Ease and strength in equal measures

One of the most cited elements from the yoga sutras attributed to Patanjali is sthira sukham asanam (Chapter 2, sutra 46), which means something to the effect that physical yoga poses (asana) should be simultaneously easeful and strong.

My guess is that this sutra is cited so often because it is one of the relatively few that deal directly with asana or physical yoga practice, which these days, for many, is what they think of when they think of yoga.

But I find it equally applicable to all parts of life. Whatever we do should be characterized by a balance of ease and strength, comfort and stability, openness and clear intent. I find that, time and time again, it is precisely at the intersection of these elements that joy resides.

Let me give you an example. I have been struggling with a feeling of gravity or heaviness in my day-job. There are many reasons for this, but one has been the tension between being a “boss” (for want of a better term), and not enjoying the connotations of “being bossy.”

This week, a friend of mine gently helped me locate the core of my discomfort (decades of gender-based conditioning, dontcha know), as well as the key to unlocking it: narrowing in on the parts of “bossyness” (i.e. being directive) that are actually necessary and articulating them clearly and with intent, while allowing spaciousness and ease around the rest.

The result? I feel lighter and more grounded all at once. Ease and strength. Comfort and stability. Openness and intent. Sthira sukham asanam.