Alinhamento como foco rumo à iluminação

Em inglês, o jogo das palavras fica mais ritmado: "Alignment is enlightenment". Na tradução literal, não concordo que alinhamento possa ser sinônimo de iluminação. Repetir isso só afastaria as pessoas do método Iyengar, que é altamente baseado na precisão dos asanas. Mas lendo completamente a matéria publicada pelo Philippine Daily Inquirer (clique aqui!), o contexto fica mais razoável. Embora, convenhamos, qual é o nosso entendimento sobre iluminação? Ainda mais que esse estágio vai além de qualquer conceito.

De qualquer forma, compartilho alguns trechos interessantes:

“So what makes Iyengar yoga different?”

The Oxford English dictionary defines “Iyengar” as “a form of yoga focusing on correct alignment of the body, making use of straps, wooden blocks...” The man who started it all, BKS Iyengar himself, was quite amused upon seeing this definition enter the dictionary in 2003, for he has categorically stated that “Yoga is one, like God is one.” (...)

It is no great achievement for a person to be calm, composed, and relaxed on the beach or on vacation. But to experience that same composure in daily life means being “comfortable” in any situation or circumstance we may face. That is the true gift of yoga.

Guruji rightly says, “The body is the only instrument we are born with which remains unutilized in most of us.” Iyengar yoga teaches us how this body can be adapted into different asanas to maximize the generation and channeling of energy, such that even the remotest parts of the body are well nourished.This not only ensures that the body remains healthy, but also that the mind remains alert, the thinking process clear and the emotions balanced.

A conscientious practitioner is able to bring as much alignment as possible between the muscles and joints, gradually proceeding to “align” the mind and sensations.

Alinhamento e iluminação
In Guruji’s own words, “From alignment only will you be able to develop gradually… Alignment is a movement toward enlightenment.”That being said, it’s really not possible for everyone to reach a completely symmetrical level of precision and alignment in all the poses. But that doesn’t mean anyone who is stiff or has anatomical problems cannot practice yoga.

Sobre o uso de acessórios (props)
One of the greatest contributions of BKS Iyengar to this end is the development of props.These props are nothing but simple things which can be used as support—walls, blankets, belts, ropes, chairs, blocks, bolsters, and tables and stools of different dimensions. It is these props that make it possible for one and all to practice yoga regardless of age, gender or state of health. The use of props has revolutionized the practice of yoga. It’s what allows us, today, to see a 10-year-old practice in the same class as a 90-year-old. Props build confidence, help to bring correct alignment, and allow an individual to stay in the asana with comfort for a while, thus experiencing a pose’s full benefits."

Obrigada, João, por recomendar essa leitura!