Kindred spirits work on the park tables outside the Taj.
These guys must have thought I was nuts, taking a photo of them as they worked, but I was struck by a component of their job that is so very much like my own. I often feel like a mechanic or construction worker of the body, observing the rules of geometry and engineering and applying them to the human form through technique.
Technique has long been hallowed ground for me. It provides the container for safety and connectivity through which my spirit may choose its expression, whether it be immersed in the parasympathetic nervous system (think restorative poses) or performing on the lazy Susanne (http://www.tajyoga.com/Gallery/Video/ondine2.htm).
Technique also creates a focus or "anchor" for the mind. I have been struck lately with how normal an experience focusing is and the varying ways to anchor when practicing. Breathing and sensation are common anchors, as are mantra and technique.
Sometimes it seems there are mystical and magical connotations associated with yoga that obfuscate the very real power of simply paying attention. Although focus can be elusive, it is a mundane experience we all share and an ability that can be improved. It is my hope, as a "technical instructor," that I am helping you to focus using technique as an anchor for the mind.
Tomorrow is the last day of the year, and there is still room in the Goodbye 2011 Workshop. Come say "hasta la vista" in fine form, Sunday, December 31, from 9:30am - noon.
Happy New Year!
Sincerely,
Theresa Elliott
Director, Taj Yoga
Co-Director, Pacific Yoga Teacher Training
0 comments:
Post a Comment