lotus-smallerHips : Freedom and Stability

Jane Carlsen
3 Sundays : June 04, June 25, July 16
2:00 – 4:00 pm
$75 for the series, $30 for a single workshop

Our hip joints have two essential purposes: to move us through the world and to maintain upright stability. If we’re too mobile, we lose confidence and stability. Too stable and movement becomes difficult or painful. The play between these dual efforts creates a toned and healthy home for the abdominal organs.
These three workshops are designed to help you get to know your hips, from basic anatomy down to the subtle root of existence at the muladhara chakra. You can take the series or sign up for individual workshops. Students of all levels are welcome; poses will be modified as appropriate.

Movement: June 4
This first workshop will emphasize the connection of the legs to the torso. Students will learn about hip anatomy as we practice asanas that take the joint through its full range of motion. You will learn how to modify poses to minimize pain and maximize range of motion.

Stability: June 25
We will continue our study of hip and pelvis anatomy in the second workshop, focusing on the role of the hips in spinal health, especially the lower back. Students will learn how hips contribute to stable balance, creating a secure and reliable foundation for the spine.

Vitality: July 16
With some understanding of the gross anatomy, we’re ready to begin to explore the inner body. This workshop will focus on the role of the pelvic floor in creating healthy organs and vitality. Students will learn asanas that benefit the bladder, reproductive organs, and breathing. We will begin to investigate the subtle anatomy of the chakra system, particularly how the first two chakras affect (and are affected by) mobility and stability.

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lotus-smallerCaring for Your Back

Roberto Astorga
3 Saturdays : June 10, June 17, June 24
1:00 – 3:00 pm
$75 for the series, $30 for a single workshop

Day 1 – June 10
RECOVERY
On day one, students will learn the poses designed to alleviate discomfort and                                                                                      reduce inflammation in the affected areas. According to Iyengar Yoga, during the acute phase of an injury or a flare-up of chronic lower back pain, a variation of restorative poses are indicated in the beginning and at the end of the practice.

Students will practice poses that can bring relief from back pain in the different variations of Shavasana. I will be asking you to compare the difference in how the muscles of the lower back have released and/or aligned during these workshops.

Day 2 – June 17
THE CORE GROUP
Keeping the core muscles strong is an essential practice, but for people suffering from back pain, understanding what muscles comprise the core besides the abdominal muscles is crucial. 

Students will explore different approaches to strengthen the adductors, abductors and hamstrings. 

This session is open to all. We will adapt all of the poses and provide you with options to accommodate your needs and capacity. 

Day 3 – June 24
POSES
On day 3, we will combine elements of the first two sessions and will add the poses that directly benefit the back.

In summary, during these sessions, students will learn the importance of support during the acute phase of pain, the importance of the core muscles in the process of taking care of your back, and the poses recommended to maintain the strength and flexibility of your spine.

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Additional Offerings