The hips are the center of our body, where everything attaches directly of indirectly, meaning the position of the hips will effect every other part. I align yoga poses with an understanding of the traditional lineages but also updated for women but also the modern stressed out householders we are. Suffice to say, I like to utilize asana as a way to develop strength and proprioception in more neutral pelvic/spinal relationships to build better overall posture.
So just as Warrior 1 seeks to face both hips forward, Warrior 2 invites both hips to face outward (from the front foot). In both poses the hips want to adapt to the foundation of the feet and to be somewhere in the middle of facing forward and facing out to the side. Bringing them to reach “the alignment” in either WILL build more internal strength in the ROM of your healthy range. That is when you are within your edge and not beyond one (or more) of them.
The energy of the pose, what can be found beyond the body alignment is that of our warrior spirit. In the second pose it is taking a reflection back to all the past battles and how they have shaped you today. Understanding the journey thus far, feeling your strength and wisdom in the present is what will guide you to the next version of yourself with more clarity and ease.
