Our inspiration of the month is lateral bends and stretches. This of course can be looked at literally, as Asanas that simply stretch the sides of the physical body. However, we can go deeper than the physical sheet (Kosha) and explore our mental, emotional and spiritual stretching and a sense of "going beyond".

 

In yoga we often challenge ourselves, and questions: what is it we are strengthening stretching? And how does this lead to peace of mind and bliss, which is the goal of Yoga?  Of course there is great value and great benefits to strengthening and stretching the sides of the body. This in turn supports the respiratory system and aids in preparation for pranayama which is extremely important. But at the same time, what we really stretch is our mind. our beliefs, our limitations, or what we perceived our mind and limitations to be.

 

We stretch what we thought to be possible or impossible. We find the strength and the courage necessary to redefine our belief system, our core values, our actions in this life. We even reconsider what does "strength"or "success"and "failure"really mean from these new and fresh eyes.  

 

We know that just one (either strengthening OR stretching), is not enough. The secret lies in finding the balance. Sthira Sukham Asanam.

There are times in life we need to find the strength; to remain loyal to our values, no matter what is happening around us. To find the strength to keep marching forward, and keep our head tall, even though all we really want to do is remain in bed. The strength to keep faith in the world around us and in human kind, even though we have experienced dissapointment and betrayal . 

 

But there are times we need to be humble. To bow down and surrender. To be flexible in our mind and heart so we can move aside from the "plan" we had and allow the path to present itself to us. This form of flexibility is strength in itself, and will protect us from breaking.

 

Swami Satchitananda gives an example to a tree in a big storm. Of course the strength of the tree will help it in the storm, and how deep the roots have gone into the earth, but if the tree doesn't know how to bend with the wind, then the wind will eventually break its branches.

 

This is a description by Joan Moran as he explains "Stretching the body as a tool to stretch the mind"; 

 

"It is the process of teaching the brain a new way of thinking by connecting the right/left brain more efficiently, increasing the ability to problem solve. It is my general observation that stretching the mind enhances innovation and productivity, optimizes the way the mind functions, and alleviates mental blocks." 

 

No wonder we find Physical stretching so challenging! 

 

In lateral stretches it is as if we go "outside of ourselves" to stretch and become even bigger and greater; body mind and spirit.... We don' t always see the path, as we are positioned in different and often awkward asanas, but it is the faith in ourselves and trust in the practice (or the other way around...) that keeps us going and stretching further and beyond.

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