What You'll Learn
- How to use deep breathing techniques to relax the body and enhance muscle release during stretches
- Strategic alignment for the spine and shoulders to ensure a safe and effective stretching frame
- Dynamic movements to target the inner thighs and hamstrings for improved balletic lines
- Gentle methods to increase mobility in the hips and lower back through dance-based therapy
About This Video
At Broche Ballet, we understand that a dancer’s strength is only as effective as their range of motion. This 17-minute Flexibility Flow class is specifically designed to nourish your body, focusing on the two most critical areas for any mover: the spine and the hips. By integrating yoga-based physical therapy with dance principles, this session provides a comprehensive approach to stretching that emphasizes longevity and ease of movement.
Throughout the class, we prioritize a gentle and controlled approach. Rather than forcing positions, you will learn to use your breath as a tool to melt into each stretch. This focus on breathing not only aids in physical relaxation but also helps to calm the nervous system, allowing for a deeper release in the muscles.
We explore movements that target the inner thighs, hamstrings, and calves, which are essential for achieving the lines required in ballet. A key focus of this practice is maintaining a correct frame. You will be guided to keep your shoulders parallel with the floor during seated stretches to avoid unnecessary twisting of the spine.
We utilize various poses, including the straddle, where reaching your arms to the diagonal can significantly increase the effectiveness of the stretch. By incorporating gentle rocking from side to side, you can better target specific muscle fibers in the hamstrings and hips. This class isn't just about reaching a final position; it is about the journey of the stretch.
We conclude the practice by folding the legs back in with care and taking a moment of deep relaxation. Whether you are recovering from a rigorous rehearsal or looking to improve your daily mobility, this flow will leave your body feeling refreshed and your hips and back feeling happy. Join us on the mat to discover a more fluid, flexible version of your dancing self.
