Rediscovering Yoga

As a male practitioner in Vietnam, where yoga is predominantly embraced by strong women, stepping onto the mat has always been a unique journey for me. Attending classes conducted in a foreign language added an extra layer of challenge, often leaving me amused by the comments around me. For all I knew, they could have been discussing my tight butt, my unconventional pose techniques, or anything else entirely. but it also intrigued the women around me, who often wondered how I kept pace with their practice.

However, in recent months, the demands of work took precedence, pulling me away from the sanctuary of yoga. This hiatus was a departure from the balance and strength I had cultivated through my practice. But now, with a renewed determination to reconnect with my body and regain the flexibility and peace I once cherished, I've returned to the mat.

Week 1: Reconnecting with My Body

The first week was all about reconnecting with my body and breath. Achieving the perfect posture in Downward Dog was my primary focus. By walking out a few really tight Downward Dogs, I managed to get my feet reconnected with the ground. It was necessary to find my edge point where I slightly straightened my legs and pushed my hips back while maintaining a straight back and shoulder protraction. Each day, I aimed to narrowly straighten my legs a bit more. The stretching was a little painful and agonizing in many poses, but I made sure not to overexert myself.

Week 2: Embracing the Challenge

By the second week, I began integrating more intermediate-advanced flows. I focused on sequences that required deeper hip engagement and strength. One significant challenge was finding the correct alignment in Lizard Pose. To do this, I had to locate my central point of gravity, allowing me to relax and release layers of tension gradually. I also used variations involving external twisting and eventually managed to lower myself enough to maintain holds while supporting myself on my elbows. Flows that incorporated Warrior II, Extended Side Angle, and Bound Angle Pose became staples. The discomfort was present, but so was the progress. I could feel my hips slowly opening up, rewarding me with increased mobility.

Week 3: Building Strength and Flexibility

As my practice deepened, I set a new goal: mastering the full wheel pose (Urdhva Dhanurasana). This challenging backbend requires both strength and flexibility in the hips, spine, and shoulders. While I already had the strength for the bridge pose, I struggled with the wrist rotation and the push required from an angle posterior to my neck and shoulders. To address this, I incorporated a range of shoulder openers using the wall and bed for different elevations and postures. I practiced Puppy Pose-like variants and arm extension stretches while lying back on the bed with my arms extending over the edge. Each day, I inched closer to lifting off the ground into the full wheel.

Week 4: The Breakthrough

The fourth week marked a significant breakthrough. After several attempts and modifications, I finally achieved the full wheel pose. The sense of exhilaration and accomplishment was immense. My hips felt more open than they had in months, and the mobility gains were evident in every aspect of my practice. I realized that the journey was not just about achieving a pose but about the transformation along the way.

Looking Forward

As I embark on this journey anew, I'm eager to share my experiences and insights through a YouTube series. Join me as I navigate the challenges of elbow and handstand inversions and explore deeper layers of wellness and self-discovery. Your support and curiosity are invaluable as we grow together on this path of renewal and transformation. Stay tuned for more updates and inspirations. Namaste.