Tips on how to remember where to distribute weight (standing poses)?

Yoga Discussion General Yoga
#1

Hopefully I can explain my question properly…is there an easy way to remember where on the foot to distribute weight in the standing postures?

For example in Warrior 1, I am advised by the teacher to push through the back foot and push the outer back foot against the mat (as opposed to the inner part of the foot)

Is it always the outer foot that needs the pressure applied in the standing postures?

In Parsvottanasana where would the weight be distributed on the front and back feet? Inner edge of the front foot and inner edge of back foot? Outer edges of the feet?

Does the weight distribution depend on the asana? I guess depending on one’s comfort in a pose the weight dsitribution may need to change but I’m looking for information on what is the optimal weight distribution? My teacher gives cues for some poses on where to press with the feet but not for all. I’d ask my teacher but she is in on vacation for three more weeks.

Thanks!

#2

This will depend on the style of practice, who is teaching it, and who is doing it, not to mention the desired effects. So you’re not likely to fond one answer which can be universally applied, despite what some currently popular yoga style claims.

Generally speaking, in the iyengar tradition, the actions of the feet are grounding and rooting with the toe mounds and inner/outer heels (four corners of the feet according to some) AND the lif of the (big) arches. This would apply in Parsvottanasana though a student may receive differing instructions depending on their body and needs.

#3

Interesting. So an Iyengar teacher, an Anusara teacher, and a hatha teacher might advise different ways to “use” the feet to distribute weight/press against the floor?

#4

Yes I suppose that is possible, even though the asana principles in the practice you mention originate in the Iyengar system and both of them are hatha yoga.

Some teachers teach poses, some teach students, and others regurgitate what they’ve been told. Therefore everything under the sun is possible. However it is more likely to find common instructions between the two practices you mention as they are more alike than different.

To me, a skilled teacher teaches based on what they see and might be giving various instructions to various students within the same practice session.

#5

[QUOTE=amz155;34915]

Does the weight distribution depend on the asana? I guess depending on one’s comfort in a pose the weight dsitribution may need to change but I’m looking for information on what is the optimal weight distribution? My teacher gives cues for some poses on where to press with the feet but not for all. I’d ask my teacher but she is in on vacation for three more weeks.

Thanks![/QUOTE]

Of course it depends on asana. You teacher should be a good one to ask.

Also you should observe what feels good for you.

#6

[QUOTE=InnerAthlete;35106]Yes I suppose that is possible, even though the asana principles in the practice you mention originate in the Iyengar system and both of them are hatha yoga.

Some teachers teach poses, some teach students, and others regurgitate what they’ve been told. Therefore everything under the sun is possible. However it is more likely to find common instructions between the two practices you mention as they are more alike than different.

To me, a skilled teacher teaches based on what they see and might be giving various instructions to various students within the same practice session.[/QUOTE]

Thanks!