Yoga as Origami

Book excerpt: The practices of the body hold the power to transform the habits of the mind. Understanding the body’s fundamental proportions, folds, and fits is the key to establishing a safe and effective yoga practice and achieving optimal health and well-being. Katonah Yoga, a type of Hatha yoga developed by Nevine Michaan, combines Daoist concepts with sacred geometries and the archetypal measurements of the human body. Like origami, postures are both a precise geometric puzzle and a disciplined creative art form. This comprehensive guide for daily practice contains concrete, specific instructions for a wide array of postures along with metaphorical descriptions and discussions of the esoteric wisdom and patterns that underlie all form. It is suitable for those of all levels and backgrounds, from beginners to experienced practitioners. Extensive illustrations and photographs, including suggestions, the correct use of props, and common errors, accompany the text.