When we are aligned with this pattern, which differs according to our age, body type and level of practice, the circulation of energy in the body is optimized, producing the greatest vitality and ease. To achieve optimal Alignment, we follow the universal principles of Alignment, a set of biomechanical principles that can be applied to all asanas and styles of yoga. John distilled these principles from years of study in Iyengar and other systems of yoga, as well as in Western biomechanical science. These principles have been extremely helpful in both my practice and my teaching, and I highly recommend learning more about them. This is the energetic process by which we express our Attitude in a pose.
Action is composed of two complementary forces, muscular and organic energy.
Muscular energy flows from the periphery to a focal point in the core of the body, while organic extends from the focal point to the periphery. Muscular energy, which corresponds to the inhale, draws the various parts of the outer body closer together and consciously integrates them. Organic energy, which corresponds to an exhale, is an unfolding energy that creates expansion, length and breadth. These energies flow through the body in a series of loops and spirals that help to achieve optimal alignment. There are two sets of spirals, expanding and contracting, that affect the legs, pelvis, arms and shoulders.