The Purpose of Poses

v.17 | q + a

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Dear Yogafolk —

This week’s edition is a q+a — two questions asked by a fellow practice person, followed by my thoughts and responses. These questions feel particularly resonant because each of us, in our own way, is grappling with the swarm of changes the pandemic wrought. From the loss of physical practice spaces and sangha, to changes in our individual body shapes, to shifts in the contours of family and work life, to a heartache that weighs on us each time we ambitiously hope to raise our arms overhead. All of us are renegotiating our worlds, and therefore, practice. Remember to go slow, and breathe.

Thanks for being here,

Erica

P.S. Most of what I share is free, but there are occasional perks for upping your subscription. If a paid subscription is out of reach just send me an email and I’ll set it up, no questions asked.

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From top left to bottom right: Prasārita A, B, C, and D. Photos by Justyna Jaworska in Mysore, India (2012). (Here for reference, not to represent ideals).

Q1: What is the purpose and goal of Prasārita Pādottānāsana physically? I’ve always scooted my feet super far away from each other so that my head could reach the ground, but I’m wondering if the ideal physical shape is to be bent far enough forward that my head touches the ground without having my feet so far apart? And if my body can’t do it, if it’s best to keep my feet closer and my head off the ground with super strong, engaged legs?