Ashtanga Intermediate Practice

We have finally begun an Intermediate Ashtanga practice at The Folded Leaf. As a somewhat reluctant Ashtangi I joined the group more as an explorer of the craft than as an admitted devotee. After studying with Bobbi Misiti last weekend, some of the class were inspired to keep with it, and to admit where they are on the practice...ready to leave the comfort of primary and enter the unfamiliar territory of second series.

The comfort of primary series is undeniable. All that folding into yourself, bowing down, and listening to the invitation to honor the highest inner self as the practice takes you from point A to point B, a nice little jaunt from paschimottanasana to the soft cushion of savasana. Today, talking with Annie about this newest addition to the schedule, she said that primary is "very mashed potatoes." I thought that sounded just about right. Comforting and homey.

Second series, with all the extreme backbending, impossible binding, arm balancing, and seven headstands (not counting the finishing sequence), is like a neon charge enticing me to try while also warning me to not go too fast. This stuff must be tackled piece by piece, respectfully and with a beginner's mind.

I think I'm ready to get started.