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Enlightenment Journal | 35

th

 Anniversary Issue | Fall/Winter 2016–2017

HATHA YOGA 

I want to fly like an eagle, to the sea.

Fly like an eagle, let my spirit carry me.

I want to fly like an eagle, till I'm free.

—Steve Miller Band

I find eagles to be absolutely awe inspiring.

 

Everything about them 

depicts the divine qualities of beauty, courage, fortitude and grace. They naturally 

embody keen focus, concentration, and exceptional vision, along with strength 

and flexibility. It has been estimated that they can see four times farther than 

humans, and that they can see another eagle soaring nearly 50 miles away. These 

majestic creatures are able to gracefully soar at heights of up to 10,000 feet with 

seemingly little effort. Whether flying at great heights or perched on a treetop, 

eagles maintain their composure—they are serene—no matter what circum-

stances are present.

Eagle pose is named after Garuda, “the mythic king of the birds” whose 

dazzling spirit demonstrates the ability to overcome obstacles and express its full 

potential. Significantly, this pose works to strengthen the body, and to improve 

concentration and awareness. Like Garuda, when we open both mind and body 

to our full potential we can remain serene as we overcome obstacles that seem to 

be in our way.

Fly Like an Eagle 

Garudasana (Eagle Pose)

Sundari Jensen