As you know, I have recently qualified in Thai Yoga Massage (TYM). The connections between TYM and yoga are numerous. The two complement one another so well and through practicing one, I learn so much about the other. I have learned (and continue to learn with each new encounter) how STRONG the power of TOUCH is. By simply placing your hands upon someone's shoulders in a yoga class, the effect can be calming, reassuring, grounding and caring. Alternatively, when adjusting somebody who may not be used to being touched so often, and if the practicioner is not mindful of this, the results can be resistance, fear, or even pain/discomfort. The ability to tune into another person's boundaries and limitations, as well as their potential and needs, is a gift - and if you have a teacher that possesses this gift, you will benefit greatly and reap the rewards of their unique touch.
In our most recent teacher training session, we were learning how to make adjustments in paschimottanasana, or seated forward bend. In this pose, when one person was in the forward bend, the other would place there hands on the others back and we would then breathe into those hands. With each exhale we were encouraged by the hands to go deeper into the pose. For me, in addition to the practical application of being gently 'pushed' to go deeper, the warmth and support that the hands of my partner offered, allowed me to relax more fully and comfortably into the pose. This type of support in this particular pose brings me feelings of comfort, reassurance and deep introspection. The ability to go deeper inside, with the support of another, is something you really just have to experience - it is simply beautiful.
 |
| Nick and Jason - Seated Forward Bend |
Anyone who knows me, knows that I am BIG on hugs. There is nothing better than getting a hug when you need one, other than giving a hug to someone in need. The things I love about hugs is that they can bring instant healing and connection. For me, Thai Yoga Massage is akin to recieving a big bear hug a million times over. Doing yoga is like hugging yourself a million times over.
The more I learn about teaching, and the more I observe in class, I see how many people are uncomfortable with being 'touched'. I feel that there is a real fear of intimacy in western culture. And I don't mean Sex, I mean intimacy - true intimacy with oneself, and with another. As the old adage goes, "If you do not love yourself, you cannot love another". Yoga gives us the opportunity to love ourselves, to develop intimacy with ourselves. Only until true love with oneself is cultivated, can it then be shared with another.
Even if yoga isn't for you....do yourself a favour and give yourself a hug each and every day - it's like smiling...I promise, it will make you feel good!
"You gain strength, courage, and confidence by every experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face. You must do the thing which you think you cannot do."
Eleanor Roosevelt
Here's a little glimpse of one of my moments of strength, courage and fear facing:
