Harness the Power of Foundational Poses for Mastery of 2nd Series
ATLANTA
March 28-30, 2025
www.ashtangayogaatlanta.com
ALL LEVELS, No experience with 2nd Series required
Hip Openers, Arm Balances & Inversions, and Backbends
The asana theory classes will be centered around using foundational asanas to learn the intermediate asanas of 2nd Series. You'll learn the logical steps that begin with the basic poses (Surya Namaskara, standing, and finishing) and progress to more challenging poses, such as those in the second and third Series.
You'll learn about analyzing a complex asana from the viewpoint of its more basic foundation. Starting from the foundation allows you to identify a set of logical steps that make available different options for working the pose, ranging from more accessible to more challenging. You'll learn safe modifications for each pose and exercises/drills that build strength and flexibility efficiently. This emphasis on safety and efficiency will reassure you and boost your confidence in your practice. Working with a stepwise approach to intermediate and advanced asanas also allows you to find suitable ways of playing with more complex poses.
The philosophy talks will focus on the meaning and application of Nadi Shodana (2nd Series)—cleansing of the energy (pranic) channels.
Sample of poses to be studied:
BACKBENDS
2nd series: Shalabhasana, Dhanurasana, Ustrasana, Laghu Varjrasana, and Kapotasana
ARM BALANCES
2nd series: Bakasana, Tittibhasana, Pincha Mayurasana, Karandvasana, Mayurasana, Nakrasana, 7 Sirsasana variations
HIP OPENERS
2nd series: Eka Pada Sirsasana, Dwi Pada Sirsasana, Yoga Nidrasana, Vatayanasana, Gomukhasana
The 3 Sublime Aspects of Pranayama
This pranayama class will feature the art of exhaling, the art of inhaling, and the art of retention.
Further playful explorations of the Ashtanga yoga pranayama sequence—including work with Bhastrika, Surya and Chandra Bhedana, and Sitali techniques. Applying “Sthira Sukham” to your pranayama seat (both supine and upright options.) Working with some helpful layers of breathing techniques that up lead up to Kumbhaka—the central focus of pranayama.
Connections Between Breath, Prana, Karma, and Dharma
This philosophy talk will center around interpreting passages from Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras, the Bhagavad Gita, Hatha Pradipika, and other texts—highlighting such themes as summoning courage to maintain a daily practice, walking your own unique chosen path, developing skill in risk taking, and exploring the role of breath in helping you to act skillfully and awaken the life force within.
March 28
6:00pm-8:00pm - Asana Theory: Hip openers
March 29
9am–11:30am - Asana Theory: Arm Balances and Inversions
Break
12:30pm-2:00pm - The 3 Sublime Aspects of Pranayama
March 30
9am - 11am – Asana Theory: Backbends
break
12pm-1:15pm - Connections Between Breath, Prana, Karma, and Dharma
All registration is done through Ashtanga Yoga Atlanta, www.ashtangayogaatlanta.com
