N A M A S T E
A SANA basics
The Sanskrit word asana a calm and more peaceful literally means, “seat.” The way. The response to the seat is what connects our challenges of the poses is a physical bodies to the reflection of your potential earth. Asana is one of the reactions to challenges in most popular forms of yoga daily life. When in a tough practiced today and many pose, just as in a stressful are brought to the mat life situation, we have the for the physical benefits it choice to hold our breath offers: increased and grit our teeth strength; flexibility; to power through In Sanskrit, and overall toning it, or to practice the word of the body. While having a steady asana is often breath and face ASANA described as a the challenge means “physical practice,” with greater ease “SEAT” which it is, it is also and inner peace. deeply spiritual The following standing and affects the mental, poses are taken from emotional, and subtle/ Basics Sequence 1 in my energetic body just as book World Peace Yoga. much as the physical one. This sequence provides The poses may be quite a foundation for building difficult at times and that a personal yoga asana is intentional. The yoga practice that starts with postures are training us to standing poses. handle difficult situations in
Mountain
Extended Triangle
Warrior II
Cultivating a Beginner’s Mind
Since it is not necessary to be an expert yogi to know what feels pleasant to you, consider including some warm-up movements prior to practicing these standing poses. For example, what do you naturally do when first waking up in the morning? Perhaps a big yawn, while reaching your arms over your head might be a great way to kick off a sequence. Let your intuition be your guide when warming up the body for asana practice. Warming up the body assists with creating space in the joints and increases circulation and the flow of energy in your body. Some basic exercises I like, which also achieve these goals, include: circling the ankles; pointing and flexing the feet; bending and extending the knees; alternately
Wide-Leg Standing Forward Bend
34
|
JULY - AUGUST 2020
Twisted Triangle