When you are feeling stuck, hip and heart-opening yoga poses will help move stagnant energy and get new ideas flowing.

Sometimes, the best way to get new ideas flowing is to get your blood flowing. As I sat down to write this blog post, I envisioned the words pouring out of me onto my computer screen. But as I placed my fingers on the keyboard, my mind seemed to draw a blank. It may have been a case of writer’s block, or a lack of caffeine, or the fact that I had been sitting in a stagnant spot for multiple hours. In any case, my approach wasn’t working and I knew I had to try a new tactic to get inspired.

When we have a lot on our to-do list, are facing a deadline or are overwhelmed and unsure where to start, the last thing that seems logical is to take a break. However, taking a designated amount of time to rest, get outside or move has been shown to actually help with productivity — it’s even recommended by Cornell University.

Breathwork and yoga can be a particularly helpful combination to get rid of blockages, increase energy, discover a new perspective, and spark creativity. In particular, I find that releasing tension in the hips and opening the heart can create more space for energy (prana) to flow through.

Energetically, creativity is often associated with the sacral chakra (svadhistana). This chakra sits about two inches below the belly button and can be activated by hip-opening poses. As we move up past the belly, we reach the heart chakra. In sanskrit, the heart chakra is called anahata, which translates to “unstuck.” It serves as the bridge between our subconscious and superconscious and is a powerful center for aligning with our purpose. This chakra sits in the center of the chest and can be activated by heart-opening poses.

In this yoga video, I share a 20-minute sequence that focuses on creating space in the hips and activating the heart to boost creativity. Make sure you are cleared by a doctor before exercising.

As you hold each pose, make sure to breathe deep, using your diaphragm to fully fill up and release air. Deep breathing brings fresh oxygen to the muscles and brain, while also moving the energy around in the body.

I hope this sequence helps you feel refreshed and re-energized. Share it with your colleagues before a brainstorming session or come back to it during your next break and see what new ideas spring to life.

With gratitude,
Shannon