Viola posture, straight and tall,
We'll stand or sit, won't let it fall.
Chin on rest, hold it just right,
Our journey begins, we take flight.
Welcome to the third instalment of our 12 Month Series for Young Violists! This month, we'll combine the worlds of viola playing and yoga to build mindful posture and movement. By integrating the principles of yoga into your practice, you can develop a strong foundation of body awareness, flexibility, and balance that will improve your playing experience.
Yoga is an ancient practice that emphasizes the connection between the mind, body, and breath. By incorporating yoga-inspired exercises into our viola practice, we can enhance our posture, release tension, and cultivate a sense of ease and fluidity in our playing.
VIOLA ASANA
exploring mindful posture exercises integrating viola playing and yoga
Make sure you have plenty of space before trying the exercises below, and very mindful of your viola and bow as extensions of your physical body. Always make gentle and slow movements.
Viola Sun Salutations
Begin your practice session with a modified sun salutation sequence to warm up your body and mind. Start in a standing position, holding your viola with both hands. Inhale as you raise your arms and viola overhead, then exhale as you gently bend forward, lowering your viola towards the ground. Inhale and rise back to standing, then exhale as you lower your arms and viola to your sides. Repeat this sequence three to five times, synchronizing your breath and movement.
Warrior Bows
Adopt a warrior II yoga pose by stepping your left foot forward and your right foot back, bending your left knee, and extending your arms to the sides. Hold your viola in your left hand and your bow in your right hand, and imagine drawing energy from the earth through your feet and channeling it into your playing. Practice long, smooth bow strokes on each string, focusing on maintaining a stable and grounded stance.
Tree Pose Finger Exercises
Stand on your left foot and place your right foot on your left inner thigh or calf, entering tree pose. Hold your viola in playing position and practice finger exercises, such as placing and lifting your fingers on the fingerboard or playing simple scales. This exercise challenges your balance and encourages a relaxed and efficient left-hand technique. Repeat with the other leg and notice if your shoulders are arms are just as relaxed.
Seated Forward Fold String Crossings
Sit on the floor with your legs extended in front of you, entering a seated forward fold position. Hold your viola in playing position, and practice string crossings with your bow, focusing on smooth and fluid transitions between strings. This exercise encourages a flexible and relaxed right-arm movement while also providing a gentle stretch for the back and hamstrings.
Breath Awareness and Meditation
End your practice session with a few minutes of breath awareness and meditation. Sit comfortably, holding your viola in your lap, and focus on your natural breath. Scan your body from head to toes slowly. Observe any areas of tension in your body and consciously release them with each exhale. This practice can help you develop a deeper connection to your body and instrument, promoting a sense of relaxation and mindfulness that can enhance your playing.
finale
By integrating viola playing and yoga, we can develop mindful posture and movement through fun and creative exploration. This approach encourages a strong foundation of body awareness, flexibility, and balance, leading to more enjoyable and efficient playing.
Join us next month as we continue our creative journey with an exploration of musical expression through dynamics, articulation, and storytelling!
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