14
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