This class studies Bharadvājāsana, a subtle but powerful Second Series twist built on legs as foundation and spinal awakening. We begin from Down Dog with a crouch-and-spring jump-through, folding the leg back into Half Lotus on the way. From there, widen the stance like a diagonal Trikoṇāsana, bind the Lotus with one hand, and plant the other arm outside the knee—palms flat and fingers inward—to ground both thighs and brace both arms. This creates the conditions for deep, even spinal rotation. Modifications include: sitting on height to level both sitting bones, substituting Half Lotus with hip-opening cross-legs, or using a strap/tie for the Lotus bind. Drills reinforce the essentials: clasping hands behind the head for rhythmic Kundalini-style twists, or pressing the back hand into a block to keep weight forward into the legs. Emphasis is on avoiding shortcuts (like leaning back or collapsing to bind) and instead building the pose step by step: legs grounded, pelvis neutral, spine spiraling from base to crown, gaze circling level. We also experiment with playful transitions: rolling into the pose from supine, presetting Lotus mid-roll, or exploring Supta variations. Exits practice the “suck-under” jump-back—bearing weight in the arms even if feet touch—building strength for Second Series vinyāsa. The essence: Bharadvājāsana isn’t about flashy binds, but about intelligent sequencing—foundation first, spinal twist second, leverage last—to honor the whole-body event. Model - Delara Tiv (Ashtanga Vevey)