Friday Evening
Crouch & Spring · Foundational Dynamism
Life is constant change, and in the face of change, we often respond with doubt and hesitation: we protect ourselves, play it safe, and stop taking risks almost without realizing it. This is also clearly reflected in practice: hesitant transitions, timid approaches to positions, and consequently, results that prevent us from building real strength.
This workshop introduces the Crouch & Spring mindset: a decisive and committed quality that develops both physical power and inner confidence. We will work on fundamental transitions and postures, learning to prepare, commit, and "jump," rather than moving forward from a place of doubt.
What we will practice :
– Transitions into Chaturanga Dandasana in a way that builds strength
– Transitions in Surya Namaskara, especially into Upward Dog, using clear preparation and a determined impulse
– Entries into standing postures (Warrior sequences) to develop leg and core strength
– Basic forward bends with commitment, avoiding collapse
– Basic hip openers: progression to half lotus through Vrksasana (Tree Pose) and Ardha Baddha Padmottanasana
– Backward jump transitions that generate power instead of wear and tear
You will learn to take risks in controlled conditions, to act decisively, and to practice in a way that truly develops both physical and mental ability.
Saturday Morning
Mysore
Traditional Mysore-style class with one-to-one guidance in the Ashtanga system - but taught through David’s principle-based approach. You’ll learn the set sequence while developing the intelligence to modify, use props, and apply crouch-and-spring dynamism to your transitions. The focus is on building strength and skill through smart repetition, not forcing yourself into positions your body isn’t ready for. Each student works at their own pace. David circulates, offering hands-on adjustments, verbal cues, and specific technical guidance tailored to where you are in the practice - whether you’re learning your first sun salutation or refining advanced postures. This is Ashtanga without the rigidity. You follow the system, but you learn to practice intelligently.
Saturday Afternoon
Backbend Essentials: Primary Roots, Second Series Wings
These challenges require knowing how to engage with intensity without collapsing or becoming rigid. Many people approach them with excessive force or restraint; both are forms of self-doubt that hinder genuine growth.
This workshop teaches how to work extensions with precision and commitment, using First and Second Series postures to establish universal principles applicable to any backbend.
What we will practice :
– Purvottanasana and the transition from Upward Dog
– Urdhva Dhanurasana (Wheel/Upward Bow)
– Dropping back from standing with commitment, not collapse
– Shalabasana (Locust), Bhekasana (Frog), Dhanurasana (Bow)
– Ustrasana (Camel)
– Kapotasana (Pigeon Pose)
The focus will be on activating your legs, glutes, and core; opening your chest without straining your lower back; and positioning your spine with clarity, strength, and stability. You'll learn to face the challenge with determination, without fear or forcing anything.
Sunday Morning
Mysore
Sunday Afternoon
Arm Balances and Inversions
Arm balances and inversions are perfect opportunities to train your relationship with risk. You can climb into Sirsasana hesitantly and uncertainly, forcing yourself out of fear and accepting unstable results. Or you can learn to work step by step, preparing, committing, and training yourself to continue taking risks even when you want to play it safe.
Decisive action is one of the best ways to develop strength—physical, mental, and willpower. When you approach these positions with doubt, you squander the opportunity to develop real ability.
This workshop applies the principles of crouch & spring to advanced forms, teaching you how to enter and hold arm balances and inversions with stability and confidence.
What we will practice :
– Sirsasana (Headstand): rise with confidence and hold with strength
– Bujapindasana (Arm Pressing Pose)
– Bakasana (Crow Pose)
– Pincha Mayurasana (Forearm Balance)
– Advanced variations of forward and backward jumps
Majadahonda Road, 14, 28660 Boadilla del Monte, Madrid
Register - https://theshalayogastudio.com/
