Consistency and Patience in Practice

For the past year I have practiced mainly Tony's "Master's Core System," (MCS) a series of 40 postures that builds on Bikram's 26. The MCS includes more backbending, twisting, asymmetry, and a lot more restorative stretching positions than the 26. I also practice lots of other postures from the Complete Ghosh Series (84 postures) and other traditions. This miscellaneous practice helps me understand my body and improve it, and it helps me understand the focus and power of the body's energy.

Recently I find myself craving a more consistent practice of the advanced postures. I am not yet ready for the Complete Series. There is plenty in there that is far beyond my reach (for now). I need a practice that bridges the gap between MCS and the Complete Series, something that begins to incorporate the advanced movements and positions, preparing my body and mind for the pinnacle postures.

It is easy enough to pick the postures that I want to work on. Most yogis I know who practice at home develop their own approach. I will pick the postures that are nearly accessible but still challenging. With practice I will improve.

The significant thing that I am slowly realizing is that I need a consistent, repeated series of postures. Just like practicing the same 26 every day in Bikram's class, or Ashtangis who have set series that they don't deviate from. It will serve me better than choosing on a daily basis what I will tackle. So I need to develop a practicable series that will be useful to me for the next year or so.

I am becoming more patient. The great postures like Scorpion and Full Wheel and Mountain will be there for me when I am ready. But instead of practicing them now, I must be patient and let my body and mind progress. I must have discipline and faith.