Previously On Martinez Yoga…
As 2012 came to a close, so did the first trimester of my advanced study of yoga anatomy at The Breathing Project with Leslie Kaminoff and Amy Matthews. It’s an intelligent and practical examination of the anatomy of yoga practice with a particular emphasis on the relationship between breathing and healthy spinal function. This trimester we focused on the anatomy and pressure mechanics of breathing, the three diaphragms, and the thoracic and abdominal muscles. But I learned a lot more than just names and the origins and insertions of muscles. I learned how to help people on an individual basis. My teaching and offering of a breath-centered practice has deepened as a result of my studies
At the beginning of my classes I ask how everybody is feeling, and if there’s anything in particular anybody wants to do in regards to asana, body postures, and vinyasa, body movements, to address stress or strain, be that physical and/or subtle. I put it out there on purpose for two reasons.
- It shows me that they some what care, and they could fake it. That’s ok. That demonstrates that they turned the light around and gazed inward. Observation.
- It gives my an opportunity to be a better teacher.
If I don’t have the information that could be of use to them, then I get it, and the next time we get together, I share it with them. It’s a human transmission. From teacher to teacher. From friend to friend. My teachers are my friends, and my friends are my teachers. We’re the same.
Yoga is a life long study and practice, and I consider it an honor to study at The Breathing Project.
Come take one of my classes, and experience for yourself what I’m tawking about!
Photo by Anna Rose
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