Talasana Shoulder Sequence

Pam has been continually practicing the Talasana sequence for the past 35 years of her life. The visuals in these videos are stripped down and bare, mirroring a practice that cleanses the mind of extraneous cognitive exertion. The audio of the pranayama is recorded ujjayi breathing, the core of a spiritual vinyasa yoga practice.

Tadasana is the first krama or sequence of vinyasakrama yoga.

The sequence starts with both feet touching and moving from that center while matching the movements precisely to the yogic breath. The intention of this video is to show Talasana holistically, not just the mechanics, but the state that is induced by a Talasana practice. The essence of this state is a relaxed yet alert body and mind with a strongly felt union to the present moment through the breath.

It initiates the practice of standing with both feet touching, a position which beckons the body to balance itself.  The movements of Talasana are performed with symmetry, lightness, and a devotional reverence, which lends a settling, stable quality to the practitioner’s presence.  Just as the actual sequence begins, the video begins with grounding in the breath . Note that Pam’s eyes throughout the video remain focused on one point. This is the practice of the drishti.  A meditative tool used throughout the Talasana sequence to lessen distractions and maintain balance.

Watch as this sequence progresses through the major joint groups of the body, beginning with the shoulder girdle and moving downward through the hips, knees, and ankles. Most importantly, watch yourself as you begin to feel relaxed with the sound of the breath and the beauty of this metaphysically slow dance.

To see a full performance of Tadasana, head to the BREATH the Pulse of the Universe page.