The Ropes Beckon

Uplift with Rope-Based Yoga.

With a blend of anticipation and hesitation I first approached RussaYog Yoga Studio in my wheelchair. My eyes drank in the room, multiple free-flowing ropes anchored from the ceiling, brightly colored mats covering the floor.

The juxtaposition of stability and freedom offered by ropes created an “aha” moment.  How wonderful it would be to move beyond the narrow confines of my body’s movement ability. Freedom beckoned. Yoga offers exploration, and the ropes provide real possibilities. 

Like an umbilical cord merges mother and child, a rope symbolizes connection and encourages play. The organic, pliable natural hemp fiber is filled with possibilities.

Holding onto the anchored rope I confidently stood up. Once standing, calming my mind with controlled pranayam, could I let go and raise my arms? Exploring my body’s abilities resulted in expanding the limits of my mind.

What began with exploratory, gentle, 15-minute sessions quickly expanded into 30 minutes, becoming one-hour sessions. Grasping the security of the ropes evolved into releasing my iron clutch and lightly fingering for brief seconds, progressing into completely releasing while standing firmly next to the ropes.  With patience and persistence, my yoga instructor, Teresa, and I have continued to adjust and adapt postures to support my progress. 

Yoga practice with the rope has awakened ‘dormant’ muscles, given me more awareness of my foot/heel connection, helped with my daily activities, and enabled me to practice with my own rope at home.

Best of all, my emotions and attitude are uplifted.

Teresa and Diana have been a team for the past two years. Diana has agreed to share her experience with RussaYog in the hopes that others will find the wonderful benefits of rope-based yoga.