The use of props in a yoga class offer a very real, solid base on which to build from. So not only do props help you breathe deeper, and relax more, they quieten the mind as well.
Building poses from the bottom up creates a strong, stable base. A strong base provides the starting point for healing and self regulation.
The bit that really interests me is not only the feedback the props provide you. Remember how it felt to use the yoga band around your waist? Did it feel supportive or restrictive?
Or how about when the prop supported your thigh in Tree Pose? Did you continue to 'hold' unsure and fearful if the prop could support you? Were you relcutant to 'let go'? Perhaps you didn't like how the prop felt next to areas of tenderness?
All of this feedback builds body awareness, tiny bit by tiny bit. Like piecing together a jig saw. The more self knowledge and self awareness you have, the better you can support yourself and practice yoga in a self supporting way. That's building resilience.
That may not be the yoga you see on screens, glossy magazines or any social media posts. You may not have the white sand, pale yellow sun, blue water beach scence, but what you do have is self awareness.
When you own your body and your breath, nobody can steal your peace.
The next time in a yoga class, or at home, pause and think about how you, as an individual chooses to use yoga props. Is there a reluctance to 'lean into them', 'over use them', 'fear of them'? Do you carry this forward into your life off the yoga mat? Do you easily and readily accept this support?
"No man is an island"... John Donne
We all need support, all of the time, not just, especially now, during what can be a challenging time for us all.
How comfortable do you feel in being offered support? Do you trust that support? Can you trust
that it will be there for you, when you need it the most? Can you release into it?
All of these questions can help fill up your journal of self enquiry! According to Socrates, an unexamined life is not worth living.
I love to observe how each individaul adjusts themselves, searching for the right position in which to place the support. Others who leave themselves unsupported, suspended, a little and sometimes a big bit tense. Perhaps either due to lack of comfortable positioning, or perphaps prefering to 'go it alone'. There IS no right or wrong way. It is and always must be your way. The way that works for you.
The better you support yourself, the better you practice yoga in a self supporting way. That's what it's all about.
Your yoga, Your way.
Namaste
Sharon
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