Sunday, June 13, 2010
Ashtanga, NY
J and I watched this short (41 minute) documentary on Netflix last night, and it was both fascinating and inspiring. Ashtanga was the first type of yoga I attempted, quite physically demanding and fast-moving. Being very demanding of myself, I found myself pushing too hard to 'get' the poses quickly, and became discouraged just as quickly.
In contrast, the Anusara yoga I've been practicing for the past four months honors each student's personal capabilities and limitations, and each pose is "performed as an artistic expression of the heart in which muscular stability is balanced with an expansive inner freedom." (from here). I'm much easier on myself in this class, taking each small advance and challenge as it comes. I think with yoga, as with any new endeavor, it's important to find the path that works for you personally.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
5 comments:
Melanie--I used to practice Iyengar Yoga which was very physically demanding but I loved it because it seemed like I really got a workout. I never felt that I had to compete with anyone else in the class either. The teacher always came around individually to each person and "helped" us into position. I really miss my Yoga class. Maybe when I "retire" in October I will be able to find another class that suits me. My teacher moved to Arizona years ago and has since passed on. She was the best teacher.
I took one ashtanga class and that was it. I would have needed to do this when I was a bit younger. I also saw this video. Pretty amazing.
I was wondering if you could suggest a video of yoga for an early beginner with arthritis challenges. Most of the classes I've gone to seem to move so quickly. It seems some are more interested in sweating than centering. Thanks so much for your blog...I've learned so much coming here to visit. It's being able to touch hearts with people like yourself that are having a huge impact on growing into light and love.
Thank you Melanie, for showing me the way, Yoga is the path I am choosing that will lead me to meditation...
I feel so grateful and amazed at how the universe often times chooses to answer one's question.
There is a newly opened yoga studio in my small town which I have been considering trying...after watching this I will have to be sure it is NOT Ashtanga:)
Post a Comment