Hakuna Matata

About This Class

This expansive flow class opens on the back with gentle spinal twists and bridge variations before moving into shoulder stand and plow for extended inversion work. A progressive warm-up builds through three distinct sun-salutation-style flows that layer in crescent lunges, core twists, standing side bends, and arm balance explorations. The middle section dives deep into hip-opening sequences on both sides — including low lizard-style elbow-to-floor poses, pigeon-like reclined hip stretches, and dynamic quad stretches — complemented by a yin interlude of long holds to balance the yang intensity. Backbends escalate gradually from baby cobra through fuller cobra variations to bow pose (dhanurasana), building spinal and shoulder health. The class closes with seated forward folds, half-lotus variations, supine twists, a gratitude meditation, and savasana. Throughout, Bryan weaves philosophy around impermanence, non-attachment (anicja), and the psychological power of gratitude, encouraging students to find a "moderate degree" — never forcing, always honoring their unique body. Breath awareness is the constant anchor, framed as the outward representation of a peaceful mind.