While we enjoy basking in the warm days and cuddle up in the cooler nights many of our animal and ocean friends have some very different autumn traditions.

In the north of Western Australia, the Whale Sharks gather to follow the massive coral spawn in Ningaloo Reef. Neither whale or shark, these beautiful and majestic animals are actually giant fish!

Let’s all celebrate these gentle giants with frolicking ocean yoga!
Imagine you are a giant whale shark coming up to the surface of the oceans to play in the waters of Ningaloo Reef.

Lay down in Shavasana (relaxation pose).  Taking a few slow breaths to connect with yourself for a moment.

Lift your hips and belly button into the air, grasping your hands under your back whilst keeping them pushed firmly onto the floor. Breathe slowly here and imagine you are a huge whale shark swimming to the surface of the ocean.  This is Setu Bandha (Bridge pose).

Now breathe out, lowering your belly button and hips back down to the floor as slowly and gracefully as a whale shark descends back down to the deepest oceans. Remember to roll down on your spine one vertebrae (that’s those little bones in your back!) at a time.  Nice and slow.
This will give your spine a gentle massage.

You may do Setu Bandha as many times as you feel you need to, then stretch out in Shavasana again.  Close your eyes and feel your body buzzing with energy and love.

Take a few long breaths and be proud of yourself.
Enjoy the stretches you feel in Bridge Pose, like the chest opener, your arm and upper leg muscles pulling and developing and your abdominal muscles engaging. All these feelings will help you grow and develop strength and flexibility.

Don't forget to smile a great big whale shark smile!!  :D
Rainbows!

For more wonderful yoga poses and stories by Rainbow Pammy check out Rainbow Yogis