“Pachimottanasana” – (seat)

Being curious about my identified dosha (well, only 2 out of the 15 people in class including Jessica),
I read up on it on google. One of the yoga poses that appeared suitable for a VATA is
paschimottanasana.
In sanskrit, “vata” translates to “wind” and is characterized by its constant movement and flow.
While we can be creative and dynamic, we are also prone to anxiety and worries. Hence, yoga poses
like paschimottanasana in a seated forward fold connects us to the ground and promotes a sense of
stability and calmness.
I figured why I enjoyed yoga that much as compared to other forms of exercises. It is almost the only
space that I can dedicate attention to myself and the body. Often I am amazed by how I can
maintain my concentration on the present moment during a class. The physical intensity of the yoga
poses and the constant awareness of my breathing somewhat disallowed other thoughts from
running in my mind. Beside the physical gains from practising yoga, what benefitted me was the
mental ability to leave my emotions and thoughts aside and stay focused, which I hardly had the
chance to do so in my daily life.
Paschimottanasana is also one of my must-do stretches prior to class. Previously, I was conscious of
doing such deep stretches before class as I was afraid of potential judgements from classmates (I just
do not know how to react properly when people make comments that I am flexible..) I questioned
myself but overtime I learnt to feed the needs of my own body instead of my worries of how others
could perceive me.
Reflection point – nothing to be ashamed of even it means being a minority like VATA and doing
what that suits me best.

 

Evette
200 Hour YTT Feb-May’21