Question:

I am stronger and more flexible on one side of my body. How can I even this out?

Answer:

Symmetry is the key to asana practice. A lot of people work on improving flexibility but first we need to improve symmetry, then work on opening ourselves up. Most people are out of balance due to life's conditioning on their body. A consistent asana practice focused on balancing each side of the body is the best way to even things up.

As students we need to develop our body awareness so we notice which muscles and areas of our bodies are tighter or flexible and which side is stronger or weaker. We need to understand the imbalance.

Once we develop this awareness we can improve the weaker, less flexible side and be patient and maintain the other side or muscles until we find symmetry. This is a great way to approach your asana practice; it builds humility, patience, and eventually power.

In a practical sense, when you do your poses, be aware on which side you twist or bend further in and notice which side feels tighter. Try to bring the same awareness to both sides and hold off on taking the more flexible side further and focus on awakening the tighter side.

This can also be related to muscle groups such as your hamstrings in downward dog. Once you bring symmetry then take your whole body further. Enjoy the journey.

Duncan Peak — yoga expert
www.powerliving.com.au