Act of Surrender on Yoga mat
“Surrender fully unto the lotus feet of the lord. That is the only business of the perfect human being” - Srimad Bhagavatam, Srila Prabhupada
Surrendering sounds like being imprisoned or giving up on life, controlled by someone else rather than self. However, spiritually speaking the meaning of surrender certainly does not come in that sense. The feeling is rather positive and soothing when we simply let go of situations that are not in our control. Surrender in fact opens up to infinite possibilities where trust comes from within that there is a Divine force taking care of everything in absolutely perfect manner. As spiritual master Eckhart Tolle says, “Surrender is to say ‘yes’ to life—and see how life suddenly starts working for you rather than against you.”
Practice the feeling of surrender on your yoga mat by bowing down before the ultimate reality. The intention is to give up our ego and trusting the wisdom of the Divine to guide the life and actions of the self in order to work in the world.
Asthtanga Namaskar is one of the pose amongst many in Yoga asanas which can fulfil the practice of surrender on mat. The gesture does not require to choose a personal deity of focus but just an idea that gives one inspiration. The pose is often performed in Surya Namaskar (Sun Salutation) flow sequence and is placed on the sixth step where practitioner touches their body on the ground from eight locations - Both hands, Both Knees, Both feet, Chin and Chest on ground. The literal translation of the pose is Eight Limbed pose (Asht means 8 and Anga means parts of body) and is also known as Caterpillar pose in Yoga world.
The pose is considered beneficial for hands, wrists, arms and shoulder strength, improves back muscles hence mobility of the back, expands chest and improves lung capacity as a result, clears mind, reduces tension, stress and anxiety. The pose is also beneficial for those who wish to perform more advanced yogas poses.
Technique -
Begin with Plank pose - Place hands directly under shoulders, straighten legs, squeeze buttocks, balance the body on toes, pull lower back towards sky and head levelled with body. Keep neck soft and steady. Gaze fixed directly under and in between the hands.
2. From this position, touch both knees to the ground.
3. Lower chest and chin downwards until they touch the ground keeping the elbows hugged to sides of the body. At the same time, raise your pelvic area from the ground.
4. Retain the posture breathing slowly and with full awareness.
Common mistakes -
Elbows away from body. (Keep them close to your rib cage.)
Rushing to enter and exit the pose. (Breathe slowly and be aware of the movement of each part of your body from start to the end of the pose).
Caution - Should there be any issues with shoulders, neck, wrists or lumbar region, perform with caution or medical advice to be sought.
Practice this posture daily during Surya Namaskar flow sequence or at least once by retaining the pose for 10-15 seconds to perform day to day tasks efficiently with a heart felt salute to the giver of strength.
