02 September 2007

Nabhi Kriya

Nabhi refers to the nerve plexus around the navel point. This set focuses on developing the strength of the navel point. Times indicated are for advanced students. To begin practice, start with 3 to 5 minutes on the longer exercise. Together, these exercises get the abdominal area in shape quickly, and activate the power of the Third Chakra.

I find that it's helpful for me to start this kriya by aligning my body. I alternate stretching my shoulders with hips-legs: so as I slide my left shoulder up to my left ear, I alternately stretch my right hip down, and vice verse with opposite shoulder and hips. I do this a few times to help me come into perfect alignment.

POSITION 1: Alternative Leg Lifts
nabhi kriya position 1
On back, inhale and lift right leg up to 90 degrees. Exhale and lower it.

nabhi kriya position 1a
Repeat with left leg.
Continue alternative leg lifts with deep powerful breathing for 10 minutes.
This is for the lower digestive area.

POSITION 2: Leg Lifts
nabhi kriya position 2note: my left hand is holding the auto shutter trip for the camera: the posture is fingers on both hands are pointing to the ceiling, and palms face each other.

Without pause, lift both legs up to 90 degrees on inhale, and lower them on exhale. For balance and energy, have the arms stretched straight up, palms facing each other. 5 minutes. This is for the upper digestion and solar plexus.

POSITION 3: Knees to Chest
nabhi kriya position 3
Bend knees and clasp them to the chest with the arms, allowing the head to relax back. Rest in this position for 5 minutes.
This eliminates gas and relaxes the heart.

POSITION 4: Outstretch Legs
nabhi kriya position 4
Beginning in Position 3, inhale, open the arms straight out to the sides on the ground and extend the legs straight out to 60 degrees. Exhale and return to original position. Repeat and continue for 15 minutes.

POSITION 5: Leg Lift
nabhi kriya position 5
On back, bring left knee to the chest, hold it there with both hands and rapidly raise the right leg up to 90 degrees and down, inhaling up, exhaling down for 1 minute.

nabhi kriya position 5a
Switch legs and repeat for 1 minute.

Repeat the complete cycle once more. This sets the hips and lower spine.

POSITION 6: Front Bends
nabhi kriya position 6
Stand up straight, raising arms overhead, hugging ears and press fingers back so that palms face the sky or ceiling.


nabhi kriya position 6a
Exhale as you bend forward to touch the ground, keeping the arms straight and hugging ears, and inhale up, very slowly with deep breathing. On exhale, apply mulbandh. Continue at a slow pace for 2 minutes, then more rapidly for 1 minute. This is for the entire spinal fluid and the aura.

POSITION 7: Relax
nabhi kriya position 7
Totally relax or meditate for 10-15 minutes

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