-
A QUANTUM ADVANCED SEQUENCE
There is Beauty in imperfection. Having the strength to face your weaknesses is truly empowering. The fiery pitta-type tends to be goal-orientated and focus on result rather than process. In accordance with the Quantum method, which seeks to optimize practice taking into account one’s temperament and present tendencies, this indicates that the focus needs to be shifted towards the cultivation of smooth transitions and an even expenditure of energy. This supports one’s ability to be present in the moment. Keeping the respiration even to result in true vinyasa, where breath leads and movement follows, puts you in touch with your natural flow, instead of directing the stream of life’s events through volition only. Stilling and cooling postures are integrated into an otherwise ambitious mix of asana that with skill and dedication coalesce beautifully. The flavour of the Beauty sequence is one of openness, organic movement, playfulness and a lack of constriction. The practitioner is encouraged to recognize how a softer approach of releasing, rather than pushing, and allowing, rather than forcing, will result in a far more profound transformation. We explore ways of imbuing the practice with receptivity and also simply having more fun with it. It often comes as a surprise that as a result previously impossible asana can now be approached more fluidly and ultimately mastered. Lara guides Volker, a yogi with pitta-dominance in his Ayurvedic prakriti (nature), through the sequence, offering alternative simpler poses, whilst demonstrating the more difficult asana. The Video Download includes an introduction to the general principles of the Quantum Method, as well as an explanation of Ayurveda (Science of Life) and how an understanding of its basic principles supports the assessment of one’s ideal practice. Bandha exercises for core control and cleansing (kriya) are also included. -
A QUANTUM ADVANCED SEQUENCE
Infinity Trees is the vata-regulating Advanced Quantum Yoga sequence that emphasizes grounding, cultivates strength and provides physical and emotional steadiness. It takes its inspiration from the tree, the connector of heaven and earth, the giver of life and vitality. All spiritual traditions acknowledge the importance of the tree. In its powerful rootedness with branches soaring to the sky, the tree embodies the conditions cultivated in this vata-regulating sequence. Vata, the Ayurvedic dosha (body-mind constitution) elementally defined as air, is responsible for movement. 8 is the symbol for infinity, and Infinity Trees consists of eight tree vinyasas or compositions. Lara guides Karen, a yogini with vata-dominance in her Ayurvedic prakriti (nature), through the sequence, offering alternative simpler poses, whilst demonstrating the more challenging asana. Each of the eight compositions is initiated by a variation on Vrikshasana, the tree pose, balancing asana that require the lofty vata-type to connect with mother earth in a more affirmative way, and truly master the play with gravity. One’s longing for free flowing movement and play is satisfied, all the while sustaining the safety of a strong core, the energetic potency of a coherent central axis, as well as the integrity of muscular engagement and awareness right into the extremities, in order to consolidate the system as a whole. The sequence is completed by a visualization meditation that hones conscious manifestation within a sacred space. The Video Download includes an introduction to the general principles of the Quantum Method, as well as an explanation of Ayurveda (Science of Life) and how an understanding of its basic principles supports the assessment of one’s ideal practice. Bandha exercises for core control and cleansing (kriya) are also included. All net profits from sales of the Infinity Trees Video Download are donated to Rainforest Rescue -
QUANTUM MASTER SEQUENCE
Capricious Shiva or the Quantum Master Sequence represents a challenging dynamic composition that brings the use of vinyasa to another level. Whilst always increasing prana or vitality, here the breath initiates, sustains and deepens movement, ensuring integrity and grace. The sequence includes strong core work, deep stretches, strengthening exercises and advanced arm balances. It encapsulates the essential qualities cultivated in all sadhana – an open heart, a strong core and an unwavering resolve to recognise what is false and undermining, and instead cultivate qualities that empower and illuminate. The Video Download is accompanied by inspiring and beautiful music, which sets a positive mood and rhythmic pace. Experienced practitioners will be given the chance to further their understanding of vinyasa yoga, whilst integrating a creative system that leads to independent, intelligent and inspirational practice.
-
Kapha Regulating
The Quantum Yoga Intermediates video trilogy represents a launch pad towards self-practice, and these can either be watched as an informative guide or used as real-time instruction to practice alongside to. Here Lara teaches each Basic Quantum sequence to a student who is typical for their biological constitution, or dosha. It shows case studies in which physical and emotional impediments are integrated and overcome by embracing the Ayurvedic holistic approach of recognizing body-mind type and applying this to Quantum Yoga practice. Each download also includes a succinct introduction to Quantum Yoga. Yoga increases prana‚ the life force that brings vitality, health and happiness to the individual. Often through a sedentary life-style, a lack of inspiration and consumption of unhealthy foods, a person feels heavy, toxic and depressed. This means that a dynamic asana practice that maximises the aspect of vinyasa and incorporates invigorating, cleansing and stimulating postures should be developed. A Mandala in its basic form is a circle, which represents the spiralling upward motion that is encouraged in this sequence and echoes the mystical rising of kundalini shakti. It also symbolises a cosmic diagram, based on the sacred geometry of the macrocosm as reflected in the microcosm of the human body. We use this sacred geometry in yoga to re-align the body in such a way that allows an even and balanced flow of energy. Thus in the Lotus Mandala, the strength and stamina inherent in the human organism in particular and the universe as a whole is drawn upon to realign itself with its true sublime shape. -
Pitta Regulating
The Quantum Yoga Intermediates video trilogy represents a launch pad towards self-practice, and these can either be watched as an informative guide or used as real-time instruction to practice alongside to. Here Lara teaches each Basic Quantum sequence to a student who is typical for their biological constitution, or dosha. It shows case studies in which physical and emotional impediments are integrated and overcome by embracing the Ayurvedic holistic approach of recognizing body-mind type and applying this to Quantum Yoga practice. Each download also includes a succinct introduction to Quantum Yoga. Yoga represents the methods and means that lead to a direct experience of the divine essence of reality. This sacred practice is approached with focus and discipline, referred to as tapas or spiritual fervour, whilst at the same time cultivating joy and encouraging playfulness. The body is purified through the heat generated from asana (postures) - vinyasa in conjunction with ujaii pranayama. The mind in turn is stilled and one's general disposition becomes cool and clear. A hero is neither aggressive nor reluctant to act, but instead masters the skill of balancing force with yielding. This sequence incorporates many variations on the hero's pose (Virasana) and is designed to smoothly strengthen every part of one's being. Thus it creates a steady platform from which to embrace our true form, realise our creative potential and bravely express our wild and loving nature. -
Vata Regulating
The Quantum Yoga Intermediates video trilogy represents a launch pad towards self-practice, and these can either be watched as an informative guide or used as real-time instruction to practice alongside to. Here Lara teaches each Basic Quantum sequence to a student who is typical for their biological constitution, or dosha. It shows case studies in which physical and emotional impediments are integrated and overcome by embracing the Ayurvedic holistic approach of recognizing body-mind type and applying this to Quantum Yoga practice. Each download also includes a succinct introduction to Quantum Yoga. The underlying theme for Birds is freedom and is designed to remind us that yoga is a return to our natural state of ease and that all spiritual practice is ultimately a process of elimination leading us to the real self. Through practicing asana and vinyasa, we see the body return to its true shape, the nadis free up to allow for a harmonious flow of prana resulting in a deep sense of wellbeing. A safe and inspirational space is cultivated in which the body can express itself without the obstacles of the mind. Birds supplies a steady rhythm that supports the dynamic flow of a balanced yoga practice, in harmony with the breath. -
Kapha Regulating
Part of Beginner’s dosha-regulating Quantum Yoga sequence trilogy downloads
The trilogy was designed for people new to yoga, in particular vinyasa (breath-synchronised movement) practice, but also for those yogis who require a back-to-basics approach as part of a restorative regime or simply in order to establish better structure and alignment, as well as cementing a fundamental understanding of key features pertaining to body and breath. Each sequence is about an hour and a quarter long, and in accordance with the Quantum Grouping and Sequencing System, divided into ten different parts, resulting in a physiologically safe and energetically balanced dynamic practice. Gentle introductory movements, pranayama (breathing exercises), chanting, meditation and final relaxation techniques compliment an otherwise flowing yoga journey. The Assessment Methods in Quantum Yoga, which seek to facilitate individualised optimal practice, are based on the holistic approach of Ayurveda, the healing and medical arm of the ancient Indian Vedic sciences. Each sequence regulates a different Ayurvedic dosha or body-mind constitution in turn, meaning that Movin ‘ On Up, which counteracts kapha-dominance, the dosha responsible for our material substantiality, is the most invigorating, stimulating and cleansing. Note to the experienced yogi: Just because the new sequences are suitable for beginners doesn't mean the practices are easy. In fact, they consist of simple but precise flowing movements in honest harmony with the breath. In other words, established vinyasa yogis too, will benefit from these practices, and might even find that going back to the drawing board helps highlight harmful habits and lazy unconscious cheats that are holding you back from advancing and truly excelling in your yoga practice. The three dosha-regulating Beginner's sequences were filmed at OmStation3 London in November 2011 in collaboration with YogaChezMoi. You can also opt to just purchase each Dynamic Flow section (i.e. Ashtanga Vinyasa, Shivananda, or Tripsichore-style Sun Salutations). -
Pitta regulating
Part of Beginner’s dosha-regulating Quantum Yoga sequence trilogy downloads
The trilogy was designed for people new to yoga, in particular vinyasa (breath-synchronised movement) practice, but also for those yogis who require a back-to-basics approach as part of a restorative regime or simply in order to establish better structure and alignment, as well as cementing a fundamental understanding of key features pertaining to body and breath. Each sequence is about an hour and a quarter long, and in accordance with the Quantum Grouping and Sequencing System, divided into ten different parts, resulting in a physiologically safe and energetically balanced dynamic practice. Gentle introductory movements, pranayama (breathing exercises), chanting, meditation and final relaxation techniques compliment an otherwise flowing yoga journey. The Assessment Methods in Quantum Yoga, which seek to facilitate individualised optimal practice, are based on the holistic approach of Ayurveda, the healing and medical arm of the ancient Indian Vedic sciences. Each sequence regulates a different Ayurvedic dosha or body-mind constitution in turn, meaning that Cool It regulates the fiery pitta temperament, the dosha responsible for digestion, and is thus soothing, even, playful and subtly challenging. Note to the experienced yogi: Just because the new sequences are suitable for beginners doesn't mean the practices are easy. In fact, they consist of simple but precise flowing movements in honest harmony with the breath. In other words, established vinyasa yogis too, will benefit from these practices, and might even find that going back to the drawing board helps highlight harmful habits and lazy unconscious cheats that are holding you back from advancing and truly excelling in your yoga practice. The three dosha-regulating Beginner's sequences were filmed at OmStation3 London in November 2011 in collaboration with YogaChezMoi. You can also opt to just purchase each Dynamic Flow section (i.e. Ashtanga Vinyasa, Shivananda, or Tripsichore-style Sun Salutations). -
Vata regulating
Part of Beginner’s dosha-regulating Quantum Yoga sequence trilogy downloads
The trilogy was designed for people new to yoga, in particular vinyasa (breath-synchronised movement) practice, but also for those yogis who require a back-to-basics approach as part of a restorative regime or simply in order to establish better structure and alignment, as well as cementing a fundamental understanding of key features pertaining to body and breath. Each sequence is about an hour and a quarter long, and in accordance with the Quantum Grouping and Sequencing System, divided into ten different parts, resulting in a physiologically safe and energetically balanced dynamic practice. Gentle introductory movements, pranayama (breathing exercises), chanting, meditation and final relaxation techniques compliment an otherwise flowing yoga journey. The Assessment Methods in Quantum Yoga, which seek to facilitate individualised optimal practice, are based on the holistic approach of Ayurveda, the healing and medical arm of the ancient Indian Vedic sciences. Each sequence regulates a different Ayurvedic dosha or body-mind constitution in turn, meaning that Get Down, which balances vata, the dosha elementally defined as air and responsible for movement in the body-mind, is primarily grounding, strengthening and stabilising. Note to the experienced yogi: Just because the new sequences are suitable for beginners doesn't mean the practices are easy. In fact, they consist of simple but precise flowing movements in honest harmony with the breath. In other words, established vinyasa yogis too, will benefit from these practices, and might even find that going back to the drawing board helps highlight harmful habits and lazy unconscious cheats that are holding you back from advancing and truly excelling in your yoga practice. The three dosha-regulating Beginner's sequences were filmed at OmStation3 London in November 2011 in collaboration with YogaChezMoi. You can also opt to just purchase each Dynamic Flow section (i.e. Ashtanga Vinyasa, Shivananda, or Tripsichore-style Sun Salutations). -
We all move our bodies consciously at some point or other, but how often do we consciously exercise our way of breathing? Although breathing exercises look easier to perform than the average yoga posture, beware! In pranayama, we are dealing with the very essence of life and such a practice should be approached with great care. Our breath has a considerable impact on our health, psychological disposition, and state of mind. The word pranayama means both control (yama) and extension (ayama) of prana (vital life force). Hence the word indicates the ability to withhold the breath, as well as the capacity to expand one’s intake of breath through the lungs, hereby maximizing the assimilation of prana. The three essential building blocks of pranayama are: inhalation (puraka), exhalation (rechaka), and retention (kumbhaka). The latter can be further divided into antara kumbhaka (inhalation retention) and bhaya (or bahir) kumbhaka (exhalation retention). Out of these an endless array of exercises can be constructed that have distinctly varying effects. In this video I will introduce you to some of the basic pranayamas or breathing exercises. Our tendency to shallow breathe, especially when we find ourselves in stressful situations, means that we are not exploiting our true energetic capacity, actually when we most need it! The volume of our tidal breath lags well behind our vital capacity. When breathing normally, the tidal air is only very slowly exchanged, so there is always a certain measure of “stale” air in our lungs. Through regular practice of pranayama, the body has access to more oxygen-rich fresh air. It is no wonder therefore, that it leads to higher levels of vitality and joy. If you love asana practice, watch how it improves once you also begin doing specific pranayama exercises regularly.
-
This video will provide women with a clear explanation of the two postures most beneficial during menstruation. Particularly if there is pain from cramps and general discomfort, relaxing into these asana will provide great relief and prepare the yogini for a more dynamic practice after her menses. The moon days are a time when apana vayu, the eliminatory “wind” needs to be supported, allowing for an easy shedding of that which the body no longer requires. As a general restorative practice, especially where pitta-regulation, i.e. cooling, soothing and balancing is needed, these poses are also very effective.