BEYOND THE ASANA

The Art of Backbends | Opening Up Space, Allowing for Expansiveness

A FULL-DAY YOGA IMMERSION EXPERIENCE

Opening does not begin in the “more,” but in the space we create. February is a special time of transition. Winter is still in the air, the days are slowly growing brighter, and perhaps the need for more movement, warmth, and vitality is already growing. Especially at this time of year, we want to consciously focus on the theme of opening up—not as something that must be forced, but as a process that requires space, strength, and trust.

In this first issue , we’ll be focusing on backbends.

Angela Boscardini leads this full-day immersion and guides participants on an in-depth journey of discovery through this group of asanas. Backbends offer a unique opportunity to explore the body from different perspectives: They combine strength and flexibility, stability and expansiveness, physical presence and energetic openness. Together, we’ll explore what it means to perceive space within the body, to shape movement more consciously, and to gain new perspectives on our own practice.

THE PRACTICE

We begin the day with an extended practice of pranayama, meditation, mantra, and asana. In doing so, we establish a shared foundation for our subsequent exploration of the day’s topic. The goal is not to separate these individual practices from one another, but to discover their connections and experience how they complement each other. After the lunch break, we’ll explore backbends from different perspectives.

We’ll explore the anatomical foundations, practice preparatory asanas, and examine how flexibility, strength, and stability work together. We’ll also focus on how movement is distributed effectively throughout the body and how we can practice backbends with greater understanding, ease, and safety. In addition, we’ll explore the energetic dimension of this group of asanas. Backbends are often associated with opening the heart, expansiveness, and alignment. We’ll explore how these qualities manifest in our practice and how we can engage with them mindfully.

INTEGRATION & REFLECTION

To balance and integrate the physical and energetic processes stimulated earlier, Angela has put together her own sequence. A finely tuned combination of somatic movement practices, Yin Yoga, and meditation creates a mindful transition from activity to stillness. The goal is to become aware of tension, give the body space to process it, and connect the various experiences of the day.

The session concludes with a journaling moment: an invitation to put your thoughts, feelings, and personal insights into writing and to give your own experience a unique form. A day that brings together the various aspects of yoga practice—from precise physical work to quiet, personal reflection.

PARTICIPATION & ORGANIZATIONAL MATTERS

The retreat is designed for yoga practitioners with some experience who would like to deepen their practice and discover new perspectives. The number of participants is limited. Registration is required.

Lunch is not included. During the lunch break, the Yoga Haus makes its kitchen available so that participants can reheat food they’ve brought and eat it on site.

For further enquiries, email us at info@dasyogahaus.ch