Hip Flexor Stretch MechanicsALIGNMENTHIP FLEXOR STRETCH MECHANICS Hip flexor stretch mechanics begins with understanding that stability and length often come from opposing actions. In the first demonstration, Matt cues the back inner thigh to lift upward, which tips...
Awakening Solar Plexus Strength
Awakening Solar Plexus Strength
third chakra
AWAKENING SOLAR PLEXUS STRENGTH
Awakening solar plexus strength invites us into the centre of transformation. Matt reminds us that this third chakra, Manipura, is our fire, our willpower, and our ability to take action. It reflects how we see ourselves and how we choose to show up. Many of us avoid this space. We may hold back and underestimate our power or push too hard without reflection. Both are imbalances of the same fire. It is important for us to remember that this work is not only physical. The core becomes a doorway into discipline, self awareness, and change. When we work through both strength and softness, we begin to understand that power is not rigid. It is responsive. The practice asks us to rise to challenge while staying adaptable, allowing us to refine how we act, not just what we do.
CHAKRA VINYASA
PRACTICAL PHILOSOPHY MODERATE VINYASA
- 10 Chromatic Yoga practices with founder Matt Giordano
- Inspirational and Practical Philosophy
- Chakra Based Practices
- ‘Physically Invigorating Yet Accessible
- Breath Work for Energetic Realignment
- Meditation for Clarity, Focus, and Grounding
- Physically Well Rounded: All Postural Categories Will be Addressed
- Designed as “Your Daily Yoga” 60 Minute Classes
- Non-dogmatic, Anatomy informed Alignment
- The Perfect Blend of Knowledge and Practice
- Chromatic Slow Flow Style: Moderate Vinyasa Pacing Infused with Technique and Non-dogmatic Alignment
- 10 Continuing Education hours with Yoga Alliance and American Yoga Council
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- Step-by-Step instruction for increased accessibility
- Sweat, Breath, Strengthen, Stretch and Feel Amazing!
SOLAR PLEXUS IN PLANK
Plank becomes a direct expression of awakening solar plexus strength when we stop avoiding the work. Matt says many of us lift the hips to make the posture easier, but instead we lower the pelvis slightly, tuck the tail, and draw the ribs back. The spine rounds gently, similar to cat pose, activating the deep core rather than relying on the hip flexors. As we lean forward and grip the ground, the upper back broadens and the body becomes more integrated. To balance this effort, we move into Bird Dog, by lifting opposite arm and leg. This creates an opposing pattern where extension meets control. It is not just about holding Plank. It is about understanding how the core stabilizes movement in multiple directions. Strength builds when we explore both contraction and expansion with intention.
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AWAKENING SOLAR PLEXUS STRENGTH: FINDING TWO SIDES OF THE CORE
PLANK DRILL
Matt progresses this work through forearm plank variations. We begin on the knees, pulling the ribs back and keeping the hips low without lifting the pelvis. Once that connection is clear, we straighten the legs while maintaining the same shape. The tailbone stays tucked, the glutes engage, and the core draws inward. The elbows press down as the shoulder blades move apart. Each repetition reinforces awakening solar plexus strength by teaching us how to hold integrity under load. After each effort, we soften and release the abdomen, allowing the opposite action to restore balance. It is important for us to remember that strength is not built through constant tension alone. It develops through the ability to engage fully and then release with awareness.
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BOAT POSE WITH FLEXED SPINE
In boat pose, Matt shifts the familiar shape. Instead of lifting the chest high, we move into a flexed spine, drawing the knees tightly toward the chest. The arms wrap in to support the legs, or we hold the shape without assistance, extending the legs only as far as we can maintain connection. This creates a compact, rounded position where the core works deeply. The image becomes one of drawing inward rather than reaching outward. This contraction is what builds awakening solar plexus strength from within. To balance the intensity, we move into Reverse Tabletop, opening the front body and softening the abdomen. These opposing shapes remind us that strength and openness belong together. The body learns not only how to contract with purpose, but also how to release without losing control.
300 HOUR ONLINE TEACHER TRAINING
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- Learn anatomy, biomechanics, asana techniques
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BALANCING FIRE WITH AWARENESS
Balancing fire with awareness is what ultimately defines awakening solar plexus strength. Matt reminds us that this chakra represents our right to act, but also our responsibility to reflect on how we use that power. When we practice these core drills, we are not just building strength. We are learning how to navigate between effort and ease, between humility and assertion. The bowing forward of the body reflects humility, while lifting and engaging reflects strength. Together, they create a balanced centre. The solar plexus is not about dominating or shrinking. It is about responding appropriately to what is needed. As we refine these actions in our practice, we begin to carry that clarity into our lives, stepping into our power with intention, steadiness, and awareness.
Take the opportunity to step deeper into the awareness and totality of your practice by registering for Matt’s current online immersion Chakra Vinyasa.
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Article by Trish Curling
Video Extracted From: Chakra Vinyasa Immersion
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