Strong & Sweet!

About This Class

Bryan Kest leads this full-bodied, hour-plus flow with a philosophy-first approach: deep nasal breathing is the foundation, and every physical shape is in service of that breath. The class opens with child's pose and downward dog to establish the breath-movement connection, then builds through a carefully rehearsed sun-salutation-style sequence (downward dog, forward fold, cobra, plank, chaturanga) before branching into standing warrior variations, extended side angle, crescent lunge, and a runner's lunge twist. Hip openers are woven throughout — including pigeon-style pose and a deep groin-stretch sequence — complemented by spinal twists, hamstring lengthening, and shoulder stretches with hands clasped behind the back. Back-body strengthening features prominently: cobra is revisited many times, locust arms and legs appear in layered variations, and bow pose is offered for those ready for it. Core activation arrives near the end with supine leg lifts and scissor-like movements. The class closes with supine spinal twists, a shoulderstand and plow progression, and a seated gratitude meditation before savasana. Throughout, Bryan explicitly invites modification, rest, and self-compassion, framing the practice as a gentle, caring touch on the body rather than a performance. The result is a class that is physically demanding yet emotionally grounding, with equal attention paid to strength, flexibility, and mental stillness.