Lower and middle back pain caught my attention because I usually ask the participants whether they have a request or they are experiencing pain or stiffness anywhere in their bodies. The answer is "Can you please work on my lower & middle back? can you please open up my hips and shoulders?"
Now I want to draw your attention to a philosophical lesson in Yoga which is related to your asana practice and your requests.
What is Yama and Niyama?
In yoga the attitude we have toward things and people outside ourselves is called Yama and how we relate to ourselves inwardly is called Niyama.
The first of yamas is Ahimsa. Himsa means injustice and violence and Ahimsa means the absence of it. In other terms it means kindness towards others and ourselves. In every situation we should adopt a considered attitude whether it's about our family, friends, work, our inner world and our asana practice.
So there are a few questions to be asked before, during and after our practice:
1. Are we implementing Ahimsa during our asana practice? Am I kind to my body, breath and mind?
2. Are these poses suitable for my body? Am I experiencing any pain?
If yes, do I know how to modify it?
3. Is my ego involved in this pose? Is it pushing me to get to the final variation without noticing the details of the asana?
4. Am I aware of my breath?
As an example, let's explore Triangle pose deeply because
Experience has shown me that Trikonasana can be one of the most challenging poses for practitioners. Some just want to touch their toes without understanding the depth of it. The ego gets involved, ahimsa is not there, details of the pose are missing, hence the benefits of the pose would not be achievable.
I have sent you the instruction of the pose last week so next time you try it I want you to be aware of your breath and think about Ahimsa to implement it in your asana practice. Trust me, it would be a way deeper practice.
