This workshop series is open for ALL LEVELS and all bodies, and is oriented on how to keep the spine healthy and pain free rather than the depth of a posture.

Using yoga postures and back-bending techniques we will move the spine sideways, forwards and backwards, while working on alignment and symmetry with the goal of “waking up” the parts of the spine that are harder to access for each of us.

Understanding the subtleties of the body and the way energy flows in a backbend allows us to safely access our range of motion while achieving a meditative state. Because the spine is intrinsically connected to the nervous system and energetically connected to the chakra system, healthy backbends results in better posture and overall health, more mobility, better brain-body connection, happier mood, and a clearer mind.

About Nikki Ortiz: Nikki believes yoga is a powerful tool for human evolution. A vinyasa certified teacher with 600 hours of training, Nikki's teaching integrates elements from various yoga traditions and is focussed on alignment, precision and form. She studied under the mentorship of Jared McCann and under his guidance and coaching became the 2015 USA National Yoga Asana champion. Nikki's teaching often emphasizes backbending and flexibility training, helping students use proper technique to access their body's natural range of motion while developing a healthy approach towards flexibility. In addition to teaching, Nikki is a circus artist regularly performing contortion and hair suspension.