The myth, mysticism, and messages of the wild kingdom.
How Animal-Inspired Yoga Can Transform and Transcend - Part One: The Reptile and Amphibians.
On a walk this past week a painted turtle crossed my path, then a few moments later a frog leapt almost under foot. Were they stopping me in my tracks? After my walk, I pulled my dusty copies of Ted Andrews’ books off the shelf to look up the symbolism. It may be a little too woo woo for you, but I will take insight from wherever it comes. I take animal encounters very seriously, though in the hustle I can get out of sync. I simply forget to pay attention.
It’s amazing what one little frog and a painted turtle can inspire. After a week of wrestling a reoccurring theme of self-doubt, I’ve been encouraged to keep going. So, I feel a blog series coming on for the summer, maybe classes too! Kicking it off with the reptiles and amphibs and exploring a new set every month. I put some book titles and references at the bottom, if you want to take a deep dive.
The ancestors of every culture and tradition have revered the natural world. Animals have taken their majestic place through myth, mysticism and evolution. Shamans, yogis, and scientists have studied every species in their ecosystem to understand how to survive and thrive in sometimes harsh environments. If we are a reflection of the environment around us, what can be learned through the power of animal instinct? There are plant allies and animal messengers in every direction as far as the eye can see.
Yogis would spend long hours observing the inherent tendencies of every creature in their surroundings. Watching how they would move, heal, protect, and nurture their young was a meditation in itself. This is why so many yoga poses are named after animals. They’re the OG asana. It’s a tradition of honor and an homage.
As we come to the mat, we’re initiating so much more than a stretch or a movement only for the sake of the body. It’s an initiation of relationship; to ourselves, each other, the environment, and the divine. Yoga at its deepest level becomes more than a series anatomically directed movements, it’s a vehicle toward self-realization. The complete practice guides us toward an understanding of who we are, what we want, how we can contribute. Ultimately it brings us to a confident knowing of our own place in the universe. Then, we can exchange all of the struggling and striving to claim our place of peace.
As we deepen our engagement with a pose, we can derive meaning though it’s myth and symbolism. Moving into the energy, we go into our own self-inquiry as reflected in it’s message.
Warm up the with some prep poses, release the body with some counter poses and you have yourself a yoga practice! Give some time at the end with your journal and let the words flow.
Tortoise Pose- Kurmasana
KOOR-MAH-sah-nah
Starting Position:
Sit on the floor with your legs extended straight in front of you.
Butterfly Pose Setup:
Bend your knees and bring the soles of your feet together.
Let your knees drop out to the sides, forming a diamond shape with your legs.
Pull your heels close to your pelvis.
Initial Bend:
Lean your torso forward between your thighs.
Arm Positioning:
Slide your arms underneath your calves.
Extend your arms forward, reaching them past your feet.
Deepening the Pose:
Lower your torso further towards the floor.
Aim to rest your forehead or chin on the floor if possible.
Breathing:
Breathe deeply and steadily.
With each exhale, try to relax and deepen the stretch.
Holding the Pose:
Maintain the pose for 30 seconds to 1 minute, or as long as comfortable.
Focus on relaxing your hips, lower back, and inner thighs.
Releasing the Pose:
Slowly lift your torso and head up.
Bring your legs back together.
Return to a seated position.
Preparatory Poses: Seated Straddle, Butterfly pose, Eagle, Forward Fold, Cat/Dog
Counter Poses: Knee Hug, Simple Twists, Child’s pose, Bridge, Supported Fish
Contraindications: Pregnancy - Injury at the hips, shoulders, or neck - Inflamed Sciatica - PTSD
Symbolism: The tortoise represents a depth of self-understanding and our discernment in the face of challenges. In fear we can withdrawal into our shell as a defensive mechanism or we can choose to stay open, present in the strength of our vulnerability. There is also a power in the practice of retreat. In drawing back from the senses and the over-stimulus of the outside world, we calm the emotional reactions that keep us in a reactive state. Like a turtle we can move in a gentle slow response rather than react with temperamental words or actions.
Inquiry: How do I protect myself from the outside world? What is my shell made of? (Defensiveness, Distance, Sarcasm, Deflection) Do we need to slow down and focus on our essential priorities? Are we carrying too much on our back? Are we being impatient?
Keywords: Protection, Vulnerability, Preservation, Longevity, Retreat, Withdrawal, Patience, Ancient, Steady, Strong & Soft
Message: (Ted Andrews) “Though slow and plodding, the tortoise heralds movement, even with all the pressures on us now. When a turtle appears, we have usually been experiencing many changes and many burdens, and although it may not seem so, its appearance now indicates that the dawn is slowly approaching… responsibilities have been great, we will succeed in time.”
Frog- Mandukasana
man-doo-KAHS-uh-nuh
Starting Position:
Begin on your hands and knees in a tabletop position.
Position Your Legs:
Slowly widen your knees apart, sliding them out to the sides.
Keep your ankles in line with your knees, feet pointing outward.
Lower Your Torso:
Lower your torso down, bringing your forearms to the floor.
Place your elbows directly under your shoulders, hands flat on the ground or palms pressed together.
Adjust Your Hips:
Slightly move your hips back towards your heels, finding a comfortable stretch. Balancing your weight between elbows and knees.
Ensure your hips are in line with your knees and not sagging down.
Breathing:
Breathe deeply and steadily.
Focus on relaxing your inner thighs and hips with each exhale.
Holding the Pose:
Maintain this position for 30 seconds to 1 minute, or as long as comfortable.
Stay relaxed, allowing your body to gently stretch.
Release the Pose:
Slowly bring your legs back together by sliding your knees inward.
Rest in Child's Pose for a few breaths.
Preparatory Poses: Sphinx pose, Table Top, Gate pose, Lizard
Counter Poses: Child, Crocodile, Side-lying twist, Camel
Contraindications: Pregnancy - Injury or Surgery in knees, back, hips- Arthritis in Knees and Hips.
Symbolism: In many cultures frogs have been associated with healing because of their connection to water. In water we are renewed and cleansed. Release emotions and let them flow instead of becoming stuck in their mud. Amphibians are reflections of an ecosystems in both earth and water, they reveal the true state of our environment. When we are connected to the source of life, we come in contact with the power of transformation. Fearless and flexible we are prepared to make the leap to what is next to come.
Inquiry: Where are you stuck? Are you repeating patterns instead of forging on to new choices and opportunities? What is ready to transform in you and for you? Where in your life are you ready to let go of fear and take a leap of faith? What part of your inner eco-system needs care?
Keywords: Healing, Transformation, Rebirth, Fortune, Emotions, Cleansing, Fertility, Flexibility.
Message: (Ted Andrews) “Whenever a frog appears, we are entering a time of new beginnings. The creative energies are awakening, and it is a time for new birth and new starts. Listen for new opportunities. (It’s now) a reflection of maturity and transformation… Frog’s appearance heralds an awakening of the unique and creative powers of our own voice.”
Cobra- Bhujangasana
boo jan gah suh nuh
Starting Position:
Lie face down on the floor.
Extend your legs back, with the tops of your feet resting on the ground.
Place your hands under your shoulders, elbows close to the body.
Engage Your Body:
Press the tops of your feet, thighs, and pubic bone gently into the floor.
Engage your leg muscles. Feel a long line of energy from the toes through the heart.
Inhale and Lift:
On an inhale, begin to straighten your arms, lifting your chest off the floor.
Keep a slight bend in your elbows if needed, ensuring your shoulders stay relaxed and away from your ears.
Open Your Chest:
Roll your shoulders back and down, widening your collarbones.
Keep your lower ribs on the floor and avoid over-arching your lower back.
Head Position:
Keep your neck long and gaze slightly upward or forward.
Hold the Pose:
Hold the position for 15 to 30 seconds.
Breathe deeply and steadily, focusing on expanding your chest with each inhale.
Release the Pose:
Exhale and slowly lower your chest and head back to the floor.
Relax your arms alongside your body or rest your forehead on your hands.
Preparatory Poses: Cat/Dog, Plank, Bridge Rolls, Lotus Mudra Rolls, Bowing Yoga Mudra
Counter Poses: Downdog, Crocodile, Knee Hug, Reclined Butterfly
Contraindications: Pregnancy - Physical weakness - Asthma- High Blood Pressure - Back injury or surgery
Symbolism: Cobras represent the great power of wisdom in myths throughout the ages, but also instill fear with their venomous strike. The battles of good vs evil are perpetuated when will is pierced by temptation. Throughout ancient cultures- snakes, serpents, and cobras have been the symbol of resurrection. The circle of life and death, every ending brings a new beginning. This is a cycle of renewal. With belly to the ground, snakes move fluidly to the rhythmic beat of their surroundings. From the spiritual to the mundane to grow and evolve, we must shed our old skin.
Inquiry: What do I really know in my gut? Are my actions, thoughts, or judgements venomous to myself or to others? Where in my life should I strike now - taking action on my goals and dreams? Am I ready to shed my skin and start anew? Am I being called toward spiritual growth? Where in my life should I become more alert?
Keywords: Renewal, Birth and Death, Powerful, Fertility, Venomous, Fear, Alertness, Rhythmic, Striking, Kundalini, Spiritual Growth, Enlightenment, Change.
Message: (Ted Andrews) “ The cobra often heralds a time to keep our eyes open and alert. We may be blind to what is occurring around us or to our opportunities. We may be allowing fear and doubts to prevent our taking appropriate actions. When the cobra appears, we can expect awakening and heightening of our own intuitive vision that will enable us to make swift decisions and action…We must guard our endeavors until ready to act, and then act swiftly upon them.”
Crocodile Pose - Makarasana
mah-kah-RAHS-uh
Starting Position:
Lie face down on the floor.
Extend your legs back with your feet slightly apart and facing outward. Or for more ease, just allow your legs to fall into a natural turn out.
Position Your Arms:
Place your arms in front of you, elbows bent.
Stack your forearms to rest your forehead on your hands.
Relax Your Body:
Allow your whole body to relax and sink into the floor.
Close your eyes if comfortable.
Breathing:
Breathe deeply and slowly.
Focus on your breath, feeling your abdomen gently rise and fall with each inhale and exhale.
Holding the Pose:
Maintain this position for 1 to 5 minutes.
Stay relaxed, letting go of any tension in your muscles.
Release the Pose:
Slowly roll over to your side, on the back, or move to a counter pose.
Preparatory Poses: Downdog, Frog, Sun Salutation, Forward Fold, Rag doll
Counter Poses: Knee Hug, Windshield wipers, Shavasana
Contraindications: Pregnancy - High Blood Pressure - Digestive Issues
Symbolism: Crocodiles are keen in their natural powers of strength and protection. With a strong exterior and muscular underbelly they navigate a balance on earth and water. It takes this same balance to move through life with a steady grounded-ness and flowing emotions. Healing comes through in the unconscious mind as moods and memories pull us under into the watery depths, away from higher aspirations. It’s important for our own protection that we trust the guidance of primal instinct to address any unresolved thoughts or conflicts. In discerning moments we can know when its time to either resist or submit to the pull of the mind and emotions for the sake of our own healing.
Inquiry: What is showing up to be healed in this moment? What distraction do I most need to resist? How can I be better guided by my primal instincts? How do I invoke my own power of protection? How do I create a balance among the various environs of my life?
Keywords: Instinct, Protection, Trust, Primal, Evolution, Strength, Resistance, Duality, Subconscious.
Message: (Ted Andrews) “ The appearance of the crocodile indicates the presence of primal strength and creation… It heralds a time of balance within all environments of our life. The balance may come unexpectedly, but it will come as a result of our own efforts, strengths, and creativity. Our instincts will be very accurate and strong in regards to whom or what we can trust. This is the time to trust what is right for us, our home, our children, and our endeavors.”
While most of us tend to favor furry friends and avoid the slithery ones, what can we learn from these long adaptive creatures? Surviving through millions of years, reptiles and amphibians have survived every major catastrophe dating back to prehistoric times. This category of classics are the cornerstone to evolution. Even more than the butterfly, their metamorphosis is enduring. They hold the power of transformation and transcendence. Both resilient and sensitive to bridge an ethos of watery emotions and grounded steadiness.
The cultural shift throughout most of the world has been to treat animals as inferior beings. That they are here to be dominated, controlled, exploited - even exterminated. However, they are our equals and companions in the world we share. They still hold the key to the universe, whether we are willing to acknowledge it or not. The practice of the animal poses not only reconnect us to the natural world, but reveals a little illumination in the mysteries of our own life.
Explore More:
Ted Andrews: Animal-Wise, the spirit language and signs of nature
Ted Andrews: Animal Speak, the spiritual and magical powers of creatures great and small.
Swami Sivananda Radha: Hatha Yoga, The Hidden Language.
