Basic Yoga Curriculum for 4-day retreats

Basic Yoga Curriculum for 4-day retreats

Natural Breath – Natural Posture      …and Relaxation

The main focus of all programs is an exploration of natural breath and natural posture in Meditation, Yoga and Daily Movement. The work develops and supports the natural dynamics of the breath cycle which constantly energize and align the pelvis and spinal column while fostering an open heart; The exploration and appreciation of these dynamics are the foundation for generating “good” posture and healthy movement.

Yoga classes often talk about and explore “the bandhas” which is an energizing of groups of muscles to foster alignment and health.  These practices can seem complicated and occult, but these dynamics turn out to be just a natural expression of  conscious, and slightly energized breathing.  Once the relationships between breath and posture are understood, all alignment and yoga postures are an expression/extension of this understanding… and yoga postures are built from the inside out and the ground up through breath awareness.

We will explore these foundational dynamics through a variety of yoga traditions, including:  Pilates, Ashtanga, Bikram and Kundalini.

In order to appreciate joint anatomy and apply this learning to our practice, we also play with interactive anatomy exhibits that measure lung and breath volume of different manners of breathing and measure muscle exertion at joints.

Relaxation – Surrender

A major emphasis will be placed on relaxation, as it is as essential in fostering health and deep change as is basic vitality.  We will open up to relaxation through Open Focus meditations, Tantra body/breath practices, and guided Savasana (a pose of complete surrender while lying on the floor).