Posture Sequence According To Symmetry and Energy

I have been noticing more and more the progression through which the postures move. Originally, I thought it was designed to warm the body slowly (which it is), start with large muscle groups (which it does) and progress to more fragile areas of the body (which it does). I am starting to see the sequence in terms of energy and balance. (Balance as in 'evenness,' not balance as in 'not falling over.')

The first many postures move the body with symmetry and simple forward/backward motion. This is as much for mind/body connection as it is for physical safety and warmth. The right and left sides of the body (and brain) are united through consistent movement, balancing them. It is not until much later in the series that we begin to cross the body or twist.

When we cross, twist and bind the body, it challenges our perceptions and balance in a profound way. The body becomes asymmetrical. The two halves are moving in different ways, requiring different attention from our minds. Out of respect for the complexity and difficulty of these movements, we should firmly establish the symmetry of the body first with lots of symmetrical, balanced postures.

If we start twisting the body immediately or putting it in asymmetrical positions, the complexity and turbulence of the mind-body energy will prevent us from making a significant link between the mind and body.