Yoga: A Gem for Women: Classification, Table and Course of Study
Geeta now gives a very "practical method of training oneself in asana, pranayama, and dhyana where one learns to discipline the body and the mind to acquire control over oneself."
She writes, "the learning and practicing of any subject require a method; so also with Yoga. The physical body, the sense organs, the emotions, the mind, and the consciousness are trained slowly and gradually in Astanga Yoga."
Geeta has laid out very concisely a classification of asana that is based on the anatomical structure of the body the effects they will have on the body and mind.
She writes, "In each section, as one progresses, one gains physical firmness, the patience to persevere and sustain the practice; one disciplines the mind, develops endurance, will power, and pin-pointed attention to experience divinity within."
Geeta has broken the asana and pranayama into XI sections and then also given a course study that should take at a minimum three years, working through the elementary, intermediate and advanced courses. Each course is even broken down into daily practices.
The different groups of asanas develop firmness, fitness, pliability, strength, poise, balance, alertness, and mental ease. Geeta also gives a section for pregnant women. It is very well laid out and perfect for someone at any level to use as the practice of yoga cannot be bound by time, but based on the practitioners approach on the subject and intensity of efforts.
The next section moves into technical details of each of the asanas. It may take time and repeated effort to master the asana, but Geeta tells us that, "gradually the body will become habituated to carry them out naturally."
Namaste.
Pamela Nelson
Certified Iyengar Yoga Instructor
No comments:
Post a Comment
Note: Only a member of this blog may post a comment.