Effort & Ease - Sthira Sukham Asanam

Sutra 2.46: "Sthira-sukham asanam" - yoga poses should be both steady (sthira) and comfortable (sukham).

Steadiness (Sthira) effort, strength, and stability, holding the pose firmly with a focused mind and balanced body.

Comfort (Sukham) ease and relaxation, finding lightness in the posture, releasing tension, finding contentment in the pose.

Balance between effort and relaxation is crucial.

Too much effort = strain/tension

too much ease = superficial/lazy practice.

Integrating effort & ease creates a meditative experience, and connects us with our body and mind.

3 points to think about to find this steadiness and comfort in your yoga poses

• Awareness

  Don’t force/avoid over exerting and strain

  Observe the sensations in your body

  Don’t let your attention drift

• Breath

  Watch your breath

  Keep it steady and calm

  Use the steady and calm focused breath to find ease in your pose

• Modifications/props

• Use props where needed

• Adapt the practice for your individual needs and abilities