Author: Cdr Rajesh Janardhanan

Mālāsana: A Grounding Ritual of Release

Mālāsana, often introduced to students as “Garland Pose,” is more accurately – and powerfully – understood when we revisit the Sanskrit. The word “mala” doesn’t refer to a garland of flowers, but rather to waste or excrement – what the body is ready to eliminate. Mālāsana, then, is not just a pretty squat. It is […]

Daṇḍāsana: The Power of Stillness

Daṇḍāsana, or Staff Pose, is often overlooked in modern yoga flows – yet it’s a deceptively simple posture that forms the foundation of all seated asanas. At first glance, it appears to be just “sitting up straight with your legs outstretched,” but the inner work of this pose is deep and transformative. Physically, Daṇḍāsana strengthens […]

Vyāghrāsana – The Poised Power of the Tiger

In the fluid elegance of Vyāghrāsana, or Tiger Pose, we find a balance between strength and grace. Rooted in a kneeling position, this dynamic posture strengthens the spine, glutes, shoulders, and core while gently awakening mobility through the hips and back. One leg extends behind as the spine arches, mimicking the fluid stretch of a […]

Garuḍāsana: Finding Focus in the Tangle

At first glance, Garuḍāsana, or Eagle Pose, may seem like a posture of entanglement – arms wrapped, legs crossed, breath steady. But within its complexity lies its true teaching: how to remain focused and calm even when things feel tightly wound. Physically, Garuḍāsana strengthens the legs, improves ankle stability, and stretches the shoulders and upper […]

Flow of Strength and Stillness: The Power of Vinyāsa

In many modern yoga classes, the Adho Mukha Śvānāsana – Caturaṅga – Ūrdhva Mukha Śvānāsana sequence forms the dynamic thread that connects movement to breath. Often referred to as a vinyāsa transition, this flowing trio is much more than a set of exercises—it’s a ritual of strength, awareness, and grace. Adho Mukha Śvānāsana (Downward-Facing Dog) […]

Uncoiling Through Yoga: Finding Freedom Within

As human beings, our natural survival instinct makes us coil inward, holding onto fears, stress, and worries—both known and unknown. This internal contraction affects our body, mind, and creative energy, limiting our ability to live fully and meaningfully. If we wish to grow and thrive, we must consciously open ourselves—physically, mentally, and emotionally—by cultivating trust […]

Shiva’s Secrets: 3 Life-Changing Lessons from Mahashivaratri

Mahashivaratri, often referred to as the “Great Night of Shiva,” is a deeply revered Hindu festival celebrated with devotion and enthusiasm. Here are three significant aspects of its importance: Based on the significance of Mahashivaratri, here are three practical practices that laypersons can adopt, even without deep religious knowledge, to connect with its essence These […]

The Art of Conscious Relaxation

Your body and mind constantly communicate with you, signaling when to slow down, breathe, and reset. Ignoring these cues leads to stress, fatigue, and imbalance. True relaxation is not about doing nothing—it’s about doing what nurtures you. Yoga offers a beautiful path to conscious relaxation, harmonizing effort with ease. When you allow yourself to pause […]

Cultivating Presence: A Simple Practice to Prepare for Yoga

Why Centering Yourself Before Yoga Matters Before beginning your yoga practice, take a few moments to settle into the present moment. This act of centering yourself allows you to transition from the busyness of daily life to a state of awareness, making your practice more meaningful and effective. While phrases like “ground yourself” or “turn […]

Sushumna Nadi

The Sushumna Nadi is central to our spiritual and mental balance. In yogic philosophy, it’s considered the main energy channel in the subtle body, running along the spine. It connects the base chakra (Muladhara) to the crown chakra (Sahasrara), allowing energy (prana) to flow upward during states of alignment and harmony. Think of it as […]