If your yoga practice isn't about paying attention then, classically, it can't be called "practice," or abhayasa. True practice is about the effort to be mindful. Getting "good" at yoga isn't just about physical accomplishment, it's about getting your attention in present time. As we grow in yoga, our post-modern narcissistic search for personal salvation yields to a greater and more subtle awareness of the One, of boundlessness. If one sentient particle is suffering, we all are, So-aham. Our effort is now directed towards evolution and the end of suffering. What are you doing in your community to make the world a better place?
When the body and the mind are linked through breath, awareness settles in the present, the only reality and the only place we can ever really be! That's why graceful, flowing asana practice is so satisfying and rewarding - it gives us such a wonderful sense of accomplishment. Because we have to focus to do it, we employ vinyasa in the process. That is, we "put down" our attention and place it carefully in the present moment. That's all.
Just an outstanding class. Excellent for anyone wishing to learn or teach the detailed alignment of the Primary Series. Finish the class. There is a formal ending after the long quiet of savasana.
This class consists of one hour and fifteen minutes of practice and fifteen minutes of rest with a closing Om. The emphasis is primarily on flow with general instructions for alignment and some detailed explanation for postures like Virasana (Hero Pose), Janu Sirasana (Single Leg Forward Bend), Marichyasana A, Bekasana (Frog) and Urdhva Dhanurasana (Upward Bow).
Another great class. Find balance between sthira (steady, hard) and sukha (comfortable, soft). This very traditional class flows pretty smoothly through the Primary Series. Lots of compassion and patience with the added benefit of various modifications. Not for never-ever beginners, but not for advanced primary series practice either. For people still learning the Primary Series who have developed some strength and knowledge of the form. Finish the class. There is a formal ending after the long quiet of savasana.
A light and lively moderate level class for advanced beginner/intermediate. The class begins with sun salutations, standing postures and follows with some forward and backward bending poses. No inversions. Mixed primary/second series from the astanga tradition. Long savasana. Great for after work!
PROPS: None
LEVEL: Intermediate
LENGTH: Approximately 1 hour
STYLE: Astanga
