Opposition is necessary to create balance… front/back, right/left, hot/cold, top/bottom… you get the point.  In between it all is the ‘middle’ where there is the perfect combination of both, the  ’happy medium’.   Same holds true for Yoga.  When I think about the postures that I want to present in each class, it is kinda like a ping-pong game. When we do a pose, I immediately think about a reverse posture to create balance.  Back and forth.  However, today, something hit me like a ton of bricks… I failed to emphasize this with my fellow Yogis.  Before classes begin, I witness the Yogis doing the exact same stretches every time. For example, one person loves to hang out in Forward Fold while another is forever doing Chest Expansions.  But what about the rest of the body?  They are unknowingly setting themselves up for an imbalance, especially if they are doing the same poses at home.  If we are always hanging out in Forward Folds, take a moment to enjoy Camel pose. If Chest Expansion is a favorite, then make sure that we hit Cat or Half Eagle.  Think about what part of the body we are stretching.  Now think about what is the exact opposite, and how we can open that area as well. 

Same holds true in our daily life.  Do we tend to sit the same way each time?  Right foot always in front or crossed over the left leg, or vice versa?  Over time, this will take a toll on the body.  Maybe creating discomfort in the back, neck or shoulders.  For the gentlemen, do we always place our wallet in the same back pocket?   If we always place it in the right pocket, switch it to the left for a bit or even alternate.  Better yet, carry it in the front pocket. 

Think about a Compass… North, South, East, West…. imagine our bodies in the center. We need to be aware of how we move, and habits that we fall into that keep us moving in only one direction.  If we are always folding to the north, then we need movement to the south to bring us back to the center.  Likewise, east to west.  To find balance means to find the point that all sides are equal… the center.

The best part of a truffle is the gooey yummy center.  Best seat is center-stage.  My daughter thinks she is the center of the universe.  The center is a good place to be….   We just have to find out which direction we need to go to find our way back to the middle.

Until next time, Stay Centered…

Namaste’

Carrisa

Each Yogi assumes responsibility for their own practice. Yoga Untwisted will not be held responsible for any injury obtained while practicing these postures. Always honor your ability & limitations.