Success of the Yoga Practices: DECODE

Each practitioner should get the maximum benefits of the practices such Asanas (static Postures) and Suryanamaskar (flow exercises) that involve the physical movement of the body. In this blog, let me decode with an example of the above practices .You will get good benefits if you know how to decode clearly a posture or flow. So, let us start the decoding now!!

Basics: I am sure most of you are aware of the breathing sequences, how to synchronise the body movement with respect to breathing, where to keep your awareness or your focus as you progress through the practices. It was covered separately in my earlier blog ( ref). In case, if you are not aware of the basics then I suggest to get familiarised with it before attempting to decode the postures.

Example 1: Let us take an example of prayer posture. One of the reasons for doing this posture is to elongate the spine. As known to you, spine is the main communication channel for the entire CNS (Central Nervous System). In yoga, the sushumna nadi , the main energy channel moves along the spine. So, this posture plays a crucial role in clearing the main energy channel and thereby increasing the energy level.

With the above points defined, we now know how to decode the posture. So, the intention is to stretch the spine. The condition is satisfied if one pays attention to points 2,3 & 4, that is to keep the butt closer to the heal, not dragging the palms towards the head & finally to keep the forehead closer to the floor.

A beginner may not able to satisfy all the above conditions at the initial stage. But, all he needs to do at the initial stage is to just become aware of the intention and the decoding points. Over period of time, you see the wonder of how your body gets transformed to a whole new level.

Progression Period: With the awareness on the decoding points, everyday one sees how the progression that is happening Say for example, the forehead may be few inches off the floor. One may mindfully get the head towards the floor without causing any major comfort. It is good to attempt for the progression ONLY during the exhale duration when the body stays at the relaxed phase.

Common mistakes: Many of the beginners try to keep a different intention of bringing the forehead to the floor. In that process, they drag their palms towards the head & raise the butt up the heels. By doing so, the spine no longer stays parallel to ground but inclines at an angle to ground. In this case, the main purpose of stretching of the spine is defeated.

I captured & decoded for many such practices including Asanas & flow exercises based on my experiences. I released the video to most of my clients too.