During my years of teaching, I have had many students tell me “they aren't good at yoga, they aren't flexible, it's too hard”. As teachers, we have heard many reasons for why people can't do yoga. My response, to many of my students, is that, yes, there is a component of yoga that is about the postures/ asanas but a lot of the practice and the principles of yoga can be practiced “off the mat”.
My off the mat yoga can be broken down into a simple metaphor using Surya Namaskar A/Sun
Salutation A:
Salutation A:
Tadasana/Mountain Pose – This is where you set your intention for life or goals that you would like to achieve.
Inhale reach up – You start to reach for your goals, gaining strength and courage. (Or it can be seen as reaching to the heavens in prayer.)
Exhale forward fold – Sometimes you may stumble or fall along the way.
Inhale (half lift) – Pick yourself up, brush yourself off and remember to breathe, which gives you time to regroup and focus on your goal.
Exhale Chatarunga – Maintain a steady pace along the way, even if that means taking baby steps towards your goal.
Inhale Upward Dog – You will have ups (good times) along the way.
Exhale Downward Dog – You will also have setbacks where it sometimes feels like you are climbing a mountain. Know that by holding strong you can make the climb…
Jumping or stepping feet between hands – … If you are willing to take a leap of faith…
Exhale forward fold – … By believing in yourself and letting go of the negative chatter.
Inhale reach up – You realize that you had the strength and the ability in you, all along, to make those goals happen.
Hands to heart center – Bow your head in gratitude.
Jody Johnson