At the Leo New Moon, welcome the shining light of the Sun into your deep lion-hearted self. Heart, solar plexus, and spine are the Leo regions of the body. This is the New Moon to check in: Are you staying true to your heart? Are you aligned with your integrity? The spine is sometimes referred to as our backbone. If something is off-kilter along the spine, it will resonate elsewhere in your body. If something is off-kilter in your heart (physically or emotionally), this too will also resonate elsewhere in your system.
To launch your Leo New Moon in the best possible way, I’m offering this shape: a playful variation of your favorite back-bend. Upward dog (or a version of cobra, seal, or sphinx), practiced with your own personal creative, positive, sunshine-soul-baring expression might be just what is needed to properly invigorate and inspire you this cycle.
While out adventuring with my preschooler (who is a Leo Sun), a slanted ladder suddenly beckoned. It suggested the perfect way to get creative and joyful for this new Moon. A playground is a perfect spot to do Leo! Whether you are on your yoga mat, at a park, against the wall, at the beach, or in a studio…try taking one of these prone back-bend variation, whatever feels good in this moment. It could be an upward dog, or a cobra, or a sphinx/seal.
Just remember to engage your legs and core as needed to protect your low back and spine. And try to stay soft in your face and shoulders while using your breath to open from back of heart to chest.
After the pose, with deepened love and connection to your heart and backbone, move onward with the lion’s courage and fortitude.
Once again, thank you for a shape to practice on my own! Your beautiful boy is a perfect inspiration and reminder for this Leo pose.