Body Aches & Pains

How can we use the knowledge of our bodies aches and pains to get to know ourselves better? In the study of mind/ body connection the theory is we are one, there is no separation between our bodies, our intellect and emotions. What we feel and think becomes our bodies.

In class yesterday one of my participants asked about pain in her thighs when holding a warrior II pose. She asked why it was happening and how she could relieve the pain. There are many possibilities from the physical aspect (Annamaya Kosha).

The physical aspect:

• tight quads: she could do a quad stretch. Maybe a modified dancers pose, standing beside a wall.

• weak quads; in warrior pose holding but not going to deep.

• maybe it's the way she stands; her feet and ankles may have lack of mobility or strength

• or maybe her hips are twisted and turned

• old movement patterns

• could be all of them!

Without closer assessment of her movement patterns it was hard to give her a complete answer however we did explore some of these options.

The other avenue we explored was the mental/ emotional aspect. What emotions came up while she was in the pose and how she feels about her quads being tight. Her word was frustrated. When I was chatting about this connection she could relate and see where there was frustration in her life.

We talk about how the body takes in out thoughts and emotions and places them in the body.

The legs represent:

• Moving forward in life while being stable and secure with ourselves.

• The legs also represent stand up for yourself.
  

The thighs represent:

• Pain or discomfort invites us to look at the past.
  

The right and the left side of the body can be explored too! What side hurts more, or does it?

The right side of the body expresses the masculine principle for both men and women. This would look like:

• Taking care of the family,

• Ability to be assertive,

• The external world of work and business

• Competition

• Also reflects relationships with males in your life
  

The left side of the body expresses the feminine principles in both men and women. This would look like:

• Asking for help

• Receiving & surrendering,

• Showing feelings, caring for others

• Relationships you have with other females.

Our bodies can be a reflection of our mental/emotional state. If we are open and curios we can start to learn more about ourselves helping us more closer to life with ease, Flow and enjoyment physically emotionally and mentally.

With love and light,

Note: please explore and see what comes up for you. Everything is open for your own discovery and theory above does not have to be held to its word

Recourse: Your Body Speaks your mind by Deb Shapiro, page 53-54