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The photo above demonstrates a simple chair-supported Ustrasana (Camel Pose). This variation (see page 51) allows you to breathe and soften in the pose and explore areas that otherwise would not safely be available in a back bend. With the chair, you can investigate the skill necessary to stretch and contract the muscles needed to support a healthy back bend without additional load on the lower back. Benefits abound.

Acceptance — Meet Yourself Where You Are

I am reminded of a workshop I taught for yoga teachers at a body/mind conference. We covered a lot of pose breakdowns, which is always rewarding. Troubleshooting solutions for different body types is a little like being in a lab. You never know how one insight will lead to another, so it is important to be open to the process. The only formula I know for this is meeting students where they are. I practice this acceptance on the mat. It’s not always easy, but it is always inspiring.

Throughout my travels, I’ve had the privilege of working with yoga instructors and students from all over North America and Canada. My experience in general is that too many practitioners feel bad when they run across a yoga pose they cannot execute well. What’s worse, I have perceived embarrassment and almost shame. I hear rumblings like, “My shoulders aren’t as flexible as Eric’s.” Or teachers share their concern when they aren’t as mobile as some of their students. My advice: welcome acceptance.