One of the fun things about yoga teaching is designing new sequences. Once we have a few years (yes, years) of teaching a standard sequence under our belt, it’s fun and challenging to create new sequences built on different themes. Because my focus is anatomy, the sequences I build all are around an anatomical theme.
I have a sequence building template on my home page, which I’ll share with you at the end of this blog, but what if you don’t have time to sit down and use that template (or one you have) to build one? Is there a quick process you can use to build an anatomically themed yoga class? Of course! I’m going to share with you a “bare bones” (lol) format you can use to create a sequence in no time flat. In fact, I’ll even give you some of the substance of the sequences I’ve built using this format.
So, here is the basic format:
Pick a peak pose: Pick the pose you want to either work up to in the sequence or highlight as a special posture to do.
Anatomy Logic: Once you’ve picked the Peak Pose, decide what your anatomical focus is based on that pose. For instance, if your Peak Pose is Camel, your anatomical theme might be hip extension and/or backbending.
Prep poses: Write down at least 5 poses that prepare the student for the peak pose. For instance, if Camel is your Peak, you might focus on Upward Dog (more than usual), all variations of lunges, Dancer’s Pose and Bow.
That’s it! I suggest picking up a small notebook and jotting down your ideas. Keep it in your bag and then you can use it when you need some teaching inspiration.
So, here are some ideas:
Sequence One: Hip flexors including quadriceps (rectus femoris)
Peak Pose: Hero (upright and reclined)
Anatomy Logic: Hip extension
Prep Poses: Warriors, Crescent Lunge, Camel, Lizard, Dancers
Sequence Two: Backbending
Peak Pose: Flip Dog
Anatomy Logic: External rotation of the shoulders
Prep Poses: Arm binds, Dolphin, Side Angle, Low Push Up and Plank, Half Moon, Camel
Sequence Three: Internal and External Rotation of the Shoulders
Peak Pose: Cow Faced Pose with Arm Bind
Anatomy Logic: Shoulder internal and external rotation. Start class with a discussion of the difference and the structure of the shoulder joint.
Prep Poses: Add binds to Warriors 1 and 2, Flip Dog, Dancers, Bow, Half Bind in Triangle, Side Angle with Bind, Bird of Paradise (optional)
That’s it! You can see how simple and easy it is and it’s meant to be that way. On some level, it’s more challenging because you’re not writing out everything, so you’re leaving space in the sequence for things you might think of on the fly that relate to the overall theme.
For those weeks when you DO have more time, use my class building template to create your class:
Thanks for reading and let me know in the comments below what you think!Â