Movement Practices
YOGA
“The restraint of the modifications of the mind-stuff is Yoga” - Yoga Sutra 1:2
Hatha Yoga is generally considered to be the physical practice of Yoga. However, it is much more than that.
“Ha” represents prana (the vital force) and “tha” the mind.
It is a process of purification that takes us to the point of Union of our whole selves - physical, mental and spiritual -the full expression of what Yoga is.
Although asana (movement/posture) is practised during the session, it is only a part of Raja Yoga that includes the 8 Limbs - Yama (ethical principles/moral restraints), Niyama (personal disciplines), Asana (posture), Pranayama (breathing practices), Pratyahara (sense withdrawal), Dharana (one pointed concentration), Dhyana (meditation), Samadhi (bliss state).
The SLO YO practice has been created specifically for a deeper experience of Yoga that would suit all abilities, including those who have been practising Yoga for some time. Originally formulated for those experiencing chronic illness, due to the depth of instruction given, the full essence of a more traditional style of teachings will be experienced.
“Yoga is a relationship. It is not that the body is not important – the body is very important; it is the temple – but a transformation in the body cannot happen without a good relationship with the mind. Whatever happens in the body affects the mind and whatever happens in the mind affects the body”
- TKV Desikachar
INDIAN CLUBS
Ancient, effective, versatile...
Clubs are ubiquitous implements found in varying forms in all cultures world-wide. Superficially, one might wonder just how efficacious moving two small-ish pieces of wood around might be. But, I can assure you - this is a time worn practice of tried and true techniques & is much more than just a physical workout. It goes deep.
Though greatly effective in terms of boosting general joint strength, mobility, co-ordination, lymphatic circulation and so on, the effects of regular Clubs practice are multi-layered, improving mental dexterity, cognitive capacity, curiosity, creativity, general peace of mind and psychological awareness.
Life moves us in the circles/cycles we manifest psychologically and Clubs – or Indian Clubs as they are often known – invite us directly into consciousness of that process and offer us the chance to break the unhealthy ones and to stably forge nurturing & empowering ones.
It’s a matter of relationship – to oneself and the moving object – and, as life is constantly moving around us, our practice translates into other aspects of our day to day experience and we find ourselves moving with perhaps more sensitivity and grace towards situations and others, or more certain power when necessary. One of the greatest life lessons Clubs practice has taught me is when I am holding on too tightly and when I need to let go. It’s very subtle.
The first thing someone does when receiving Clubs in hand is smile – it can’t be helped, there’s a recognition of something familiar and good occurring. The second is to exclaim, “Cor – it’s not as easy as it looks, is it!”, which it isn’t; but it’s a scaleable challenge certainly worth rising to – you can start super light and work your way up to some immense Clubs, should you wish to.
In the end we all have to face our resistance and, personally – along with Steel Mace – I’ve not encountered more fluid tools for doing so. As everybody is a bit clumsy when beginning, humour becomes very much a part of the process of learning, which is very healthy.
More than just a sequenced practice, Clubs are an exploration, both physically & psychologically. The curiosity and creativity they inspire are perfect inspiration for a workout. Great as a stand alone practice but also as an adjunct to other disciplines, you’ll be surprised not only by their versatility but by what they reveal about you. Of course, they are easily transportable so you can take them to the beach, the park, the woods, wherever – the world has become your gym.
An added bonus is that – once a basis of fundamental skill begins to emerge – a slightly meditative quality may begin to arise from your practice also. So, they pair well with other contemplative practice you might have in place.
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