Vulnerable feelings turn our eyes within. There is surprise the first time we come face to face with our fears in a basic yoga pose. If we are in a class, we may notice just 2 things: the pose being executed with ease by another practitioner, and our utter trepidation.
Three poses come to mind when I think of the provocation of vulnerable feelings. One can challenge our physical strength; another pose may expose some nameless uncomfortable feeling; and another can remind us of that which we want to forget. The positions our body assumes affect us physically, emotionally and mentally.
The Hand Stand
A pose where the body leans against a wall upside down supported by arms and hands. Though it is possible, you hardly see anyone in a regular yoga class practicing this pose without the support of the wall. The idea of the body being supported by arms is usually quite intimidating for women. Some of us remember being very unwilling to entertain the idea of attempting the pose. My personal experience is that with correct guidance in technique, vulnerable feelings can propel courage and determination to produce positive results.
The Camel
The front of the body is sensitive and receptive. It's the camel's hump in the camel pose. This pose lengthens the front of the body from the sternum to pelvis, in a kneeling position. This basic yoga pose is modified so the arc from the knees to the crown is very gentle. Sometimes soft rumblings of unfamiliar feelings can be felt. A slow release into Child's Pose calms feelings of vulnerability and turns our eyes within.
Relaxation Pose
The dead man's pose is anything but dead. The breath lifts and lowers the chest. And the mind can be very active. Some part of us is playing dead and another part is coming alive. The muscles and bones lie still. Something below the surface is waking up and it is unwelcome. Do I stay or do I get up? Here I am alone with me.
Ultimately we are alone with ourselves in both active and more passive basic yoga poses. It is our chance to see ourselves in new ways. A chance to synchronize the feminine quality of vulnerability with the masculine courage. This union of opposites that is yoga is to be embraced. Hold the familiar long enough and the unfamiliar will surface. Venture near the unfamiliar while keeping the familiar near. This is the ecstatic dance of yoga.
Heather Greaves helps natural healing enthusiasts learn more about holistic yoga even though their only teacher is a book. They say, To learn more about something, teach it. Since 2005 this yoga therapist and owner of Body Therapies Yoga Training has been training yoga teachers in a certified program. For more yoga tips and information visit Body Therapies Yoga Training http://www.yogatogo.com/
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