Awareness
By being aware when climbing and practicing yoga, we can gain insights into thoughts, emotions, intentions, habits, breathing, movement and balance and the interaction of the mind and body. Awareness is gained through self-study and observation. Be aware of the flow of thoughts. Keep an open and positive mind.



"Yoga karmasu kaushalam"
"Perfection in action is Yoga. An act becomes perfect when you do it with all joy and without expecting anything in return." Bhagavad Gita

Free ascent of the Nose in a day - Lynn Hill Climbing Free
"Planning a midsummer ascent, I started training in early spring. I ran and climbed nearly every day, increasing the intensity of my efforts on a weekly basis. Because I was preparing to free climb a thirty-three pitch route, I needed plenty of endurance and a high level of power. The most difficult sections of the Nose begin after nearly 2,000 feet of climbing. As I practiced going the farthest while expending the least amount of energy, I discovered a new consciousness in my climbing. I learned to appreciate how subtle shifts in my attitude could greatly affect the quality of my movements. By focusing on maintaining a “soft grip” and a “relaxed face”, I was better able to relax all the muscles not necessary for each movement. By observing my breathing patterns, I discovered that while reaching in stretched-out positions, it was helpful to inhale in order to gain extra lift, and conversely, while making powerful or dynamic moves, it was helpful to exhale air in a quick burst or to make a karate-style grunt. I focused on maximizing the use of momentum in order to move quickly through awkward body positions or to jump between holds instead of wasting precious strength. Conversely, I practiced minimizing all excess movement to arrive at a “still point” before committing to a delicate move. Throughout the months of training, I practiced an attitude of acceptance; no matter what the situation presented, I made an effort to remain patient and relaxed each step of the way. My intent was to pay attention to my intuitive sense and follow the natural intelligence of the body. When I made this shift in emphasis, my whole approach changed." Lynn Hill

"The ability to experience - to be constantly aware and present - can be learnt and trained". Swami Janakananda