Teacher: Lulu Bull
Cost: $450
In-studio and online options available
Please book early as numbers are limited.
Download the timetable for all the class details
“Action is movement with Intelligence” – BKS Iyengar
Many of us come repeatedly to our mats to practice daily, weekly, monthly, and yearly. Why? And for what outcome?
On the mat, when we position ourselves within a pose, we create a bodily frame from which to relate our experience. Initially, we focus on attending to all the ‘actions’ that make up this experience – the lines, the shapes, the movements, the holds, the subtle nuances. All this requires great willpower.
However, it is what happens next, when the ‘action’ is established, that changes us, transforms us, informs us and ultimately brings forth the ‘intelligence’ referred to by Guruji. What happens when the dog pose is done? The shape is achieved?
“Action that is introduced in an asana should excite the intelligence.” – B.K.S. Iyengar
There is a subtle moment between night ceasing and dawn breaking when the temperature drops, a pivotal moment between night and day. Likewise, there is a pivotal moment between “action” and “reflection” in the practice of a pose. It is also subtle and easily overlooked or overridden by the dominance of movement. We must learn to be alert to this moment, to recognise it, to capture it.
Then we start to listen, to observe, to tune our ear to our mind’s response to the experience. Conscious action within the pose. To be present and self-aware at this point is critical if our practice is to mature from movement to action with intelligence.
In this state of awareness, a space within us is opened up. We are then able to take on the role of witness, to observe what arises in the mind at this point, and to become aware of habitual patterns and responses. What we are doing is evolving a feedback system from body to mind, mind to body.
Our actions then become infused with awareness, and discernment becomes the by-product. Intelligence is born! The practice then becomes a dynamic and transformational state of awareness where listening and action have equal status.
Now our yoga practice is able to mature into intelligence in action. – Lulu Bull
Lulu’s annual January intensive is open for Level 2 & Level 3 students.
Numbers are limited to 12.
Full payment is required by December 21st.