Katherine Alfredo, a Chicago-based Yoga instructor, discusses her plans for a new series of Yoga Basics classes at Yoga Now Chicago Gold Coast with the Angel of Yoga:
What makes this new class unique/special/different?
It is an inspiring yoga practice that builds flexibility, intelligence and strength while helping deepen the relationship with your authentic self.
What type of yoga will you teach?
Forrest Yoga. It's the best! Forrest Yoga honors and celebrates the beauty of life and the power of Spirit.
What kind of person should come to this class?
Forrest Yoga does not require strength or flexibility; it only requires that you bring a willingness to learn how to feel authentically and respond honestly.
What is the most interesting thing you have learned in yoga teaching?
People are infinitely fascinating.
Why Forrest?
Forrest Yoga helps you connect to your core - getting strong and centered. It uses heat, deep breathing and vigorous sequences to sweat out toxins. The long holds in the pose progressions help you flush, oxygenate and rejuvenate every cell.
How do you plan a sequence?
When I teach a class I decide where I want to go in the practice- whether it be opening the hips and shoulders, twists, back bends... it's good to observe the students- their energy, posture, and know what sort of injuries or conditions they may have... and teach according to their needs.
I start a class by setting a theme/intention for the practice, then we move into deep pranayama (breathing) exercises, seated asanas (poses) to lubricate the joints, then go into invigorating core work, inversions usually follow, then salutations and standing poses... the apex poses, then warm down, cool down, savasana.
What cues are most important for students?
Giving variations for injuries, conditions, or pregnancy is so important. We want healing -not injure. Basic moves that are oh so important: Deep ujjayi breath, telescoping and expanding the ribs, tucking the tail bone, wrapping the shoulders, relaxing the neck, and active hands and feet.
Anything else you'd like to add?
Go to Forrestyoga.com to watch Ana Forrest demo. She is magnificent! She has a strong and compassionate and beautiful spirit!
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Very cool! Thanks for sharing this neat class with us!
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