Yoga is a common practice that many of you may know of, and some of you may have experience in. As the readings in this course have progressed, I came across a pattern of characters that align with different yoga asanas: the physical practice of yoga poses.

Hanuman is a divine Hindu entity who is a monkey and in yoga, Hanumanasana is an advanced pose, nicknamed the "monkey pose," or better known as the splits. Hanuman is also the name of a species of monkey: the Hanuman Langur, which is very common in India. Vriksha, the tree pose, is associated with Sita in the Ashoka Tree Grove in Lanka. Vishvamitra is one of the most respected rishis in India and even has a yoga pose named after him.

Besides asana, yoga also incorporates pranayama (breathing exercises), yamas (codes of social conduct), dhyana (meditation), niyamas (self-observances), pratyahara (withdrawal of the senses), dharana (concentration), and samadhi (bliss).

My main focus for the first story is Hanuman because he symbolizes strength and energy. He is devoted and selfless, which are two of the most important aspects of a yoga practice.

To display Hanuman's influence, I will tell the story of Hanuman's Leap. Prior to my storytelling, I want to express my viewpoint on Hanuman's character. I see Hanuman as an embodiment of pure devotion and humility; he successfully makes every possible leap possible because of his inner strength and his loyalty to Rama & Sita. There are times when he forgets his powers and must be reminded of what he is capable of. Just like any hero, he encounters doubt, fear, and disbelief. I chose this story because it demonstrates his incredible abilities, such as his power to grow and shrink at will, as well as the effects the curse has on him. I will explain how Hanuman uses his superhuman powers to leap across the ocean to reach Ravana's fort, which represents his altruistic nature.

Following this story, I will then write about Sita in Lanka to show its connection with the Vriksha asana.