Yoga with Wendy
September 2010
A MAN FOR ALL SEASONS
In ancient times in China wise men lived in accordance with the changes of the seasons. They did not wish to separate their activities from the world around them. They found the balance within themselves by not over-exerting their bodies while doing physical labour; nor by straining their minds with strenuous meditation techniques. To these wise sages inner happiness and peace were important and contentment was their goal.
Spring
Studying the three months of Spring, they were aware of the changes in plants and animals – for this is the season of birth where everything is developing and shooting out new growth. To keep in harmony with the season of Spring, they would get up early and go for a brisk walk around the yard. They would encourage their bodies to slug off the hibernation of winter, but at the same time ensured they were not punishing their bodies with any activities that could overstrain them.
Summer
The three months of Summer were called the period of abundant growth, for everything was in flower and the fruits had begun to bear. Getting up early and not tiring oneself during the day, as well as holding one’s temper were the disciplines practiced. During these months the ability to love everything around one was thought to be in harmony with the season of Summer.
Autumn
In Autumn the leaves turn brown, the air is crisp and the atmosphere of the earth is clear. People retired early and rose early. This was the period of tranquility, and the task of harvesting was coming to an end. The sages disciplined themselves by keeping their lungs pure and not giving vent to their desires. This kept them in harmony with the Autumn season of tranquility.
Winter
The period of closing and storing is Winter. Water freezes and the earth is cold. Here the sages would go to bed early and rise late in the morning, waiting for the sun to rise. In harmony with Winter, they escaped the cold by seeking warmth and made sure that the cold air did not enter their lungs.
The sages followed the laws of the seasons and were therefore free from diseases and their spirit for life was not exhausted.
THE SWAN BALANCE
In accordance with the harmony of the seasons here is the Swan Balance. This is a gentle stretch that can be used in all seasons. It will help to warm up your ligaments and loosen tight back muscles. It is a good set of postures to do after completing Salute to the Sun. Don’t be fooled by its simplicity, as these postures require your full concentration in order to balance.
- Kneel down on a flat and level surface with your arms hanging at your sides.
- Inhale and lifting your right leg place it straight in front of you with your heel resting on the surface. Make sure your hips are in alignment. Exhale.
- Inhale and raise both arms above your head.
- Exhale and bend forward, keeping your back as straight as possible. Grasp your ankles or your toes. Keep your ears in alignment with your arms. Take a couple of deep breaths
- On an inhalation release your grasp and straightening your back lift your arms above your head.
- Exhale and return to position 1. Repeat the next round using your left leg. Build up to completing 6 rounds on each leg.
Suggestion
Should you have difficulty maintaining your balance you may place your fingertips at first, then later the palm of your hands on either side of the level surface next to your ankles.
Warning
Do not attempt these postures if you have any problems with your lower back.
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