Post by aribjorn on Nov 6, 2011 22:16:54 GMT -5
The Sixteen Stances Of Stav
As Taught in the Hafskjold-
Stav Tradition
by Graham Butcherbased on the teachings of
Ivar Hafskjold
Contents
Foreword Page 1
Introduction Page 1
The Stances and the Runes Page 2
Benefits of performing the Stances Page 2
When, where and how to do the Stances Page 3
Preparation Page 4
Frey's Aett fujork Page 6
Heimdal's Aett hnias Page 15
Tyr's Aett tbmly Page 21
The Left Hand Sequence Page 29
Other forms of the Stances Page 33
Other Aspects of Stav Page 34
Meanings of the Runes Page 35
What Next? Inside back cover
The Sixteen Stances of Stav By Graham Butcher
Drawings by Aribjorn Haakonson
First Edition July 2001 by: Stav Marketing and Publishing Ltd.
Now published by Stav Books. Kidlington, UK
©Copyright Graham Butcher 2001
www.iceandfire.org
Distributed in the US by Ice and Fire USA
PO Box 2179; Fairfax VA 22031; USA
http;//www.iceandfire.us
Foreword
Stav literally means "knowledge of the rune staves" and is thus a tradition of learning the runes and how they may be used. The form of Stav described in this booklet is derived from the tradition of using the younger (sixteen rune) futhork as passed down over many generations by the Hafskjold family.
The origins of Stav are lost in the mists of time but the Hafskjold family have been living in the same part of Norway for well over a thousand years and have been practising the stances, as described in this booklet, as well as many other aspects of Stav for many generations. This booklet is one of a series covering the basics of Stav. These publications will be of interest both to anyone with mind, body and spirit training and to students of Stav requiring a guide for personal study.
Introduction
I began training with Ivar Hafskjold in the autumn of 1991. The first aspect he taught me was how to do the stances. I was lucky enough to be able to train with Ivar on a regular basis. Not everyone has easy access to a Stav teacher so this manual will at least provide a guide as to the correct practise of the stances.
If possible try to attend at least one course with an experienced teacher. I have done my best to convey the essential information for practising the stances but there is never any real substitute for direct instruction. So hopefully this booklet will arouse enough interest to tempt the reader to attend a course. Having received such instruction this booklet should provide a useful aide-memoire for continuing practice.
If, having studied this booklet, you have further questions or comments then please do not hesitate to get in touch by the means to be found inside the cover.
Graham Butcher July 2001
The Stances and the Runes
Each of the runes (see full futhork above) is taken
from the Web of Orlog (see left). The web represents
the essential structure of the universe. Although
represented in two dimensions on paper it exists physically on 3 dimensions. It can also represent time but that is beyond the scope of this booklet.
Each rune thus represents an aspect of this fundamental reality.
Each stance involves placing the body in the shape of the rune and thus aligning the body correctly with the web of orlog.
The stances also provide a very effective way of learning the runes and actually incorporating them into the self.
Benefits of Performing the Stances
Working with the stances can provide many benefits to the well being of body, mind and spirit.
On the physical level the stances align the skeleton and develops correct posture. Performing the stances also strengthens the muscualture essential to holding the spine correctly while gently stretching the sinews and toning the muscles. Deep and natural breathing is promoted using both the lower (diaphram) and upper (intercostal) parts of the lungs. Good balance and body awareness will also develop with regular practice.
On the mental level the mind is calmed and focused with practice of the stances. When balance and concentration is a problem we both become aware of the unbalanced state of mind and are provided with a means of becoming centred again.
In the Stav tradition we use the term Megin for the intrinsic energy which the Chinese call Chi. The stances enable us to cultivate the flow and purity of this energy which is very beneficial to general health and a heightened sense of well-being.
Once the stances can be performed well the student can begin to explore the other aspects of Stav training using the postures as a strong yet flexible foundation for martial arts training, healing and many other activities.
When, Where and How to Perform the Stances
The sixteen postures are performed as two sequences. One sequence
emphasises the right hand side of the body and the other the left hand side.
There are no hard and fast rules regarding when and where to perform the stances. Some people prefer to do one sequence in the morning and the second in the evening. Maybe at sunrise and sunset if one's lifestyle permits.
Or simply at appropriate times to mark the opening and closing of the active parts of the day. When teaching Stav the stances are often used to open and close the training session. This principle may also be used to begin and end one's own private training sessions. One must find the most appropriate time and place for one's own needs. The real benefits come from practising daily.
It is advisable though to avoid performing the stances directly after a meal, after drinking alcohol or when too tired to focus properly.
The best place to do the stances is out of doors, preferably on grass and near
trees if possible. If you do not have access to a garden then it may be worth walking a little way to a park or similar open space. Don't worry about being seen, most people won't notice at all or soon lose interest in what you are doing. If they do ask you have a chance to tell them about Stáv. In bad weather it is of course better to do the stances indoors rather than not at all.
Try to wear loose, comfortable clothing and light foot wear. Barefoot is even better if possible. Be relaxed and focused but don't worry if some days are better than others. As you perform the stances to the best of your ability they will work their magic on you.
Bow and Nine Breaths
Performing the Stances
Begin facing North, relax and take a few deep breaths. Then bow and
follow the instructions from here.
1. Bow
From the ready position facing
North bow. Take the weight on the
toes and balls of the feet as you
lean forward as far as you can
without losing balance.
2. Nine Breaths
Bend the knees very slightly and
clench the buttocks gently to stabilise
the pelvis and lower spine.
Breathe right out using the diaphram
and allow the lungs to refill
naturally.
Do this nine times as slowly as is
comfortable.
After the ninth breath raise the
hands in front of the solar plexus.
Breathe in again as you do this
3. Clap Twice
With the elbows remaining by the sides swing the
hands and fore arms as wide as possible and
clap the hands together twice.
Then allow the hands to rest on the thighs as you
breathe out once more ready to go into the first
stance,
Fe f
Fe Raise the arms up in front of the
body. Bring the hands up the centre line of
the body. Finish as the elbows come level
with the eyes. Breath should be synchronised
with the movement, the in breath
completed with the stance.
Arms should be relaxed and naturally
curved. Then return the arms
to the ready position as you
breath out.
UR As you breath in lean forward taking the
weight on the toes and balls of the feet. Relax
the rest of the body so that the hands hang in
front of the toes and the arms and legs are
parallel to each other. Breathe out as you gently
straighten up again.
THOR Breathe in as you place the
right fist into the palm of the left hand,
clamp fingers of left hand around fingers
of right hand, pull the left elbow into the
body until it is over the solar plexus,
allow right elbow to rise as far as is
comfortable without bending the
back. Breathe out as hands return
to ready position.
As Breathe in as the arms are raised
along the centre line of the body. Right hand
should not come higher than the navel. Keep
the shoulders down and the back straight.
Breathe out as the hands are lowered back to the ready
position
Rei As you breathe in raise the right
hand and right leg up the centre line of the
body. The leg should be kept straight and
the base joint of the thumb should come to
rest on the crown of the head. The right
elbow should be tilted over
to the left so you can see
forward past the right side
of the forearm. Breathe out
as the arm and leg return
to the ready position. Synchronise
the movements of both limbs.
Kreft Breathe in as the hands are brought
back to back in front of the body. The backs of
the fingers, knuckles and wrists should touch
together. Raise the hands up the centre line
until you can see between the elbows.
On the out breath circle the arms outwards
keeping the elbows straight until you return
to the ready position.
The Turn to the Right
All stances in the first sequence create a profile
that can be seen from the East. It is
therefore necessary to turn to the right at the
end of the first aett.
Look right and transfer all weight to the left
foot. Reach forward with the right foot and
describe a semi circular movement to the right.
Transfer the weight to the right foot and draw
the left foot around along the same line. You
are now facing East ready to begin the next
aett
Hagl as you breathe in clench the fists and
cross the arms in front of the body with the left
wrist above the right. Then fold the arms up so
that the fists are just below the level of the
shoulders. The wrists should be a little away
from the chest with the elbows at an angle of
about ninety degrees.
On the out breath
fold the arms back
to the ready position
Nod As you breathe in circle
the arms away from the body with
the right arm up and the left arm
down, there should be a straight
line from hand to hand.
On the out breath circle the
arms back into the ready position.
Is On the in breath bring the
hands together in front of the chest
in a praying position. Then reach
up as high as possible keeping the
hands together, rise up on the balls
of the feet.
On the out breath circle the arms outwards
as you lower the heels to the
ground.
Ar This stance is the mirror of Nod.
Perform it in the same way but with the left
arm highest.
The Turn to the Left
The left turn is simply the reverse of the right turn.
Sol On the in breath, bend the knees
slightly and spread the feet about ninety degrees
apart. Take the weight on the balls of
the feet and lower into a squat making sure the
back stays straight. Rest the palms on the top
of the thighs.
On the in breath rise back to the ready position
Tyr On the in breath circle the arms out
and back as far as possible. Keep the
hands at waist level. On the out breath
circle the arms back to the ready position.
Bjork On the in breath raise the right arm
and right leg simultaneously. Place the right
heel on the left knee and the right thumb joint
on the crown of the head. Tilt the elbow to the
left so you can see past it with the right eye. On
the out breath return the right arm and leg to the
ready position simultaneously. If you have a
problem with balance bend the left knee slightly
and imagine the left foot rooted into the ground.
Mann On the in breath place the right
hand on top of the left hand and circle the
hands upwards in as bigger circle as possible.
Press the back of the right hand against
the forehead. Join the tips of
the little fingers and thumbs.
The tip of the thumbs should
rest on the top of the bridge of
the nose. On the out breath
circle the hands back to the
ready position.
Laug On the in breath raise the
hands in front of the body. Keep the
hands tilted slightly inwards and the fingers
extended. On the out breath lower
the hands back to the ready position.
Yr In this stance the turn to the right is
different. Look to the right and kick the right
leg across into a deep "horse riding stance".
On the in breath keep the back straight with
the hands straight down between the thighs.
Lower the body down as far as possible. Only
go as far as you can without bending the back.
At first you may only to able to lower the body
a few inches, don't worry your ability
to take a lower stance will develop
with practice.
On the out breath raise the body until
the legs are straight again. Then take
the weight on the left foot and draw the
right heel to the centre. Then shift the
weight to the right foot and draw in the
left heel to the ready position. Take
another breath and bow. You have
now completed the first sequence
The Left Hand Sequence
To perform the left hand sequence remember that this time a mirror image of the first sequence is seen from the North. So begin facing East and bow. Then move into Fe with the left hand higher than the right hand.
Proceed through the sequence with the left hand and leg dominant where this is relevant.
To complete the left hand sequence you will find yourself
facing North in Yr. Draw in the left and then the right foot.
Take an extra breath and clap twice. Take nine slow, deep
breaths and bow.
Other Ways of Performing the Stances
The sequence of stances shown in this booklet is the simplest version
using the best known order of the Futhork, Frey's Aett, Heimdal's Aett and Tyr's Aett. The breathing is very simple with a breath into each stance and a breath out while returning to the ready position. As you might expect this is the version used by beginners and for opening and closing public classes and courses.
There are however, more advanced methods of practising the stances
which create different effects on the practitioner. The postures are basically the same with just a few minor variations, the real differences being in the order of the aetts.
The Karl sequence uses the same order of aetts but with a different method of breathing. The breath is taken before each stance name of each rune is chanted as you move into the stance. Then, while holding the stance the name of the rune is chanted again as you move out of the stance. This develops the breathing and is an effective method of enhancing energy and general well being.
The Herse sequence begins with Tyrs aett, then Frey's aett and finishes with Heimdal's aett. The chanting is complex and demanding combining the consonant and vowel sounds of the runes. This develops the kind of energy and resilience needed by the warrior.
The Jarl sequence begins with Heimdal's aett, then Tyr's aett and finishes with Frey's aett. The chanting uses the name of each deity sung on a pentatonic scale. This creates a calm and meditative state of mind.
The Konge sequence begins with Tyr's aett, then Heimdal's aett and finishes with Frey's aett. The breathing is basically the same as for the beginners sequence but an extra breath is taken between each aett.
The idea is that at this level you know how to breathe and focus properly and do not need the chanting. These versions will need the presence of an experienced teacher.
Other Aspects of Stáv
Stav is a complete mind body spirit training system for which the stances provide a foundation. Upon this foundation can be built various skills and abilities.
Martial arts training is a popular method of exploring the possibilities of Stav. The stances teach the correct posture, strong breathing and develop balance, all essential to successful martial arts training. From this basis the stances provide methods of handling and using a variety of traditional, European weapons.
Unarmed combat and self defence applications of the
stances can also be developed to good effect.
As well as improving one's own health and well being the stances also
provide an education in how the body works. As this knowledge develops healing skills can be learned and practised. Teaching someone to relax, improving their posture and enabling them to breath freely will alleviate many common conditions of dis-ease. Going further, various manipulation
and massage type treatments can be derived from the stances. Also
knowledge of the runes provides a method of accessing the unconscious
mind and thus relieving hidden sources of anxiety and stress.
Craft skills are another important aspect of Stav and the stances equip the body for the rigours of physical labour. Being able to see the web of orlog in all things is a great asset when constructing anything from a stool to a multi storey building.
Working with the stances can open up many possibilities which are there for you to discover for yourself
Meanings of the Runes
Rune Meaning
f Means Animals (in particular, cattle). It can also mean
gold. It symbolises riches, success but possibly of a
portable or transient nature.
u Means Slag (from smelting ore) and it symbolises the
primal primal forces of nature. It also suggests the
processes of purification and refinement necessary to
strength and perfection.
j Means thunder, war or thorn and is symbolised as
protection and the famous Thor's hammer. (Which
rejoiced in the name Molinjor and in turn symbolised
bolts of lightening).
o Means mouth as in that with which we speak and
estuary, as in mouth of a river. As symbolises
knowledge, wisdom and kingship.
r Means wheel, road or ride. It symbolises the wild hunt
and the process of death and transformation.
k Means canker or cancer. It symbolises malignancy,
fire, deviousness and evil.
h Means hailstones. It symbolises the Rainbow
between heaven and earth, also the unexpected and
sudden transformation.
n Means need, necessity or crisis. It symbolises fate,
compulsion and destiny.
i Means Ice. Is symbolises Winter, the hunt, or a state
of stasis.
a Means a good Year, fertile land and a plentiful
harvest. Ar symbolises plenty, the earth and the bounty
of nature.
s Means the Sun. Sol symbolises the peaceful warrior
who brings harmony and justice.
t Means war and justice. Tyr symbolises victory, self
sacrifice and honour.
b Means Birch Tree. Bjork symbolises female energies,
magic, childbirth and family life.
m Means mankind and the moon. Mann symbolises
sexuality, witches, humanity and death.
l Means Water, bath or lagoon. Laug symbolises
washing, bathing, coastal areas, wealth and gold.
y Means the Yew tree, male energies, a bow and arrow
and shield. Yr symbolises archery, single combat and
protection.
Stav Training in the USA
Courses are held throughout the year and details of
current and forthcoming events can be obtained from the
websites (see details inside front cover) or by sending a
SAE to Ice and Fire; PO Box 2179; Fairfax VA 22031 or
phone 703 447 7310
Other Publications from Stav Books
Books on Stáv
Book: Stáv the Fighting System of Northern Europe The martial aspect
of Stáv. By Graham Butcher $9 plus $.50 P&H
Booklet: This is Stáv A comprehensive introduction to the Hafskjold-
Stáv tradition by Graham Butcher
Booklet: The Principles of Stáv The terminology and concepts of Stáv
explained by David Stone
Booklet: The Festivals of Stáv An Introduction to the festivals and
natural cycles important in the Stáv tradition by David Stone
Booklet: A Book of Runes a guide to the meanings, associations and
mythological connections of the runes by Graham Butcher
Booklet: Stáv for Health and Well Being The health benefits of practising
Stáv by David Stone and Graham Butcher
Ordering
All booklets $6.50 each including P&P or order all 5 for $25 inclusive.
Please make checks payable to: Michelle Tracey and send to: PO Box
2179; Fairfax VA 22031
As Taught in the Hafskjold-
Stav Tradition
by Graham Butcherbased on the teachings of
Ivar Hafskjold
Contents
Foreword Page 1
Introduction Page 1
The Stances and the Runes Page 2
Benefits of performing the Stances Page 2
When, where and how to do the Stances Page 3
Preparation Page 4
Frey's Aett fujork Page 6
Heimdal's Aett hnias Page 15
Tyr's Aett tbmly Page 21
The Left Hand Sequence Page 29
Other forms of the Stances Page 33
Other Aspects of Stav Page 34
Meanings of the Runes Page 35
What Next? Inside back cover
The Sixteen Stances of Stav By Graham Butcher
Drawings by Aribjorn Haakonson
First Edition July 2001 by: Stav Marketing and Publishing Ltd.
Now published by Stav Books. Kidlington, UK
©Copyright Graham Butcher 2001
www.iceandfire.org
Distributed in the US by Ice and Fire USA
PO Box 2179; Fairfax VA 22031; USA
http;//www.iceandfire.us
Foreword
Stav literally means "knowledge of the rune staves" and is thus a tradition of learning the runes and how they may be used. The form of Stav described in this booklet is derived from the tradition of using the younger (sixteen rune) futhork as passed down over many generations by the Hafskjold family.
The origins of Stav are lost in the mists of time but the Hafskjold family have been living in the same part of Norway for well over a thousand years and have been practising the stances, as described in this booklet, as well as many other aspects of Stav for many generations. This booklet is one of a series covering the basics of Stav. These publications will be of interest both to anyone with mind, body and spirit training and to students of Stav requiring a guide for personal study.
Introduction
I began training with Ivar Hafskjold in the autumn of 1991. The first aspect he taught me was how to do the stances. I was lucky enough to be able to train with Ivar on a regular basis. Not everyone has easy access to a Stav teacher so this manual will at least provide a guide as to the correct practise of the stances.
If possible try to attend at least one course with an experienced teacher. I have done my best to convey the essential information for practising the stances but there is never any real substitute for direct instruction. So hopefully this booklet will arouse enough interest to tempt the reader to attend a course. Having received such instruction this booklet should provide a useful aide-memoire for continuing practice.
If, having studied this booklet, you have further questions or comments then please do not hesitate to get in touch by the means to be found inside the cover.
Graham Butcher July 2001
The Stances and the Runes
Each of the runes (see full futhork above) is taken
from the Web of Orlog (see left). The web represents
the essential structure of the universe. Although
represented in two dimensions on paper it exists physically on 3 dimensions. It can also represent time but that is beyond the scope of this booklet.
Each rune thus represents an aspect of this fundamental reality.
Each stance involves placing the body in the shape of the rune and thus aligning the body correctly with the web of orlog.
The stances also provide a very effective way of learning the runes and actually incorporating them into the self.
Benefits of Performing the Stances
Working with the stances can provide many benefits to the well being of body, mind and spirit.
On the physical level the stances align the skeleton and develops correct posture. Performing the stances also strengthens the muscualture essential to holding the spine correctly while gently stretching the sinews and toning the muscles. Deep and natural breathing is promoted using both the lower (diaphram) and upper (intercostal) parts of the lungs. Good balance and body awareness will also develop with regular practice.
On the mental level the mind is calmed and focused with practice of the stances. When balance and concentration is a problem we both become aware of the unbalanced state of mind and are provided with a means of becoming centred again.
In the Stav tradition we use the term Megin for the intrinsic energy which the Chinese call Chi. The stances enable us to cultivate the flow and purity of this energy which is very beneficial to general health and a heightened sense of well-being.
Once the stances can be performed well the student can begin to explore the other aspects of Stav training using the postures as a strong yet flexible foundation for martial arts training, healing and many other activities.
When, Where and How to Perform the Stances
The sixteen postures are performed as two sequences. One sequence
emphasises the right hand side of the body and the other the left hand side.
There are no hard and fast rules regarding when and where to perform the stances. Some people prefer to do one sequence in the morning and the second in the evening. Maybe at sunrise and sunset if one's lifestyle permits.
Or simply at appropriate times to mark the opening and closing of the active parts of the day. When teaching Stav the stances are often used to open and close the training session. This principle may also be used to begin and end one's own private training sessions. One must find the most appropriate time and place for one's own needs. The real benefits come from practising daily.
It is advisable though to avoid performing the stances directly after a meal, after drinking alcohol or when too tired to focus properly.
The best place to do the stances is out of doors, preferably on grass and near
trees if possible. If you do not have access to a garden then it may be worth walking a little way to a park or similar open space. Don't worry about being seen, most people won't notice at all or soon lose interest in what you are doing. If they do ask you have a chance to tell them about Stáv. In bad weather it is of course better to do the stances indoors rather than not at all.
Try to wear loose, comfortable clothing and light foot wear. Barefoot is even better if possible. Be relaxed and focused but don't worry if some days are better than others. As you perform the stances to the best of your ability they will work their magic on you.
Bow and Nine Breaths
Performing the Stances
Begin facing North, relax and take a few deep breaths. Then bow and
follow the instructions from here.
1. Bow
From the ready position facing
North bow. Take the weight on the
toes and balls of the feet as you
lean forward as far as you can
without losing balance.
2. Nine Breaths
Bend the knees very slightly and
clench the buttocks gently to stabilise
the pelvis and lower spine.
Breathe right out using the diaphram
and allow the lungs to refill
naturally.
Do this nine times as slowly as is
comfortable.
After the ninth breath raise the
hands in front of the solar plexus.
Breathe in again as you do this
3. Clap Twice
With the elbows remaining by the sides swing the
hands and fore arms as wide as possible and
clap the hands together twice.
Then allow the hands to rest on the thighs as you
breathe out once more ready to go into the first
stance,
Fe f
Fe Raise the arms up in front of the
body. Bring the hands up the centre line of
the body. Finish as the elbows come level
with the eyes. Breath should be synchronised
with the movement, the in breath
completed with the stance.
Arms should be relaxed and naturally
curved. Then return the arms
to the ready position as you
breath out.
UR As you breath in lean forward taking the
weight on the toes and balls of the feet. Relax
the rest of the body so that the hands hang in
front of the toes and the arms and legs are
parallel to each other. Breathe out as you gently
straighten up again.
THOR Breathe in as you place the
right fist into the palm of the left hand,
clamp fingers of left hand around fingers
of right hand, pull the left elbow into the
body until it is over the solar plexus,
allow right elbow to rise as far as is
comfortable without bending the
back. Breathe out as hands return
to ready position.
As Breathe in as the arms are raised
along the centre line of the body. Right hand
should not come higher than the navel. Keep
the shoulders down and the back straight.
Breathe out as the hands are lowered back to the ready
position
Rei As you breathe in raise the right
hand and right leg up the centre line of the
body. The leg should be kept straight and
the base joint of the thumb should come to
rest on the crown of the head. The right
elbow should be tilted over
to the left so you can see
forward past the right side
of the forearm. Breathe out
as the arm and leg return
to the ready position. Synchronise
the movements of both limbs.
Kreft Breathe in as the hands are brought
back to back in front of the body. The backs of
the fingers, knuckles and wrists should touch
together. Raise the hands up the centre line
until you can see between the elbows.
On the out breath circle the arms outwards
keeping the elbows straight until you return
to the ready position.
The Turn to the Right
All stances in the first sequence create a profile
that can be seen from the East. It is
therefore necessary to turn to the right at the
end of the first aett.
Look right and transfer all weight to the left
foot. Reach forward with the right foot and
describe a semi circular movement to the right.
Transfer the weight to the right foot and draw
the left foot around along the same line. You
are now facing East ready to begin the next
aett
Hagl as you breathe in clench the fists and
cross the arms in front of the body with the left
wrist above the right. Then fold the arms up so
that the fists are just below the level of the
shoulders. The wrists should be a little away
from the chest with the elbows at an angle of
about ninety degrees.
On the out breath
fold the arms back
to the ready position
Nod As you breathe in circle
the arms away from the body with
the right arm up and the left arm
down, there should be a straight
line from hand to hand.
On the out breath circle the
arms back into the ready position.
Is On the in breath bring the
hands together in front of the chest
in a praying position. Then reach
up as high as possible keeping the
hands together, rise up on the balls
of the feet.
On the out breath circle the arms outwards
as you lower the heels to the
ground.
Ar This stance is the mirror of Nod.
Perform it in the same way but with the left
arm highest.
The Turn to the Left
The left turn is simply the reverse of the right turn.
Sol On the in breath, bend the knees
slightly and spread the feet about ninety degrees
apart. Take the weight on the balls of
the feet and lower into a squat making sure the
back stays straight. Rest the palms on the top
of the thighs.
On the in breath rise back to the ready position
Tyr On the in breath circle the arms out
and back as far as possible. Keep the
hands at waist level. On the out breath
circle the arms back to the ready position.
Bjork On the in breath raise the right arm
and right leg simultaneously. Place the right
heel on the left knee and the right thumb joint
on the crown of the head. Tilt the elbow to the
left so you can see past it with the right eye. On
the out breath return the right arm and leg to the
ready position simultaneously. If you have a
problem with balance bend the left knee slightly
and imagine the left foot rooted into the ground.
Mann On the in breath place the right
hand on top of the left hand and circle the
hands upwards in as bigger circle as possible.
Press the back of the right hand against
the forehead. Join the tips of
the little fingers and thumbs.
The tip of the thumbs should
rest on the top of the bridge of
the nose. On the out breath
circle the hands back to the
ready position.
Laug On the in breath raise the
hands in front of the body. Keep the
hands tilted slightly inwards and the fingers
extended. On the out breath lower
the hands back to the ready position.
Yr In this stance the turn to the right is
different. Look to the right and kick the right
leg across into a deep "horse riding stance".
On the in breath keep the back straight with
the hands straight down between the thighs.
Lower the body down as far as possible. Only
go as far as you can without bending the back.
At first you may only to able to lower the body
a few inches, don't worry your ability
to take a lower stance will develop
with practice.
On the out breath raise the body until
the legs are straight again. Then take
the weight on the left foot and draw the
right heel to the centre. Then shift the
weight to the right foot and draw in the
left heel to the ready position. Take
another breath and bow. You have
now completed the first sequence
The Left Hand Sequence
To perform the left hand sequence remember that this time a mirror image of the first sequence is seen from the North. So begin facing East and bow. Then move into Fe with the left hand higher than the right hand.
Proceed through the sequence with the left hand and leg dominant where this is relevant.
To complete the left hand sequence you will find yourself
facing North in Yr. Draw in the left and then the right foot.
Take an extra breath and clap twice. Take nine slow, deep
breaths and bow.
Other Ways of Performing the Stances
The sequence of stances shown in this booklet is the simplest version
using the best known order of the Futhork, Frey's Aett, Heimdal's Aett and Tyr's Aett. The breathing is very simple with a breath into each stance and a breath out while returning to the ready position. As you might expect this is the version used by beginners and for opening and closing public classes and courses.
There are however, more advanced methods of practising the stances
which create different effects on the practitioner. The postures are basically the same with just a few minor variations, the real differences being in the order of the aetts.
The Karl sequence uses the same order of aetts but with a different method of breathing. The breath is taken before each stance name of each rune is chanted as you move into the stance. Then, while holding the stance the name of the rune is chanted again as you move out of the stance. This develops the breathing and is an effective method of enhancing energy and general well being.
The Herse sequence begins with Tyrs aett, then Frey's aett and finishes with Heimdal's aett. The chanting is complex and demanding combining the consonant and vowel sounds of the runes. This develops the kind of energy and resilience needed by the warrior.
The Jarl sequence begins with Heimdal's aett, then Tyr's aett and finishes with Frey's aett. The chanting uses the name of each deity sung on a pentatonic scale. This creates a calm and meditative state of mind.
The Konge sequence begins with Tyr's aett, then Heimdal's aett and finishes with Frey's aett. The breathing is basically the same as for the beginners sequence but an extra breath is taken between each aett.
The idea is that at this level you know how to breathe and focus properly and do not need the chanting. These versions will need the presence of an experienced teacher.
Other Aspects of Stáv
Stav is a complete mind body spirit training system for which the stances provide a foundation. Upon this foundation can be built various skills and abilities.
Martial arts training is a popular method of exploring the possibilities of Stav. The stances teach the correct posture, strong breathing and develop balance, all essential to successful martial arts training. From this basis the stances provide methods of handling and using a variety of traditional, European weapons.
Unarmed combat and self defence applications of the
stances can also be developed to good effect.
As well as improving one's own health and well being the stances also
provide an education in how the body works. As this knowledge develops healing skills can be learned and practised. Teaching someone to relax, improving their posture and enabling them to breath freely will alleviate many common conditions of dis-ease. Going further, various manipulation
and massage type treatments can be derived from the stances. Also
knowledge of the runes provides a method of accessing the unconscious
mind and thus relieving hidden sources of anxiety and stress.
Craft skills are another important aspect of Stav and the stances equip the body for the rigours of physical labour. Being able to see the web of orlog in all things is a great asset when constructing anything from a stool to a multi storey building.
Working with the stances can open up many possibilities which are there for you to discover for yourself
Meanings of the Runes
Rune Meaning
f Means Animals (in particular, cattle). It can also mean
gold. It symbolises riches, success but possibly of a
portable or transient nature.
u Means Slag (from smelting ore) and it symbolises the
primal primal forces of nature. It also suggests the
processes of purification and refinement necessary to
strength and perfection.
j Means thunder, war or thorn and is symbolised as
protection and the famous Thor's hammer. (Which
rejoiced in the name Molinjor and in turn symbolised
bolts of lightening).
o Means mouth as in that with which we speak and
estuary, as in mouth of a river. As symbolises
knowledge, wisdom and kingship.
r Means wheel, road or ride. It symbolises the wild hunt
and the process of death and transformation.
k Means canker or cancer. It symbolises malignancy,
fire, deviousness and evil.
h Means hailstones. It symbolises the Rainbow
between heaven and earth, also the unexpected and
sudden transformation.
n Means need, necessity or crisis. It symbolises fate,
compulsion and destiny.
i Means Ice. Is symbolises Winter, the hunt, or a state
of stasis.
a Means a good Year, fertile land and a plentiful
harvest. Ar symbolises plenty, the earth and the bounty
of nature.
s Means the Sun. Sol symbolises the peaceful warrior
who brings harmony and justice.
t Means war and justice. Tyr symbolises victory, self
sacrifice and honour.
b Means Birch Tree. Bjork symbolises female energies,
magic, childbirth and family life.
m Means mankind and the moon. Mann symbolises
sexuality, witches, humanity and death.
l Means Water, bath or lagoon. Laug symbolises
washing, bathing, coastal areas, wealth and gold.
y Means the Yew tree, male energies, a bow and arrow
and shield. Yr symbolises archery, single combat and
protection.
Stav Training in the USA
Courses are held throughout the year and details of
current and forthcoming events can be obtained from the
websites (see details inside front cover) or by sending a
SAE to Ice and Fire; PO Box 2179; Fairfax VA 22031 or
phone 703 447 7310
Other Publications from Stav Books
Books on Stáv
Book: Stáv the Fighting System of Northern Europe The martial aspect
of Stáv. By Graham Butcher $9 plus $.50 P&H
Booklet: This is Stáv A comprehensive introduction to the Hafskjold-
Stáv tradition by Graham Butcher
Booklet: The Principles of Stáv The terminology and concepts of Stáv
explained by David Stone
Booklet: The Festivals of Stáv An Introduction to the festivals and
natural cycles important in the Stáv tradition by David Stone
Booklet: A Book of Runes a guide to the meanings, associations and
mythological connections of the runes by Graham Butcher
Booklet: Stáv for Health and Well Being The health benefits of practising
Stáv by David Stone and Graham Butcher
Ordering
All booklets $6.50 each including P&P or order all 5 for $25 inclusive.
Please make checks payable to: Michelle Tracey and send to: PO Box
2179; Fairfax VA 22031