Through the traditions of ancient India, the ritual basis for doing asana has been purification of the body. No doubt about it, a healthy body is the temple for a clearer mind. Now, Westerners may use the practice to strengthen and tone, but the intention of the practice is actually to prepare the body and mind for meditation, which is quite helpful in dealing with the pressures of daily life.
If your yoga practice leaves your body feeling great, but your mind is still easily distracted and disrupted, remember the tools you have been given:
Steady, deep breathing. (ujjayi breath)
Relaxed, steady gaze. (drishti)
Balance on the four corners of your feet. (padabandha)
Open your heart center. (love and compassion direct all thought)
And now a spontaneous poem. (No joke, it really, truly was.)
The yoga mat is our class
While the world tests our resolve to stay the path.
Have no fear, the mind be clear.
Your inner voice knows what to do.
These simple tools will get you through.
Be well~
Kristen
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