Relief from Abdominal Heaviness after Feasting (Level Experienced Beginner/ Gentle)
A sequence to relieve abdominal heaviness/sluggishness, this is a mix of active and passive positions. All positions are supine and supported level: Experienced Beginner, Gentle Duration: 45 min This recording is part of the following Short Courses: Short Course #1 for Abdomen More than ‘Core’ (Short Course; Level Experienced Beginner) and, Short Course #1 for Abdomen […]
Short Course #1 for Abdomen More than ‘Core’ (Level – Gentle) Incl. FREE Session on Breath Experience in the Abdomen
The role of the abdominal area in asana and pranayama practice is much more varied, complex, and interesting, than it is in the more conventional physical exercises. This area is rich with musculature, organs, nerve plexi, and the more esoteric control centres. It is recognised not just a ‘structural’ component whose musculature needs to be […]
Abdominal Engagement and a Healthy Back (Level Gentle)
Exploring the role of the abdominal area in maintaining healthy back. Duration: 60min Level: Gentle, Experienced Beginner Props required: a bolster or stack of blankets, chair, blocks, and access to wall This recording is part of the Short Course Short Course #1 for Abdomen More than ‘Core’ (Level – Gentle)
Supporting the Back through Arm and Leg Actions – A Gentle, Supported Practice
A series of quiet asanas in seated, standing, and supine positions, to understand the relationship between the limbs and the trunk. We focus on broadening/ spreading actions at the lower limbs (legs), and the upper limbs (arms). This activates the upper and the lower back, while ensuring there is no narrowing/ pinching Although this can […]
Abdominal Toning in Simple Asanas: 1st Part
Using simple asanas for gently and progressively toning the abdominal area – for organic and muscular health. This session gives a good understanding of how to use the abdominal area (the so called ‘core’ in popular exercise parlance) in asanas – not using it aggresively/ making it hard, at the same time, not keeping it […]
The Fabulous Five Seated Forward Extensions: from Preparation to Final Positions (Short Course; level: Gentle)
A detailed exploration of the five classical seated forward extensions – janu sirsasana, triangamukha ekapada paschimottanasana, ardha baddha padma paschimottanasna, and marichyasana I, and paschimottanasana. These are not the most complex of the forward extensions, but taken together, they are fabulous in exploring different hip, leg, ankle, spine movements, with their differing effects on he […]
Seated Forward Extensions: Supported Positions for a Quiet Practice
In this final session of the Short Course on seated forward extensions, we practice these asanas with support. Such a practice is emotionally quietening, cooling (and therefore recommended for hot days), can relieve headaches, and is part of the practice for high blood pressure, and womens’ menstrual practice. The use of supports makes especially makes […]
Knee Alignment: Explanations and Experiences
Basic concepts in knee alignment, how to diagnose imbalances, and to take simple corrective measures. Level: Beginner, Experienced beginners, Intermediate, Gentle Duration: 90 mins; Props needed: a yoga strap, a belt, a sturdy chair This recording is part of the following Short Courses: Short Course #1 for Knees: from Healing to Challenging (Short Course; level: […]
Knee Health: Creating ‘Space’ at the Joint
The subjective experience of ‘Space’ at the knee joint. Creating and maintaining that space in extended and flexed leg positions to protect the cartilage and ligaments. Level: Experienced Beginner, Intermediate, Gentle Duration: 90 min; Props needed: couple of yoga blocks, a few firm blankets, a couple of yoga straps or any long piece of cloth, a […]
Viparita Karani Deep Dive: the Serenity of the Inverted Lake (Short Course Level: Experienced Beginners, Gentle)
In the Iyengar tradition, the restorative qualities of viparita karani are harnessed by making possible long supported holds. This position/ action finds mention in the yogic scriptures ( indeed, its benefits are said to be ‘death defying’), but without clear description. It was Mr BKS Iyengar who not only interpreted the action, but also made it […]