I’ve always been drawn to postures that give my body the opening and expansion that I need to to quiet my nervous system, and the power to stoke my internal fire (Agni), leaving my mind and body feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

Birds of Paradise (a challenging balance that incorporates hip opening, core and back strengthening, and hamstring lengthening) has really been calling to me in my practice at this time as I feel very much at the beginning of a new phase of my life. Through yoga we learn that although life is constantly changing, we can find balance + peace, and still get in touch with our true essence among the chaos.

This pose aims to experience depth of paradise and renewal in the body by mimicking the shape and beauty of the tropical flower - opening up like a flower towards the sun embracing a new beginning. - Svarga=paradise or heavenly world Dvija=twice born. Birds symbolize renewal and being “twice born” – first as an egg and then hatching into a bird.

When comparing the physical pose to the internal practice, the real living soul is where we need work on the spiritual front to attain "Paradise". This pose is considered as an advance level pose and requires immense sense of control and balance not only from the body but from within to remain calm while in the posture.

Spread your wings and soar to reawaken to a fresh outlook, a calm mind, and a rejuvenated body.