Critical Alignment Yoga is a rational, well-founded form of Yoga. It unites medical thinking, meditative movements and western psychology with Yoga. The result is an effective method for deep relaxation, both physically and mentally.
Relaxation & (breathing) space
Critical Alignment Yoga focuses on the spine. A flexible spine is essential for our physical and mental well-being. When the spine moves freely, movements feel light and natural and you experience (breathing) space in the body.
Connections and Chains of Movement
Critical Alignment uses a system of eleven kinetic chains based on connections between bones in the body. Any pose or movement can be composed using these eleven connections.
Unfortunately, disruptions often occur: due to tension and stress, the upper back becomes crooked, shoulders stiff, lower back tense and sensitive to overload. This hinders the free transmission of movement and can ultimately cause complaints.
By analyzing movements in terms of the eleven connections, it is possible to quickly determine where possible blockages are and to tackle them.
The “J-spine” – the straight upper back
A key assumption in the method is that a relaxed upper back should be straight, rather than curved. With a straight upper back, the shoulders, neck and lower back can relax better during exercises – and also in everyday life. In Critical Alignment it is therefore assumed that the back should have a “J-shape” instead of the generally accepted “S-shape”, where the upper back is curved.
Clear structure of the classes
Classes are built around a specific theme. This can be a specific connection, or a part of the back. In the classes you get to know your tension patterns and how to deal with them. The classes have a clear structure, with each individual exercise fitting within a larger plan.
Tools
Critical Alignment distinguishes itself through the use of tools, such as the strip, the back bend arc and the headstand bench. Thanks to these tools, you can relax parts of the back that are otherwise difficult to reach. This really makes yoga accessible to everyone (also read this post for alternatives to the tools).
Critical Alignment book
The method, the exercises and the use of the tools are described in detail by Gert van Leeuwen, the founder of Critical Alignment, in his excellent book. Definitely recommended.
Interested?
Do you want to move more freely and feel more at ease in your body? Start building your Critical Alignment Yoga home practice. You will find everything you need in this studio.