Season 1, Episode 13

Intention in Action: A Deep Dive into Abhyasa and Vairagya with Heidi (Back Pocket Theme)

by | Dec 21, 2023 | Episodes

Join hosts Heidi and Farin as they delve into the intricacies of Heidi’s go-to back pocket theme: Abhyasa and Vairagya. Discover the essence of this theme, designed to bring intention and purpose to your yoga practice, transcending the physical and reaching for internal stillness. Heidi shares her Dharma talk, weaving together personal experiences, insights from the Yoga Sutras, and practical applications for classes of any style. Explore the class sequence, with a focus on Sugar Cane Pose, and learn how to adapt the theme to various practices, from intense Vinyasa to gentle Yin. As you listen, consider incorporating Abhyasa and Vairagya into your teaching or personal practice, finding a balance between effort and surrender both on and off the mat. Don’t miss this insightful episode that empowers yoga teachers to deepen their themes and invites practitioners to embrace the transformative power of intentional practice.

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Episode 13 cover art with Farin and Heidi - Intention in Action: A deep Dive into Abhyasa and Vairagya

Show Notes

Introduction: [0:14 – 2:11]

  • Back Pocket Theme defined: A theme that can be used quickly for any yoga class, any style, any time, without the need for extensive preparation.
  • Invitation for yoga teachers to share their back pocket themes on the podcast.

Heidi’s Back Pocket Theme: [2:11 – 7:32]

  • Heidi’s Dharma talk on Abhyasa and Vairagya.
  • Definition of Samadhi and its connection to finding internal stillness.
  • Explanation of Sutra 1.12 and the balance between doing (Abhyasa) and allowing (Vairagya).
  • Challenges of goal orientation and external competition.
  • The importance of practicing intentional effort while releasing attachment to outcomes.

Challenges and Results: [7:32 – 9:29]

  • Discussion on the struggles of being goal-oriented and the pressure to achieve.
  • Exploring the results of practicing Abhyasa and Vairagya.
  • Connection to the concept of stilling the mind and achieving inner peace.

Thematic Throughline Phrase: [9:29 – 9:53]

  • Introduction to the class structure and thematic through-line phrase: “Set your effort with purpose then surrender to the results.”

Peak Postures: [9:53 – 16:32]

  • Description of the class sequence leading to the peak pose, Sugar Cane Pose (Chapasana).
  • Emphasis on intentional movement, opening the chest, and setting the effort with purpose.
  • Adaptations for different styles of classes, including gentle and Yin.
  • Emphasis on being present and feeling sensations rather than achieving a specific posture.
  • Using the theme for savasana and meditation.
  • Encouragement to release the need for the mind to be still and focus on the effort of being present.
  • Discussion on using the theme in forward folds and gentle poses.
  • Encouragement to focus on sensations and effort rather than achieving a specific posture.

Conclusion of Practice: [16:32 – 17:57]

  • Acknowledgment of the struggle with the theme and the acceptance of the challenge as part of the practice.
  • Closing thoughts on applying Abhyasa and Vairagya off the mat to find balance in life.
  • Encouragement to practice the balance of effort and surrender in daily activities.

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