Photo Slider

asana-20
asana-21
asana-22
asana-23
asana-24
asana-25
asana-26
asana-27
asana-28
asana-29
asana-30
asana-31
asana-32
asana-33
asana-01
asana-01
asana-02
asana-02
asana-03
asana-03
asana-04
asana-04
asana-05
asana-05
asana-06
asana-06
asana-07
asana-07
asana-08
asana-08
asana-09
asana-09
asana-10
asana-10
asana-11
asana-11
asana-12
asana-12
asana-13
asana-13
asana-14
asana-14
asana-15
asana-15
asana-16
asana-16
asana-17
asana-17
asana-18
asana-18
asana-19
asana-19
asana-20
asana-20
asana-21
asana-21
asana-22
asana-22
asana-23
asana-23
asana-24
asana-24
asana-25
asana-25
asana-26
asana-26
asana-27
asana-27
asana-28
asana-28
asana-29
asana-29
asana-30
asana-30
asana-31
asana-31
asana-32
asana-32
asana-33
asana-33
asana-01
asana-02
asana-03
asana-04
asana-05
asana-06
asana-07
asana-08
asana-09
asana-10
asana-11
asana-12
asana-13
asana-14
asana-15
asana-16
asana-17
asana-18
asana-19
asana-20
asana-21
asana-22
asana-23
asana-24
asana-25
asana-26
asana-27
asana-28
asana-29
asana-30
asana-31
asana-32
asana-33
previous arrow
next arrow

Photo Gallery

Asana Photo 01
click any image for fullscreen lightbox
Asana Photo 02
Asana Photo 03
Asana Photo 04
Asana Photo 05
Asana Photo 06
Asana Photo 07
Asana Photo 08
Asana Photo 09
Asana Photo 10
Asana Photo 11
Asana Photo 12
Asana Photo 13
Asana Photo 14
Asana Photo 15
Asana Photo 16
Asana Photo 17
Asana Photo 18
Asana Photo 19
Archer Pose
Asana Photo 21
Asana Photo 22
Asana Photo 23
Asana Photo 24
Asana Photo 25
Asana Photo 26
Asana Photo 27
Asana Photo 28
Asana Photo 29
Asana Photo 30
Asana Photo 31
Asana Photo 32
Asana Photo 33

Photos with Discriptions

Archer Pose

Archer Pose

In Kundalini Yoga, Archer Pose is often referred to as Virabhadrasana Archer Arms or a variation of the Warrior II pose. It is a powerful standing posture that builds strength and stamina in the legs, arms, and core. Metaphysically, this pose is a powerful tool for developing willpower, focus, and courage, as the practitioner embodies the determined spirit of an archer aiming for a target. It is believed to work on the navel center, building confidence and self-esteem while expanding the "Radiant Body" or aura. By fixing the gaze and holding the posture, it helps the practitioner to break through obstacles and cultivate an unwavering sense of purpose and strength.

Papago Park in Phoenix, Arizona. It is where America's Olympic hopefuls and local Archers practice the art of Archery. As Arizona holds the largest Elk herds in the World. Some individuals dare to embrace the old ways of hunting the powerful wild animals in the White Mountain Apache Reservation in eastern Arizona with a bow and an arrow. The Apache will sell the honor to hunt on their land for such an experience. I don’t know the cost anymore; it was $30,000. In the 1990s, when I did a photographic story for Forbes Magazine. It is organic in every sense, unless you are a vegetarian.

Balancing Stick Pose

Balancing Stick Pose

Balancing Stick Pose, also known as Tuladandasana, offers a range of physical and mental benefits. It strengthens the core, legs, and upper body, improves balance and coordination, and stretches the spine and hamstrings. Metaphysically, it enhances focus, concentration, and can help reduce stress and anxiety and especially calming the nervous system.

Welcome to the top of South Mountain Park, the second-largest city park in America. When the Hohokam Native Americans farmed this land in the valley below from A.D. 1 to 1450, this was “Truly Paradise”. The petroglyph on the bottom left of this photograph was left by the "Ancient Ones". A gorgeous Salt River and Gila River ran on both sides of the mountain range, and springs were everywhere. Water would bubble right out of the ground. There are still a couple of places left in Arizona that I have seen called riparian streams, where this geological formation occurs. There are fish in these types of streams that are nowhere else in the world.

Boat Pose

Boat Pose

Boat Pose also known as Paripurna Navasana. Welcome to the vibrant coastal town of Puerto Morelos, Mexico, a place where the azure Caribbean Sea invites you to connect deeply with its ancient rhythms. Here I practice Boat Pose on the often sandy white beach, engaging my abs and lower back. Not only does the pose build incredible mental and physical focus, but also, metaphysically, is said to connect you to your spiritual "Guru," your inner teacher.

This heartfelt town, one of the oldest natural ports in Quintana Roo, has a rich Mayan history, its shores once bustling with ancient trade and now serving as a gateway to the second-largest barrier reef in the world, teeming with my friends the “Eagle Rays”, and my old friends the 200-year-old-plus “Sea Turtles”. Every year for the last five years, I have learned to “Snorkel / Aquatic Swim” in the crystal clear waters with these amazing creatures. Boat Pose reminds me of the possibility of a profound connection to this magical place and the endless, interconnected wonder of this precious life.

Bridge Pose

Bridge Pose

Bridge Pose, also known as Setu Bandha Sarvangasana. Mill Avenue Bridge in Tempe, Arizona, a testament to human ingenuity stretching across the once beautiful Salt River, now forming the recreational Tempe Town Lake, with water now filled by the Colorado River. As one lifts into Bridge Pose, activating your core and building strength from within out, your body becomes structural integrity, capable of withstanding life's challenges.

Before 3 million people decided to live in “The Valley Of The Sun” the Salt River was the very lifeline of the Sonoran Desert for millennia, nurturing the Hohokam people and later the Pima (Akimel O'odham, "River People") and Maricopa (Xalychidom Piipaash, "People who live toward the water") tribes who sustained their communities here. This playful connection to the enduring spirit of this place, where ancient waterways reflect man's attempt to try still to coexist with nature.

Cannonball Pose

Cannonball Pose

Cannonball Pose, also known as Pavanamuktasana is practiced in Hot Yoga, which involves hugging the knees to the chest while lying on one's back. This foundational posture is known for its physical benefits, primarily releasing gas and alleviating abdominal discomfort by massaging internal organs, making it highly therapeutic for digestive and spinal health. Beyond its physical aspects, the pose is believed to increase energy and blood circulation while enhancing mental focus.

This image was taken at the Capitol Park in Phoenix, Arizona. The monument created of salvaged cannons from the USS Arizona is a sad reminder of the Pearl Harbor attack and the sacrifices made during World War II. The pose's action of "releasing" tension and discomfort mirrors the historical significance of letting go of conflict, while the grounding nature of the pose performed amidst such a powerful historical site encourages a moment of reflection and gratitude for the fallen lives of those served under the ideal of “American Democracy”!

Cat Pose

Cat Pose

Cat pose in Sanskrit is Marjaryasana, a gentle yoga posture that offers a variety of physical and mental benefits. The pose, which involves rounding and arching the spine, is a great way to improve spinal flexibility, relieve back pain, and strengthen your core. The rhythmic motion also promotes relaxation and stress relief by activating the parasympathetic nervous system. Additionally, the abdominal compression in this pose can enhance digestion and stimulate vital organs.

Overall, Cat pose is a simple but powerful tool for improving both physical health and mental well-being. Out of all the simple yoga poses, this pose is another fountain of youth.

Although “The Cat” that posed for this photograph did so for some well-cooked Pacific Salmon. Its name was “Mousey,” an older cat who would die weeks later of kidney failure problems. Not digestive, thank God! I hope my sharing of Salmon made its life less painful. In the last weeks, he would acknowledge my presence like I was the king of kings. Friends for life. I guess you could say we were.

Chair Pose

Chair Pose

Chair Pose, also known as Utkatasana. The opening day of ski season at Arizona Snowbowl, located in the Coconino National Forest just north of Flagstaff, is home to many downhill ski enthusiasts looking to celebrate the beginning of the 2024 ski season. As I held Chair Pose, embodying a spirit of immense authority and power, I was strengthening my quads and core. When practicing this pose, one is tapping into the profound metaphysical sense of being a proud, capable leader, ready to face any challenge.

This majestic ski area rests on the west side of an ancient, extinct volcano, once towering over 27,000 feet, now reaching a still-impressive 12,633 feet known as Humphreys Peak, a sacred site of immense power to the Navajo Nation, who call it Dook’o'oosłííd (Which means “Summit That Never Melts”). This playful and exhilarating connection to such an ancient and revered landscape reminds us, with a laugh and a sense of awe, that we are deeply connected to the earth's powerful history and our boundless inner strength. In Native American tradition, there is a saying, “To All My Relations”! This means no one is “Ever Forgotten”.

Child Pose

Child Pose

The Sanskrit name for Child's Pose is Balasana, where "Bala" means child and "Asana" means pose. This restorative pose offers significant physical benefits by gently stretching the hips, thighs, and ankles while also releasing tension in the back, neck, and shoulders. Metaphysically, Child's Pose is a deeply calming and introspective posture that encourages a sense of surrender and humility, providing a space for rest and reflection. The pose is known to quiet the mind, soothe the nervous system, and promote a feeling of inner peace and security. It is a powerful reminder to honor your body's need for rest and to return to a state of calm.

This was the beginning of the series of images of “Asana”. Photographed at a private park in my brother's neighborhood in East Boulder, Colorado. Who would think a 65-year-old man would be practicing yoga at a children's Park, photographing him self? Sure Why Not! The child lives till the day we die if we choose to cherish the creative spirit that lies in all human beings. It was the same week I was shown Arno Refael Minkkinen by my professor, Timothy Archibald, at the Academy of Art University. He blew my mind!

Corpse Pose

Corpse Pose

Corpse Pose better known as Shavasana. Lying atop an old tomb in the wild jungle outside Puerto Morelos, Mexico, offers a uniquely profound experience. This deeply relaxing asana, derived from "Shava" (corpse) and "Asana" (posture), isn't just about physical rest; it cultivates a meditative state that transcends the everyday, offering immense medical benefits like stress reduction, improved sleep, and enhanced digestion.

Surrounded by the solemn yet beautiful crosses and shrines of departed souls honoring “Christ Presence,” filled the air. In such places, I am reminded to embrace every day or even every moment as a gift. Practicing this pose created a playful yet deeply respectful act of stillness in my consciousness, such that life can be over in a second, but I have a choice in how I choose to live it.

Cow Pose

Cow Pose

Cow Pose, or Bitilasana, gently enhances spinal flexibility, posture, and hip openness, while also stimulating organs and easing tension. This posture also boosts energy flow and emotional well-being by activating the Heart and Throat Chakras, creating grounding and release. Given that cows have sacred status in many cultures, the future environmental impact of cattle ranching and dairy farming is significant.

Cow pose's true essence encourages a deeper, mindful connection to the earth; it reminds us to reflect on our consumption choices and the staggering global warming effects of the dairy industry, and the beef industry’s which impact on our fragile planet. If these activities are to continue to exist, they must be of an “Organic Process”; otherwise, we choose to kill people and our fragile earth.

Crane Pose

Crane Pose

Also known in Sanskrit as Bakasana. A compact arm balance yoga pose. Which tones the abs and the arms, strengthens in the core, and helps to create focus for one’s mind. One can strengthen wrists and core muscles, improving balance and coordination, stretching the spine and pelvic area, stimulating the chakras, relieving stomach problems, toning the abdominal muscles, and increasing blood circulation.

Crow pose is associated with change, intuition, and spiritual strength, while crane pose is linked to higher consciousness, self-realization, and connection with one's higher self. Both poses cultivate mindfulness, build confidence, and encourage fearlessness by requiring practitioners to confront the fear of falling.

As I watched a storm roll in from the ocean after snorkeling, incredible clouds started to come inshore. The building and the Crane were to the north of my apartment. My girlfriend said "Go for it". I had scouted the perspective from the building I live in and knew this was my doorway to Crane. Hence the intuition.

Dancer Pose

Dancer Pose

Dancer Pose or better known as Natarajasana. This pose is about finding one’s balance, creating the opportunity to confront psychological limits, and truly opening one’s heart to fearlessness. As one extends and lifts, in this pose, you can confront physical challenges.

It's a metaphysical journey to embrace our authentic self, much like the timeless art I was surrounded by; these incredible, dynamic sculptures were created by the late John Henry Waddell in 2001 for the Herberger Theater Center in downtown Phoenix, Arizona. These beautiful figures frozen in their own graceful, fearless dance share the expression of a playful expression, realizing that we are all performers on the grand stage of life, just trying to be our true selves.

Downward-Facing Dog Pose

Downward-Facing Dog Pose

The Sanskrit name for Downward-Facing Dog is Adho Mukha Svanasana, where "Adho" means downward, "Mukha" means facing, and "Svana" means dog. This fundamental yoga posture offers numerous physical benefits, including strengthening the arms, shoulders, and legs while stretching the hamstrings, calves, and spine.

On a metaphysical level, the pose is believed to calm the mind, relieve stress, and combat mild depression by grounding the body and increasing energy flow. The inverted nature of the pose can also improve circulation and stimulate the nervous system. Overall, Downward-Facing Dog is a powerful practice that supports physical strength, mental clarity, and emotional balance.

This photo was taken at the first Dog Park in Tempe, Arizona, was established 30 years ago. It is called Mitchell Park, my neighborhood for 25 years. I would have a studio in the back of my house that sat on the same street. The garage sat on a separate street. It was a 1500 ft photographic studio that served as a Neighborhood Nonprofit Yoga studio for the beginning of my yoga career, and a photographic studio for creating some “Timeless Images”. It was the back door to ASU soon to become the largest University in America. It was the stronghold of “New Thought”!

Downward-facing dog carries the vibration of courage and unwavering friendship, and acceptance of all humans, much like all dogs. Humans could still learn a thing or two from dogs.

Eagle Pose

Eagle Pose

Eagle Pose, or Garudasana, is a powerful standing balance pose that beautifully intertwines the limbs, demanding focus, strength, and flexibility. Physically, it strengthens the core and legs, while opening the hips and shoulders, benefiting heart health. Mentally, it significantly improves focus and concentration, calming the mind for enhanced clarity.

Metaphysically, Eagle Pose is deeply connected to balancing the Sacral Chakra, fostering creativity and healthy boundaries, and the Third Eye Chakra, enhancing intuition and clear perception. Photographed in downtown Scottsdale,  Arizona, beside this majestic bronze eagle statue, the pose directly embodies the wisdom and grace of this revered bird. The act of balancing on one foot, mirroring the eagle's perch, in a location that blends past "Cowboy" culture with modern art.

In 1986, I photographed my first editorial assignment of Herb Drinkwater, the mayor of Scottsdale, Arizona. It would foster a relationship of over 2o years of helping make the City of Scottsdale internationally recognized, with the help of many other creative artists like architect Frank Loyde Wright, working with a visionary Cowboy / Mayor. I can see Herbs “Smile Face Now” as I type! He died at a young 61.

Fish Pose

Fish Pose

The Sanskrit name for Fish Pose is Matsyasana, with "Matsya" translating to fish and "Asana" meaning pose. This pose is renowned for its physical benefits, as it creates a deep backbend that opens the chest, throat, and shoulders, which can help improve posture and relieve tension.

On a metaphysical level, Fish Pose is believed to stimulate the throat chakra, promoting clear communication and self-expression. The pose also encourages a feeling of freedom and expansiveness, counteracting feelings of depression and anxiety by invigorating the body's energy. In essence, Matsyasana is a powerful posture for both physical heart-opening and the release of emotional blockages.

The photograph was taken at the Blue Chip Fly Fishing Stream, West Boulder Creek, just west of Boulder, Colorado. As I prepared for this photograph. It filled my mind with 60 years of walking creeks, in the adventure of landing a beautiful Rainbow Trout, that created a bond with my family of three generations of touching ‘God's Presence'! Riding 100 miles on dirt roads, standing on the back of my grandfather's pickup truck in three western states, to touch the wilderness of Colorado, Idaho, and Oregon. Places like the Malheur's and the Sawtooth Mountains headwaters of the Salmon River, “The River Of No Return”.

Frog Pose

Frog Pose

Frog Pose, also known as Mandukasana, is a yoga pose that focuses on opening the hips and groin area. Additionally, it can reduce stress, boost energy levels, and promote emotional well-being. Metaphysically, “Frog Pose” can certainly help you to work with themes connected to the second chakra, like our self-esteem, sexuality, creativity, and fear.

I guess I must be a “Frog” at heart, waiting to turn back into “The King”. Then again, there are lots of Flies, Mosquitoes, and Dragonflies to eat out here on the river! As this is the lower Salt River Canyon east of Phoenix, Arizona, in the beautiful Tonto National Forest, still partially protected by Apache Native Americans.

Halfmoon Pose

Halfmoon Pose

Halfmoon Pose also known as (Ardha Chandrasana) with Padahastasana.  Practicing this pose on a sun-warmed boulder in the cool fall at South Mountain City Preserve in Phoenix, Arizona, is truly magical. As one extends and balances, this pose doesn't just strengthen your core, trimming your waist or strengthening your legs; it metaphysically instills a "God-like brilliance," a glittering sensation of becoming “Pure Light”.

These very rocks bear the etchings of the ingenious Hohokam people from A.D. 1 to 1450, where, if you look closely, you can find their depictions of the sun or moon, celestial bodies that guided their agricultural life. While I was standing on this sacred ground, I felt connected to both the ancient past and the present moment, which brought a playful sense of wonder and a reminder that we are all interconnected.

Half Tortoise Pose

Half Tortoise Pose

Half Tortoise Pose also known as Ardha Kurmasana, is a powerful yoga posture. "Ardha" means half, and "Kurma" means turtle or tortoise. The benefits of Ardha Kurmasana include improved spinal flexibility, better posture, enhanced circulation, and stress relief. It gently stretches the back, shoulders, and hips while promoting relaxation and deep breathing. Tortoises are believed to bring financial stability and prosperity to the household. They help in removing negative energy, attracting positive vibes, and are a symbol of long life and stability.

When I was thinking about creating this image, I was talking to the famous "Sand Man" in Puerto Morelos, Mexico. It's not uncommon to see 200-year-old sea turtles in the sanctuary of the National Barrier Reef in Puerto. I jokingly asked my friend Thomas, "I don’t suppose you sculpt sea turtles?" He replied, "Sure, all the time." This led to our co-creation of the Half Tortoise. As I was taking the photograph, a group of people were enjoying the event. His wife, Julie, asked, "How about some seagulls?" I said that would be amazing. With a toss of popcorn, the seagulls became part of the image. The rest of the people in the photo were not directed or staged; it was divine choreography.

Happy Baby Pose

Happy Baby Pose

Happy Baby Pose, or Ananda Balasnas, a fun supine yoga posture where you gently rock side-to-side while holding your feet with bent knees. This relaxing pose stretches the hips, inner thighs, and lower back, offering physical release and comfort. Metaphysically, it is strongly linked to the “Sacral Chakra”, fostering creativity, emotional balance, and a sense of joy and playfulness, much like the nature of a “Happy Baby”.

This photograph, taken at Mitchell Park in Tempe, Arizona, perfectly embodies the pose's essence of lightheartedness and connection, as was mirrored to me by the positive reactions of children laughing when I was creating the photograph. I mean, what could be more normal than a 66-year-old man lying on his back  looking like “A Baby”?

Lighthouse Pose

Lighthouse Pose

Lighthouse Pose also known as  Prakashastambhahasana. A lighthouse is designed to emit a powerful light visible over long distances, guiding one from harm and avoiding hazards in one's life. To emit light or radiate energy. It releases tension in the lower back and increases spine mobility.

This pose fights depression. Opens the heart chakra, allowing more love and abundance in one's life. As Puerto Morelos experienced a Hurricane in 2005 with Hurricane Wilma. Tearing up the coastline. It would literally bend the lighthouse to lean to the east. In the back, A busy morning in Puerto Morelos, getting ready for another day of commercial fishing. Who is that crazy guy? Why it’s “Super Photographer”! After processing this image, it started to remind me of Burt Lancaster and Deborah Kerr in the movie “From Here to Eternity” (1953), filmed at Halona Beach, Honolulu, USA.

Mountain Pose

Mountain Pose

Mountain Pose also known as Tadasana. Stand tall amidst the majestic Arapaho National Forest, part of the again the Great Rocky Mountains, here we embody the very strength and unwavering presence of these ancient peaks. This foundational asana cultivates stability and grounded Ness, not just physically, but also metaphysically, by rooting us in our own inner power to move forward in life with intention.

The Native American Tribe, the “Arapaho”, who historically summered in these very mountains, and revered this land as their ancestral home and hunting grounds, understanding the profound connection between themselves and the natural world. As we feel the earth beneath our feet, we share a moment of playful reverence and wonder, recognizing the interconnectedness of all things and our place in this grand, unfolding story of creation. Wherever you stand in this pose, you will become “The Mountain”! For heightened effects, touch the earth without any shoes. It's called “Grounding”!

Plank Pose

Plank Pose

The Sanskrit name for Plank Pose is Kumbhakasana, where "Kumbhaka" refers to a breath retention technique, symbolizing the core strength and stability required to hold the posture. This foundational pose offers extensive physical benefits, including strengthening the entire core, arms, wrists, and shoulders, while also toning the abdominal muscles.

Metaphysically, Plank Pose is a powerful practice for building mental fortitude, discipline, and perseverance, as it challenges the practitioner to hold a difficult position with unwavering focus. The pose is also believed to stimulate the Manipura chakra, or solar plexus, which governs personal power and self-confidence. In essence, Kumbhakasana is a test of both physical strength and mental resilience, empowering the practitioner to find stillness and power within.

This image is taken at the Cactus Aquatic Center in Scottsdale, Arizona. As Scottsdale and Tempe ASU house some of the best swimmers in the world, like Michael Phelps. We are serious about swimming. As I never competed in swimming, my competition days are over. It's a moving meditation. Our bodies are 60 percent water. In the desert, it is my lifeline. Now, at 66, I don’t complain about the heat. If you are a swimmer, it's more like “Heaven”.

Rabbit Pose

Rabbit Pose

Rabbit Pose also know as Shashankasana. Nestled among the whimsical bronze sculptures by Mark Rossi, dating back to 1991, in bustling downtown Tempe, Arizona, I practice Rabbit Pose. This gentle asana requires slowly folding forward; it is known for aligning all the energy points in the body, creating a harmonious flow that balances your physical, spiritual, emotional, and psychological well-being.

In this whimsical setting, much like a storybook of perhaps my favorite childhood story, “Winnie the Pooh”. I remember “Rabbit,” a smart “Old Dude”! I only wish to someday be as “Half As Smart”! When creating this pose, I felt a renewed sense of wonder and humor that I can be happy or sad, but the choice is always mind, even without “Honey”.

Rock Pose

Rock Pose

The Sanskrit name for Rock Pose is Vajrasana, where "Vajra" can mean diamond or thunderbolt, signifying strength and resilience. Physically, this simple kneeling posture is beneficial for digestion as it increases blood flow to the pelvic region and massages the abdominal organs, and it can also improve ankle flexibility.

Metaphysically, Vajrasana is considered a powerful pose for meditation and grounding, helping to calm the mind and strengthen inner resolve. It is believed to balance the nervous system and build a strong foundation, much like the unshakeable nature of a diamond or a thunderbolt's power. By sitting in this pose, one can cultivate a sense of stability and focus, both physically and mentally.

This photograph was taken in Sedona, Arizona, and in the background is the Iconic Cathedral Rock just before sunset. It's hard to believe I am 66 years old. I remember my first yoga class, like it was yesterday. All the people I have practiced yoga with, all the people I have taught in my studios, all my trips into the wilderness, practicing yoga, and photographing people practicing yoga.

I have done yoga to stay sane in an insane world. I had people steal two fortunes twice, first my family's and then mine. Life throws its curveballs, with the unconscious act of mankind, stay conscious through the practice of Yoga, and we might all just survive.

Rope Pose (Modified)

Rope Pose (Modified)

The Sanskrit name for Rope Pose is Pasasana. Another name used for this pose is Noose Pose. However, some yoga publications prefer the term "Rope Pose" due to the potentially negative connotations of the word "Noose". Yeah, that seems a little violent, I will go with “Rope”! The Pose I am doing is a modification, sitting on a tire instead of a chair. This twist strengthens your core and thighs. It also stretches your shoulders, back, quadriceps, and ankles. It can also improve body awareness, enhance circulation, and promote relaxation.

This image was taken at the dock for UNAM. It is a public research university in Mexico. After the 2024 summer storms, it further destroyed the research dock its initial hit in 2005 from Hurricane Wilma. There were large ropes the year before. This little rope was all that was left in 2025.

Superman Pose

Superman Pose

Superman Pose, or Viparita Shalabhasana, is a powerful modified back-strengthening posture that also engages the arms, legs, and core, firming the abdominal muscles. Beyond its physical benefits, this pose profoundly boosts confidence and self-esteem, cultivating a more positive self-perception and fostering a sense of security. It signals confidence to the brain, embodying strength and capability.

This dynamic pose is captured on top of "A Mountain" in Tempe, Arizona, a prominent landmark overlooking Arizona State University, symbolizing ambition and possibilities. It was also the first “White” settlement in the Valley Of The Sun. As a young boy, I was not allowed to play with dolls, you know, Army Figures, Superman, Ken, and especially not “Barbie” with all the “Cute Girls” my age when I was five. My older brother would tell me if I did, I was a “Sissy”! This is what I call the history of the evolution of childhood of “Mankind”!

Finally, the act of "flying" over the city in this pose highlights the childhood dream and connects directly to the pose's ability to uplift one's spirit and self-perception. Superman's mantra is “TRUTH AND JUSTICE AND THE AMERICAN WAY”. In Superman's world, no one “Steals” On His Watch! I could use “A Guy Like That”!

Tree Pose

Tree Pose

Tree Pose, or Vrksasana, is a powerful balancing posture that significantly improves equilibrium, strengthens the legs and core, and opens the hips. It also provides a beneficial stretch for the groin, inner thighs, chest, and shoulders while lengthening the spine. Beyond its physical benefits, Vrksasana cultivates a profound sense of grounding, enhances focus, and can alleviate sciatica.

This pose is photographed beside a magnificent, 2000-plus-year-old Juniper tree, which is located in the Prescott  National Forest in Arizona, a living testament to the endurance and resilience of life. This specific tree, known as the Giant Alligator Juniper or Granite Mountain Hotshot's Juniper, stands as a memorial to the 19 brave Granite Mountain Hotshot Team who tragically lost their lives fighting a nearby Yarnell Wildfire, ironically the same year they saved the Giant Alligator Juniper before their tragic deaths. Tree Pose creates a rooted stability, and the "Old Tree” radiates the profound connection to the earth.

Triangle Pose

Archer Pose

Triangle Pose, or Trikonasana , is a foundational standing yoga posture that extends the body laterally, creating a "human triangle" with your torso and legs. This pose strengthens and lengthens the legs, opens the hips and shoulders, and stretches the spine, promoting physical balance and grounding. The pose builds inner peace, encourages openness, and creates a connection between the mind, body, which radiates a spirit of calmness and stability.

This photograph was taken in Phoenix, Arizona. The structure is a church, symbolizing the pursuit of a higher state of consciousness, much like older yogis of great wisdom, like his Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama and our “New Beloved Pope Leo,” who try to inspire us towards progress, not perfection, much like my pose.

Upward Facing Dog Pose

Upward Facing Dog Pose

Upward Facing Dog Pose (Urdhva Mukha Svanasana) On this secluded rocky shore of Punta Brava (Which means Angry Point) just south of Puerto Morelos, Mexico, I have had many times experience its immense beauty. This time, I decided to experience it with man's best friend, “Poco the Dog”!

This powerful backbend not only strengthens your spine, arms, and shoulders while improving posture and lung capacity, but it also promotes mental uplift, emotional well-being, and a profound sense of grounded balance. My new friend Poco was not afraid of the 50-mile-an-hour winds; it was his day into “Stare Dome”! On Queue, he effortlessly licked my lips! As I extended my body with dog courage, I too could connect to the deep energy of this magical coastline.

Warrior Two Pose

Warrior Two Pose

Warrior Two Pose is also known as  Virabhadrasana II. Stepping onto the sacred ground of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Phoenix, Arizona, is a place dedicated to profound sacrifice and remembrance of many fallen souls. Upon seeing this sight, tears came to my eyes. What could cause humans to kill each other: greed, injustice, feeling the need to be in charge? The powerful asana I practice doesn't just strengthen one’s legs and core; it metaphysically instills the spirit of fearlessness and courage, echoing the bravery of those who served.

As one extends their arms with purpose and gazes forward over one's finger fingertips, one feels like one is flying effortlessly over beautiful clouds and at the same time offers our profound gratitude for the selfless service of our fallen veterans, honoring their memory and recognizing their sacrifice. With the world practicing yoga, humans might not need to control and find themself disconnected from their “True Source”. I pray for that “One Day”, the possibility that all humans can thrive together as “One” as a real Democracy.

Wave Pose

Wave Pose

The Sanskrit name for Wave Pose in yoga is Samudra Mudra Vinyasa. The Wave Pose is a transitional pose from downward-facing dog to plank pose. One should bend the knees from the downward-facing dog, lifting the abs, and tightening and lifting the pelvic floor of the body. Then one leans forward into plank pose.

The Wave Pose in yoga offers several physical benefits, primarily focusing on spinal mobility and core strength. It helps release tension in the spine, enhances flexibility, and promotes energy flow. Additionally, the pose can strengthen core muscles, including those along the spine and the psoas muscles, contributing to improved posture and stability.

Regardless of the specific interpretation, the metaphysical benefits of "wave pose" in yoga often center around themes of fluidity, connection, and spiritual growth. On this secluded rocky shore of Punta Brava ( Which means Angry Point ), just south of Puerto Morelos, Mexico. The wind was barely blowing, adding to the gentle wave movement. It reminds me of an alien creature walking the shore.

Wind Removing Pose

Wind Removing Pose

Wind Removing Pose or Pavanamuktasanais, The name is derived from the Sanskrit word pavana, which means (wind), mukta means ( release or liberate ), and asana, of course, means (pose). The medical benefits are primarily related to digestion and spinal health. It compresses and massages the ascending, descending, and transverse colon, aiding digestion and the elimination process. Additionally, it strengthens the arms, improves hip flexibility, firms the abdomen and thighs, and can be therapeutic for lower back pain and healing sciatica.

The metaphysical benefits of the pose are primarily associated with its impact on energy flow, detoxification, emotional well-being, and mental clarity. Increases personal power, self-esteem, and vitality. The sail plane represents tranquility of the heavens, peace of mind, not being blocked by limitations of life, and endless possibilities.

After doing this pose, I was approached by a kind man. He asked How did it go? I said I'm 66 years old, and this is hard work without my assistants helping. I told him my story, and I said it will “Look Great”. He said my name is Jason Stephens, and I am the owner of Arizona Soaring Inc. I asked "Do you do acrobatics with the planes like the other people I was working around this morning?" He said I am a six-time “National Champion”. "Wow, amazing..." I said. He said "my competition days are over now. I just like to give gentle rides and watch the expressions on people's faces with Joy"! His father was an Air Force Pilot who started the company 60 years ago. He handed him the keys to the business. You can’t get much more “American Than That”!

Artist Statement

Asana

“Asana” is a Fine Art Self-Portrait Landscape Photography Project. My photographic series unites the ancient practice of yoga with the visual storytelling of self-portraiture and landscapes. In this deeply personal and visual project, I use photography and yoga to explore the power of yoga as a vehicle for self-realization and universal connection. Drawing from over 7,000 years of yogic tradition, I have reinterpreted yoga postures like Downward Facing Dog, Tree Pose, and Mountain Pose, each named after elements of nature, animals, places, and spiritual archetypes through my mind's eye I have connected my body, mind and soul to the natural world I have always been part of.

With my photographic career spanning nearly over four decades, I was recognized for my editorial photography, including covers of such magazines as Time and portraits for hundreds of other publications like National Geographic. In Asana, I step in front of the camera, using my Nikon D750, a Tamron 24–75mm f/2.4 lens, and a Gitzo tripod with a remote timer to become both subject and storyteller. This series is more than self-portraiture; it’s a meditation on presence, discipline, and the beauty of aligning body, mind, and soul to our environment.

Each of the 20 prints in this exhibition serves as a visual mantra reminding the viewer we are not separate from the world around us but connected to it. Through yoga and photography, I invite viewers into a space of reflection and joy, encouraging a shift from the drama of daily life toward a state of self-awareness and peace.

Asana is both a wake-up call and a celebration, demonstrating that through creative expression and ancient practice, we may Remember who we are.

Thank You,

Reed Stuart Rahn