We learn through repetition, but sometimes we get stuck repeating the very thing that hampers our progress, or we end up focusing so much on the achievement of a single posture, that we lose sight of our wider practice and an approach that might serve us better.
This workshop will focus on building what is widely referred to as 'core strength', or 'stability', with a view to working towards a sensitive and sustainable physical practice that focuses on efficiently engaging the whole body, and reduces the likelihood of pains and strains.
We will explore a number of variations and alternatives to yoga postures that feature twisting, lifting away from the floor, and placing weight through the hands, such as supine abdominal twists (Jathara Parivritti), Locust (Salabasana) and Downward-facing Dog (Adho Mukha Svanasana) poses. Our aim will be to move the spotlight away from 'doing' postures, to a whole-body experience that is focused on 'being' and 'moving' in the ways that are most helpful to us.
Schedule
10:00-11:00 Defining 'core': connecting upper and lower body
Break for refreshments (lots of yummy things are included)
11:30-12:30 Progressive core control practice
This workshop is suitable for:
physically fit beginners and improvers
curious yoga practitioners of any discipline
Ashtanga, or Vinyasa practitioners interested in slowing things down and focusing on technique
You will learn to:
adapt your yoga practice to incorporate more strengthening elements
improve core strength outside of a gym environment
address issues of hypermobility and yoga injuries
Equipment
It's always nice to use your own mat, so if you already have one, please bring it with you. I will have a limited number of spare mats available on the day. If you have 2 yoga blocks, and a blanket (or towel) that you don't mind being used on the floor, please bring them along. These are nice-to-have, rather than essential requirements.
Prices, booking and refunds
Price: £30/£24*
*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.
This workshop is limited to 15 people; attendance must be confirmed in advance. Your place will only be guaranteed once payment has been received in full.
Full refunds will be made if a cancellation is received by 12th October (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 19th October (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.