Exploring Ashtanga Yoga Postures, the Power of Prana and Tensegrity
This workshop consists of four days spread over two weekends.
The main focus will be on connective tissue, fascia and tensegrity. Gaining this knowledge will provide a clearer understanding of the body's anatomical movements, enabling us to release tension and increase flexibility. This opens up channels for the flow of prana (chi). We can then connect movement and breath (vinyasa), allowing for a more relaxed and smooth flow in the Ashtanga practice. We will also explore drishti and its importance in creating smooth transitions into and out of asanas.
This workshop will benefit everyone who attends. For those new to yoga and Ashtanga, it will enable you to continue exploring and growing in confidence in your practice. It will also be very beneficial for those who have been practising for some time, as well as for those who are already teaching.
Although the concepts of connective tissue and tensegrity seem simple, they can become complicated when there is misalignment or imbalance in posture. Throughout the workshop, emphasis will be placed on finding and correcting alignment and posture, allowing you to understand, explore, and enjoy your practice. If you are a teacher, this will help you to help your students.
Saturday August 23:
Morning: 8-11
Introduction to Ujjayi breathing and pranayama
Understanding vinyasa, dristhi, fascia and tensegrity using the postures of Suraya Namasakra A and B.
Afternoon:1-4:30
Questions and answers.
Continuing exploration of fascia and tensegrity, movement and breath in the standing sequence of postures.
Sunday August 24: everyone is welcome to join the morning session.
Morning. 8-11
Continue the exploration of pranayama.
Lead primary
There will be a question and answer session if time permits.
Afternoon:1-4:30
Continue exploring fascia, tensegrity, movement and breath in the postures of the primary series.
September 13:
Morning: 8-11
This session will include more pranayama.
There will be a short lead class, with the emphasis continuing to be placed on the smoothness and power of the breath and its link to movement.
Exploration of inversions.
Afternoon:1-4:30
Questions and answers.
Anything not understood can be addressed during this session.
Arm balancing postures.
September 14: everybody is welcome to join the morning session.
Morning: 8-11
Continue exploring Pranayama.
Lead primary.
There will be a question and answer session if time permits.
Afternoon:1-4:30
Back bending. Learn to move your body comfortably and safely into deeper postures, understanding connective tissue and tensegrity. This will be a beautiful way to experience and benefit from the work applied throughout the workshop.
I am thoroughly captivated by the subjects of connective tissue and tensegrity, and by their application in yoga practice. I hope you will join me in this exploration.
Mark Darby
Internationally Renowned Teacher of Orthodox Ashtanga
Darby has been a dedicated practitioner of Ashtanga Yoga for over 40 years. The journey began in 1979 when he and Joanne traveled to Mysore, India, to study with the Ashtanga Yoga master Sri K. Pattabhi Jois (Guruji) for four years. Darby continued his studies with Guruji until Guruji's passing. As a recipient of the highest certification in Ashtanga Yoga teaching, Darby is uniquely qualified to teach the original Ashtanga Yoga, ensuring that students receive the purest and most authentic knowledge and techniques. Darby's practice and teaching remain deeply rooted in the Ashtanga tradition.
Teaching Style
Darby's teaching style is both flexible and direct. He inspires students with his wisdom and enthusiasm while earning their respect and admiration through his humor, attentiveness, and unwavering commitment to their physical and inner alignment. Darby has conducted workshops across the globe, including Europe, Asia, Canada, and the United States. In his workshops, he offers personalized guidance and feedback tailored to each student's needs, helping them grasp the essence of Ashtanga.
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