Exploring Inversions: A Philosophical and Practical Journey in Yoga

***Please bring your own yoga mat; a block and a strap might also be useful!***

You are invited to this fun and community-orientated workshop where you will explore inversions from a philosophical and practical perspective. This 3-hour workshop will begin with a short, non-judgemental discussion on inversions in yoga and our mentality around them. Are we nervous or reluctant to go upside down, telling ourselves we are not strong enough? Or perhaps we can't wait to go upside down and show the rest of the class what we are made of! Bringing these thought patterns to the surface in a non-judgemental way can have a transformative effect on our practice as we delve further into inversions.

From this friendly and open discussion, we will be introduced to the history and philosophy of yoga in relation to inversions. For example, did you know that ancient sources suggest that yogic inversions are much older than most of the yoga poses we practice today; but perhaps not in the way we would expect! 

We will then move on to a 2-hour embodied inversion practice focussing on downward dog, headstand, forearmstand, and handstand to grasp the anatomical, biomechanical, and gravitational aspects, including the yogic anatomical science of the 'bandhas' or energetic locks. There will be variations for everyone - from beginners to more experienced practioners - through the use of props and hands-on assists. Much of the practice will involve using the wall for support, so don't be nervous to join us if you have never done a 'freestanding' inversion before; you won't be forced to! A small class size with 10 students maximum will allow for plenty of 1-2-1 teacher attention so you feel safe and support in exploring your inversion practice. We will close with a short relaxation so we leave feeling balanced and rejuvenated.

There will be plenty of opportunity for rest breaks. All levels of yoga practitioner are welcome. If you are new to inversions, this workshop offers a fun, friendly and informative environment to begin your journey. However, if you have never practiced yoga before, this workshop may not be for you,  as some prior yoga experience is necessary. You are welcome to stay after the session to chat with your fellow yogis and grab a coffee or lunch from Thrive - a delicious vegan cafe in Cambridge!

Schedule

Arrive for 10.30 am start. You are welcome to arrive a little early to purchase a delicious hot drink from Thrive for the first session. A free glass of juice will be available in the break to keep us energised. 

Part 1: Understanding Inversions (10.30 am - 11.25 am)

· Discussing the psychology of inversions

· Exploring the historical context and philosophy of inversions

Short break - free juice or feel free to purchase a hot beverage.

Part 2: Practicing Inversions (11.30 am - 1.00 pm)

· Embodied yoga warmup

· Hands-on practice of inversions in an accessible and beginner-friendly way (poses include downward facing dog, headstand, forearm stand, handstand).

· Insight into anatomical and biomechanical aspects throughout

· Breaks throughout

Part 3: Relaxation and Reflection (1.00 pm - 1.30 pm)

· Closing session with deep relaxation

· Leave feeling balanced and rejuvenated

Details

· Date: Saturday October 21st 2023

· Time: 10.30 am – 1.30 pm (3 hours)

· Location: Upstairs, Thrive Cambridge, Thrive, 5-7 Norfolk Street, Cambridge CB1 2LD

· Cost: £25 early bird (before 7 October), £35 standard.

Register at www.philosophyandyoga.co.uk

Limited spaces: book now to avoid disappointment!

Any questions? Email: yogawithfloss@gmail.com

We look forward to sharing this transformative experience with you!