Forward Extensions: The ‘Concave Back’ Action
In the Iyengar tradition, we practice forward extensions (standing or seated) in two very distinct stage: the final stage of the head touching some part of the leg/ floor, is preceded by the intermediate stage of extending the torso not downward, but forward, lengthening the sides of the body, and arching the back – an […]
Seated Forward Extensions – ‘Resting’ the Forehead (Intermediate Level)
The quietening effect of forward extensions is due in part, to the restful condition of the forehead/ frontal brain. This session starts with preparation of the limbs, and also some time experimenting with what it means to ‘rest’ the forehead. This session can be done as a stand-along session, we recommend doing it after the […]
Seated Forward Extensions – ‘Resting’ the Forehead (Experienced Beginner Level)
The quietening effect of forward extensions is due in part, to the restful condition of the forehead/ frontal brain. This session starts with preparation of the limbs, and also some time experimenting with what it means to ‘rest’ the forehead. Level: Experienced Beginners Duration: 60mins Props needed: a yoga strap, a couple of firm folded […]
An Interesting Journey Towards Forward Extensions
Preparing for forward extensions through novel and interesting arm and leg actions. Level: Experienced Beginner, Intermediate Duration: 60mins Props needed: a sturdy chair, yoga blocks, access to a wall This recording is part of the Short Course Active Preparation Culminating in Quiet Seated Forward Extensions (Short Course; Level: Intermediate).
Removing Dullness in Back Body through Forward Extensions
A forward Extensions sessions that includes back arches and breath work. Level: Gentle Duration: 90min Props required: a sturdy chair, some firm blankets that can be folded and stacked to adjust the height of the seat
Back Arches & Forward Extensions, Culminating in Viparita Karani
This session looks at the fulcrum-like position of the sacrum in back arches and forward extensions: are they opposites of each other, mirrors to each other, or parts of the same continuum? Explore the beautiful relationship playing out in our body, culminating in supported and deeply restful viparita karani. Level: Experienced Beginner, Intermediate Duration: 90mins […]
Gentle Cooling Practice for a Hot Day
A combination of supported standing asanas, twists, and forward extensions, ending in breath-work in supine positions This session is ideal to be done on a hot day for a cooling effect. Duration: 45 mins. Props needed: a sturdy chair, a stack of blankets
Preparing the whole Body for Effective Seated Forward Extensions (Intermediate Level)
In this session, we activate the back and the sides of the body, as well as the breath and then move towards seated forward extensions. Level: Intermediate Duration: 75min Props required: a sturdy chair, a yoga strap to loop around a sturdy support like a window grill (optional), firm folded blankets or cushions that can […]
Forward Extensions: What to do When it Comes too Easy
Forward extensions for flexible practitioners: this session uses props not to make the forward extension positions asanas easier, or even to make them more challenging, but to push sensations to parts of the lower back that are often overlooked in our eagerness to go into a final asana. We experience the ‘broadness’ of the lower […]
Forward Extensions from Standing to Seated
Approaching forward extensions through standing Asanas. The muscles of the hips and the waist are prepared for a strong foundation for the forward extensions practice In this session, the preparation is allowed to influence the extent of forward extension without undue struggle.
