sequencing

Writing out sequences for homework has really confirmed what one of our teachers described, that sequencing is as much a science as an art.

In one sense, it is almost formulaic - designing a sequence in a classical manner requires setting a purpose or focus (a bhavana), deciding on a core pose or principle, using the initial poses to prepare for that core, and then counter-postures to relieve the stress accumulated in the initial process. Of course, depending on the strenuousness of the sequence, there might be counter-postures needed even before the core moment, and several layers of complexity beyond that.

But, in the same sense, knowing what pose to use to follow another and deciding on which counterposture to use (especially when a counter-posture can also be a preparation) relies on an understanding of the asanas in how they are linked to each other. And it is in that connective, creative knowledge requirement that sequencing becomes an art, in my mind, as connecting and creating are intuitive skills.

In that, creating a sequence can be as much a yogic exercise as performing an asana itself. Logic and intuition must be balanced and united, Shiva and Shakti, to create a useful practice.