In this session, we will be going through some of the more foundational backbends. We will also attempt to get into the more advanced backbends, modifying them a little with props, just to try and get a feel of what it’s like to perform them.
As usual, the class will be broken down into several segments. First, we will go through some basic standing postures — like Trikonasana, Virabhadrasana 1, and Prasarita Padottanasana — with wall support. Then, we will move on to some heating inversions. Seeing as this class is suitable for students of lower levels as well as more general-level students, the inversion part can be approached in different ways: you can attempt the full pose or just stay in the preparatory variation.
After this, we will go on to do the backbends. For this part, you will need a chair, a bolster and maybe a couple of blocks for support, since we’ll be attempting some more challenging backbends here and it will be a good idea to use something that will ensure you avoid injuries through overstraining. Extra height and support will be especially useful when we attempt to go into Urdhva Mukha Svanasana, Ustrasana, and Urdhva Dhanurasana.
Finally, after completing the backbends, we will move on to some more quietening poses before finishing, as usual, in a brief meditation session.
Video stills from this sequence
