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Strength for the Upper Back
This practice combines Vinyasa, body weight training and peices of a Feldenkrais Method® lesson. Our neglected upper back (thoracic region) will get some much deserved attention as we work on both physical strength and neuromuscular education. The result is a feeling of profound integration and easeful posture.
Thoracic Expression
The upper back is an area that can be a big source of tension and even pain. We also have a fair amount of cultural baggage around the appropriate way to hold our upper back. Even in the Yoga world, we tend to favor a stiff and straight upper back above other shapes. But the upper back is capable of so much more, and I believe we suffer when we get locked in to a specific posture or expression.
In this practice, we explore the capacity of the upper back to generate movements, sensations and even emotions. We will use a somatic lesson adapted from Feldenkrais Method® supported by familiar Yin Poses. Your upper back and neck will really benefit from this practice.
Mobility Drill: Upper Thoracic Differentiation
If you suffer from a tight neck, aching shoulders and upper back, this is a go to mobility drill. Often we get locked up and stuck in the upper back. This mobility drill is designed to restore the supple freedom we need in the thoracic spine to move well and feel good.
Seeing the Back
This is a special practice for students with ongoing back pain. We will explore the back through somatic movement, Yin poses and interoceptive practices. Learn how to use your “eyes” and breath to “see” your whole back.
Getting to Know Your Back: Part 4
If you are a movement geek like me, you will be blown away by the simple complexity of this somatic experience. Prepare to feel stuff you may not have felt in your back before. We will also be touching on one more important back related topic that can’t be ignored. The influence that society and societal norms has on our experience of our back.