Listen to your Body. You will hear that in class, over and over said by me, and all of your tutors. But how can we listen to our bodies, if we are finding it hard to listen to our inner voice, our gut instinct, our pain signals and even our friends and families? My Body (like yours) has a lot of stories.
Attending yoga class was at first about re-finding flexibility after long workday hours sitting at a desk with a stiff spine, achy muscles and 'deadline-tensions'. Next, Yoga became a way to express my growing sense of physical prowess. When would I achieve that perfect Bhujangasana (Cobra) How could I sit in Gomukhasana (Seat of Cow) without feeling uncomfortable pelvis and hip restriction. Proud of how my body adapted to the discipline of yoga, I became devoted to weekly class. Next came "Svadhyaya": Study ( which literally means ‘one’s own reading’ or ‘self-study’, the 4th of the Niyamas of Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras). I read plenty of books, watched Videos (Barbara Currie was my 1st) and with a dedicated spirit, unrolled my mat at home. Later came The Connection. The Union of Body-Mind-Breath-Emotions. Connectivity deepened as the practice grew. Awareness arose within the flow of the Prana. A space for spirituality opened. My body-mind Stopped Trying TOO hard. By cultivating Svadhyaya during asana practice, a deeper understanding of yourSelf may occur over time, because by exploring your reactions to what arises, you can use that deeper understanding when uncomfortable situations occur off the mat. It's a great way to observe your natural tendencies. Do you always stay in a comfort zone? Do you tend to Push yourself Too Hard? My love of Yoga doesn't mean I 'disconnect' from everyBODY else, regular class and home practice equals self-discipline, dedication, commitment, and intention. It is a deliberate act of Self-Care. Yoga IS a Science of Living. And because it's intrinsically linked with Your Body and Your Own Life, Your own Yoga Practice (just like mine) is constantly evolving and continuously expanding. Through Teaching, I rediscovered my own creativity. Exploring variations to classical postures gives me a buzz. I'm excited to bring you a modern Pilates exercise appropriate to the next stage of your learning. I am also introducing you to Somatic Movement with slow sensory care. Just as I continue to be inspired by my own teachers, why not Be Creative on your Own Mat? Explore a well-known pose, and then change your arm / foot / leg position? What happens? Have some fun. Go Explore. Feelgood. See You On The Mat! www.ekhartyoga.com/blog/the-niyamas-svadhyaya-or-self-study
2 Comments
Carol Holland
7/1/2024 04:52:56 pm
Dear
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