Dru yoga has its roots in Hatha yoga and is based on flowing dynamic movements, directed breathing, mudras, positive affirmations and empowering visualisation. It is a gentle and graceful form of yoga and is designed to be practised by people of all abilities, fitness levels and age groups. Dru comes from the Sanskrit word dhruya meaning ‘still’ and ‘unchanging’. It refers to an inner space which is still and spacious. In this stillness you are able to sit back from anything that may be happening around you no matter how stressful your life can be at times. In this place you will find inner calm, strength and tranquillity.
Dru yoga was first taught in the West by a small group of friends working at Bangor University in the United Kingdom. Mansukh Patel and his friends were trained in Dru yoga by Mansukh’s parents. His parents participated in Mahatma Gandhi’s non violence resistance campaigns in India. Mansukh and his family emigrated to the United Kingdom from Kenya after Mansukh’s childhood in the Great Rift Valley.
A Dru yoga class has usually the following pattern: activation, Energy Block Release Sequences (EBRs), postures, mudras and sequences, relaxation and meditation. EBRs are easy-to-perform sequences of movements, breathing patterns, hand gestures and visualizations that help release specific blockages in your physical, emotional and other subtle energies. These blockages can lead to ‘dis-ease’, stress and physical and emotional pain. The success lies in awareness of your movement, rather than your physical accomplishments. In Dru yoga joints are kept relaxed and soft during movement as in Tai Chi. This soft approach creates flexibility and a free flow of subtle energy. The EBRs involve an unique way of movement. It feels like a focused natural and smooth dance to me. A perfect way to release stress and tension and transform your negative thoughts or attitude in a more positive view.
Dru yoga can significantly improve your wellbeing; physically, mentally and emotionally. Practising this form of yoga can boost your energy level, improve your vitality, flexibility and strength, ease back pain and wash away stress. Through the development of stillness and calmness you are better able to deal with the pressures of modern living. You will feel emotionally more balanced and have greater (self) confidence and appreciation of life.
