Yoga is not Gymnastics
Nov 26, 2023
I hope this blog post finds you in a state of peace and positive energy.
Today, let's delve into a topic that's been on my mind. The modern evolution of yoga and the unavoidable comparison to gymnastics.
In recent times, we've seen the rise of yoga poses that seem more akin to gymnastics manoeuvres. with handstands taking centre stage. Now, don't get me wrong, I love gymnastics! Yet, it's crucial to recognise the distinct goals and purposes that set the two apart.
Many of these contemporary yoga poses, i.e handstand, were not practiced by the ancient yogis.
Many of poses like these came from teachings of Krishnamacharya. Who was the father of Modern Yoga. His style was influenced by his studies in British gymnastics and wrestling.
But let's be clear – yoga and gymnastics serve different purposes.
Gymnastics is an Olympic sport focused on achieving optimal performance. It emphasises aesthetics, and subjecting athletes to judgment and scores.
On the contrary, yoga is not a competition. The purpose of yoga asana extends beyond achieving a perfect pose. A notion that, in reality, doesn't exist.
In our yoga journey, the asanas should act as a doorway into meditation. Guiding us to find the delicate balance between Sthira (effort) and Sukha (ease).
The intention when we practice asana is to:
open the body enough to find comfort in a seated position for meditation:
Help the flow of prana (life force energy) throughout the body.
Develop more efficient breathing patterns.
Treat it like a moving meditation, with breath awareness.
Practiced consciously. This allows us to use our asana practice as an opporutnity for self inquiry (Svadhyaya). This is an integral part of yoga. What we learn about ourselves on the mat, can often be utilised off the mat too.
I've attended yoga classes where the emphasis was on perfection and comparison to others. The was no mention of breath awareness. In these classes, there was no education about listening to our bodies. As per the concept of Ahimsa - non-harming. Or recognizing the practice as a moving meditation.
Such experiences left me feeling worse than when I walked in. A far cry from the transformative effects of true yoga.
The modern yoga world has, at times, glorified flexibility. Thus, steering away from the core reasons we practice yoga. It's crucial to remember that asana, the physical postures is a small part of yoga. Yoga, at its essence, is a spiritual journey. One that is centered around mind training. That helps reduce suffering,. Which leads to living a more peaceful and transformative life.
In my classes, my goal is for you to feel mindful, calm, and balanced. I don't want you to feel like you've just completed a competition. But rather a moving meditation that enhances mental health. It's my mission to remind students that yoga goes beyond the physical. Inviting you to embrace the profound spiritual aspects that contribute to a more peaceful and fulfilling life.
So, let's keep the true essence of yoga alive in our practice. Together, let's cultivate a space where competition fades. A place where the transformative power of yoga shines.
With gratitude
Liz
