Cool article on yoga and physical disabilities

[rydra_wong]

The Guardian has a short but fascinating article from Tim Rushby-Smith (who has paraplegia) on taking a yoga workshop with Matthew Sanford, who does too.

By the end of the 90-minute class I am sitting unsupported on the floor with my arms above my head and my legs outstretched. This is extremely difficult when paralysed from the waist down. I have no fixed "base" as I cannot gain stability from my buttocks or thighs, but somehow I am spreading myself out to my heels as much as the tips of my fingers. Instead of trying to balance on nothing, I feel like I am grounded on something firm and tangible.

For anyone who's interested, I wrote a review of Sanford's memoir, Waking, a while back.

Comments

[sashajwolf]

Thanks for the offer. It's the general body experience/trauma stuff that I'm thinking might be triggery, so I don't think there's anything specific I could ask you to look for, but I'm thinking this one's probably going to be worth the risk. I'll add it to my long-term to-read list and make a note to keep it for a time when I'm not too stressed.

[rydra_wong]

*nods*

It is ... intense on that front. Definitely worth keeping for a time when you're feeling resilient and prepared for shit being stirred up.