In examining the way galaxies form or the way a seed becomes a tree, we find that the way Nature unfolds is deeply orderly. Fueled by an intrinsic goodness, Nature comes into form with a creative freedom that is highly aware and full of delight. As human beings, we are Nature, but highly infused with consciousness for the fullest amount of freedom and potential to awaken. With that freedom comes choice. We have the possibility to align with the goodness of Nature to enhance our own freedom and make more beauty in the world. Through this ALIGNMENT, we more fully attune to our own consciousness and delight, leading us to the awakening of our Heart.

Anusara Yoga® is organized with the Universal Principles of Alignment. These Principles both acknowledge the deep order of the Universe and inform the choices that we can make to enhance life’s unfolding. Using the Universal Principles of Alignment in the practice of asana, we optimize our physical alignment and pranic (life force) flow. This optimal alignment, then, as it attunes us to the deep order of Nature, expands our own consciousness. In every pose we can enhance our own experience the intrinsic goodness of Nature through knowing it in our Hearts. This knowing is an awakening. Each Principle offers a physical instruction to optimally align the body, as well as a virtue to embody to come more fully into our potential.

Open to Grace

The first Universal Principle of Alignment sets the intention of the practice. It acknowledges the desire to awaken and the understanding that we may do so through the support and benevolence of Nature. Soften to connect into the goodness of the Universe. Be wide open like the sky.

Muscle Energy

The second Principle organizes and steadies the body, stabilizing the wild periphery of the body to move into the stillness and power of the core. Embrace your intrinsic goodness. Be steadfast like the earth.

Inner Spiral

The third Principle optimizes the alignment of the pelvis and lower back giving a depth to forward bends and a softness to backbends. Be fluid and yielding like water.

Outer Spiral

The fourth Principle empowers the pose from deep in the core. It balances the widening action of Inner Spiral for strength and poise. Rise and aspire like fire.

Organic Energy

The fifth Principle extends the radiant power of the core, aligned through the first four Principles, through the rest of the pose in the culmination of its expression. This expression is the result of the intention of the first Principle – Opening to Grace to align with the Universal. Shine – extend freely like air.

In aligning the Heart, mind and body with the Universal Principles of Alignment, we channel our freedom into the choice to enhance the goodness of life within ourselves. When the flow of Nature is optimized, the experience of our own consciousness and delight unfolds. In Anusara Yoga, the practice of asana, through attuning the body and mind to the intrinsic goodness of Nature, is a gateway to the Heart.

May we awaken in this moment, and live life in full consciousness.