Cancer Recovery: Asana Class 2 – Rediscovery of Self

About This Class

This 51-minute class is crafted specifically for students returning to the mat during or after cancer treatment, framing the practice as a "rediscovery of self" in a body that has changed. Instructor Hilaire Lockwood opens with seated breathwork (Ujjayi), Om chanting, and a heartfelt sankalpa (intention) centered on healing and acceptance. The flow progresses gently through seated forward folds, Cat-Cow, and multiple rounds of a modified Sun Salutation A (Surya Namaskar A) with options for Cobra, Sphinx, or Upward Facing Dog throughout. Standing work includes Low Lunge, Crescent/Anjaneyasana, Warrior One (Virabhadrasana One), Chair (Utkatasana), and gentle standing twists with Garudasana arms. The class features a kneeling backbend progression toward Ustrasana (Camel), seated Baddha Konasana and Paschimottanasana, supine twists, and closes with a supported, prop-friendly Savasana. Every pose is offered with multiple modifications, and the instructor consistently invites students to honor asymmetries from surgery or treatment, build tapas gently to support detoxification, and stay connected to the breath as a bridge between body and mind. Props such as bolsters, blankets, and blocks are actively encouraged throughout.