This is a series on yoga poses that I have been writing for the American College of Vedic Astrology monthly newsletter that includes photographs of the asana. In these articles I have focused upon more of the mythological aspects of the poses rather than technique. The Sanskrit names often point to the essence of a pose. The core idea within the root word will lead to a story, personae in Vedic mythology or an aspect of nature. This is activated by the pose when done with shakti dharana or focus with intent. Intention and breath awareness are what brings poses to life and lead us into revelation of truths about ourselves and life itself. Using the asana as sacred geometry links us to the cosmos and is one of the deepest aspects of doing an asana practice.
Sraddhasagar

Index of Poses (Click on each pose to download the practice)

Marjariasana ( Cat Stretch)
Vyagrasana (Tiger Pose)
Vrksasana (Tree Pose)
Virabhadrasana I (Warrior I)

Utthita Trikonasana (Upward Rising Triangle)

Home Practice
If you are beginning a home practice, commitment to consistency becomes our greatest ally in experiencing the many physical and spiritual benefits of yoga. Make it a ritual time of day, dedicate a place for yogic practices and create an altar honoring the elements and/or whomever your personal deity is.  Set aside a special yoga blanket or mat and meditation cushion as it is well known that the energy builds in places and objects when used regularly for practices.

Take a moment before beginning to dedicate your daily practice to your Ishtadevata or your personal deity in whatever form that takes or you can honor the planet of the day with its deity.