Slightly more than midway through the YTT, we began learning more about sequencing a class.
Never had I had as much appreciation and respect for yoga teachers who can waltz into class
and pull a sequence out of their heads on the spot!
I realized that there are so many competing considerations that come into play in sequencing a
class. Sequencing well definitely requires much more thoughtfulness than I had previously
imagined. My key takeaways:
● The sequence should broadly cover all the main chakras, working upwards from the feet
to the head. This means that postures roughly follow the order of standing, seated,
prone, supine and invert.
● In a Vinyasa class, postures should flow naturally into one another without too much
alternation of direction. For example, alternating between postures that require
lengthening vs. compression of hips.
● Consideration of counter-postures especially after working a specific body part / chakra
to help balance out and reset
● Defining and building up the sequence based on a specific class theme / peak pose
● Familiarity with multiple regressions and progressions for each pose
Sequencing requires us not just to have a library of asanas in our heads, but also the flexibility
to pick and choose the most relevant poses that can serve the intention / theme of the class.
Once there is a theoretical sequence in mind, it is also crucial to be able to visualize the flow of
the full sequence. This allows for adjustments to be made in the sequence, potentially swapping
out certain poses for better ones as a constant work in progress.
Whilst practicing the asanas help improve physical mobility, sequencing a class trains mental
agility. Ultimately, there is no one perfect sequence, and this is also where there is potential for
creative interpretations and innovation.
Laura
200 Hour Yoga Teacher Training Course
Weekday’22
