Yoga Studios Shouldn’t Have Mirrors.
And, for that matter, you probably shouldn’t compulsively make videos of yourself doing yoga. I will admit that when I edit my videos each week, I pay attention to some of the good stuff (alignment, posture, tension) but mostly notice the stuff that shouldn’t matter (my bald spot, my love handles, or that I should probably whiten my teeth).
Who among us hasn’t watched an exceptionally good-looking person do fancy yoga poses on social media and thought that was the goal? Six pack abs and effortless (looking) handstands on mountaintops at sunset? Sign me up!
Yoga is Experiential
When we practice yoga, we go inside. A mirror can show you whether your posture looks right, but it can’t tell you what it feels like: it can’t see if your feet are activated, if your shoulders are relaxed, if your drishti (gaze) is soft and concentrated. You have to experience these things from the inside out. The fancy word is “interoception.”
In this week’s practice, I’ll encourage you to close your eyes as much as is comfortable — maybe a little more than is “comfortable” — and look for those alignment cues. Investigate whether your knee is collapsing or your shoulders are up by your ears.
Feel your breath and let it be your teacher. It’s a much better one than I’ll ever be.
Vinyasa Practice
Meditation Practice
Nothing that appears in this blog or on this website is intended to treat or diagnose any disorder, physical or otherwise. Always consult a physician before beginning any exercise program.