«Āsanas, various Kumbhakas, and other divine means, all should be practiced in the practice of hatha-yoga, till the fruit of rāja-yoga is obtained» (Hathayoga-pradīpikā, I.67).

Self control!

Maybe you’ll find yourself thinking that this month everything is going wrong, Virgo, especially regarding small daily things. It is said that retrograde Mercury brings inconveniences regarding communication  and electronic media, which could break down or make you slow down in your work. Jupiter square will then make you think that luck is not really on your side. In fact, Jupiter and even more Saturn trine recall and test your sense of discipline and perseverance. If you use this period properly, you can lay excellent bases for your future.

It is not clear why rāja-yoga takes this name, royal yoga. Three theories are suggested: because it is considered the most difficult path, given that it presupposes control of the senses and mind; because it is the most complete path, since it contemplates within itself the other main types of yoga; because it represents the spiritual crowning of all the paths and thus it is in fact superior to all the others.

Do not be discouraged, Virgo, and indeed think that with a good dose of self-control you will gain the most coveted fruit.

Increase your concentration with this sequence:

Mālā-āsana, garland pose. Stop a moment. Be patient. Think. // 1-2 min.

Anuloma-Viloma prānāyāma, literally natural-unnatural breath, called nādī-śuddhi or nādī-śodhana, or purification of the canals too. Perseverance with this technique will give you unexpected results! Keep a steady pace and try to exhale twice the time of the inhalation. // From 5 to 10 min.

Concentration. Relax in a meditative position. Take some time to relax all the muscles. Observe your breath, observe the state of your mind. Try to be aware of all the sensations of your body, especially those related to touch: the pressure of your legs and buttocks on the ground; the touching of your clothes on your shoulders and on your abdomen, the warmth of your hands touching each other and the legs; the coolness of bare skin touched by the air; etc. Go on seeking for tactile sensations. // From 5 to 15 min.

TOTAL TIME: from 11 to 27 minutes.

MANTRA of the MONTH: «I’m laying the foundations for my future success».

ATTENTION: each technique may have contraindications. Take proper information before practising. Ask your teacher for the correct execution. The recommended times are provided only as a guide, always adjust the practice to your own times and limits. Never force, positions must be comfortable and stable! For any doubt leave a comment below!