Class discussion: Observing our thoughts toward ourselves. Are they loving and kind or judgemental and harsh?
“The first step in this process of mindful awareness is radical self acceptance.”~ Stephen Batchelor
We do not have to succumb to the tyranny of our own self judgment. We can observe our reactions with awareness, and let them go. A spiritual practice is not about locking up all the unruly aspects of yourself, in the hope that they will never get free. Spiritual practice is about turning on the light – and the light is love.
Sthira-sukham asanam
The posture should be steady and comfortable
~Yoga Sutra 2:46
Our thoughts about the poses reflect our thoughts about ourselves.
Eight Limb Path of Yoga
1. Yama : Universal morality
2. Niyama : Personal observances
3. Asanas : Body postures
4. Pranayama : Breathing exercises, and control of prana
5. Pratyahara : Control of the senses
6. Dharana : Concentration and cultivating inner perceptual awareness
7. Dhyana : Devotion, Meditation on the Divine
8. Samadhi : Union with the Divine
Yamas (Universal Morality) Yamas and niyamas are the suggestions given on how we should deal with people around us and our attitude toward ourselves. The attitude we have toward things and people outside ourselves is yama, how we relate to ourselves inwardly is niyama. Both are mostly concerned with how we use our energy in relationship to others and to ourselves
1. Ahimsa – Compassion for all living things
The word ahimsa literally mean not to injure or show cruelty to any creature or any person in any way whatsoever. Ahimsa is, however, more than just lack of violence as adapted in yoga. It means kindness, friendliness, and thoughtful consideration of other people and things. It also has to do with our duties and responsibilities too. Ahimsa implies that in every situation we should adopt a considerate attitude and do no harm.
Asana: back bending
Pranayam: Nadi Sodhana
Journaling: Observe your internal dialogue. Are you negative and judgmental toward yourself or positive, loving and believing in yourself?
Thursday, September 18, 2008
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4 comments:
I'm really enjoying yoga! I was unsure at first but it's actually my favorite part of the week now. I'm really excited about what's to come next and I really look forward to getting fit and flexible. I just wanted to say thank you for giving AAST such a great opportunity! See you in class.
~Ayrielle
im really loving the class and so glad that we all have the opportunity to experience something new and different...taking this yoga class really is going to increase my flexiblity and being able to stay balance, which is going to help me in my major, dance. thank you for coming!!!
*jasmine*
Seriously, Yoga classes are totally great! I’m always looking forward to them (as well as the other girls in dance!). Even if I’m having just a terrible day, I just take a deep breath and tell myself that I only have one more class before yoga. It’s helped me tremendously over come stress, and its even helped me increase my self-esteem! YAY! That is something every girl wants to do. Also, physically wise, I’m feeling incredible! I noticed that I am even stretching more then I could on our first day. I hope you are staying with us all year! I want to master at this, and I thank you so much for being with all of us and taking the time out of your day to do so!
Cheers,
Emeyle
I agree with ayrielle I would have never thaught I would be doing yoga. I was realli sketchy the first couple days but now its what i look forward to. An it came just in time cause its the only thing holding me together right now. I wanna say thanks to you Jessica because you and yoga have truly made a difference in what used to be a confused teenager.
-Kenah D.
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