by zitavanwees | Jan 29, 2021 | CA Yoga Class Program, Lower Ribcage, Twists, Upper Back
In this class, we connect to our mid-back and analyze how the position of our mid-back is influencing our forward bend and twisting movements. We start by feeling that the mid-back is the endpoint of our neck (as supposed to the shoulder area), and how we can bring the weight of the head into this mid-back area, which will help us to mobilize and straighten this part of the spine. We also allow our breath to connect to space in our body, especially the heart region, which will help us to feel the opening of the sternum towards the front (and the space in front of us).
by zitavanwees | Jan 15, 2021 | Backbends, CA Yoga Class Program
In this backbend class, we are moving into various versions of the camel pose. Backbends ask for a balanced opening in the upper and lower back, in which we allow the whole spine to extend as one. This connected movement will then support the opening of the chest, and the space in the belly, which subsequently allows feelings like spaciousness and relaxation to guide the movement.
by zitavanwees | Jan 8, 2021 | CA Yoga Class Program, Inversions, Upper Back
In this class, we are going to prepare the body for a forearm stand (Pincha Mayurasana). This inverted balance pose requires mobility in the upper back, which allows the arms to connect to the shoulder blades. Within this connection, the weight of the inverted body will be able to move through the spine and shoulders into the arms, and forearms. This pose also asks for strength in the shoulder, upper arms, and upper back.
