by Nina
When we first envisioned this blog, we had the idea we could include videos that demonstrated the yoga poses we were recommending. But first we had to buy the camera and learn how to use it, clear out a room where we could shoot the video, figure out how to use youtube, and, well, you get the picture. In the meantime, we decided to go ahead and start the blog without the videos, but we never gave up on our original vision.
So now at long last, we’ve made our first video, which you can view here.
It’s Baxter demonstrating how to set up for, practice, and come out of Reclined Cobbler’s pose (see here for further information about the pose, including benefits and cautions). We hope you find it helpful! And since it turned out to be easier to make a video than we expected, we plan to make more in the future. If there any poses or practices you’d like us to demo, do let us know either in the Comments section of this post or by contacting us (Click the Contact Us at the top of the page).
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As a long-time teacher of restorative poses and a strong believer in their value, as well as a real fan of Yoga for Healthy Aging, I appreciate Baxter's clear instruction and the intent of the video. Two things did surprise me. Since comfort is a key factor in relaxation, I would really recommend that future restorative videos feature padding (yoga mat, base blanket) under the body! I was also surprised that you chose not to support the knees, since doing this was emphasized in my training. Isn't the intent in this restorative pose to create a comfortable openness, rather than "stretch?" Perhaps you have a different outcome in mind? It would be great to hear more about that choice, since I would bet you are not unfamiliar with the other option!
Erm, it's my fault there is no mat or blanket under the props in the video. I was afraid the other props wouldn't show up well in the video if you had a blanket on the floor. That being said, it would have been a good idea for Bax to mention the possibility of having a soft surface under the props. Next time! —Nina
Dear Queen's pose fan:
thanks for your feedback on our recent video. Indeed, I am usually going for comfort and not so much for stretch with this pose, but there is some passive stretch that happens in several areas, even with good propping. I am referring to both the upper back, with is in a gentle backbend position, and also the inner thighs, which can still experience some stretch if you are in the pose long enough. And although for esthetics, we chose not to have a stick mat under me or extra blankets, all of these can be added for additional comfort. And the blanket ankle wrap as shown can provide adequate support for the hips and inner thighs for many students, so that blocks under the knees may be unnecessary. Again, blocks can be added if needed. I also add blanket lifts under the forearms for some students if the elbows don't make it down to the floor. Perhaps we will do Supta Baddhakonasana part 2 with super propping! —Baxter