April 2009 Props
This month we will explore all the many ways to use blocks and straps, towels and the wall. Props can be used to modify for injury or tightness, deepening postures, support, and also to create stability and balance in a pose. We will be using props to make our classes interesting, challenging and accessible. Props […]
March 2009 Astanga Primary Series
The pose, or, more accurately, the focus, of the month is the Primary Series of Astanga yoga. There are four series in Astanga yoga, Primary, Secondary, Advanced A, and Advanced B. The Primary Series is called yoga chikitsa, or “yoga therapy.” It is designed to be the entry level and accessible for all. It is […]
December 2008 Urdhva Dhanurasana (Upward facing Bow Pose)
This pose is the bane of all tight-shouldered/tight-backed people. There are many of us out there! The idea is that there is equal weight in the hands and the feet and the arch is nice and even and broad. There are those whose shoulders are tight and this tends to push the stress into the […]
November 2008 Koundinyasana
For many years I have taught a pose called Koundiyasana and revolved Koundinyasana. In researching the pose of the month, I found out that what we often teach at O2 as Koundinyasana is actually Koundinyasana II, and the revolved pose is actually Koundinyasana I. Koundinyasana I is a twist and Koundinyasana II is more like […]
September 2008 Pincha Mayurasana (Forearm Stand)
This posture is an inversion and has the same benefits as all inversions: reversing blood flow, reversing pressure on the bones and organs, bringing extra blood flow to the brain, and, of course, seeing the world upside-down. Being upside-down is disorienting but also very cool. It changes your perspective while also bringing stimulation to the […]
August 2008 Parighasana (Gate Pose)
This posture is all about lengthening both sides of the body evenly, so rather than a lateral bend (from the waist), it is hip flexion. I love this posture because so many of us do things during the day that compress the space between the ribs and the hips (slouching!). This posture is the antidote […]
August 2008: Pose of the month is on vacation
This month we will be focusing on a major component of the vinyasa practice and the practice of yoga on the whole, pranayama or breath control. Specifically we will focus on the breathing technique that we use in every asana class, ujjayi breath. Ujjayi breath is a method of being conscious, being in your body, […]
July 2008 Ujjayi Breath
This month we will be focusing on a major component of the vinyasa practice and the practice of yoga on the whole, pranayama or breath control. Specifically we will focus on the breathing technique that we use in every asana class, ujjayi breath. Ujjayi breath is a method of being conscious, being in your body, […]
June 2008 Adho Mukha Vrksasana (Handstand)
This month’s pose represents the perfect balance of discipline and play. There are many ways to fool around and be unstructured. This pose requires a sense of playful determination and focus. You need to be focused, calm, and relaxed while at the same time playing with your edge. I love how handstands can be done […]
Life is Yoga: June 2008: Taking Time to Breathe
The focus of the month reflects the importance of taking the time to breathe. The air is rich with the fragrance of flowers and plants. There are farmers markets, outdoor cafes, barbeques, dog walks, and trips to the beach and into nature. Well, these are all the things most of us want to be doing […]
