Yoga: It's Not About The Pose (or is it?)

In the diverse landscape of modern yoga, a profound shift has emerged in how practitioners approach the physical aspect of their practice. On one side, there's a rigid adherence to traditional alignment and a dogmatic insistence on the 'correct' way of performing yoga poses. On the other side, a growing number of individuals downplay the significance of the physical postures, asserting that yoga is not about the poses but about inner connection. In this dichotomy, the essence of yoga asana risks being lost, and practitioners may find themselves disconnected from the very source of empowerment and self-discovery that yoga is intended to offer.

In the pursuit of traditional perfection, some yoga enthusiasts and teachers have inadvertently created a culture of conformity, dismissing the individuality and uniqueness of each practitioner. The fixation on 'correct' alignment can lead to a disempowering environment, where students feel pressured to fit a predetermined mould. This not only contradicts the fundamental philosophy of yoga, which emphasises self-discovery, but it can also pave the way for injuries as practitioners push themselves into positions that may not be suitable for their bodies.

Conversely, there's a growing sentiment that the physical postures are secondary or even irrelevant in the broader context of yoga. Some argue that the poses don't matter as much as the internal journey, leading to a dismissal of the very foundation of a physical yoga practice. However, this perspective overlooks the well-established benefits of movement and exercise for overall health and well-being. It creates a paradox where individuals may teach and practice yoga poses while simultaneously claiming that the poses are inconsequential.

Amidst these contrasting views, there lies a middle path in UnDoing Yoga – a path that acknowledges the importance of the physical practice while embracing its true essence. This method is centred around accessibility, inclusivity, sustainability, and empowerment, and offers a guiding light in navigating this terrain. It invites practitioners to release the shackles of dogmatic alignment and instead encourages a mindful exploration of the body, a dance with individuality, and a celebration of uniqueness.

As yoga teachers, the responsibility is not to dictate the 'right' way but to empower students to make informed choices. This means letting go of rigid rules and providing a supportive environment for self-discovery with a healthy sprinkling of non fear-based information. By fostering a sense of autonomy and self-governance, teachers can guide students towards a practice that aligns with their personal intentions and needs.

As yoga students, the key is in your hand; you hold the power and the wisdom to make the right decisions for yourself. Yoga asana can be used a tool for self-realisation when approached with curiosity, intelligence, knowledge and self-trust.

Rather than blindly glorifying or dismissing the practice, the key lies in shifting our approach. Yoga asana becomes a conduit for tapping into inner wisdom, aligning our actions with intention, and fostering a deep connection within ourselves. It thrives in the delicate balance between mindful exploration, self-trust, and empowering choices.

UnDoing Yoga stands as a testament to this balance, urging practitioners and teachers alike to embrace the transformative power of the physical practice while honouring individuality and fostering a deep sense of connection within. As we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of modern yoga, let us rediscover the true essence of asana – a journey that transcends the limitations of dogma and invites us to dance with the wisdom within.