Exploring New Forward Bends – Weekly Advanced Class 460

This class uses a yoga chair to explore familiar forward bends from new perspectives while introducing more challenging poses in an accessible and progressive way. With a particular focus on Parivrtta Upavistha Konasana and Krounchasana, the sequence helps students with a broad range of flexibility levels understand the key actions needed to build a solid foundation for future progress. These poses are approached as natural extensions of the more familiar Upavistha Konasana and Triang Mukhaikapada Paschimottanasana, using chair-supported variations to establish the spinal lift, extension and alignment that underpin both asanas. Particular attention is given to the distinctive twisting action of Parivrtta Upavistha Konasana, which is initially explored through accessible variations of Trikonasana and Parsvakonasana. By positioning the ball of the front foot and the upper hand against a wall, these standing poses provide additional leverage to develop rotation through the torso and pelvis. The class also introduces inventive ways of using a block positioned between the upper back and a wall to encourage greater spinal lift, chest opening and freedom of movement through the thoracic spine. Throughout the sequence, props are used not simply to make challenging poses easier, but to clarify essential actions and deepen your understanding of how different asanas relate to one another. Ideal for intermediate students looking to expand their forward bending repertoire, this class offers a rewarding combination of consolidating familiar poses, refining technique and confidently exploring new territory.