Pose of the Month: Samasthitihi

Pose: Samasthitihi

This can be translated as 'standing in a straight line' or 'equal standing'. This is also called Tadasana, or Mountain Pose. If we examine the two names for this pose we get a pretty good idea what it's all about: Rising up evenly from a solid foundation. Your feet are the roots of the mountain, make sure they are planted squarely on the ground with the inner ankles and big toes touching. Keep your insteps lifted. From your feet draw up through your legs. Your quadriceps will engage, lifting your kneecaps. Draw your lower belly in and up, shoulders down, arms by your sides. Extend the crown of your head up. Your spine will elongate, creating freedom in your torso and neck. Breathe evenly into the front and back of your lungs deeply and smoothly. Fix your gaze to the tip of you nose or to a spot on the floor in front of you. Try not to let your eyes wander. Work on bringing steadiness and evenness to your body. Release any unecessary tension through your smooth, deep breathing. This sets you up for engagement in all the rest of the poses of Suryanamaskara, Sun Salutations. This is where you begin to still and focus your mind through attention to your bodily engagements and breath.