“Integrity of our sacred spine”A holistic look at the structure, function and energetic effects of the common thread
in all yoga asana styles and techniques – our spine! Our modern lifestyle exacerbate
the ill effects of poor posture, mental stress and spiritual discontent and our spine
bears the burden of these stressors. Likewise it is the influence of our spine, its
central energy channel and energetic centres that enables yoga it to work its ‘magic’.
In this workshop we explore the spine as the physical, mental, emotional and
spiritual axis of our body and being.
A study of the development of our spinal curves reveals the energetic system that is
at the core of every yogic technique, from asana, to pranayama to meditation. Each
curve bows to the chakra at that corresponding level. We explore these energy
centres, how they reflect our evolution, emotions and expression with a view to
understand how their gentle activation is what makes the beneficial effects of yogic
asana so unique.
We look at the architecture of the spine and how its structure determines our
functional abilities. The anatomical section aims to educate students to respect
differences both within the spine and between individuals. It is these differences
that predict varying degrees of limitations and potential in the different movement
types of asana.
We study the ‘stress’ points of our spine and how to reduce these stressors. Here we
also look at the passive stabilisation system of ligaments as well as the active
stabilisation of the intrinsic and extrinsic spinal muscles. We examine how the role of
segmental stability compliments the role of the muscles that provide larger prime
movements. We explore spinal mobilisation techniques and asanas that enhance
spinal stability and health as well as practical ways to modify how we perform any
asana to spare our spine that it can be healthy and last us for a long lifetime.
Included is a look at common pathologies of the spine including disc problems, and
where possible, their therapies.
This workshop includes Vedic healing and Tantric spinal meditation chants, cakra
meditations, and concludes with a Spinal Focus asana class to revise and help
students integrate the therapeutic exercises and postures taught throughout the
workshop.
