Welcome back to our Ashtanga yoga series! In the previous posts, we explored the foundation of Ashtanga practice and delved into the art of Ujjayi breathing. Today, we set our sights on another crucial element – Drishti (gaze). Drishti, meaning “gaze” or “point of focus” in Sanskrit, plays a vital role in directing your energy, improving balance, and enhancing concentration during your Ashtanga practice.
The Nine Drishtis of Ashtanga:
Ashtanga yoga utilizes nine specific drishtis, each assigned to different postures or groups of postures. Here’s a glimpse into the most common ones you’ll encounter in the Primary Series:
- Nasagra Drishti (Tip of the Nose): Used in forward folds and Chaturanga Dandasana (Four-Limbed Staff Pose), focusing on the tip of your nose directs your gaze inward and promotes introspection.
- Drishti to Thumbs (Angushtha Madhya Drishti): Engaged in Warrior poses and Chair Pose (Utkatasana), this drishti directs your gaze towards your thumbs, fostering stability and grounding.
- Urdhva Drishti (Upward Gaze): Utilized in backbends like Urdhva Dhanurasana (Upward-Facing Bow Pose), this drishti opens the chest and throat, promoting a sense of expansion.
- Parsva Drishti (Side Gaze): Incorporated in twists like Marichyasana (Marichi’s Pose), this drishti involves looking over your shoulder, aiding in the rotation of the spine.
Why is Drishti Important?
Drishti offers a multitude of benefits in your Ashtanga practice:
- Improved Balance: Focusing on a specific point helps maintain balance in challenging postures.
- Enhanced Concentration: Drishti directs your attention inwards, promoting mental clarity and focus.
- Deeper Connection: By directing your gaze, you establish a deeper connection with your inner world and the flow of your breath.
Mastering Drishti as a Beginner:
Don’t feel overwhelmed by the nine drishtis. As a beginner, focus on establishing a comfortable and sustainable gaze in the most commonly used ones, particularly Nasagra Drishti and Angushtha Madhya Drishti. Here are some tips:
- Internalize the Drishti: Don’t just look at the designated point – try to feel it with your gaze.
- Move Your Eyes, Not Your Head: Maintain a steady head position while subtly moving your eyes to find the drishti.
- Don’t Strain: If a drishti feels uncomfortable, adjust your head slightly or close your eyes momentarily.
- Practice Makes Perfect: As with Ujjayi breathing, mastering drishti takes consistent practice. Be patient and persistent.
The Journey Continues:
By incorporating Ujjayi breathing and drishti into your practice, you’ll begin to experience the true essence of Ashtanga yoga. In our next post, we’ll offer practical modifications for beginners in the Ashtanga Primary Series, empowering you to approach your practice with confidence and a deeper understanding. Stay tuned for the adventure ahead!
