‘There are a number of muscles and ligaments which keep this joint in place. Of these, four muscles called the rotator cuff muscles, are the most important. The tendons of these four muscles blend with the joint to form a “rotator cuff” around the joint. This cuff protects the joint, gives it stability and holds the large head of the humerus in the shallow cavity. Asanas provide a range of movements to the shoulder joint. They help the shoulders become mobile and, at the same time, attain stability. When there is freedom in the shoulders, there is less risk of injury’.
Iyengar, B.K.S. (2015). Yoga for Sports. p.71
The Specialist-Neck & Shoulder program is one of a series of specialist programs offered by Yoga Mandir. The specialist programs are developed to assist students with specific needs to develop greater confidence in their practice, and to equip them with techniques and modifications such that participation in Yogasana classes is possible.
The Specialist-Specialist-Neck & Shoulder program of Yoga Mandir Institute is comprised of 2 parts:
- The Specialist-Neck & Shoulder workshop: attendance at which prepares teachers to work with students, and equally for yoga practitioners’ own practice to gauge and modify their asanas for optimum health
- Online study resources: a range of student study resources has been developed to support the program. Students access the study resources through Yoga Vidya (Yoga Mandir’s online study platform) and are required to review the audio-visual material prior to attending the workshop. This element can be paid for individually for lifetime access to the resources
The Specialist-Neck & Shoulder program is underpinned by the Yama’s and Niyamas – the first two limbs of Astanga Yoga. These disciplines form the basis for ethical practice.
The Specialist-Neck & Shoulder program will be conducted as a weekend workshop incorporating 5 sessions (Friday evening to Sunday afternoon) and is structured across the groups of asana- for example standing poses, seated poses, twists, inversions and supine. Each session will focus on a group and explore the modifications and use of props and supports.
Key elements to the program include
- Practice that develops discernment. Differentiating experience
- Understanding the relationship between thought and pain
- Cultivation of dispassion and clarity in observation
- Developing feedback systems that assist student to gauge their limits
- The application of Iyengar methodology in working with injuries
- Developing a range of practice modifications so that students work to their own capacity.
This online subject is presented in parts and contains articles, videos, and quotes. It is advisable to immerse yourself in the subject, consuming the content thoroughly. Apply a reflective mode, where you might read an article prior to, or immediately after practice. Keep a reflective journal to note your experiences as you engage through the Learn, Study, Practise modes offered throughout this subject. Quotes are often accompanied by an extract of the text. Take the time to engage deeply with the extracts provided. Support the authors by purchasing the publications for your own library. Articles and book extracts are provided for student study material only and comply with copyright laws.