One of the sweetest gifts of yoga is learning to be centered. Sure, most of us have our moments of calm relaxation, perhaps after a yoga class or on a sunny, lazy weekend afternoon. In these moments we can truly connect with this sense of centeredness. But the moment we step off of the yoga mat into the long line at Whole Foods with our arms filled with groceries, our heavy computer bags and the cell phone ringing, we begin to lose our cool! Our temper heats up, our minds race and we become physically imbalanced. One of the principal goals of yoga is to attain equanimity of mind that is not dependent on external circumstances. And the best poses to develop that sense of center are balancing poses.
These poses bring us into the present moment, front and center, as we explore how to make ourselves more stable, grounded and connected. As we practice a balancing pose, there is little time to focus on our to-do lists (or our to-don't list!). The sense of immediacy and urgency in balancing poses keeps our senses alert and on-task while we connect with our bodies seeking our solutions in stability and stillness. Similar to the unpredictable rhythm of our lives, balancing poses are full of sudden bumps and obstacles. Through regular practice of balancing poses, we can learn to trust our abilities in uncomfortable situations. We learn to appreciate even brief moments of stillness for all that they have to offer. We learn to work with the tools we have, and to release our need to control when things do not go as planned! The more we practice -- the more we can experience the benefits.
Throughout the month in all our classes we will seek to dig deep, plant roots, and stand in harmony with the world within and around us as we explore ways to stay balanced in even the most challenging of situations.
Benefits of Balancing Poses:
Balancing poses help us cultivate a lightness, power, and a sense of connection to the earth. These poses develop muscle tone and increase coordination, concentration, and focus. By practicing outer balance you can cultivate your inner silence.
