Health & Fitness
The story behind Ashtavakrasana, or Eight-Angled Pose, is as powerful as the pose itself. I share the tale of Sage Ashtavakra—born bent in eight places and mocked by many—whose wisdom and self-realization transformed both body and spirit. Discover how his journey teaches us to find strength in awkwardness, grace in imperfection, and alignment beyond the body.Episode Highlights:Announcements about upcoming online and in-studio programs at Aham YogaIntroduction to the monthly “Mythical Stories Behind Poses” seriesStory of Ashtavakra: born deformed due to a father’s curse, yet destined for greatnessHow Ashtavakra’s intellect and wisdom outshone physical limitationsThe debate between young Ashtavakra and scholar Vandin in King Janaka’s courtAshtavakra’s victory and miraculous transformation through the power of truthConnection between Ashtavakra’s journey and the yoga pose AshtavakrasanaSymbolism of the pose: steadiness through asymmetry, strength through surrenderLessons for modern practitioners: transcending ego, judgment, and appearanceReminder that real alignment comes from within, not from physical perfectionReflection questions for practice: Where am I resisting? What can I soften or “straighten” within?Encouragement to share these stories and teachings to keep yoga’s roots aliveWaitlist for the Online 300-Hour Yoga Teacher Training (launching January)Free upcoming workshop: “Queuing for Yoga Teachers – From Gross to Subtle” (November 14, 10 a.m. PT)Join our mailing listFind all the resources mentioned in this episodeConnect with us on Instagram