Welcome to class! A very important part of learning to practice safely is the ability to activate your core. This sends a signal through the nervous system that in a sense says, "I'm ready to do these movements now." Activating the core allows your joints to move more freely and the muscles can relax so you can find a deeper range of movement.
In this class, you were learn to articulate each vertebrae of the spine, which is where it all begins. You will learn how to stabilize the pelvis and shoulders in core postures like high plank, low plank, and chaturanga dandasana. You will learn how to strengthen the posterior chain and create hip and lower back 'bandhas'-stabilization techniques for Upward Dog, while accessing more movement in the thoracic spine. Other fundamental core strengthening movement patterns like side plank, lolasana (tuck planche), tolasana (tuck L-sit), and the hollow body position will be practiced, preparing you for the Ashtanga Primary Series.
Mark’s Bio
Mark began studying yoga in 1997. He is a Certified Ashtanga Yoga teacher, trained and certified by an Ashtanga master. Since 1999, Mark has made regular visits to India to practice with his teachers, including R. Sharath Jois. Mark has also studied intensively with Eileen Hall, Richard Freeman, and Dena Kingsberg. Always looking to deepen his practice, Mark continues to learn from masters in various disciplines.
Since 2005, Mark has been teaching workshops, retreats, and classes all over the world. He threads his love of yoga, surfing, teaching, and music into his practice and teaching style. He hopes to inspire others to develop and live their deepest passions. His classes are uniquely focused on helping each student reach their full potential in life.