Ashtanga at Any Age: Inspiration from Alma Thomas and Cognitive Improvement Research

Ashtanga at Any Age: Inspiration from Alma Thomas and Cognitive Improvement Research

This week, my reflections are deeply anchored by my decade-long journey with a dedicated student, Ron. As our sessions evolved from power-packed vinyasa to the disciplined practice of Mysore, an intriguing question bubbled up: Why do older adults, like Ron, gravitate towards yoga? While the physical transformations are palpable, it’s the cognitive rejuvenation that’s turning heads. Delving into the tales of Alma Thomas, a late-blooming artist, and recent research from the University of Illinois, we uncover yoga’s holistic gift — a dance of physical mastery and cognitive bloom. For every Ron seeking a deeper ‘why’ in their practice, this exploration promises insights into the boundless potential of age and the brain’s synergy with yoga.

Stretching on the Metro

Mastering Stretching: Understanding Spinal Reflexes for Ashtanga Yoga Practitioners

Wondering why you just can’t seem to get longer and stronger? Understanding spinal reflexes related to stretching can be a game-changer in your Ashtanga yoga practice. Slow and steady wins the stretching race, stimulating your Golgi tendon organs can prevent injury, and utilizing Reciprocal Inhibition can deepen your stretches. And remember, your spinal reflexes are always looking out for you, even if your brain is the last to know. Happy stretching, yogis

Deconstructing Toxic Systems in Mysore Style Ashtanga Yoga Education

Deconstructing Toxic Systems in Mysore Style Ashtanga Yoga Education

Discover the intricate relationship between multilevel marketing (MLM), charismatic leadership, and Ashtanga yoga communities in this exploration. Uncover the defining traits of MLMs and their impact on education and vocational systems, along with the potential toxicity within yoga communities. Explore the implications of these structures on individual growth, ethics, and society as a whole. #MLM #AshtangaYoga #CharismaticLeadership

Back to Basics: Understanding the Anatomy of Your Back Muscles for a Stronger Ashtanga Practice

Do you ever wonder why your back feels sore after a vigorous Ashtanga practice? Or maybe you’re struggling to lift up into your Chaturanga without collapsing in the middle? It’s time to get back to basics and understand the anatomy of your back muscles! In this lesson, we’ll explore the different categories of back muscles and how to strengthen and stretch them through Ashtanga poses. But don’t worry, we won’t be boring you with complicated medical terms. We’ll keep it fun and easy to understand, just like your yoga practice. Superficial Muscles: Let’s Get This Party Started First up, we have the superficial muscles. Don’t let the name fool you, these muscles play a vital role in your yoga practice. The trapezius, latissimus dorsi (lats),…