There are many reasons why alignment is so important. But first, let's sit down and think about what alignment is and what it means to us. Alignment means to be in a "straight" line. It also means that specific laws help us find our place according to them. And not being aligned means just the opposite. We go against those laws either because we don't know them or choose to violate them.
If we take the body as an example, we can see that all the sides are related. That means that when we practice yoga, we must maintain a balance between the two sides so there is no dominant one, at least as far as possible. We need to understand how they work together so there is no struggle and constriction.
One of the most intriguing and inspiring things one can observe is how one aligns with the rhythms of Mother Nature. Sunrise, sunset and the change of seasons are all expressions of life cycles. They deeply affect us and influence how we function. Thus, it is crucial to align ourselves with these rhythms and not consider ourselves separate and independent. We are always part of our environment. No one can study human behaviour without considering the environment and its impact on us.
On a cognitive level, we possess innumerable perceptions and ideas. Usually, our actions aren't aligned with them, although we would like them to be, or at least think they should be. Since we can't always trust that these ideas are valid enough to follow them all the time, we can turn to our values or what we believe is essential in life.
For example, if we follow the rules of non-violence and truthfulness, we have a compass that shows us the way when we get lost. If we acknowledge that we are connected, then our actions will not be meant to hurt or deceive. That brings us back to the concept of alignment and how we can apply it.
What happens when someone is out of alignment? The first thing that happens is discomfort or even pain. This signal informs us that we must get back on track, whether that means exploring deeper and modifying our yoga practice, changing how we operate, or reevaluating our relationships. Without this internal conflict, we would not have the ability to reorganize ourselves.
That is the value of being in the pain without becoming attached to it.
Alexandra Sotiropoulou
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