Asana is one of the eight limbs of Yoga, often described as poses or postures. When people refer to Yoga this is often what they mean.
Asana can be more than physical movements. It can be about learning how to accept who you are. It can be about listening to the subtle cues of the body so as to not force or strain the body. It allows you to be honest and have compassion for yourself. It is a means to clean and up-keep the body, creating opening and release for a healthy lifestyle.
Asana may at times be challenging and is more than building strength and flexibility – while these naturally occur with practice. There may be particular days when you move into a pose, and a rush of anger, frustration, or fear comes over you. THIS IS NORMAL and expected, as the poses are designed to create release and allow you to move on from past or current difficulties in a safe, structured way. It is important on these days that you do not get up and leave practice. It may be appropriate to back off or rest in child’s pose (balasana) until you feel ready to join back with the group.
While asana may be challenging it also sets the stage to experience joy, peace, and love.
