Gayatri Kriya – Yoga for All Doshas: A 30 Minute Yoga Class to Start Your Day Energized!
Gayatri Kriya is a short Yoga sequence to balance all Doshas and it’s Akhanda Yoga’s signature sequence. It’s a great sequence to practice first thing in the morning.
If you don’t know your Dosha (your Ayurvedic mind-body type), go ahead and take this quick quiz now!
Gayatri Kriya starts with a breathing exercise called Kapalabhati in Sanskrit and often translated to Skull Shining Breath and balances all Doshas. The sequence then follows with twists, side stretches, core strengthening, forward bends, hip openings and ends with another breathing exercise called Jaya Kriya and a short meditation.
I have also prepared a playlist which goes with Gayatri Kriya. You will need to have an Amazon account to access the playlist.
Caution: Do not practice Kapalabhati if you are pregnant or during your menstrual cycle.
Disclaimer: By engaging with this exercise video, you agree that you understand that physical exercise involves strenuous physical movement, and that such activity carries the risk of physical injury. You understand that it is your responsibility to judge your physical capabilities for such activities and to stop immediately if in any discomfort.
The benefits of Yoga postures included in this class:
Kapalabhati: Balances all Doshas and helps boost your immune system, improve lung capacity and vital energy. It’s also great for your skin as it is said to aid the removal of toxins from your body.
Cat & Cow: Great for warming up your spine first thing in the morning. Stretches shoulders, chest, abdominal, neck and spine and helps relieve stress.
Side Stretch: Stretches shoulders and spine. Liver and bile cleansing. It’s a great pose for balancing Pitta.
Seated Twist: Strengthens and stretches spine. Helps balance the nervous system and relieve tension in the spine. It also stimulates digestion and aids removal of toxins from internal organs. It’s a great pose for balancing Vata and Pitta.
Core Strengthening (Jyothi Kriya): The movement of going back and forward combined with a circular movement, with the use of breath stimulates and energizes the mind and body. It’s great for Kapha.
Forward Bend: Cooling pose – releases excess heat. Stretches hamstrings, shoulders and spine. Stimulates digestion and relieves constipation. It also enhances concentration and mental endurance. It’s a great pose for balancing Vata and Pitta.
Bound Angle Pose: Stretches inner thighs, groins and knees. Relives from menstrual discomfort.