This intensive is aimed towards Ashtanga practitioners in need of a restful alternative, and those with an existing yoga practice who would like an approachable introduction to Vinyasa.
Full day: £30 / £24*
AM or PM session: £18 / £15*
*Concessions: Students and members of the Cowley Road Condors cycling club. If you would struggle to attend for financial reasons, please get in touch, we will make it work.
10 am – 12.30 pm: Chandra Krama (Moon Sequence) Led Practice
"Moon days" are typically rest days for Ashtanga Yoga practitioners. Traditionally speaking, a full moon is likened to a 'high tide' in the body, an abundance of energy. A new moon, on the other hand, is akin to a 'low tide', or a lack of energy. Both states are thought to make us more prone to injury.
Whereas I don't believe that we are necessarily more, or less energetic (and prone to injuring ourselves) on corresponding lunar phases, I do believe we all need suitable alternatives for days when we feel tired or restless.
We will spend the morning moving through a slow, steady and restorative 'moon sequence' focused on the subtle aspects of the body, building strength in stillness, and taking rest. Slow should not be confused with 'easy'; if you are used to a dynamic practice, or taking part in demanding sports, moving slowly and steadily will come with its own challenges - some of them physical.
12:30 pm - 1:30 pm: Break for lunch
1:30 pm - 3 pm: Backbend Masterclass
We all spend so much time bending forwards. Moving in the opposite direction can be a tonic for our spine and surrounding musculature, as well as building our confidence to move in ways we didn't think were possible.
Having paid a lot of attention to our backs, legs and hips in the morning session, the afternoon will see us progress with an in-depth look at our back-bending technique. We will learn how to protect our lower backs; build strength in our mid and upper backs; and how we can engage the whole body to safely support more advanced back-bending postures.
Required level of fitness:
New students with an established physical yoga practice (of any discipline) are welcome to attend, as are beginners who engage regularly in other types of physical activity or sport. This workshop is not suitable for those who are completely new to yoga, but you can attend one of my regular classes instead.
Equipment:
It's always nice to use your own mat, so if you already have one, please bring it with you, (alongside any props you usually use, such as belts or blocks). I will have a limited number of spare mats available on the day, these will be distributed on a first come, first served basis.
Refreshments:
Hot drinks, fruit and snacks will be provided during the lunch break to see us through to the end of the workshop. If you think you may require something more substantial to eat, there are plenty of shops and cafes where food can be purchased nearby.
Booking and refunds:
As spaces on the workshop are limited, attendance must be confirmed in advance. To book, please either contact me for my bank details, or you can pay online. Your place will only be guaranteed once payment has been received in full.
Full refunds will be made if a cancellation is received by 3rd March (2 weeks in advance). If a cancellation is made after this time, I will issue you with a full refund as soon as someone has filled your space. If your space remains vacant, and your cancellation is received by 10th March (1 week in advance), I will refund you half of the price paid. No refunds will be made if a cancellation is received less than a week in advance, and your place on the workshop remains empty.