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Have you ever noticed an emotional response during a yoga class? You’re not alone. Many people experience unexpected emotions while stretching, especially while practicing hip openers. This is because the hips are often considered a storage site for deep-seated emotions, particularly those linked to stress and trauma.
The Connection Between the Hips and Emotions
In holistic wellness the hips are seen as a reservoir for unprocessed emotions. We tend to hold on to feelings like anger in our hips. When we experience trauma our nervous system can go into survival mode, holding onto tension in different areas of the body. The hips, are a major joint that supports movement and stability, often take on much of this burden.
Many energy healing practices also associate the hips with the sacral chakra also known as the center of creativity, emotions, and relationships. When this chakra is blocked, we may feel stuck, dull, or overwhelmed.
How Hip Openers Help Release Trauma
Hip-opening stretches work by softening and releasing tension in the hip muscles. By physically creating space in the hips, we allow trapped emotions to resurface, which gives us a chance to process them.
It’s common to feel a surge of emotion. You may start tearing up or feel an unexpected sense of relief. This is a good sign that your body can release what it has been holding onto.
Best Hip-Opening Poses for Emotional Release
1. Pigeon Pose (Eka Pada Rajakapotasana)
- Stretches the hip flexors and outer hips deeply
- Encourages emotional surrender and softening
2. Butterfly Pose (Baddha Konasana)
- Opens the inner thighs and groin
- Helps with grounding and calming the nervous system
3. Lizard Pose (Utthan Pristhasana)
- Deeply stretches the hips, hamstrings, and groin
- Releases deep-seated tension and promotes flexibility
4. Goddess Pose (Utkata Konasana)
- Strengthens and opens the hips simultaneously
- Boosts confidence and personal power
5. Frog Pose (Mandukasana)
- Targets the inner thighs and pelvis
- Encourages emotional vulnerability and release
Creating a Safe Space for Emotional Release
- Breathe deeply: Focus on deep slow breathes to support relaxation and release.
- Move gently: Don’t force it honor where your body is at. You may have days where you are more flexible or less flexible than others. My hips are always tight so I find using blocks or a blanket helpful.
- Journal afterward: Writing down the emotions that come up to help healing.
- Practice self-compassion: Allow yourself the emotions to flow freely without judgment.
- Create a relaxing space: Grab a comfortable yoga mat, incorporate healing crystals specifically for the sacral chakra such as carnelian or red jasper.