The ability to structure and sequence classes so that students have the best possible experience, both on the mat and afterwards, is one of the hallmarks of skillful teaching.
In this course with Natasha Rizopoulos, we’ll begin with an overview of essential sequencing principles. We’ll explore the idea of sequencing as a coherent narrative arc in which practices are organized around themes, build toward a specific peak, and include counter poses and cooling postures to bring both body and mind into a state of equilibrium. We’ll look at the difference between sequencing for more experienced students (with an emphasis on Vinyasa-based practices) and working with Beginners.
In the second session you’ll learn how to create sequences that progressively prepare students for a variety of challenging postures so they can find the fullest and safest expression of these asana, as well as leave class feeling balanced and restored. We’ll discuss sequencing for backbends, inversions, arm balances and forward bends, each of which require specific preparation and counter-posing. You’ll leave class with a deeper understanding of all these poses as well as a greater ability to practice and teach them with confidence.
What You Will Learn
- How to create a class with an integrated theme of postures sequenced around specific actions and why it matters
- Counter poses and cooling postures to include bringing body and mind into a state of equilibrium.
- Sequencing principles for experienced students as well as key sequencing principles when working with Beginners.
- How to sequence for challenging postures, while keeping students safe and leaving them feeling balanced and restored.
- Specific sequencing principles for backbends, inversions, arm balances and forward bends, as well as preparation and counter-posing required.
This series is part of Natasha’s Art of Sequencing Series on Yoga U. For more information on the other classes in this series, see here.
This Course Also Includes:
- Yoga Practice Video: Enjoy a 50-minute yoga video with Natasha that will translate elements of theory covered in the lectures into practical experience on the mat. Natasha shows how to sequence a backbend class with Urdhva Dhanurasana (Wheel pose) or Setu Bandha (Bridge pose) as a peak pose, and how to build the class in such a way that students learn all the actions to keep their low back safe in even demanding backbends.
- Recordings of Both Sessions: Yours to keep. It’s generally acknowledged that many people only retain 10-20 percent of what they learn in a workshop. You will get the recordings of both sessions (MP3 -downloadable & MP4 – streaming online), enabling you to go back and listen to the workshop as many times as you like.
- Transcripts of Both Sessions: Ever wanted to refer to a certain part of a course? Even the best note takers miss a point every so often. With the transcripts of the sessions, you can go back and refer to particularly important passages or clarify sections you were in doubt about.
This course qualifies for 3 CEs with Yoga Alliance.
