Ep 6. Instructional Seated Postures

The Ashtanga Practice is all set to air its second season episode six which is titled 'Instructional Seated Postures'. This episode will focus solely on the seated postures of the Ashtanga practice and instruct the viewers on how to perfect these postures. The Ashtanga practice can be challenging, especially for those who are new to the practice. Therefore, this episode aims to help the viewers build more strength and flexibility, perfecting their seated postures.

The episode kicks off with a brief introduction into the Ashtanga practice by the host, who explains why mastering seated postures is so important. These postures greatly contribute to the improvement of a person's overall strength and flexibility, besides being highly beneficial for the hips, lower back, and other major joints. The host then delves into the practice of the seated postures by introducing the first posture - Ardha Matsyendrasana.

The episode instructs viewers on the proper way to execute Ardha Matsyendrasana, including detailed directions on the placement of hands and feet to obtain maximum benefits from the posture. The host explains the major organs that are targeted by this posture, such as the liver, pancreas, and spleen. It is said that this posture helps in relieving constipation, indigestion, and bloating.

Next in line is the challenging Janu Sirsasana, also known as the Head to Knee pose. Not only does this posture help improve flexibility, but it also helps soothe headaches and anxiety. The episode breaks down the posture, step-by-step, to ensure that viewers are aligned correctly and engaging all the necessary muscles. The host instructs the viewers on how to release any tension or tightness in the hips and back to deepen their stretch.

The third posture focused on in this episode is the humble Baddha Konasana - also known as the Butterfly pose. Baddha Konasana is one of the gentler seated postures that has several benefits such as improved blood circulation, reducing symptoms of menstruation and menopause in women, as well as reducing stress and anxiety. In this episode, the viewers will learn how to execute the posture correctly, including which muscles to engage and what to focus on while holding the pose.

The next posture is the challenging Dandasana, also known as the Staff pose. This posture might look simple, but it requires a lot of upper body strength to maintain. The episode covers the correct alignment and positioning of limbs, as well as which muscles to engage to execute the posture successfully. Dandasana is an integral part of the seated postures, as it forms the foundation of several other postures.

The fifth and final posture is Paschimottanasana or the Seated Forward Fold. This posture is highly effective in flexing the entire backside of the body, including the hamstrings, back muscles, and calves. The episode instructs viewers on how to engage the core muscles correctly, lower back muscles, and glutes, to deepen their stretch. Paschimottanasana is highly beneficial for those who suffer from back pain and is also known to reduce symptoms of stress and depression.

The episode ends with a brief recap of all the postures covered in the episode, along with the benefits of each posture. The host encourages viewers to continuously work on perfecting these postures to achieve maximum benefits and improve overall strength and flexibility.

In conclusion, The Ashtanga Practice season 2 episode 6 titled 'Instructional Seated Postures' is highly informative and instructive, with detailed explanations of each posture. This episode is highly recommended for those who are new to the Ashtanga practice and are looking to improve their practice. The Ashtanga Practice season 2 episode 6 is a must-watch for yoga enthusiasts and those seeking to improve their physical and mental well-being.