Yoga for Backs otherwise called Critical Alignment Yoga ( C.A.T ) is an online yoga and movement subscription site based in Critical Alignment Therapy and Yoga, developed in the Netherlands by the visionary Gert van Leeuwen.
Danielle Pechie has been teaching yoga for 30 years and is celebrated for her exact cueing and scientific approach to movement. With decades of study and experience in the the fields of yoga and massage Danielle is a trusted and respected teacher for educating about yoga postures in physiotherapeutic context.
The value of Critical Alignment Yoga and Therapy is gaining international attention. Alignment is a key ingredient to greater mobility, less pain and lower risk of injury. Cues like “neutral spine” and “squared hips” are now commonplace in fitness classes. With the use of specially designed props we target common tension areas to improve posture and movement patterns.
Yoga for Backs online classes are different, we don't just cue alignment. Our amazing props align, mobilize and strengthen the spinal column, hips and shoulders. Our exercises and practices help develop full range mobility and strength so the body grows strong, supple and resilient. If you are struggling with chronic compensatory patterns that cause pain and imbalance- look no further. This site addresses everything from spinal mobility and degenerative issues to restorative and advanced asana.
The Props
Critical Alignment Yoga props are classified as "Soft Props" or "Big Props".
Soft Props
- Black Spinal Strip
- Felt Pad / Blanket roll
Big Props
- Back Bending Bench
- Head Standing Bench
- Shoulder Stand Block
Find more information about the props on the VIDEO PAGE>>
The props work to rebalance the body and improve postural alignment and movement quality because they:
- Act as an external framework to guide the body into better alignment. We use them to more precisely position the spine, hips and shoulders.
- Are made of specialized materials against which the body can relax and mobilize.
- Serve as a feedback system, helping you uncover and correct preference patterns in your movements and postures.
- Lengthen and traction the entire spinal column.
- Activate and retrain deep postural muscles.
WHERE TO PURCHASE PROPS
If you live in Calgary, you can pick up a spinal strip at the studio for $50 plus GST. Text Danielle to make arrangements. (403-809-6383) When you purchase your props you will receive a $50.00 discount coupon code towards your first annual membership purchase.
For all other Critical Alignment Yoga Props, you can purchase them here: http://criticalalignmenttherapyprops.com/
Students are using the backbending bench in combination with the black spinal strip to open and mobilize the spinal vertebrae.
Our classes help
Students are using the headstanding and backbending benches, along with the black spinal strip to release tension in the neck, elongate and strengthen the spine, develop balance and improve postural control.
Small Classes, Expert Feedback
The teachers in our studio are well studied in anatomy and biomechanics and expert at cuing movement and posture. Small classes mean you’ll get the feedback you need to practice with confidence, knowing your positions and movements are optimal and safe.
Over time you’ll deepen your knowledge of anatomy and learn to optimize your posture and movement habits in ways that translate to all your physical activities. You’ll move with greater ease and reduce your risk of injury.
Back Bending Instruction
Our heads and spines naturally round forward as we age. Time spent sitting in cars, bent over phones and hunched at office desks accelerates the process at an alarming rate.
Developing a backbending practice is an excellent antidote to our modern lifestyle and helps reverse the rounding in our backs. Done properly, backbending lengthens, strengthens and straightens the spine.
We are the only studio in Calgary that teaches backbending classes for all levels. Our step-by-step approach ensures you develop a comfortable and skillful practice.
You’ll experience freer movement along the length of your spine, decompress your vertebrae and improve your posture. In fact, backbending will make you taller, even as you age.