Thoracic Expression

Thoracic Expression

Upper Back Pain

Yin & Somatics

Thoracic Expression

The upper back is an area that can be a big source of tension and even pain. We also have a fair amount of cultural baggage around the appropriate way to hold our upper back. Even in the Yoga world, we tend to favor a stiff and straight upper back above other shapes. But the upper back is capable of so much more, and I believe we suffer when we get locked in to a specific posture or expression. 

In this practice, we explore the capacity of the upper back to generate movements, sensations and even emotions. We will use a somatic lesson adapted from Feldenkrais Method® supported by familiar Yin Poses. Your upper back and neck will really benefit from this practice. 

 

Natural Energy

Natural Energy

Natural Energy

Yin & Pranayama

Natural Energy

We usually think of Yin as calming, soothing and down regulating. But with a few tweaks, we can cultivate a calm, natural energy as well. Not the jittery wired feeling you get from caffeine but a gentle boost, without the crash. 

Back in episode 7 in this 4th season, we discussed breathing techniques, science and how this all applies to Yin Yoga. Please have a listen to learn how you can apply use these techniques as well!

For this practice, I’ve applied pranayama that are known to increase sympathetic activation, gently, as well as a somatic practice. You will be amazed at how great you feel after just 25 minutes. 

All you NEED is a Yoga mat but some might also like to have a blanket for comfort.

 

Hip Flexor Relief

Hip Flexor Relief

Yoga for Hip Flexor Release
Yin & Somatics

Hip Flexor Relief

The hip flexors are a group of muscles on the front of the hip which include the psoas, the illiacus and the rectus femoris. These muscles flex the hip, or draw the knee up toward the torso. However, a pain care approach will never reduce an issue to just one aspect of self such as certain muscles or tissues. So this practice makes use of several pain care strategies. We will explore hip flexor pain and stiffness through the lens of somatics, stretching, awareness, neuro motor training and regulation.

This practice is intended to provide quick relief, but also serve as a framework for ongoing care for this issue.

Props Needed: Bolster, Blocks, Blanket, Strap

Yin Yoga for Tight Hip Flexors

Heartfelt Good Wishes in Practice

Heartfelt Good Wishes in Practice

Pain Care Yoga

Yin & Meditation

Heartfelt Good Wishes

This movement practice is supported by a form of meditation known as a Koan. Essentially a line of inquiry that you explore quietly. This type of meditation can lead to profound insight and transformation. Your movement will focus on the lower body with a progressive sequence of twists. This is a sweet and inquisitive practice that will leave you feeling calm and centered. 

Props Neeeded: Bolster and blanket

 

Yin & Somatics for Gratitude

Yin & Somatics for Gratitude

Yoga for Chronic Pain

Yin & Somatics

for Gratitude

Gratitude is a practice just like any other. It requires effort, even when it’s challenging. But it’s worth it. People who commit to a more grateful existence experience better physical and mental health, more happiness and closer relationships. 

For this practice we will not look outside of self but deep within to the very building block of life, the cell. We will build a foundation of embodied gratitude FOR the body. This is a live practice event and is extended to provide plenty of time for you to marinade in the poses, the movements and the meditation. 

Props needed: Bolster, blocks, blanket and strap.

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