Feminine energy is very powerful and has many different forms. Just like mother earth which has the capacity to nourish and to support life while holding the power of destruction in forms of volcanoes and earthquakes, feminine energy is the ultimate expression of love and compassion while it is also wild and fiery.
Kali is the raw power of feminine energy and an emblem of darkness in the yogic tradition. She is depicted as a goddess at her most enraged form, yet her destructive power is a force that, when harnessed, can bring us into a deeper understanding of all aspects of life, both light and dark.
According to the tantric tradition, when a man keeps his power strong and remains non-reactive toward a woman’s expression in her chaotic and fiery Kali energy, his trust in her will connect the woman back into her most radiating love at her heart. The essence of this dynamic is that the creative forces only come in combination from the two.
Have you been in touch with your Kali energy? On our yoga mats, this means facing fear, going deep, and getting playful. Here are some yogic practices for connecting with that power:
Kali Pose
1. Spread your feet wide and at a slight outward angle
2. Sit into a deep, low squat, keeping your back straight
3. Bring your arms up parallel with your shoulders then bend at the elbow to create a goal post shape
4. Bend your wrists so your palms are facing up to the sky
Garland Pose
1. Start in mountain pose, with your feet a little wider than hip-width apart and squat
2. Open your thighs, lean your torso forward and press your elbows against the knees
3. Bring your palms together and stay in garland pose for 30 seconds to 1 minute
Lion’s Breath
1. In Kali Pose or Garland Pose
2. Spread your fingers as wide as possible or on the floor
3. Inhale through your nose
4. Open your mouth wide, stick out your tongue, and stretch it down toward your chin
5. Exhale forcefully, carrying the breath across the root of your tongue
6. While exhaling, make a “ha” sound that comes from deep within your abdomen
7. Breathe normally for a few moments8. Repeat up to 7 times
8. Finish by breathing deeply for 1 to 3 minutes