Happy August, Yogis!
We can think of no better way to celebrate a month that literally translates to “honored” or “worthy of reverence” than by expressing devotion, strength, and flexibility with Hanumanasana (Full Split) or its modified option- Ardha Hanumanasana (Half Split).
You may know Hanuman as the leaping monkey figure in Hindu mythology, but you may not know his story embodies all the qualities of selfless, heroic service that are worthy of deep honor and devotion. According to the Ramayana, Hanuman leapt across the ocean to rescue Sita, Rama’s wife, from the demon king, Ravana. Hanuman sacrificed his own safety to help Rama save Sita, simply out of his desire to use his talents to serve others.
Hanuman’s act of selfless service is a reminder to ask ourselves where in our own lives we can use our own unique talents to better the lives of those around us. As you shift and wiggle down into this deeply challenging pose, allow your senses to quiet and focus on your breath with the intent of creating space for reverence, devotion, and the desire to serve others.
To get into Hanumanasana:
Start in Half Split
1. From kneeling extend one leg forward, keeping the hips in line with each other
2. Flex the front foot grounding the heel down deep into the mat so there is a slight bend to the extended knee, protecting the joint
3. Fold over the extended leg, drawing forehead toward extended shin
4. Stay here or slide the back leg straight into full Hanumanasana
5. Engage the core for stability while extending hands high over head
6. Switch sides
One of our favorite tips for Hanumanasana comes from a class of Beth’s, where she advises getting into this pose might set off alarm bells in your head if you try to get into it too fast, and the way to bypass those alarms without tripping them is to follow the breath and take getting into the full expression of this pose inch by inch. Thank you to Beth for the great advice, and thank YOU for joining us this August to learn, grow, and serve others.
Namaste!
