Yoga for Core Ctrength
by Jelena Duma
March 29, 2011

The navel is the source of our nourishment when we are in the womb of our mothers. In yoga, the navel point is the center from where a human draws power and strength. In ancient texts, it states that "all yoga starts in the Navel Point". The navel point is an important center of energy transformation; it is the place where prana (the life force, upward movement) and apana (eliminating force, downward movement) meet and it is the centre where all 72000 nadis (energy channels) start from.

The navel center is the focus of many spiritual disciplines. The Taoists practice the microcosmic orbit, an internal circular breath that starts at the navel, goes down the front to the base of the spine, goes up the back to the crown and back down the front to the navel. The martial arts techniques initiate moves from the navel "don tien" or "tan tien" which is 2-3 inches below the navel. Some masters call it Hara and it is believed to be the cradle of our nature and emotions.

Scientists recently have begun to call the solar plexus the 'second brain' of the body.  Serotonin, the neurotransmitter that is been found to be lacking in many people who suffer from depression, is largely found in the intestinal tract! Our metabolism, digestion, growth, and healing all take place in the network of nerve plexus' below the waist.

The physical core system consists of our abdominals, lower back and our pelvis. By strengthening our core on the physical level, we give our body and skeleton good support. Our bones are protected, our circulation becomes better and our nervous system stronger and relaxed.

Physical Benefits of Core Strengthening:

 1.Strong Core Reduces Back Pain

Abdominals are important for protecting the back but they are just a part of what makes up the core. Weak core muscles result in a loss of the proper lumbar curve, a swayback posture and are linked to lower back pain. Stronger core muscles help maintain balanced posture and reduce strain on the spine. 

2. Strong Core Improves Athletic Performance

All powerful movements originate from the center of the body, and never from the limbs alone. Before any powerful, rapid muscle contractions can occur in the extremities, the spine must be solid and stable and the more stable the core, the most powerful the limbs can contract.

3. Strong Core Improves Postural Imbalances

Postural imbalances can lead to injuries. The biggest benefit of core strengthening is to develop the type of exercise that is essential to daily living and regular activities.

On a mental/emotional level there is an overall feeling of well being, better self-esteem, confidence, courage and a deeper ability to meditate and transform. By strengthening our navel, our willpower becomes stronger.

On a spiritual level, the energy of our navel creates fire in our belly which will awaken Kundalini that sleeps dormant at the base of our spine. When this energy is awakened, we reach our full potential, all our talents are awakened and we become finally aware.

In most types of Yoga, strengthening the navel centre is the foundation on which we build upon. By doing that, we create potent energy that can cut through the blocks and can reach our heart and higher centers. We also create a strong body that is able to contain such energy. In contrast, a weak navel reflects a fatigued body, anxious mind, and restless spirit.

In our Yoga for Core Strength workshop, we work to awaken our navel point through various yogic techniques. Please check Bliss Yoga Studio for more info on core workshop. To be sure that your navel point is awakened, you can place your finger below your belly button and see if it is pulsing. Usually after a few breathing exercises and navel yogic poses, the pulsing happens. Nabhi Kriya is a great set of poses and movements to strengthen your navel.