With a variety of body types, we move through our poses differently from each other. Some of us get assistance from blocks or straps, while others bend ever so slightly rather than folding completely over. But, as you work through class you learn that each personal style can be correct based on what is comfortable for each individual body type. In fact, yoga happens when we practice asana with sthira-sukha, or steadiness and comfort, making for no perfect way any of the yoga postures “should” look.

How one looks, how one moves, one’s lifestyle, health, or how one performs the asanas has little to do with the true practice of yoga. Yoga is the process of learning to be aware of self and others, finding an authentic, natural way to move your body. Yoga is balance and flexibility; yoga is breath; yoga is connecting the breath to the movement; yoga is living in the present moment with mindfulness; yoga is increasing the flow of energy; yoga is stilling the myriad fluctuations of the mind and ultimately achieving bliss.

The beauty of yoga is that it accepts the physically fit, physically unfit, short, tall, fat, thin, flexible and inflexible. You’ll never hear a yoga instructor mention an ideal type of yoga practitioner, simply because it does not exist. No ideal shape, size, age or heath status will dictate who should or shouldn’t practice yoga. It doesn’t matter what you believe, what you have, or where you come from. Yoga in its purest state is an invitation to celebrate your own unique experience.

Experience one of the many yoga class and yoga retreat options at Shambhala Mountain Center. We offer instruction for all levels in our pristine and natural setting. Contact us today to learn more.