S3E3: Hatha Yoga for Strength and Flexibility to Relieve Shoulder Tension - 2 Blocks, 1 Blanket

The word “Hatha Yoga” literally means “Sun moon union.” Ha is the solar, masculine, active, light quality. Tha is the lunar, feminine, passive, dark quality. Yoga brings these two opposites together to create a sense of center that is no longer pushed, pulled or swayed by the ups and downs, highs and lows of life. The Bhagavad Gita teaches that “One who is firmly established in yoga is no longer effected by the play of opposites.” How do you do that? The Yoga Sutras say “One is firmly established in practice only after attending to it for a long time, without interruption and with an attitude of devotion.” —- Today’s practice continues with this season’s theme of balancing opposites. We will use postures (asana) to move between opposites of strength and flexibility, effort and ease, being firm and being light. This helps you find your own center, and have access to both polarities as needed. The Yoga Sutras say when you have gone too far in one direction and feel stuck, overwhelmed with emotion or lost, cultivate the opposite. Find movement in some way. Find grounding and direction, even if it’s only in one seemingly insignificant act like making your bed, brushing your teeth or continually coming back to the Ujayi breath in this practice. That centering, certainty and grounding is not insignificant - it is an expression of the certainty and clarity that is always available within you. Practices such as this one remind you that you always have the resources you need within you. Some days that means more “Ha” action, engagement and structure. Some days that means more “Tha” resting, spontaneity and fluidity. Props used: 2 blocks, 1 blanket Some experience recommended ***** Download the FREE 5 step guide to set intentions for the new year at http://www.mindfulnewyear.com ***** Keywords for this episode: Hatha Yoga for strength, flexibility, balance, new year, intentions, winter, beginners, training, athletes, level 1, morning, sequence, poses, classes, men, women’s health Become a supporter of this podcast: https://anchor.fm/quietmindyoga/support https://anchor.fm