Shoelace Pose
Anatomical Aspect
The Shoelace pose is both energizing & relaxing. Our thigh bones roll inward in internal rotation providing compression in the hip joint. We get a stretch into the ankles, hips and thighs. If we engage the arms it will also stretch into the shoulders, armpits and triceps. The optional forward fold offers a decompression of the spine and stimulates our intestines benefiting our digestion.
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Energetic Aspect
Yin Yoga
In a Yin practice, energetically we target the Gall Bladder channel. This channel is relating to the wood element and the emotion of anger. The Urinary-Bladder channel relates to the Water element and fear-based emotions. It encourages better circulation overall while calming the mind of any frustrations.
Yang Yoga
In a Yang traditional it is known as Cow face pose or Gomukhasana as the shape is said to represent the face of a cow.
Mythological Aspect
Large parts of the East regard cows as a symbol of prosperity and peace, holding a connection to earth energy. In some of the oldest yogic texts, the earth-goddess Prithvi was born in the form of a cow. Other stories in Hindu mythology include Kamadhenu, the name of the sacred cow, who is regarded as the source of all prosperity, the ‘miraculous cow of plenty’.
The cow is essentially seen as a sacred & humble being.
Gomukhasana or Shoelace teaches us to be humble within our practice. To meet the body exactly where it is in the moment & being true to yourself. Being honest may mean using props or variations & doing what feels right instead of what we think looks aesthetically pleasing. It means listening to the body & cultivating a loving practice.
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