Yoga: On the Go! As told by the Yamas and Niyamas

Once you are a student of yoga, it becomes a part of your daily life. Some of us revolve our schedules around a class or pop in whenever possible. There is no doubting a two day to two week withdrawal as a result of vacation would make yogis decidedly grumpy. There is no reason it has to be this way! Yoga can always be packed alongside your sandals and summer dresses. The self care system of Yoga is comprised of “eight limbs,” or the structure of a yoga practice, based on the sutras of Patanjali (some dude from over five millenia ago.) For the sake of brevity and because the other four might be a bit of a stretch to attain within a week’s time, here are half of them: The “ethics” are told by the yamas and niyamas while asana (poses) and pranayama (breath) then work the physical as well as mental body.

Yama:

The first yama is non-violence, or ahimsa. This does not merely include physical violence, but also mental to yourself and to others. Example: you are stuck in a traffic jam on the way to paradise and somebody takes it upon themselves to cut in front of you and your gut reaction is to call them at least 30 derogatory terms immediately. Oh wait, ahimsa. Instead, force a smile that could land you in a loony bin. If you want to take it one step further, you could tap into your hara breath. Your family already knows you’re nuts anyway. Just make sure you’re watching the road.

Niyama:

Samtosa, or contentment, is a perfect niyama to pull out of the suitcase when on the go. Remember that you will inevitably spill something on a brand new outfit or lose a piece of luggage. Something terribly inconvenient is bound to happen during a time designated for sheer relaxing bliss. However, mountain scenery and sea breezes still exist overtop of it. These issues are temporary, but also so is your time to laugh and enjoy it.

Asana:

We are all familiar with this aspect of yoga, since it is why a majority of us begin the practice. The poses of yoga need not be practiced in an elaborate fashion! Use a towel to strut the warriors if space to store the mat is an issue. Ties are an excellent makeshift strap. Find a meadow, sand dune or, even better, local studio to practice. The poses do not necessarily need to be formally practiced to be effective. Any practice is better than none!

Pranayama:

Ah, the beauty of breath. It really can be utilized anywhere. Alternate nostril breathing to help you calm down after a late flight or to help fall asleep; kapalabhati to wake yourself efficiently and quickly; even hara kicks would be grand, especially when in view of unsuspecting passersby.

Yoga has its place everywhere we go. Whether it’s Antarctica, the desert, the Mall of America or grandmom’s, it can be practiced at any moment.

Jen Ryan, MOYO Volunteer and Teacher Trainee