Gingerly Build Strength

About This Class

Bryan Kest leads this lengthy, all-levels vigorous flow that earns its title "Gingerly Build Strength" by starting almost deceptively slowly — child's pose, foundational breathing, and patient body awareness — before systematically layering in challenge. The session is structured around two major warm-up series each repeated four times, weaving together sun-salutation-style sequences (plank, Chaturanga/Dandasana push-ups, cobra, down dog) with standing balance poses, one-armed side planks, lunge variations, warrior-adjacent balancing on one leg, and airplane pose. Backbends progress from cobra to camel, and the cool-down includes wide-legged forward folds, seated twists, plow pose, and shoulder stand (Sarvangasana). A short core sequence with scissor legs precedes the closing. Throughout, Bryan emphasizes nose breathing, deep lung-filling, mental quietness, non-competitiveness, and self-compassion — framing the physical practice as a vehicle for stress reduction and awareness. The class closes with a seated gratitude meditation and Savasana. Modifications (knees down, hands on floor, skipping poses) are offered constantly. Props are not called for. Knee sensitivity is briefly flagged as a reason to use hands for support in wide-knee sits.