Meditation begins before you close your eyes….

Many people think meditation begins only when we sit in silence.

But in the Ashtanga tradition, meditation and movement are not separate

When we stand in Samasthiti, establish steady breath, soften the gaze through drishti, engage the bandhas, and observe the movements of the mind, the practice has already turned inward.

The posture is no longer something to perform.

It becomes a seat for observation

Each inhale and exhale anchors the attention.

Each movement becomes an opportunity to return to the present.

This is where Pratyahara begins - not after the practice, but within it.

As the breath steadies, the senses naturally withdraw from distraction.

Asana prepares the body.

Pranayama refines the breath.

Pratyahara draws the senses inward.

Then the mind becomes more available for concentration and meditation.

The asana becomes a place to listen

A place to observe.

A seat for self-inquiry.

The posture itself can become the first meditation ☺️