Basic Principles

As I unfold my mat every morning I try to find different ways to ensure that the practice remains alive, fresh and enjoyable. In the process of creating my DVD Yoga: Here + Now I tried to create a list of basic ideas that would be useful to people starting to practice. As I reflected on these ideas, I was interested in presented some clear, simple and easy to follow guidelines could be applied to all styles of Yoga. I hope that these basic principles might be of help in being fully present in your Yoga practice:

1. The breath is the integrating axis of our practice. Our breath is continuous, fluid and comfortable, without any abruptness
2. Synchronize all movements with each inhalation and each exhalation
3. Each posture has a firm foundation, so the parts of the body that are in contact with the floor press down firmly
4. In each posture we balance strength and flexibility, so we activate our muscles as much as is appropriate, without forcing and without pain
5. We respect our body, mind and breath. In each pose, at all levels, we do as much as we can without doing too little and without doing too much
6. We make our practice enjoyable, so at the end of practice we are relaxed, energized and calm

I am aware that there are always ways to get clearer. It would be excellent if you could shared your experience in trying to apply these principles in your practice so that I can continue learning. Thank you!

Namaste.