Connection: Water is often linked to emotions, reflecting the ebb and flow of feelings within us. Yoga practices that emphasise the water element can help practitioners connect emotionally, facilitating a release of pent-up emotions and promoting emotional balance.

  3. Intuition and Creativity: The water element is also associated with intuition and creativity. In yoga, this can manifest through practices that encourage inner reflection and creative expression, such as meditation and spontaneous movement.


Integrating Water Element into Yoga Practice

  1. Pranayama Techniques: Incorporate breathing exercises that mimic the qualities of water, such as ujjayi breath, which produces a sound reminiscent of ocean waves. This can help calm the mind and align it with the flowing nature of water.

  2. Flowing Sequences: Practise sequences that emphasise fluidity and grace, such as Vinyasa or Yin yoga. These styles encourage smooth transitions and a meditative flow, embodying the essence of water.

  3. Meditation and Visualization: Engage in meditations that focus on the water element, such as visualising a serene lake or a gentle stream. This can enhance mindfulness and inspire a sense of tranquility and introspection.

  4. Chakra Focus: Concentrate on the sacral chakra, which is associated with the water element and governs creativity, sexuality, and emotions. Balancing this chakra can promote emotional well-being and enhance personal expression.


By embracing the qualities of the water element in your yoga practice, you can foster greater adaptability, emotional resilience, and creative insight. Whether through flowing movements, mindful breathing, or meditative reflection, integrating the water element can enrich your yoga journey and personal growth.


Yoga Poses Associated with the Water Element

Integrating the water element into your yoga practice can be further enhanced by incorporating specific poses that embody its qualities of fluidity, adaptability, and introspection. Here are some yoga poses associated with the water element:


1. Cat-Cow Pose (Marjaryasana-Bitilasana)

The Cat-Cow sequence is a dynamic movement that mimics the gentle waves of water. It involves alternating between arching and rounding the back, promoting flexibility in the spine and encouraging a smooth, flowing transition between poses.

2. Cobra Pose (Bhujangasana)

Cobra Pose resembles the fluid rise of water. As you lift your chest and open your heart, you tap into the emotional and creative aspects of the water element, inviting a sense of openness and release.

3. Pigeon Pose (Eka Pada Rajakapotasana)

This deep hip-opening pose is associated with the release of stored emotions, similar to how water flows and cleanses. Pigeon Pose allows for introspection and emotional release, aligning with the water element's qualities.

4. Fish Pose (Matsyasana)

Fish Pose opens the chest and throat, areas linked to emotional expression. This pose helps to balance emotions and encourage a sense of serenity, reflecting the calming nature of water.

5. Dancing Warrior (Virabhadrasana Flow)

Dancing Warrior combines strength and grace, creating a fluid sequence that captures the essence of water's adaptability and flow. This series of poses emphasises smooth transitions and rhythmic movement.

6. Child's Pose (Balasana)

This restorative pose invites introspection and calmness, much like the stillness of a peaceful body of water. Child's Pose provides a safe space for emotional exploration and grounding.


By incorporating these poses into your practice, you can further deepen your connection to the water element, enhancing your emotional resilience, creative flow, and adaptability in life.


Sacral Plexus and Associated Yoga Practices

The sacral plexus, also known as the sacral chakra or Svadhisthana in Sanskrit, is the second chakra in the body's energy system. It is located in the lower abdomen, just below the navel. This chakra is intimately connected with the water element and plays a crucial role in governing creativity, emotions, and sexual energy. Understanding and balancing the sacral plexus can enhance your yoga practice and personal well-being.


Characteristics of the Sacral Plexus

The sacral plexus is associated with:

  • Emotional Balance: It influences our emotional responses and the ability to feel pleasure and desire.

  • Creativity: This chakra fuels our creative energies and imaginative capabilities.

  • Sexuality and Sensuality: It governs our sense of sexuality and the ability to form intimate connections with others.

  • Flexibility and Adaptability: Much like water, the sacral chakra encourages adaptability and the ability to go with the flow.


Yoga Practices for the Sacral Plexus

  1. Hip-Opening Poses: Poses like Pigeon Pose, Bound Angle Pose (Baddha Konasana), and Frog Pose (Mandukasana) help release tension in the hips, an area closely linked with the sacral plexus.

  2. Flowing Movements: Engaging in Vinyasa flows or dance-like sequences can stimulate the sacral chakra, promoting fluidity and creative expression.

  3. Pelvic Tilts and Circles: Gentle pelvic movements can activate and balance the sacral plexus, encouraging emotional release and flexibility.

  4. Meditation and Mindfulness: Focusing on the sacral chakra during meditation, while visualising a warm, orange glow, can enhance its energy.


Colours and Sounds Associated with the Sacral Plexus

  • Colour: The sacral plexus is symbolised by the colour orange, representing warmth, creativity, and enthusiasm. Incorporating orange into your environment or wearing orange clothing can support this chakra's energy.

  • Sound: The seed mantra for the sacral plexus is "Vam”. Chanting this sound during meditation can help to awaken and balance the chakra.


By incorporating practices that focus on the sacral plexus into your yoga routine, you can cultivate emotional balance, unleash your creative potential, and enhance your ability to connect deeply with yourself and others. Embracing the colours and sounds associated with this chakra further complements these practices, supporting your overall well-being and personal growth.


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