From a single-cell amoeba to a human being, all life has a dual nature: structure (sthira) and flow (sukha). Matter and energy. Structure organizes flow (and makes it purposeful); flow shapes and animates structure (and makes it purposeful).

Structure and flow are in opposition to one another. Too much flow swamps structure; too much structure strangles flow.  Think of how naturally a healthy baby breathes — but it doesn’t have sufficient structure to take care of itself. Now imagine an elderly person, so rigid and arthritic that breathing has become difficult. Because of the natural opposition of structure and flow, life is a temporary condition.

We practice asana to yoke those opposites so they act as a team for as long as possible. When muscles and bones (structure) come into conscious relationship with breath and perception (flow) they naturally begin to harmonize. Maintain this conjunction and continue to thrive.

(ref Sutra II.46)

As you practice this week, visualize your skeleton in the poses. Organize your bones and joints so they carry as much of the load as possible. As you make that effort, observe your breathing. Prioritize a smooth, freely moving breath.

Homework poses:

• Level 1 cat/cow, adho mukha svanasana, viparita karani
• Level 2 parsvottanasana, virabhadrasana 3, janu sirsasana

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