"Flow with whatever may happen and let your mind be free. Stay centered by accepting whatever you are doing. This is the ultimate." ~Chuang Tzu (Zhuangzi), philosopher
When we are going with the flow, we are aligned with ourselves and with the world around us. But with the busy-ness and fast pace of life, it’s easy to slip into a state of distraction and lose sight of your center. Yoga is all about clearing out the mental clutter and finding freedom in your mind, heart, and body. A “flow state” is when you are immersed in an activity to the point you no longer reason you’re “doing” it, you’re simply in it.
For some people, finding their flow is playing or listening to music, running, dancing, surfing, gardening, or whatever activity allows them to settle in an energized state of freedom. Yoga is an excellent path to finding your flow. When we focus on connecting the power of physical movement with the practice of breathing in certain ways, we can expand our prana or life force energy and get energized or relaxed, depending upon the technique.
Vinyasa flow classes focus on linking the breath to the movement and encouraging the mind to quiet down as you sink into sensation and breath. When you are practicing connecting your breath to each movement, your mind naturally settles. The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali emphasize that yoga’s path is one to create a steady, clear mind.
Other styles of yoga, like Yin Yoga, aren’t focused so much on linking breath to movement but more on holding a pose and utilizing your breath to settle into a flow state within stillness. Various Pranayama (breath control) techniques will allow you to find a clear mind and clarity is a form of flow. This week’s varied flow classes focus on finding your personal zone. However you prefer to practice, you can be confident if you direct your attention to sinking into sensation and filtering out the sounds, sights, and smells around you, you’re going to feel the flow.
Enjoy one or all of these flow practices created by our fabulous teachers
Hip Mobility Flow - Kristin Gibowicz
Flowing with Warrior 3 - Mary Baker
Mixed Level Flow (K.I.S.S.) - Jessica Oldfield
Ease into the Flow - Pradeep Teotia