| ranked #6 out of 15 resources | rated 3.87 out of 5 | total 8 votes |
Ashtanga Yoga: The Practice - First Series DVD
Author: David Swenson
Resource Type: DVD
RRP: USD $24.95
Analysis:
- A fully guided Ashtanga yoga First Series DVD.
- Includes guided relaxation.
- Two (2) hours long.
- Offers varying degrees of difficulty (modifications) to suit all levels of practice.
- Broken up into sections:
- Sun Salutations
- Standing Sequence
- Seated Sequence
- Closing Sequence
- Includes a demonstration and 30 minute introduction that explains the foundations of practice and modifications.
- Swenson presents in a reassuring and encouraging style.
- A review from Amazon says, “Overall, this DVD is a nice cross between the Power Yoga and Primary Series DVDs, offering the encouragement and modifications of Bender and the expertise of Freeman”.
- Good supplement to a yoga manual.
- Probably not suitable for a complete beginner.
- This DVD makes a good aid to those Ashtangis who have already learned the sequence from a teacher.
From the DVD:
The Primary Series of Ashtanga Yoga is known in Sanskrit as “Yoga Chikitsa” which means yoga therapy. It is a healing process of cleansing and toning for the body, mind and senses. This therapeutic action occurs through the subtle vehicles of Ashtanga Yoga. There is an understanding in yoga that there exists within the body a complex network of energy pathways known as “nadis”. The energy which flows in these channels is a powerful yet unseen force called “prana”. Prana is thought to be the underlying source for all life. Along the nadis, obstructions can form which inhibit the free flow of prana. The hindrances are called “granthis” or knots. Granthis may arise from myriad sources. Their presence may not even be detected until their unraveling. This unraveling process is a result of a consistent and regulated practice. The clearing of granthis allows prana a cleaner avenue along which to travel. This is the source of the healing aspects of the Primary Series. With fewer obstacles to confront, the body, mind and senses are allowed a more fertile environment in which to function thereby operating at the utmost level of efficiency. Yoga is a self-empowering process which instills within its practitioners a confidence and a deep internal knowledge of the subtle workings of our being, both subtle and gross. The asanas are arranged in a time-tested sequence designed to specifically align the body and strengthen the nervous system. First comes the Sun Salutations and the Standing Sequence. The Primary Series begins with Dandasana, the first seated posture, and ends with Setu Bandhasana which is the final asana before the Finishing Sequence. Many practitioners of Ashtanga Yoga have found the Primary Series to be an invaluable tool to assist them in their healing process, whether it be mental or physical. As with many healing process we must be patient and determined. The greatest tool you may utilize to discover the benefits waiting for you within Yoga Chikitsa is patience. Allow time for your practice to mature and the fruits will present themselves.
Namaste,
David Swenson
Search for David Swenson products:
August 2, 2006 @ 9:12 am
kerrin said,
a great practice with david swenson, but you have to be experienced to follow the dvd because he does explain details, not the basics of ashtanga yoga.