Go with the Flow: Alignment in Anusara

In Anusara yoga, poses adhere to the Universal Principles of Alignment. Discover the five main alignment principles, which apply sequentially in each pose: Opening to Grace, Muscular Energy, Inner Spiral, Outer Spiral, and Organic Energy.

By John Friend

An important intention in Anusara Yoga is to recognize our true nature as supreme auspiciousness. This auspiciousness is called Sri, the shining essence of life manifested as divine love and beauty. In Anusara Yoga, asanas are not only a means to connect with our inner Self of unbounded joy, but a way in which we choose to artistically express the delightful play of the universe. This intention can be more fully realized when the yoga poses are performed using the Universal Principles of Alignment, which help to optimally align the poses to their fullest potential in the moment.

There are five main alignment principles, which are applied sequentially in each pose: Opening to Grace, Muscular Energy, Inner Spiral, Outer Spiral, and Organic Energy. Along with these, there are secondary alignment principles, which can be used to refine alignment. In each of the following six poses, one or two of the Universal Principles of Alignment are emphasized—but remember that all the principles are applied in every pose. As you move in sequence through the principles, you must maintain the action of the preceding principle for a cumulative effect. —J.F.

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