In the Golden Lotus Hatha Yoga tradition, which is deeply rooted in the liberating teachings of Paramahansa Yogananda, the time we take to pause, relax, and feel after each posture (asana) is just as vital as the posture itself. It is in this stillness that the truest benefits of your practice are integrated, transforming a physical exercise into a profound spiritual experience.

The Sacred Pause

We honor the principle that the Pause must be held for the same duration, or number of breaths, as the asana. This equal measure is crucial to complete the cycle of energy and relaxation. When you hold an asana, you are consciously squeezing, contracting, strengthening, or stretching a specific muscle, organ, joint, ligament, or gland. This action temporarily restricts blood flow to that area.

“Calmness is the living breath of God’s immortality in you.”

Paramahansa Yogananda

Tuning In to Subtle Energy

This period of relaxation is not just physical; it is an energetic and spiritual practice. As the physical body rests, the subtle energies (prana) that were directed to those specific areas during the active posture are now allowed to return to the spine. By holding your gaze and awareness at the point between the eyebrows (the spiritual eye), you direct this ascending life force. This practice gives you the opportunity to tune in and observe any noticeable physical differences, sensations, thoughts, or emotions that have been released or brought to the surface.

This is the purpose of the Pause: to restore the body and to offer the soul an opportunity to ascend, giving you a tangible, felt experience of inner calm and vitality. Through this conscious process, you will feel profoundly rested, deeply relaxed, and fully rejuvenated after every class.

GLYTA