Karen Reeves demonstrates Vertical Splits Pose. Be the first to text her location and receive a free yoga class. 501-681-0566. Photo: Fred Padilla\
By Karen Watson Reeves
Take a moment to look at the setting of the photo before scrutinizing the pose. This structure is a work in progress (specifically identify the location for a free class). Look around almost any city, freeway, or even people and you are likely to observe works in progress.
I am definitely one of those in several areas of my life. If you have ever seen the Vertical Splits pose done by a seasoned practitioner, you can now look at my pose and see how much work there is to be done. But that is one of the best things about yoga! Works in progress are welcome; heck, we are all works in progress in yoga. You don’t have to have a “perfect” pose or practice to attend classes.
To critique my pose you could start with my front leg where there is quite a bit of bend in the knee; my pelvis is not on the ground; my spine is not completely upright, and my hands are fully supporting me on the mat instead of reaching up toward the sky.
So, do I receive any benefits from doing this if I haven’t perfected it? Of course! Practicing this pose stretches and strengthens muscles in the hamstring, thigh, and groin areas; increases flexibility in the hips; gently extends the back; aids in balance and stretching the arms and shoulders as you progress to take your hands off the ground. When practicing in a studio or at home, it is helpful to use props, such as a bolster or cushion under the pelvis; a strap to stretch the hamstrings before going into the pose; a blanket under the front foot to help it slide forward. And with perseverance and plenty of practice, a deeper aspect of any given pose is usually achieved.
The next time you notice a bridge, a home or business, or even a habit or trait you are trying to develop, under construction, pause and appreciate the progress being made. And enjoy the process!
* The first person to text me at 501-681-0566 with the correct location of the photo will receive a free class.
Karen Watson Reeves has called Hot Springs home since 2006. Owner of The Yoga Place, at 301 Whittington Avenue, she became a registered yoga/children’s yoga teacher in 2011. She is on the Hot Springs YMCA teaching staff and is an adjunct instructor at National Park College. When not on the mat, Karen enjoys the beautiful outdoors of the National Park, especially from her bicycle. For more information about her studio and her schedule of classes, visit www.theyogaplacehs.com.
