Samāśraya – support

«Like a house protecting one from the heat of the sun, Hatha Yoga protects its practisers from the burning heat of the three Tapas; and, similarly, it is the supporting tortoise, as it were, for those who are constantly devoted to the practice of Yoga» (Hathayoga-Pradīpikā, I.10).

The protecting house is samāśraya. The term indicates a support, a shelter, a place to find asylum, protection. Hatha-yoga is ideally such a place, where the practitioner can feel protected physically and mentally. In fact, hatha-yoga ensures balance on all levels and consequently serenity, trust and optimism.

You can seek refuge in hatha-yoga and yoga in general, Libra,  and this is always a good advice. This month, however, you can also count on the support of your loved ones. In terms of relationships, you will find pleasant rewards. You can release the tensions due to the past wounds, because now affections are different and they support you.

The tests come, however, on another level: you may not have the patience, necessary in this period, and risk getting nervous in the frenzy of the many things you want to do. There is no shortage of good opportunities, especially in the first half of the month, but it is necessary to consider what to capture. To choose well, do not neglect moments of relaxation in the company of dear friends or in the arms of those who love you.

Use this short sequence to learn abandonment and trust:

Setubandha-āsana, bridge pose. Open your heart. // 1-2 min.

Paścimottāna-āsana, stretch of the west or back of body. Since the purpose here is the ability to abandon yourself, you can use a support to lean the forehead.  Don’t look for stretching, don’t look for anything. If you are able to let yourself go, the feeling of relaxation is magnificent! // From 1 to 5 min.

Mālā-āsana, garland pose. To develop patience. // 2 min.

TOTAL TIME: from 3 to 9 minutes.

MANTRA of the MONTH: «I trust».