Get that very first taste of Ashtanga
We’re admittedly a bit behind on this.
David Swenson will be in Los Angeles — specifically Santa Monica, one of the most yogic places in the world — this coming weekend:
There are always practical tips offered such as his “Physics of Flight” class in which he breaks down the dynamics of vinyasa into minute details. In another class he may explore what he calls “Equality of Opposition and the Six Directions”. Here he explains how to seek balance through uniting the opposing forces that form every asana as well as the world around us. On a philosophical level he offers practical insights into Patanjalis Yoga Sutras in a class entitled “Eight Limbs and Daily Life”. David sheds light onto the more ethereal areas of the internal practice through explorations of pranayama and the energetic realms of bandhas. Whether new to Ashtanga or a seasoned practitioner all are sure to gain benefit from attending the classes. Contact the host of the event if you are interested in finding out more details about the classes David will be offering. Don’t miss the opportunity to study with David. You are sure to return home with greater insights into your practice and a smile on your face.
And, for good measure, he follows that up with both a weekend and a teacher training (which is noted as not being a certification course) in Charlottesville. That city’s sure getting its share of Ashtanga.
My guess is that David’s probably the first taste of Ashtanga Yoga a lot of people (especially in America) get. As I’ve written in the past, a one-day workshop with him probably was when I turned the corner from doing some yoga to doing just Ashtanga as my yoga practice (and then to really just doing Ashtanga as my main physical practice). David’s got a great ability to present the core of Ashtanga practices — both physical and spiritual — in a way that is not at all intimidating (or “weird”) to a neophyte. He makes it not seem too alien or unapproachable. He might be the best at that first course of Ashtanga, among the teachers I’ve studied with.
So, if you’re around LA or Charlottesville and you know someone who you think ought to get an introduction, your very best chances are here.
Posted by Steve
I totally agree. I’ve had the opportunity to study with David twice, once was his primary series teacher training in August, and I find his approach refreshing. He definitely takes the intimidation factor out of ashtanga with his humour, humble nature, and the amazing way he has of breaking it all down in a way anyone could find relevant to their own life.
love your name – the almost yogi!! sounds like you are there to me!
I concur with all comments – I consider David Swenson my main Ashtanga teacher – have completed his week long teacher training, got to see him at the Mela at Kripalu, and will study with him ANY chance I get. His warm, funny and inviting style makes Ashtanga accessible to all students at all levels – not just the dancers, athletes and Type A’s. Wish I could make it to Charlottesville – we really need to expose folks in the Virginia’s(I’m in WV) and surrounding states to the beauty of Ashtanga. Sadly we are losing the Best Ashtanga studio in WV – Lewisburg Yoga Center – in October. I have been finding that students see feedback on their alignment or practice as criticism, not as loving help in moving forward – so they attend the classes that have low or no alignment instruction – and then they think WE are the wrong, bad teachers. It’s quite a hurdle to get over personally or professionally – so I REALLY appreciate attending Ashtanga Workshps where I know I am supported by a worldwide community of teachers and practitioners; and that my teaching and practice are totally valid(and from the heart!). Thank you to all of you for creating this beautiful, loving, heartfilled community, I really need it!!!