Anusara® (a-nu-sar-a), means “flowing with Grace.” It is a relatively new style of yoga that has grown from rich and ancient traditions. Developed by John Friend, Anusara Yoga is a powerful blend of biomechanics and heart-oriented philosophy. A lively Kula, or, community of the heart, has evolved around this sophisticated and fun approach to yoga.
‘Currently, Anusara Yoga® is one of the most popular and fastest growing yoga styles in the world. Its remarkable popularity is due in large part to its uplifting philosophy, epitomized by a "celebration of the heart," that looks for the good in all people and all things. Students of all levels of ability and yoga experience are honored for their unique differences, limitations, and talents.
The vision of Anusara Yoga is grounded in a Tantric philosophy of intrinsic goodness. In this philosophy we take the premise that everything in this world is an embodiment of Supreme Consciousness, which at its essence pulsates with goodness and the highest bliss. All of creation is divinely danced into existence for the simple delight and the play of embodying the Universe's own blissful nature.’
Anusara Yoga skillfully blends this life-affirming philosophy with an elegant set of alignment principles which are applied to every pose. The Universal Principles of Alignment™ taught in Anusara Yoga help each individual align their body for optimal health. Focusing on alignment develops body awareness and understanding; quite simply, it feels good!
Anusara Yoga is practiced from the inside-out. The feeling that inspires each posture is one of celebration and self-expression. By remembering and honouring your true self, a deeper experience is available. A heart-oriented theme is woven into each class, as is joy, play, spirituality, and beauty.
‘Spiritual awakening is the ever-expanding process of recognizing that our true nature is perfect, full, and lacking nothing. Spiritual freedom or enlightenment is not a fixed state of being. Rather it is an ever-evolving process of unfolding our effulgence, goodness, balance, and perfection. Progress on the path of awakening is reflected in an increase in one's spiritual centeredness; wisdom; trust in the Divine's play; capacity to lovingly honor the Divine in each other; and ability to celebrate the Divine grandeur in life. Put simply, Anusara Yoga practitioners, when they are embodying the Anusara Yoga teachings, naturally become nicer and more considerate. They develop a greater sensitivity and a heightened compassion toward everyone and everything around them. Further signs of progress on the path include a deepening of an inner strength and steadfastness. Anusara Yoga students become more appreciative and passionate participants in Life as they practice this life-affirming philosophy on and off the mat.’
My personal experience with Anusara Yoga is delightful. When I first discovered it, my whole being felt like I was coming home into a yogic practice that integrated all the pieces of various beliefs and yoga systems I had pulled together over the years. The Anusara Yoga community is loving and supportive. The method is logical, innovative and graceful. The philosophy resonates deeply with the core of my beliefs, and it leaves space respectfully for the beliefs of others.
I am an Anusara-inspired yoga teacher on the path to becoming Anusara certified. What that means is that Anusara recognises the time, effort and enjoyment I have invested in learning and teaching Anusara Yoga. Requirements for Anusara Yoga certification are among the most professional and demanding in the industry of yoga teaching, resulting in highly skilled and dedicated instructors. Diving deep into philosophy, alignment, and practice of yoga is rewarding beyond words, and there are so many talented teachers from which to learn.
You can learn more about Anusara Yoga by attending class with Katrina, or visit www.anusara.com.
By Anusara-inspired yoga teacher™ Katrina Ariel Koric with excerpts from. |
