Dragon sculpture, Nara, Japan
“But it is one thing to read about dragons and another to meet them.” – Ursula K. Le Guin, A Wizard of Earthsea
I came upon this dragon sculpture at an ancient Shinto Shrine ruin near the Goryo-jinja Shinto Shrine in Nara, Japan.
Dragons have so much packed into their imagery. In Western myth, they signify hoarding and negative connotations. In Eastern, watery elements, power and magic. In front of shrines dragons symbolize purification and are often found at fountains.
They are the naga, which in Sanskrit are all the serpentine creatures. NAGA are among the eight classes of deities who worship and protect the Historical Buddha.
What do you see in the dragon image? Where do you feel it in your body?
In asana yoga practice the makarasana is the mythical sea beast of the watery second chakra. Practice this pose and contemplate the dragon. Move your body as a dragon. Check out the Storytime Yoga® Kids Club Dragon Mother Awakens for inspiration
Do some journaling around the image and associate with dragons. What battles have you done with dragons? What rewards have you received from doing battle with a dragon? Are there nice dragons? What dragon titles and images come up from childhood?
Write a poem or story. Paint, draw or dance to express what you discover.
See what comes up in your dreams. Not long ago I had a dream of a crocodile by the side of my bed. It had set lose into the other room and scared people. I had to call it back to my side. !!!!!!
Mythic Yoga Dream work is powerful! So is Mythic Yoga Journey practice
Enjoy the Journey!
OM SHANTI
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