First, ashtanga helps to release yourself from the pressure to perform — yoga is not about a perfect or spectacular display of athletic expertise. Don’t worry about how you look to other people. Concentrate on the internal aspects of yoga
— think of it as a way to come back inside yourself. Second. focus on the pace, duration and quality of your breath — it is this that connects your mind with your body and acts as a driving force in the movement of pmna (see page 38). Your breath is the key to stilling your mind. If you listen carefully, your breath will tell you everything you need to know.
Generally speaking, when you are struggling with a posture your breathing becomes rough and uneven. Prioritizing the quality of your breath over the intensity of your effort is a good way to develop the meditative quality of your practice and the depth and ease of your breathing.
— think of it as a way to come back inside yourself. Second. focus on the pace, duration and quality of your breath — it is this that connects your mind with your body and acts as a driving force in the movement of pmna (see page 38). Your breath is the key to stilling your mind. If you listen carefully, your breath will tell you everything you need to know.
Generally speaking, when you are struggling with a posture your breathing becomes rough and uneven. Prioritizing the quality of your breath over the intensity of your effort is a good way to develop the meditative quality of your practice and the depth and ease of your breathing.
