Releasing Spinal Tension with Svaroopa Yoga
A Form of Yoga Founded by Rama Berch, Svaroopa Soothes and Restores
Aug 7, 2009
The Sanskrit word Svaroopa means "the bliss of your own being." as described by Svaroopa founder, Rama Berch (now Swami Nirmalananda) in her book Yoga in Every Movement - "Svaroopa Yoga is a way of working with what your body really needs, instead of with how you wish it were."
This gentle and relaxing form of Hatha yoga includes slow poses with a great deal of support and hands on alignment from rigorously trained instructors. The yoga asanas (or poses) are intended to bring a deep release to the muscles surrounding the spine.
The greatest benefit is that it allows yogis to experience intrinsic equilibrium for themselves, because they are able to truly let go of every ounce of tension. Svaroopa begins by releasing out the tailbone, then lower back, and slowly works its way up the spine to the neck. By the end of class, students are able to stand in Tadasana, or Mountain Pose with no effort, and no tension throughout the core of the body.
The Appeal of Svaroopa Yoga is Universal
Beginner yogis who are intimidated by vinyasa or Bikram practices that flow from one unfamiliar pose to the next will like Svaroopa because it is set at a sleepy pace. The poses themselves are not challenging, and are suitable for any level of fitness, flexibility or disability.
Highly experienced Yogis looking for a deeply Yin practice will enjoy the complete release offered by Svaroopa, as well as the bodily education in allowing an alignment that follows in the days beyond the first class. Familiar poses are supported and held longer, freeing and relaxing muscles and deepening every stretch.
Nor does Svaroopa yoga ignore the importance of breath and the awareness of the present moment that are cultivated in most yoga classes. Students will experience mindfulness and peace while working through the slow, easy poses.
One Word of Caution - You Will Feel Soreness
It is important to note that in the few days following a Svaroopa Yoga class, many participants experience flu-like symptoms, muscle weakness, and soreness. This is not necessarily connected to an individual's physical fitness level!
Hydration is important because, like massage, deep relaxation can release toxins into the system. All students should be sure t o drink plenty of water for the days following a Svaroopa class.
Some of the muscular soreness is caused by the returning habituated tension along the torso. It's possible to alleviate this soreness by consciously relaxing and responding to the body's clues about how to move and realign the spine. Returning to Svaroopa yoga class will also alleviate the greater part of these symptoms, and most practitioners find that the soreness does not return after the first few classes.
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