As we walk across the ground, two main things propel the human body forward: friction from the earth and the tension and relaxation of individual muscles groups. This simple action allows us to get where we are going and to follow our own path. On our yoga mats we create these same circumstances. When engaged in an asana practice we create a space of non-judgmental observation through breath and awareness so we can learn from our bodies. For most of us this is very different then just walking around town.
Using asana as a metaphor for life. In order to make progress on our own life paths we must have a balanced proportion of effort and surrender. Asana is just that a balance between these two imperative components. As one hangs in utanasana (standing forward bend), the spin and upper body are surrendered to gravitational pull, the hamstrings are also in a state of flexible giving, but the quads are engaged in order to help the lengthening of the back body. This is a space where effort meets ease and again mother earth is there to support the journey.
If inbalance occurs in an asana practice or in waking life we are left in one stagnate place. Too much tension or friction can cause dense energy and the individual is stuck within his or her own evolution. On the other hand too much flexibility, and surrender can lead to a passive attitude, and one is left blowing in the breeze without purpose and aspiration.
So the question becomes, How do we use our deliberate actions on the yoga mat as a metaphor for life? When am I holing too much tension? Where am I holding to much tension? Where do I need to exert more effort? When do I surrender to the posture/situation and give it space to unfold? When do I surrender to the subtle knowledge of the breath? Are my actions purposeful and functional? How does mother earth support my process?
