Setting the Foundation: A Multidimensional Practice

Dec 08, 2023

Setting the foundation is the first half of Anusara Yoga's first universal principle of alignment. It is a twofold, multidimensional practice that extends beyond the physical alignment of our bodies; it encompasses the intentional creation of our mental and emotional states. As we embark on this journey, we explore how to apply the principles of setting the foundation to our daily lives and physical postures.

Morning Rituals and Mental Foundation:

In the quiet moments of the morning, there lies an opportunity to set the foundation for the day. Engaging in a half-hour meditation, we prepare ourselves by acknowledging gratitude, sending love to those connected to us, and reminding ourselves of what truly matters. This mental foundation becomes the blueprint upon which we construct our day, influencing our choices and interactions.

Building Life from the Foundation Up:

Understanding that life is constructed from the foundation up, we become architects of our own experiences. By consciously choosing our state of mind, we shape the way we engage with the world. This intentional approach to setting the foundation allows us to build a life aligned with our values, priorities, and aspirations.

Physical Alignment as a Reflection of Inner Attitude:

The physical alignment of our bodies serves as a tangible reflection of our inner attitude and mental foundation. As we move through the world, the way we stand, hold our hands, or carry ourselves communicates a silent dialogue with ourselves. Aligning our physical presence with our mental and emotional states becomes a harmonious dance, reinforcing the values and priorities we've set for ourselves.

The Integration of Physical and Mental Alignment:

The Anusara Yoga practice leans toward physical alignment, yet it is intertwined with the attitude and mindset we bring to each posture. How we place ourselves physically is a reminder of what is important to us, fostering a holistic integration of body and mind. This integration sets the stage for the deeper exploration of alignment and attitude in the weeks to come.

The Breath: A Bridge Between Mind and Body:

Central to setting the foundation is the breath—an intricate bridge connecting mind and body. Deepening our breath signals to the nervous system that we are safe, facilitating the transition from survival mode to thriving mode. As we inhale into the belly, middle lungs, and upper chest, and exhale in a full release, we embody the sovereignty to mindfully choose our experiences.

Cultivating a Sense of Sovereignty:

The foundation-setting practice invites us to recognize our role as creators of our experiences. By mindfully placing ourselves and breathing into a sense of sovereignty, we declare our ability to navigate life's ebb and flow. This awareness becomes the cornerstone of setting a foundation that echoes throughout our day, influencing the quality of our interactions and the richness of our experiences.

In conclusion, setting the foundation is a multidimensional dance between the mental, emotional, and physical realms. As we embark on this journey, we learn to consciously create a life aligned with our values, one posture and breath at a time. The foundation is set—let the exploration begin.

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