Last night, I dreamed that a poison tree had grown up in my backyard. Its central trunk was busily reproducing, sending foot soldiers–new tendrils and runners–in every direction. I had to only to look at it. I could see that it wanted–badly–to reproduce.

I needed an axe but all I had was the dull steak knife in my hand. It seemed hopeless.

I sawed at it, anyway, with my dull, little knife.

Poison branches fell down on my head.

• 1 part Standing Poses for grounding
• 1 part Headstand for clarity and insight
• 1 part Core Work for power
• 1 part slow, deep Backbends for heartache
• 1 part Careful Scrutiny
• 1 part Stubborn Refusal to “See the Good” at the Expense of the Truth
• 1 part Trusted Counsel of Friends
• 1 part Forgiveness
• 1 part Breath as binding agent
• 1 part Savasana/Meditation for healing

Combine all ingredients on yoga mat. Mix thoroughly with breath. Season to taste. Cook for an undetermined period of time at a temperature that is neither too hot nor too cool. Remove from fire when next stage of evolution is visible and smells sweet. Garnish with forgiveness only when full accountability has been made.

Serve in good company.

Dear Yoga Community,

Over the last couple of weeks, there have been plenty o’ opportunities for self-reflection. In the light of recent events, I am seeing things I probably should have seen a long time ago, but did not. I would like to come clean.

For years, I have been thoughtlessly reiterating–and actually believing–things like: “The Anusara method is by far the most elegant and effective hatha yoga method in existence.” It has been my experience that these kinds of grandiose and self-aggrandizing claims are common in–and to–the Anusara culture.

It is true that I have personally witnessed the healing power of the method. I have seen it work many times over throughout my teaching career to date. So, I can personally attest to the efficacy of the system.

However, it occurs to me now that in truth—-I have no idea whether or not the method is definitively the most healing method of all hatha yoga methods. Having never made comprehensive study of every single method of hatha yoga in existence, I actually do not have basis for such comparisons, or conclusions.

Jaysus, I have slugged down a fair amount of Kool-Aid. I have parroted self-aggrandizing and offensive fabrications and lies hyperboles.

I’m sorry for being such an arrogant, elitist asshole. No wonder you don’t like me. Maybe if I’m lucky, you’ll give me another chance.

Yours Truly,
Bernadette Birney