When I did my Yoga Teacher Training course, with the Devon School of Yoga, one of the teachers gave us a handout that I really loved-So I would like to share it with you :
YOUR PRACTICE / OUR PRACTICE There are many different schools of yoga without one right way. Every teacher, every system has it’s own variations on postures, pace, style and intensity. As a system dedicated to flexibility in body, mind and spirit, yoga can accomodate and celebrate the many diverse approaches that have developed over past centuries. Experiment for yourself with different approaches and find the style that fits best with your needs at a given time of your life.
The right yoga system for you is the one that enhances your vitality and flexibility. Commit yourself to the ‘law of least effort’. Believing/trusting that natures intelligence functions with effortless ease. Look at the ebb and flow of the tides, the blossoming of the flower, the movement of the stars.
Do you observe nature straining ? There is nature and balance in the natural world. Going with your natural flow within your practice will aid you in life, creating an environment where instead of feeling ‘wasted’ and in conflict, you will feel a sense of freedom and creativity will flourish, and there will be a personal growth and healing. If we have to force an outcome, surely that situation is not ripe or ready to manifest. Stop struggling ! Stop straining!
CHECK OUT YOUR AJNA CHAKRA
Ajna chakra, otherwise known as ‘the third eye’ in yogic traditions, is located between your eyebrows. It is the sixth chakra, and when unblocked aids intuition, concentration and projects the true self. It is the area where one gains knowledge, without reason. When this chakra is blocked confusion, depression and rejection of spirituality is experienced. To master this chakra is to master the duality of the mind – the positive and the negative aspects of our thoughts, the dark and the light – which is why it’s represented by two petals. Yoga postures where one rests the brow space (forehead) encourages mental equilibrium. The ajna chakra is associated with the pituitary gland, which is also made up of two parts! and responsible for growth production, thyroid function and much much more. The Pituitary Gland works closely with the Hypothalamus Gland (Our ‘master gland’).
‘The breath is one of the best means to observing yourself in your yoga practice. How does the body respond to your breath, and how does your breath respond to the movement of your body ? The breath should be your teacher.’ ‘The body can only gradually receive a posture. It is by proceeding gently, that we feel light and able to breathe easily in the position, and therefore, really benefit from it’
T.K.V Desikachar
Being a fan of rugby, and spending many a hour, in wind, rain and much mud, watching both my sons playing for the Cornish Pirates, I enjoyed reading this article :
‘Will the English stop at nothing to get one over their bitter rivals ? Now, the nations rugby team have taken up yoga in a bid to grind out better results, against the likes of Wales and France. Fresh from the high-altitude training camp in South Africa, the rugby tough guys have kept on their toes by getting experts to put them through yoga sessions at their Loughborough University training base – and its gone down well with the team. “I’m always up for something different,” said hooker or half-back Rob Burrow. “I’ve never really done yoga before. Its totally different to what I’m used to but it was good. You really feel the benefits of all the stretching, especially a couple of days after a game.” ‘You can end up missing peace your entire life if you believe your mis-informed mind’