In this class, we will practice swinging along with Candlestick, Side Bow and Garland Pose.
$12.00
There are many ways to think about and discuss Karma. The simplest definition, and one that most of us can easily understand is described by Swami Jnaneshvara below:
“The law of Karma is a universal process, whereby causes lead to effects. This is something that all of us are already familiar with, whether or not we use the word Karma to describe it. Newton’s third law of motion, that every action leads to a reaction, is an application of the law of Karma.”
– Swami Jnaneshvara
(https://swamij.com/karma.htm)
I like the description above for its practicality, and how it connects the methodical world of science to the sometimes mystical world of yoga philosophy. Self-realization doesn’t have to be a giant mystery. Instead, it can be a step-by-step measurable and predictable process.
In fact, the laws of physics are easy to understand, especially for aerial yogis. Take for example, a pendulum swing. Pull the student away from the plumb line, and he/she/they will track a pathway forward and back an even number of times until they eventually come to stillness, (or are purposefully stopped).
When we understand the laws of Karma are as concrete as the laws of Physics, we can use a swinging pendulum as a metaphor to making progress in our life goals. The Universe is constantly balancing out our many acts in life. And, it would only make sense that with every forward progress that is made, regression is inevitable. And in fact, regression matched with progression is actually what eventually brings us to stillness. For a yogi, stillness is inner peace and self-realization. And, self-realization is the real goal.
The next time you experience something in your life that is intensely unpleasant, try to imagine you are simply riding a pendulum. It may be difficult in the moment to enjoy the ride, but at least recognize you will start moving towards pleasantness (or neutral) again at some point.
To help train us to adopt this attitude, let’s have some fun with swinging! We’ll also practice: Candlestick, Side Bow and Malasana (Garland Pose), to name a few highlights.