The dark still hugs the sky. A solitary figure stands at the top of a yoga mat.
Tadasana.
The stillness of night permeates. Peace and tranquility blend with the strength of a mountain.
Surya namaskaras begin in a patient and fluid and languishing pace, movement stirring as a day dawns.
A subtle yet bellowing breath stokes inner will and fire. Tapas.
Heart space arcs open into virabadrasana. The warrior beckons the first light of day to rise.
The pulse quickens. The breath deepens. Spirit connects with the universal power in homage and humility.
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I teach yoga in the morning. I have a 7 a.m. and an 8:30 a.m. class. I love yoga to start the day.
Maybe it stems from my tai chi practice which is also a dawning practice. My private practice begins at first light. I awaken my chi and wash my body with it and honor The Way with a regular physical ritual.
Surya namaskaras were originally practiced as a morning ritual. The sun salutation postures.
I get a lot of hesitation from prospective students about my morning yoga class.
“It’s too early.”
“I can’t move in the morning.”
Yogas citta vrtti nirodhah – yoga is the cessation of the modification of the mind (yoga calms and quiets the mind)