{ Sthira-sukham asanam |
... posture (asana) should be steady and pleasurable
- Maharishi Patanjali
Patanjali's Yoga Sutra is a foundational Vedic text and is the philosophical basis of Yoga as it is primarily observed today. It comprised of 196 sutras or aphorisms. Maharishi (or Great Seer) Patanjali is believed to have written the Yoga Sutra at least 1,700 years ago from an even older body of oral tradition.
In chapter 2, verse 46 Patanjali speaks to yoga asana – the poses that are known as "Yoga", though Yoga asana is only part of the body of knowledge and experience that is yoga. He writes, "Sthira-sukham asanam", which when translated from Sanskrit can mean, “seated posture (asana) should be steady and pleasurable ”.
In Sanskrit the word Sthira can translate as strong, steady, stable and Sukham can translate as comfortable, pleasurable, blissful, easeful and sweet…as in a sweet happy experience.
This seemingly simple (and utterly profound) Sutra has been a fundamental truth for me in my Yoga practice. For me, finding/knowing my steadiness and sweetness in the mist of life and all its vast experiences, has been a big luscious gift.
"Sthira-sukham asanam" calls as a deep desire for myself and for what I share with with students of Yoga.
My teaching style:
is rooted in Hatha Yoga & informed by somatic & trauma informed practices.
The experience of Yoga I can offer includes asana, as well as pranayama (breathing) and guided meditation techniques.
The three foundational energies of my practice & my teaching style are the union of movement, breath & awareness.
On your mat, I intend to guide you into your own body as it moves, the breath breathing you and your awareness so you may more fully inhabit your body and your life.
My classes are all mixed level (unless otherwise notes) and everyone is welcome!
In my role as teacher I strive to:
- Give each student the tools to pay attention, listen within and actualize their individual process of self-discovery and personal transformation
- Adapt the many methods of yoga practice to the suit each students' unique conditions, needs and interests.
- Help each student move mindfully and joyfully through life.
Enjoy this site and may your yoga practice (and life) be flowing with Sukha! - tlc