The Mechanics of Asana: Yoga Technique for Teachers and Students

In the yoga world, “alignment” often gets a bad rap—and for good reason. The truth is, no two bodies are the same, and there’s no universal set of instructions that can ‘align’ every kind of body in every yoga pose perfectly (for example, the well-intentioned advice: “Stretch your arms out to the sides, your arm span is your ideal stance width”).

However… the value of technique cannot be overstated. Much like the specific technique applied in gyms, dance studios, or by elite athletes, learning technique in asana can greatly enhance the safety and enjoyment of poses for both you and your students. Unlike rigid alignment principles, technique moves beyond the one-size-fits-all template for poses and respects the unique structural variations and abilities of each student.

For yoga teachers and keen practitioners, an in-depth understanding of technique is essential, yet it’s often not thoroughly explored in standard 200-hour training programs. Delving into biomechanics based on Anusara Yoga’s Universal Principles of Alignment, we examine how muscles, bones, joints, and connective tissues collaborate to form postures, movements, and shapes in yoga.

I invite you to embark on this 20-hour journey with me. Over three Fridays we’ll delve into:

• Functional movement and techniques for the upper body
• Functional movement and techniques for the lower body
• Safe practices for inversions
• Techniques that enhance both stability and freedom within poses
• Modifications that elevate the safety and efficacy of your practice, and that of your students
• Daily asana practice sessions and homework between Fridays to help integrate learning through experience 😊

Prerequisites:  Open to teachers and interested students. Teachers will receive 20CEC’s for their participation.