Gust Post: Anusara Yoga: Seeing the Good in All

Yoga comes in many forms, but Anusara Yoga has a special focus: the heart. It’s a blend of relaxation and discipline that anyone can do – and since the gentle poses of Anusara can be done anywhere, it’s a great way for a stressed-out mom to take a breather in a busy day and focus on the good in everyone and everything around us.

Created by yoga master John Friend around yoga’s central philosophy that the divine is in all things, Anusara yoga is one of several hatha yoga systems practiced around the world. With three levels of poses based on a simple set of alignment principles, Anusara yoga combines relaxation with fierce focus. But unlike some other forms of yoga, it emphasizes creative freedom and individuality.
 Since Anusara (the name means “flowing with grace,”) yoga is dedicated to honoring the good in every being and honoring the uniqueness of everyone, it’s a user-friendly form of yoga to learn and practice, if you don’t have the time and dedication to become a master yogini.

The goal in Anusara yoga is alignment – with the body and with the divine. Teachers embrace the philosophy that their goal is to help every student discover their own innate worthiness, so there’s no “wrong” way to do the poses. The teacher is there to guide you into alignment, not push you into the “right” position. Ansuara has a large group focus. You can expect to everyone to be involved from beginning to end. It’s not uncommon for students to clap when another pulls off a difficult pose.

Not that Anusara lacks discipline. Anusara’s founder, John Friend, claims that what students do on the mat for one hour guides their lives for the 23 other hours of the day, lending focus, calmness and a steady regard for the best in those around us. So an Anusara class emphasizes meditation, focus and – here’s that word again – alignment, as the body finds its balance and the mind follows. Some studies show that regularly practicing can help with a myriad of health concerns. Not to mention, improving your mood. Yoga could also assist patients diagnosed with various
types of mesothelioma.

Since Anusara can be practiced by anyone, from kids to seniors, it can even become a family practice. And if no classes are available, DVDs and online Anusara instruction can bring the basics to you. This is a great style if you enjoy being around others and interaction. Anusara yoga offers a way to acknowledge the good in all of us – even the three year old who broke your favorite vase.




Kristin Wells is a recent college graduate from The University of Georgia and an aspiring writer. She wants to make a difference in people's lives through her writing. Kristin also likes competitive cycling, running, and traveling as much as possible.

Comments

Nikki said…
I love yoga, but never heard of this practice. It sounds really great though. I think it is important to acknowledge all the good around us, especially in times where it's very easy to just see the bad.
Darcy said…
Interesting! Didn't realize there were different types of yoga practices.
Lena B said…
I WANT TO DO YOGA
I just have to figure out when and where
I love Yoga too! I take a class every Tuesday night. I missed last week because of Valentine's day and boy did I feel it!

Popular posts from this blog

Tommee Tippee giveaway

Banana Brush review and giveaway 6/30

Milkin' Cookies reviews & giveaway *CLOSED*