3/28/2017 Practice Journal

Ashtanga Mysore Practice Journal

The focuses of my practice today were the flexibility in the ankle and twisting, particularly Marichyasana D and Pashasana. I remember it took me about a month to be able to bind without help in Marichyasana D. Before I was able to do it, I was always wondering if I could do it one day. Yes, I can. Nowadays, I am working on Pashasana. I run into the same obstacle as before that I am not able to bind without assistant. The second voice in my head comes out again, will I be able to get into the pose one day?" My answer is yes, but I need more practice.  

Good ankle stability and flexibility as well as lengthening side body and sucking belly in (rounding lower back) are needed for these two poses. Since I sprained my left ankle about 3 months ago, I had been modifying Marichyasana B & D, Baddha Konasana, and any lotus related asana. I slowly worked my way into the full poses after recovering (few weeks ago), but Marichyasana D was never the same as it used to be. For that reason, I decided to bring my focus to these areas today. Whether it was the mindfulness I brought into the practice or not, I felt I was able to do Marichyasana D the way I used to before injury. In addition, I finally overcame left and right sides asymmetry. The left side had been more challenging for me than the right. I could bind in both sides, but right side was always easier. With a small tip from my teacher today, I finally felt both sides were symmetric. 

With the progress I felt in Marichyasana D, I thought I could bind in Pashasana without help. Although I didn't bind in Pashasana today, I am not giving up. I know one day I will get it. It didn't happen today doesn't mean it will never happen.

We learn from experiences, failures and mistakes. Never give up!!!