Difficult Vs. Advanced

I have been noticing a difference between what is difficult and what might be called advanced postures. 

Balancing Stick

Some postures can be very difficult without being particularly advanced. They require great strength or effort but not any particularly developed awareness or mobility.

A perfect example is Balancing Stick/Warrior 3. It is incredibly simple in its execution and alignment. Body in a straight line, bent straight forward on the standing hip. But it is very difficult to do. It requires some balance and a whole lot of strength in the hips and back. 

Balancing Stick is difficult but not advanced.

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Easy Pose

On the flip side, there are postures that are advanced in execution, awareness and energy but are physically very easy to do. 

A perfect example of this is Easy Pose, also known as sitting cross-legged. Almost everyone can sit in some form of this posture. But the upward motion of the energy through the spine created by the crossing of the lower half of the body (legs) is something that takes great awareness and control of the body and mind. 

Easy Pose is not difficult, but it is advanced.

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