Unlocking Life's Cycles: From Tadasana to Sivasana

Anecdotal Anatomy

In this podcast, we've cycled through myriad models and maps in the spirit of self-inquiry, all in service of seeing the threads of connection.

In this episode, we explore the life that's lived between Tadasana (Mountain Pose) and Sivasana (Corpse Pose), as a reflection of the work we do on the mat and the life we live off the mat.

We touch on the mythological symbolism behind Tadasana, and laugh about our limits with challenging poses, which ultimately lead us to personal growth. We return to the concept of the Heroic Journey as part of this process, as it shows up, not only in the effort we make to meet various challenges, but also in our mindset and emotional reactions to our own behaviors.

Do you love Happy Baby, Crow, and Child's Pose? Can each one be challenging in its own way? Having discussed the koshas, are you better able to recognize in which layer the pose is offering its service? We emphasize the significance of Sivasana as a way to embrace mortality and prepare for death. We encourage listeners to practice Sivasana in a meaningful way, as they move along the path of impermanence. This does not have to be morbid, rather an opportunity to check in and be still with Self.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Glimpse the vital balance between groundedness and creativity for a transformative yoga practice.
• Uncover the mythological meaning behind Tadasana and its connection to the heroic journey.
• Look at your limits with challenging poses and be curious how you're practicing and why.
• Explore the acceptance of life's natural cycles, including death, using your yoga practice as a tool.
• Cultivate mindfulness and self-awareness for a tailored and personal lifestyle yoga experience.

Points from the show to consider:

• Start your yoga practice in mountain pose to connect with the Earth and your personal power.
• Use Tadasana as the basic alignment for every other pose and focus on feeling grounded and alive.
• Remember that every new moment is a fresh opportunity to practice and get to know yourself better.
• Let go of the stuff you carried into your practice and become present, focused, and grounded like a mountain.
• Take the Heroic journey from Tadasana to Sivasana, experiencing discomfort, trials, and tribulations, meeting mentors and teachers on the way, ending back at your Mountain.
• Notice how hard it is to let go during Sivasana and prepare for the impermanence of life.
• Explore the Koshas to see where your asana practice is calling you to look

Sourced in the Episode:

Myths of the Asanas

BKS Iyengar's actual quote about Tadasana: This link contains the quote and so much more.

"Once we can master 'tadasana' then all the other poses come." BKS Iyengar

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Our Amazing Team:

Judith George - Editor (video & audio)

Keith Kenny - Music

Cindy Fatsis - Photography