Bells Retreat

In yogic terms stress manifests itself into the human body into two main ways ie. lack of space and imbalance. More specifically there is an unease in actions, thoughts and feelings created by either lack of space or an imbalance in muscle groups, energy flow, blood flow. Such a broad qualification demands the most simple and yet precise treatment of the whole body even though the symptoms may be very specific. Yoga is actually a holistic approach treating the way you interact with the world.

 

Quite often we have destroyed within ourselves a sense of awareness and instinctiveness. Both of these in fact are roads to be learnt and then to be used on a journey of self-discovery and union of mind and body. Children abound in these qualities. Adults need to recognise that they have lost these attributes and can regain them by returning to the very simplest of actions. This happens without really being aware of it. How can the clock be turned back even a little? How can we give and receive love equally? (Balance on all levels).

 

Yoga is a way of learning to be centred in action. You have a clear perspective on whats happening and you can react accordingly. You then take this into your everyday life so that it is less stressful and so much more enjoyable and fulfilling. Postures are like building blocks. Each one with its own personality but when linked and perhaps used in a sequence they take on a totally different nature. Perfection in a posture is not an issue but rather how we do it and what we have discovered.

 

You can only do yoga when you are willing to be guided from within, but firstly there must be a structure and quite often this needs to be taught by a teacher of your choice. Prepare the groundwork adequately and you will reap the rewards later on. We have to see our own personality and recognise its role in the disruption of balance. An overemphasis on achievement can be just as detrimental as excess comfort.

 

There needs to be a place and a time and a proper balance between give and take in terms of a particular posture. Consult your teacher who is both accomplished and experienced and is still growing and changing and able to meet your personal needs.