Twisting Actions Short Course (Weekend Intensive) Part2: Open, Closed, Supine and Inverted

Building up on the first part of this two-part series, This session explores the next level of complexity in twisting – introducing the concepts of open and closed twists, also twists in supine and inverted positions. The session ends with breath-work in supine positions Level: Intermediate Duration: 150min. Props needed: chair, block, blankets, bolsters ( […]

Shoulder blades, Ribs: Arching Back and Twisting

This session explores the role of the shoulder blades in accessing the how we hold our chest: lifted or slumped. While this is a fundamental action for all asana categories: back arches, twists, forward extensions and inversions, this session links it to back arches and twists Level: Experienced Beginners, Intermediate, Gentle Duration: 75 mins Props […]

Abdominal Actions in Twists

Twists rotate the spine and stretch the muscles of the back. Twists help to improve the spinal cord’s range of motion. This session explores the relationship between abdominal organs and twisting actions, primarily through revolved and standing and supine positions, using the arm actions as a moving agency. Level: Intermediate Duration: 90 min. Props needed: […]

Long Holds in Supported Positions

Holding an asana for a long period of time lets the effect of the asana ‘seep’ in.  Supported positions that make possible long holds are one of the boons of the methodology developed by shri BKS Iyengar. They calm the nervous system, and are conducive for a meditative and breath-centric practice. This sequences is also […]

Parivrtta Trikonasana: a Gentle Entry

Parivrtta trikonanasa – a standing, twisting, forward extending and balancing position. Naturally, this is not an easy position to access for older practitioners, or for those in a debilitated state. This session prepares for a supported parivrtta trikonasana after ample preparations – again using supports. Level: Gentle Duration: 90 min. Props needed: a couple of […]

Twisting Actions Leading to Forward Extensions

Forward extending asanas are not just bending forward. Instead, it is more useful to think of them as ‘forward extensions’.  In this session we explore this extension action at the waist.

Strengthening Legs for a Healthy Back: Beyond Walking, Beyond Stretching

In this session, we isolate and address a vary large group of muscles that has immense potential to increase the strength of our legs – the hamstrings.  These are crucial also in maintaining a healthy back.  This session uses supports to hold asanas for longer duration, giving chance to the hamstrings to passively lengthen, instead […]

Twisting Actions Short Course (Weekend Intensive) Part1: Limbering through Standing Asanas, followed by Basic Twists in Standing and Seated Positions

Beginning with standing asanas, this session prepares the body by introducing the basic concepts of twists in simple seated and standing positions. Level: Experienced Beginner, Intermediate Duration: 120min. Props needed: chair, block, blankets, bolsters, belt, access to wall This session is part of the Twisting Actions Short Course (Weekend Intensive).

Virabhadrasana1: The Twist and the Backarch in the Standing Asana

In this session, we start with twists, rise up into urdhva dhanurasana, dip down into parsvottanasana, and then lift back up into virabhadrasana I. Level – Experienced Beginner, Intermediate Duration – 60min This recording is part of the following Short Courses: Deep Dive – Virabhadrasana I (Short Course, Level – Experienced Beginner)and, Deep Dive – […]

Abdominal Focus in Twistings

This session focusses on integrating abdominal participation in twists. Duration: 60min Level: Experienced Beginner, Intermediate Props needed: yoga strap, a stack of firm blankets for sitting, access to a wall This recording is part of the following Short Courses: Short Course #1 for Abdomen: More than ‘Core’ (Level – Intermediate) and, the Short Course Abdomen […]