Sutra 1.1
अथ योगानुशासनम्॥१॥
atha yogānuśāsanam
Translation:
- Now, the teaching of yoga begins.
- For those prepared, now the teaching on Yoga.
Vocabulary:
atha—now (in sequence) in regard to preparation or qualification
anuśāsana—traditional teaching, exposition, instruction
yoga—the process of calming the fluctuations of the mind, mastery over the senses
Important Concepts:
Atha refers to readiness. It is considered a Sankalpa (a decision, promise, or vow) to study eagerly and consistently. It is an auspicious way to begin, implying that one is ready.
Practice
Prayer:
Prayer: Guide me to that which is in my highest good. Help me to distinguish what nourishes my soul and what deteriorates my being. Lead me down the path of wisdom so that I may show up fully in each moment. Let my study be enlightening and fruitful. Allow my practice to benefit all beings. -Namaste
Pranayama:
Ujjayi Pranayama:
- Take a comfortable seat, one that feels both regal and relaxed.
- Turn your attention to your breath, closing your mouth inhale and exhale through both nostrils.
- Start to restrict the throat so that you feel the breath from the throat to the heart, and it makes and oceanic sound.
- Start to lengthen both the inhale and exhale so that they are balanced.
- Feel the sensation of the body expanding in all directions during the inhalation and the contracting sensation during the exhalation.
- Continue for 5 minutes, then allow the breath to return to normal.
- Allowing the body to breath, sit for 5 more minutes focusing on the breath.
Reflections
- What preparations have I made for this practice and teaching?
- What qualifications do I have?
- Am I ready?
- Am I committed?
- Am I open to learning?
What does this remind me of? Other stories, scriptures, or teachings.