For every person there is a style of yoga. It may be the tempo, the breath, the physical or mental challenge – whatever clinches the deal, a yogi knows when they’ve found a style that touches something within them. ‘Yoga’ refers to the union of the mind and the body, but different people require different meditative practices to achieve what I view as the ‘flow state’. Despite already being converted to the yoga lifestyle, when I discovered The Rocket, I discovered new depths to my connection to yoga.
The Rocket is based on the Ashtanga Vinyasa system – a very traditional, strong and dynamic style developed in India. Embraced to this day by die-hard yogis, Ashtanga is a strict discipline that requires practitioners to master each posture before progressing – a life-long pursuit for many.
The beautifully designed Ashtanga series – complete with extraordinarily challenging twists and bends and balances, demanding cultivation of an unwavering focus, and purifying the energetic body through a consistent thread of breath – sadly loses some of its audience due to its perceived rigidity and the potentially alienating tone of its traditional Indian roots.
For those that thrive on the mind-body ‘hit’ experienced in such a strong yet flowing and breath-focused practice, but are frustrated by the purist approach of Ashtanga, The Rocket may be that special practice that speaks to them on a deeper level than they’ve ever experienced.
In Rocket class we build tempo, breath and heat through a sequence with a variety of challenges, all linked by flowing transitions. The tone is up-beat and playful as we mess about with arm balances and turn upside-down. As an all-levels class, the challenges for more advanced postures are always there, but the Rocket philosophy is very much about listening to and trusting your own body. Modifications and preparatory poses are always given, so every student can decide when they’re ready to give something new a go.
When I discovered The Rocket, I discovered new depths to my connection to yoga.
Sam Edwards, Our Rocket Yogi
We spend lots of time on our hands, building up wrist strength and flexibility – a much needed antidote for chronic keyboard typists. And by challenging our centre of gravity so much, we’re developing an awareness and strengthening of our ‘bandhas’ – our internal ‘energy locks’ that include the pelvic floor and deep core muscles. Essentially, by establishing a Rocket practice, you’ll start to feel stronger and lighter; closer to your primal human self than ever before.
There are always progressions to move onto; the ego chimes up to let you know you’re not improving fast enough; and some days you feel stronger and freer than others. But once you’re hooked, you’ll know you’re up for the challenge.