It can be useful as yogis upon the path of Self discovery, to examine the contrast & relationship between Little Picture Yoga & Big Picture Yoga.
Little Picture Yoga is focussed upon technique, small steps, improving alignment, strength, maybe learning a mantra or achieving a difficult asana. Little Picture Yoga is about turning up to practice, cultivating willpower, creating a sadhana. It’s about becoming present in the small moments, realising the importance of each element of every yoga practice, it is about becoming present of every breath.
The layering of mudra into asana practice is an example of refining ‘Little Picture Yoga.’
Big Picture Yoga requires a broader understanding of the ‘Why’ of yoga practice, Big Picture Yoga asks us to explore the philosophy of yoga, to understand our dharma, the influence of our karma and the broader narrative of the universe and the importance of our lives within it.
As yogis we are asked to explore both the Little Picture and the Big Picture of Yoga. To refine our awareness toward the simple things, to commit to small goals, refining our awareness and technique.
The Little Picture asks us to focus on becoming strong & supple, to become focussed and determined yet mindful and considerate, to show up in our lives on each day, and to do our best in every way.
The Big Picture asks us to open our minds the the broader possibilities and influence of karmic forces, the Big Picture gives a meaning to our practice, through refining the Little Picture we become physically strong, emotionally balanced and mentally aware. Through exploring the Big Picture, we learn to use this capacity for the benefit of the greater good.
Although it might seem contrary, the way to improve our practice of Big Picture Yoga is often to focus on Little Picture Yoga. Rather than spending all our time contemplating the Big Picture, yoga asks us to bring our attention back to the present moment, to focus on the current task at hand - yoga tells us that more often than not, we find the answers we seek by returning back to stillness.
Research has shown that through the practice of Focussed Attention Meditation (Little Picture Yoga) we actually improve our capacity for lateral, expansive and creative thinking.
We will learn to understand and influence Big Picture Yoga, through our committed practice of Little Picture Yoga.
Hope this helps. 🕉
