Anatomy is the branch of science concerned with the bodily structure of humans, animals, and other living organisms. Such is the official definition of this term. I was lucky to study Physical Activity for Health in the University of Edinburgh (MSc) and of course I got acquainted with the local yogis! It was definitely a good karma to meet this great person and yoga-teacher Karen Kirkness, and to join her Meadowlark Yoga studio (MLY). Firstly, as a guest practitioner and later as a yoga-teacher on a regular basis. Apart from years of yoga practice Karen has got her master’s degree in human anatomy also at the University of Edinburgh.
So, when I have seen an advertisement of “Anatomy for Yoga” course lead by Karen, I was very excited! I have subsequently been accepted to join the course. As I was a student, yogi and Chevener (perhaps a first professional yogi in the history of Chevening scholarship since 1983) I was very happy to be able to get such a rare experience.
The course comprised of theoretical and practical modules mixed with a yoga practice on the base of MLY. It was a slideshow with human body anatomy, muscles, and specific details related to the upper and lower limbs in yoga movements. Being a regular guest on our classes Fred (a local skeleton) helped us a lot during these days! Another two sessions were real anatomy laboratory – with real upper and lower cadaver limbs. These sessions took place in the special laboratory of Edinburgh University designed and equipped for medical and anatomy students. We were the first officially accepted group of yogis in the history of the University, that attended this dissection laboratory. I have always told that Edinburgh University is extremely open-minded world leading platform of scientists!
I was a bit nervous thinking of this experience, because I have never seen a real dissected cadaver in my life. So, I really didn’t know my possible reaction… But everything was ok (to a certain extent). Before our group enter the laboratory, we had a brief introduction from one of the anatomists – Tom. He helped us to develop the right mindset. I clearly remember one of his quotes: “you can study anatomy with a book, but you can understand anatomy only in practice”. It is 100% true.
We were asked to wear white doctor coats with big pockets. Only when we were given the human bones (firstly hands and then legs) to be correctly gathered together, I realised why these pockets were so big! – We put everything inside them to be placed on the tables like constructor. The idea was to study bones in the beginning, and only then to move to the tissues of cadavers.
I will not describe all the impressions and details of the session, but I will mention the deepest thoughts that came to me after all. Of course, it brings understanding of the mechanism of how our body is moving in asanas (yogic static and dynamic postures). But the main thing for me was that I clearly realised that our body is a ‘machine’. Highly complicated, precise and genius mechanism where the soul lives its temporary precious life. Created by unseen force and evolution our body is an amazing structure, which counterbalances itself in all its processes and movements during the lifespan. It’s a shell for the soul. When I realised this, I started to understand deeper the relationship between soul and matter. It gives more space to think about who we are, where we are going and what is life itself.
I wish that all people, who practice body-oriented disciplines would have an opportunity to realise this vision. It gives a better understanding of a human body and helps to practice more professionally and correctly direct your students.
Special thanks to Karen Kirkness and the University of Edinburgh for such a great experience!
Om Shanti, Shanti