Ashtanga yoga shala presents Monica Gauci for the first time in Bulgaria!

A holistic look at the structure, function and energetic effects of the common thread in all yoga asana styles and techniques – our spine! Our modern lifestyle exacerbate the ill effects of poor posture, mental stress and spiritual discontent and our spine
bears the burden of these stressors. Likewise it is the influence of our spine, its central energy channel and energetic centres that enables yoga it to work its ‘magic’.
In this workshop we explore the spine as the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual axis of our body and being.
We look at the architecture of the spine and how its structure determines our functional abilities. The anatomical section aims to educate students to respect differences both within the spine and between individuals. It is these differences that predict varying degrees of limitations and potential in the different movement types of asana.
We study the ‘stress’ points of our spine and how to reduce these stressors. Here we also look at the passive stabilisation system of ligaments as well as the active stabilisation of the intrinsic and extrinsic spinal muscles. We examine how their role of segmental stability compliments the role of the muscles that provide larger prime movements. We explore spinal mobilisation techniques and asanas that enhance spinal stability and health as well as practical ways to modify how we perform any asana to spare our spine that it can be healthy and last us for a long lifetime.
A study of the development of our spinal curves reveals the energetic system that is at the core of every yogic technique, from asana, to pranayama to meditation. Each curve bows to the chakra at that corresponding level. We explore these energy centres, how they reflect our evolution, emotions and expression with a view to understand how their gentle activation is what makes the beneficial effects of yogic asana so unique.

About Monica

Monica began her practice of yoga in 1978, closely followed by a dedicated meditation practice. She practiced Hatha Yoga and then Iyengar Yoga for 13 years until she discovered Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga in 1993. After multiple journeys to Mysuru, India in 1996 she was authorised to teach Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga by K. Pattabhi Jois.*

Since the age of 24, Monica has studied many different disciplines of the Healing Arts. In 2008 she graduated with 1st class honours as a Doctor of Chiropractic and received numerous awards for Academic Excellence.

Monica continues her studies in anatomy and movement as well as manual, movement, yoga and mantra therapies. Her education as a Rehabilitative Chiropractor inspires her teaching and application of movement principles that support and promote a healthy body.

Monica is a registered Yoga Therapist with the Australian Association of Yoga Therapists and a full member of the International Association of Yoga Therapists. She is registered at the highest level with both Yoga Alliance and Yoga Australia. Monica has published Ashtanga Yoga Beginners Course Manual for Teachers and is a contributing author to Ashtanga Yoga, Practice and Philosophy and Ashtanga Yoga, The Intermediate Series in the areas of asana, anatomy, injury prevention and therapy.

In 1996 Monica and Gregor co-founded 8 Limbs Yoga School in Perth which they co-directed for 21 years. She now teaches workshops and trainings worldwide. Together with Gregor, she teaches Immersions in Bali and from their mountain-top studio at their home in the rainforest close to Byron Bay, Australia.

Monica’s breadth of knowledge, her insight, calm manner and playful personality make learning from her easy and enjoyable!

INVESTMENT:
Early birds (till 1st of March) – 150 EUR
Regular price – 180 EUR

For details write to ashtangasofia@gmail.com