Why I love Reclined Hero’s Pose

I know Supta Virasana may not be everyone’s idea of a heroic pose, but it is to me. Over the years, practicing it has become like spending time with a dear, old friend - someone I trust enough to be fully vulnerable and open.
 
The process begins the moment my props are set up. Getting into Supta Virasana can’t be rushed. I kneel on the mat to adjust my shins, ankles, and feet, and carefully sit back between my heels.
 
With my pelvis heavy and well-grounded, I lie back gingerly, staying quiet and attentive to place myself well. There’s a lot to consider. I’m mindful to lengthen, not shorten, my lower back; to keep my thighbones down, rather than lift them up and uproot my foundation; to resist the tendency to arch my mid-back and instead, soften my lower ribs.

Keeping all this in mind, I slowly recline, endeavoring to stay quiet and humble.
 
As I arrive in the pose, I settle into the the familiarity of the form and receive the support beneath me. The constriction in my belly and throat begins to soften and release. I yield to the downward pull of gravity and let go into the gentle, comforting rhythm of my breath, savouring the pure presence that comes when the mind and body finally surrender their holding.
 
I emerge renewed and forever grateful for this shape that never fails to restore my serenity and affirm the possibility that I can be the hero of my own life.