Embodied Liberative Meditation (ELM1) is recommended as a precursor to the current course

What to expect from this course:

Specific Movements Developed:

Plank, Hang, Squat, Lunge, Push-up, Row

Metaphor:

Hatha Yoga, a branch of Yoga, focuses largely on the physical well-being of the practitioner. “Yoga” translates to Union, while “hatha” best translates to force. Throughout this course we will look to deviate from static asana (yoga posture) and instead sharpen tools that will do more than inform the body in stillness; This course looks to develop “Being” and “Doing,” by aiding in constructing a body in motion. Stretching and lengthening without strengthening and stabilizing can produce a disconnect that may be advantageous to the monk who looks to transcend this world. Those who wish to live in it however, are best aided by being both stable and adaptable, still and moveable.

This course aims to give the practitioner an initiation into “embodiment.” I define embodiment in this context as moving through the world (while in a body) with more confidence and ease. Strength and mobility will be our focus, as stretching without a usable range of motion is a tool suited for stillness. Initiation may be thought of as an ordeal. Where “Embodied Liberative Meditation” (the precursor to this course) progressed from 5mins -25mins, this practice will begin with a 12 minute commitment:

Those already practicing “Embodied Liberative Meditation” or (ELM1) may be relieved to see this is initially a 1 = 1 of daily commitment from the Asana portion of (ELM1). We will look to gradually scale the complexity of movement without a requirement of more time initially.

In week 6-7, six of our seven days of weekly practice will jump to a 40-45 minute commitment. It is preferable that this be performed in one session, but should time constraints disallow this preference, one should find strategic ways to do the order of sets and reps throughout the day as time and space allow. I have had busy days (such as a travel day) where I complete an hour of my own practice in four fifteen minute segments… When possible make adjustments to create space for all your attention; When not, make your practice mold to the reality you are presented with.

Time will not surpass 45mins throughout the course, instead our ordeal will involve continued increase in intensity. By the end, you should feel comfortable hanging from a pull-up bar, planking and squatting. The depth you in a squat, the amount you lift your feet in the hang or knees in the plank will be quite individual; I am confident will understand the importance of these movements and accessory movements/postures in inhabiting a capable body. I hope you will find tools that allow you to progress in movement independent of my services. Having this firm base I aim for you to enter other classrooms with a greater confidence and awareness of your body and how to navigate your being with greater ease and comfort. I am certain you will have the foundation for approaching push-ups, rows and ever more complex hip loading that will be the follow-up focus to the present course.