Intention

Setting an intention is customary when practicing yoga. As a yoga teacher I say this word at least a dozen times a week out loud. Most recently it resonated with me on a deeper note.

While practicing a particular style of class, I became aware that the flow did not match the intention of the practice. My body felt it. While I know the poses well, the instructor’s pace and order of the asanas did not reflect what I know about them. What they are meant to affect in the body. How to align the breath. These are not trivial preferences in yoga - they are physiologically informed.

Our practice is very personal. Guiding our students is a privilege. And while I appreciate individual style and creativity, it is our responsibility to ensure the poses meet the intentional experience for the breath, body and mind. It isn’t a matter of strict traditional rules, rather understanding what we are trying to do in the shape. Knowing when to move fast and when to move slow. Understanding the benefits of meeting yourself in the asana.

I left that class feeling a bit overwhelmed and nauseous. But I am grateful for the experience, gently flickering in my mind during my meditations. My intention is that I may truly honor the lesson in my dharma talks.

Until next time, namaste 🙏

KVO