SPW and Modifications

[Guest guest]

El senior. I understand how you can consider

modification "diluting" the practice. My question is, how does

one go about such poses as Marichyasana(sp?) B or D

if one still has trouble getting into a good half

lotus. I'm actually almost there, but I know that I

still need to gain flexibility and I know of others who

aren't there at all yet. Your advice would be

appreciated and respected on this subject.<br><br>Thanks and

namaste,<br><br>ishogun

[Guest guest]

Traditionally, your teacher would stop you at the

posture in which you are having trouble before moving on

to the next one. Although this might seem

frustrating, particularly if you are used to going all the way

through Primary, but in the long run you will actually

progress faster and with less risk of injury.<br><br>This

is the correct method, which only a few western

teachers actually adhere to.<br><br>In Yoga, often less is

more.<br><br>Sounds like you might be a bit chunky if B and D are

difficult. Lay off the wheat, sugar and dairy until you lose

some lb's if that is the issue. (I couldn't get into

Marichyasana D until I trimmed down a bit.) <br><br>Best

wishes to you in your practice and life.<br><br>ESPW

[Guest guest]

Thank you for your advice senor. I appreciate it.

My trouble with B & D has less to do with weight,

I'm already fairly trim but could lose five, but more

to do with a knee problem. The angle of the half

lotus in those seems to strain my knees just a bit.

But, I'll keep working and lay of dairy and wheat and

sugar per your suggestion. Thanks. Again I appreciate

your quick response.<br><br>Namaste,<br><br>ishogun