India, the birthplace of yoga, has also brought the world the chillim and given its name to an entire lineage of cannabis (“indica”). Coincidence? While most yoga teachers would never dream of passing a pre-class bong around, it remains an open secret that a couple hits of marijuana in advance of a deep yoga session can open doors to incredible bliss. Try these seven pose + strain combinations to take relaxation to the next level.

Disclaimer: Always remember in yoga to listen closely to what the body is telling you. If there are prior injuries, limitations, or conditions such as pregnancy or high blood pressure, checking with a doctor is advisable before attempting a pose. Always go at your own individual pace and remember that nothing should ever be painful. If you feel dizzy – a particular concern with combining yoga with cannabis – gently lower yourself to the floor and lie on your back, eyes closed, until the spell passes. Just relax and float downstream.

Day One

‘Chakra’ is a Sanskrit word for ‘wheel’, and represents seven key energy centers in the body which, when open, promote health, happiness and balance. The chakras are all connected, and by learning to balance each of them, energy is able to flow from the root chakra upward; facilitating powerful benefits throughout the mind body and spirit.

The “root chakra” is the very first chakra, located at the base of the spine. It is associated with the color red and often visualized as a glowing sphere of red energy. The root chakra is related to basic survival needs, such as a sense of belonging and feeling grounded. When this chakra is balanced, it promotes the feeling of being safe, secure and fulfilled. Since it is related to instincts, the root chakra aids at being in touch with what situations may be beneficial vs. harmful. Blockages and negative energy in this chakra can create feelings of unease such as anxiety, tension and worry.

The Pose

Forward Bend is an effective pose for facilitating openness and balance in the root chakra. This pose gently lifts this chakra up and brings it to the highest position, temporarily allowing it to be the top chakra and promoting ease of access to the flow of energy. Begin standing with the feet hip distance apart and facing straight ahead. Take a deep breath in through the nose and sweep the arms up, then on an exhale, slowly begin to swan dive it forward. Practitioners should always remember to move at their own pace, respecting their own level of flexibility.

Hands touch toes, calves, knees or thighs, but do not allow arms to just hang. Let the head and neck hang freely, close the eyes and take another deep breath in. Visualize the root chakra, a red glowing sphere, at the base of the spine. While breathing, imagine inhaling positive healing energy into this energy center, creating balance and harmony. Hold for ten breaths or as long as is comfortable. When ready to come back up, place the fingers at the creases of the hips, and come up slowly with a flat back. Repeat two more times, or as is comfortable.

The Strain

Afghoo is a potent indica strain known for its muscle-relaxing properties, and when combined with forward bend this special strain can unlock the tight muscles around the buttocks and hips, allowing the practitioner to open the root chakra wider than ever before.

Remember that this strain can be extremely powerful, especially for new cannabis users. To avoid passing out during the forward bend, begin with a small dose (just one hit for experienced users; half a hit for new users) and try the bend. Notice how the hip muscles open right up. If one hit doesn’t lead to dizziness, try a second hit before repeating the pose.