Mindful Backbending – A Heart Opening Practise
with Raili Maripuu

Heart Opening & Back Bending Workshop | 9am-11.30am

Backbends are the most energising and uplifting of all the yoga asanas. They help to keep the spine supple as well as opening the chest and heart, increasing breath capacity. Yet many of us struggle with backbends and find them physically tricky. Opening the chest can feel vulnerable — like exposing the heart. And breathing deeply while bending backwards isn't easy either.

It often does not really matter whether you are flexible or stiff in your spine. Most back bending movements require a combination of strength, stamina and flexibility. It is the openness in hips, shoulders and the upper back that brings you to a safe, confident and enjoyable back bending sequence. The primary series in Ashtanga yoga offers a wonderful tool to achieve all of the above.

In this workshop, we are exploring the art and the basics of back bending using a combination of primary and intermediate series from the Ashtanga yoga sequence.

To develop your backbend practice we will:

• Work against the force of gravity

• Strengthen the back muscles and abdominals

• Create space in front of your body, through the ribcage

• Expand the chest

At this workshop we learn how to stay in those 'difficult places' and work through them. When things are difficult, scary and emotional it is hard to remain calm, breathe and think clearly. As backbends can be challenging, both physically and emotionally, we approach them slowly and with patience. You’ll be guided by an experienced teacher who will direct your body with sound instruction and support your process.