sandeyeNo props v package of goodies
May 30th 2010 09:54
One of the ways I differ strongly from many modern practitioners is that I do not use any props. My yoga practice is done in the ancient 'me and ground' format - with not even a yoga mat. I have never used props of any type and for some reason do not even want to consider them.
This is the exact opposite of many modern yoga enthusiasts, who insist on at least a mat if nothing more - though many will gladly use blocks belts water bottles and straps among many assorted items.
It is not because it makes it too much like a gym procedure, nor that I cannot afford props, I simply do not find it right for me personally to use them. When yoga originated in India many centuries ago, they did not have special mats or plastic blobs, and likewise, nor will I. maybe it is easier, comfier, or otherwise preferable to use highly colored expensive paraphernalia, but I simply choose not to.
In some yoga circles it is assumed one will use props - and I have avoided these groups for my own personal practice, though I have nothing against them if that is another's preference.
The lure of a yoga pack with a mat water bottle block and belt all in some specific color of my choice is so far from what yoga means to me personally that I shudder rather than shed coins. To me, yoga is much more than exercise, keeping fit, getting trim, or just fixing my once-was-bad back. Yoga is a complete lifestyle - hand in hand with Buddhist practice, the two take me along a path that gradually makes life seem better all round - and further from the need for plastic fluro gimmicks.
I am sure if someone gave me a yoga kit for a present I would find other uses for the items than yoga. For example, a yoga mat would be great for a bedroom rug and a block for an ornament…
This is the exact opposite of many modern yoga enthusiasts, who insist on at least a mat if nothing more - though many will gladly use blocks belts water bottles and straps among many assorted items.
It is not because it makes it too much like a gym procedure, nor that I cannot afford props, I simply do not find it right for me personally to use them. When yoga originated in India many centuries ago, they did not have special mats or plastic blobs, and likewise, nor will I. maybe it is easier, comfier, or otherwise preferable to use highly colored expensive paraphernalia, but I simply choose not to.
In some yoga circles it is assumed one will use props - and I have avoided these groups for my own personal practice, though I have nothing against them if that is another's preference.
The lure of a yoga pack with a mat water bottle block and belt all in some specific color of my choice is so far from what yoga means to me personally that I shudder rather than shed coins. To me, yoga is much more than exercise, keeping fit, getting trim, or just fixing my once-was-bad back. Yoga is a complete lifestyle - hand in hand with Buddhist practice, the two take me along a path that gradually makes life seem better all round - and further from the need for plastic fluro gimmicks.
I am sure if someone gave me a yoga kit for a present I would find other uses for the items than yoga. For example, a yoga mat would be great for a bedroom rug and a block for an ornament…
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