Having spent the last couple of days in New York City being pummeled by Superstorm Sandy, I have been thinking a lot about standing on my two feet. When I walk through deep puddles, negotiate slippery leaves, or brave strong gusts of wind, it is interesting how I need to consider the quality of each footstep.
Next time you are on the mat, tune into how you stand in your postures but also how your feet serve you as both a means for stability and movement. Spread your toes extra wide and broaden your base of support all the way to your heel edges. Each time you return to Tadasana (Mountain Pose) in your sun salutation series, recognize the grounding and rooted quality of your feet. In your Virabhadrasana I and II (Warrior I and II Poses) notice how even though the feet are far apart on the mat, they each can share your weight. Maybe try closing your eyes periodically during your practice and notice all the wobbles and twitches in your ankles. They indicate your body’s natural intelligence constantly negotiating balance on the moving earth!
Indeed, stability and ease of mind are not so far behind when we stand tall and strong on our own two feet.
- TaraMarie