Recently, I’ve been hearing a lot of discussion in the yogaverse about how many poses are not functional – they are only useful for those interested in doing yoga poses, and they are not applicable in daily life.
I disagree! It depends on how you use the pose and what you use the pose for, it does not depend on the name of the pose, it’s “full expression”, or on someone else’s idea of what the pose should look like.
For example, lateral bends have functionality. You may think, “Hmm, how do I lateral bend in daily life?” You may not. But lateral bends can be very functional for supporting the myofascia (musculature + fascia) of breathing, and thereby support the health and function of the respiratory system – and that’s functional! Does that mean triangle pose can support breathing? Maybe. It depends what your triangle pose looks like.
Here is a video of a functional version of triangle pose. Please check it out!
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Absolutely! My training said ‘teach the person, not the pose.’ In other words, the best triangle for one isn’t necessarily the best for another.
I need to have a think/discussion about how hero and pigeon pose are functional….
Hi Chris! i am all for pigeon pose as the most excellent hip opener i can think of…. however, needless to say! if you have knee or hip issues, best to do supine ie on your back 4-square. now, hero pose, to me that’s another story. a pose that is quite intense, especially for those of us older yogis 🙂
Hi Chris! i am all for pigeon pose as the most excellent hip opener i can think of…. however, needless to say! if you have knee or hip issues, best to do supine ie on your back 4-square. now, hero pose, to me that’s another story. a pose that is quite intense, especially for those of us older yogis 🙂
Simply and brilliantly put Kristine. Immediately applicable and easy to experience in my own body and to explain to others. It all comes down to awareness really doesn’t it? Thank you.