FNR - Flexibility Not Required (but Strength definitely is)

A few days ago, I stepped out of my comfort zone and into a whole new yoga world. After practicing Bikram yoga exclusively for almost a year, I decided to deepen my yoga practice by trying out some classes at the newest studio in town - Urban Ashram Manila. Will share a full review of the studio (facilities, teachers, classes available) in another post.

For now, I just wanted to share my first non-Bikram yoga experience via a FNR class at the Ashram. The FNR series was designed for beginners to get a better understanding of the basic postures and vinyasas. The teacher goes around making corrections to guide students safely through their practice.

The session started in Savasana and slowly introduced exercises leading to ujjayi breathing. As a Vinyasa-based series, the poses are done synchronized with the breath. Being a Bikram practitioner, this was all new to me but eventually I got the hang of it. In Bikram, one also needs to be conscious of the breath, although it is more quiet and natural breathing that you need to do to sustain and hold the Bikram poses.

From the floor we moved up to do Sun Salutations or Surya Namaskar. The movements were just as I expected, having checked out several videos on YouTube. What I didn't expect was how difficult Downward Dog was going to be! My palms and wrists always hurt after class, so after my 3rd class I had to ask my teacher Marc for pointers. He explained that Downward Dog is actually a resting pose (what??!!) and that you need to distribute your weight evenly on your palms while engaging your triceps more. As Sri K. Pattabhi Jois or Guruji's famous saying goes: “Practice, practice and all is coming.”

After moving through the Sun Saltulations, the teacher also guides the class through backbends, forward bends and twists with focus on a particular theme for the day. I attended a class that focused on twists, and i really appreciated how I was learning to consciously lift my chest and open my shoulders while doing twisting poses.

After chanting Om, the last 15 minutes of class is spent in Savasana. I've had good ones in all the classes I've taken so far. A good Savasana is a sign that you've had a strong, purposeful practice and I'm looking forward to joining another FNR class at the Ashram soon.

Learn more about the FNR series and The Urban Ashram Manila at: http://www.urbanashrammanila.com. Free classes are part of their Open House which is ongoing until September 3.