Saturday, January 16, 2010

The Perfect Pose?

If you've ever read a yoga magazine, you have probably found yourself shocked and amazed (and maybe even a little intimidated) by some of the pictures of yoga poses/asanas.

This week I have started reading "Yoga for Wellness" by Gary Kraftsow, and he states "we should consider the practice of asanas as a study in movement potential, not in the attainment of perfect form." So the next time you are feeling that you are doing a pose "wrong", allow yourself to consider that you are practicing within the limits of your body on a particular day. I have been taught as an instructor to provide details and modifications for students about the postures. This cuing really serves 2 purposes: one, to help a student protect joints etc and reduce the risk of injury, and two, to help students achieve maximum benefit from a pose (working some muscles that perhaps are typically underused for example).

Whether you are a beginner or a student of yoga that has been practicing for years, it is important to remember that we all have a beautiful and uniquely made anatomy. When we can approach our bodies with lovingkindness and acceptance of our present condition, we deepen our practice and our own self awareness....and THAT is yoga!

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