Props and No Props

Iyengar Yoga is known for the use of props and RIMYI is prop paradise. Beyond the usual mats, belts, blocks, bolsters and blankets, there are ropes and slings, weights, wooden and iron dowel rods, benches of all sizes and shapes, and many other wooden props, from small wedges to large furniture, invented by Guruji to help his students learn. In the practice hall and the medical classes, we can see the varied use of these items to provide support, traction, and to cultivate intelligent action. It is a wonderful chance to try more elaborate set ups, since the equipment is all at hand and the practice periods are long.

At the other end of the spectrum, Guruji has been asking us to put away all props at the beginning of the Wednesday and Saturday morning classes. We take not even a blanket to sit upon. To some extent, this is a space management strategy, as the classes are quite large. On a deeper level, he is asking us to question our habits and observe ourselves from the view of the “first prop” which is our own bodies. He said we are all too quick to go for comfort and thus stop ourselves from new learning – finding our what we can do today.

Speaking of new learning, I had an exhilerating experience with backbending yessterday. I was working steadily but not overdoing – one of my personal themes for this trip. I had prepared myself to try some “drop backs” – moving into Urdhva Dhanurasa (Upward Bow Pose) from Sirsasana (Head Balance.) Those went well enough, and then it was time to see if I could drop back into the backbend from a standing position. A senior teacher from the US, Jackie Neff, saw me, and asked if I would like some help. She gave a wonderfully clear touch to my sacrum and my sternum, and over I went, and then back up. We did it three times, and each time her touch was lighter, so I did it more on my own. I have never felt the pose occur with such ease. Then she left, and I thought, well, the pump is primed, let me try this for myself. I was able to drop back three times on my own. Getting back up is another matter. But the main thing is the sense of “effortless effort” that I experienced. It gave me a new feeling of body and mind – very light and calm, yet uplifted and positive. I am so grateful that Jackie came to me at that moment and offered her skillful help. How wonderful it is to have the blessing of yoga in our lives!