Restorative Sequence: Utilizing 3 Stages of Posture

Prashant Iyengar
Bob introduces most classes with some inspirational message like introducing and explaining a yoga sutra. This class and a few before it, he's mentioned BKS Iyengar's son Prashant. Normally followers of Iyengar yoga are fans of BKS Iyengar (of course) and/or his daughter, Geeta. Bob tells us that Prashant doesn't gain as much popularity. However, whenever he either sees him or reads about him, his mind explodes. Apparently, the last time Bob was in India, he was really moved by Prashant's teachings which are very different from Iyengar and Geeta. In this class, Bob talked about Prashant's three ways of working with postures. Posture, then Asana and finally Yogasana.

Posture - Upon entering the posture, the work starts as mechanical and instructional. Learning takes place on the understanding of the posture and your body.

Asana - As the understanding of the posture is improved, then you can move the energy deeply. Less bodily action, more mental, I believe.

Yogasana - This seems to be the last stage after posture and asana which is rarely occurring in your practice. It's the pathway to the soul.

Supta Tadasana II
- Urdhva Hastasana, palms facing up
- 2 thin long rolled blankets at sides of hips
- strap, tiny loop for heel, holding from the inside
- weight on grounded leg ankle

Prasarita Padottanasana
- back of legs and buttocks against wall
- forehead on bolster
- arms extended

Viparita Dandasana
- heels rested on bolster (mid height)
- no support for head or shoulders

Salamba Sirsasana
- chair 6" away from wall
- Baddha Konasana
- Upvista Konasana (in air)

Supta Baddha Konasana
- full setup
- blankets not rolled, double folded instead
- working with Pranayama

Pranayama
- inhaling the breath deeply, moving centrally
- when the breath reaches the collarbone, expanding it upward
- exhaling down the sides of the ribs
- move the breath like a fountain

Savasana