Top 10 Autumn Equinox Yoga Poses And Its Amazing Benefits

The autumn equinox, also known as the fall equinox, is a significant time of the year when the sun crosses the celestial equator, resulting in equal day and night lengths. As nature transitions into a new season, it presents an opportunity for us to align our bodies and minds with the changing energies.

One way to embrace this transition and reap its amazing benefits is through practicing specific yoga poses that are well-suited for the autumn equinox. These poses not only help us connect with the essence of this time but also offer various physical, mental, and emotional advantages. In this article, we will explore some of these yoga poses and delve into the incredible benefits they bring along during this season of transformation.

Benefits of Autumn Equinox Yoga Poses.

Here are some of the key benefits of practicing these poses during the autumn equinox:

1. Grounding and stability.

As the autumn equinox signifies the transition from the light-filled days of summer to the darker and colder months of winter, practicing grounding yoga poses helps us establish a sense of stability. Poses like Tadasana (Mountain Pose) and Vrksasana (Tree Pose) help us root down into the earth, encouraging a strong foundation both physically and mentally.

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2. Balancing energy.

During the equinox, there is an equal amount of daylight and darkness. Similarly, yoga poses that promote balance, such as Vrikshasana (Tree Pose) and Garudasana (Eagle Pose), help align our energy channels and create a sense of equilibrium within ourselves. This balance can extend beyond our yoga practice, helping us find harmony in our daily lives.

3. Letting go and releasing.

Autumn is a season of shedding and letting go, just like the leaves falling from the trees. Yoga poses that involve twists and forward folds, such as Ardha Matsyendrasana (Seated Spinal Twist) and Uttanasana (Forward Fold), can assist in releasing physical and emotional tension. By embracing these poses, we can cultivate a sense of surrender and allow ourselves to let go of what no longer serves us.

4. Immune system boost.

With the arrival of autumn, our immune systems often need an extra boost to stay healthy during the colder months. Yoga poses that stimulate the lymphatic system, such as inversions and gentle backbends, help enhance our body’s natural detoxification process. Poses like Salamba Sarvangasana (Supported Shoulderstand) and Setu Bandha Sarvangasana (Bridge Pose) can improve circulation, strengthen the immune system, and promote overall well-being.

5. Mindfulness and gratitude.

The autumn equinox reminds us to appreciate the abundance in our lives and express gratitude for the harvest season. Yoga poses like Savasana (Corpse Pose) and seated meditation allow us to cultivate mindfulness and connect with a sense of gratitude. By taking this time to reflect and express thanks, we can foster a positive mindset and embrace the changing seasons with a sense of joy and appreciation.

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10 Autumn Equinox Yoga Poses with steps.

1. Mountain Pose (Tadasana).

Begin by standing tall with your feet hip-width apart. Root down through your feet, lengthen your spine, and relax your shoulders. Engage your core and breathe deeply, imagining yourself as a majestic mountain, grounded and stable. Hold for 5-10 breaths.

2. Tree Pose (Vrksasana).

Shift your weight onto your left foot and bring your right foot to rest on your left inner thigh or calf. Find your balance and bring your hands to your heart center, palms pressed together. Focus your gaze on a fixed point in front of you. Take deep breaths and imagine yourself as a strong, rooted tree, swaying gently in the autumn breeze. Hold for 5-10 breaths before switching sides.

3. Warrior II (Virabhadrasana II).

Step your left foot back, keeping it parallel to the front of the mat. Bend your right knee, ensuring it aligns with your ankle. Extend your arms out to the sides, parallel to the ground, with your gaze over your front fingertips. Sink into the pose, feeling the strength and determination of a warrior ready to embrace the changing season. Hold for 5-10 breaths before switching sides.

4. Garland Pose (Malasana).

From a standing position, bring your feet wider than hip-width apart, toes pointing slightly outwards. Lower your hips towards the ground, coming into a deep squat. Bring your hands to prayer position at your heart, using your elbows to gently press your knees apart. Breathe deeply and feel the grounding energy of this pose, connecting you to the earth. Hold for 5-10 breaths.

5. Forward Fold (Uttanasana).

Stand with your feet hip-width apart and hinge forward from your hips, allowing your hands to reach towards the ground or your shins. Bend your knees if needed to release tension in the hamstrings. Surrender to the pose, letting go of any stress or worries, and allowing the energy of the season to flow through you. Hold for 5-10 breaths.

6. Bridge Pose (Setu Bandha Sarvangasana).

Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet hip-width apart. Press your feet into the mat, engage your glutes, and lift your hips towards the ceiling. Interlace your fingers beneath your lower back and gently roll your shoulders underneath you. Breathe deeply, feeling the opening in your chest and the stability beneath you. Hold for 5-10 breaths.

7. Half Lord of the Fishes Pose (Ardha Matsyendrasana).

Sit with your legs extended in front of you. Bend your right knee and cross it over your left leg, placing your foot on the ground next to your left thigh. Twist your torso towards the right, placing your left elbow on the outside of your right knee. Inhale to lengthen your spine, and exhale to deepen the twist. Feel the detoxifying and purifying effects of this pose, aiding in the seasonal transition. Hold for 5-10 breaths before switching sides.

8. Supported Shoulderstand (Salamba Sarvangasana).

Lie on your back and lift your legs towards the ceiling. Support your lower back with your hands, and, if comfortable, bring your elbows closer together for additional stability. Breathe deeply, allowing the rejuvenating energy to flow throughout your body. This pose stimulates the thyroid gland, promoting balance and harmony within. Hold for 5-10 breaths.

9. Child’s Pose (Balasana).

Begin by kneeling on the mat and sit back on your heels. Slowly lower your torso towards the ground, extending your arms in front of you. Rest your forehead on the mat and surrender to the pose, letting go of any tension or stress. Breathe deeply, connecting with the earth beneath you, and finding stillness within. Hold for 5-10 breaths.

10. Corpse Pose (Savasana).

Lie on your back with your legs extended and your arms relaxed by your sides, palms facing up. Close your eyes and allow your body to completely relax. Focus on your breath, inhaling deeply and exhaling fully. Embrace the stillness and serenity of this pose, allowing the energy of the season to integrate into your being. Remain in this pose for as long as desired, at least 5-10 minutes.

Also Read: Lakshmi Mudra: Benefits, Side Effects, How To Do and Precautions

Frequently Asked Questions.

Bottom Line.

Practicing yoga poses specially designed for the autumn equinox can be a beneficial and invigorating experience for both the mind and body. These poses help us align ourselves with the changing seasons, fostering a sense of balance, grounding, and gratitude. Whether it’s embracing the energy of the harvest, finding stability in the midst of change, or cultivating a sense of inner peace and reflection, autumn equinox yoga poses offer a holistic approach to connecting with ourselves and the world around us.

By incorporating these poses into our practice, we can find a deeper sense of harmony and well-being as we transition into the autumn season. So, let us embrace the beauty of fall and embark on this journey of self-discovery and renewal through the practice of autumn equinox yoga poses.