Stage one—Willful Practice: (Body and Breath Awareness).  We first get to know our own body and become aware of how it works.  We allow time and space to study the various yoga postures and breathing techniques, and to strengthen our core muscles.  We also learn to honor our body and to recognize its wisdom.  In addition, we learn what is physically and emotionally safe, and how to find and respect our edge of comfort in both domains.  As we practice, we keep our eyes open so that we remain present, observant, and vigilant.  We focus on the mechanics of balance and alignment, and work to develop strength, and flexibility.  Finally, we begin to control our impulses that trigger behaviors that lead to stress, and unhappiness as we learn how to relax both in a posture on the mat, and in our daily routine off the mat.  Finally, we learn patience, compassion, and love for others and most importantly for ourselves.  

Stage two we begin holding the postures for longer periods of time, which allows us to confront the mind and to develop its power over the body.  We begin to observe and thereby expand our “witness consciousness” as the body and mind wrestle for control.  We incorporate Bastrika and Kapalabhati breathing techniques into our posture practice so that the mind may gain awareness and eventually manage the body’s automatic responses as we move through old physical and mental limitations.  In stage two Kripalu Yoga we turn inward, we keep our eyes closed and focus our attention on uniting the mind with the body and creating a true balance (inner focus and concentration).  We begin to trust and follow our instincts; our true nature and innermost wisdom awaken, and finally, we can then guide our body and allow it to guide us. 

Stage three—Meditation in Mothion: we allow the body/mind to merge with the Spirit (absorption).  As the body and mind unite and create a balance and that innermost wisdom awakens, there comes a moment when control is relinquished, and the Spirit, an intimate power, awakens to move your body from one position or posture to the next.  The body/mind attunes to Spirit, and a beautiful chorography of balance, shape, and design unfolds.  “Here your spirit is at rest, while your body is alive, breathing, and moving through positions and gestures, feelings, sounds, and sensations.  Anchored in core, you return to oneness in Spirit.”  __Kripalu Hatha Yoga, Christopher Ken Baxter , pg.