The Body Conditioning Techniques of The Oldest Indian Martial Art of Kalaripayattu

Kalaripayattu is a martial art system from the south Indian state of Kerala. It’s current form is said to date from the sixth century and shares deep historical and philosophical connections with yoga. Though it is a fighting art, this workshop will feature only strengthening, mobility, and coordination exercises. There will be no weapons, sparring or grappling work. Like many forms of yoga, Kalaripayattu utilizes the physical body as means to cultivate one-pointed (ekāgratā) mental focus and can help develop an understanding of the subtle or energetic body (sūkṣma śarīra) as well as the physical body (sthūla śarīra). This series will be an introduction to 5 Travelling Steps, 6 Leg Movements and 8 Animal Postures. Some of these movements are similar to the warrior poses regularly done in asana classes but with dynamic transitions such as deep lunging, jumping, kicking and squatting. While the series is open to everyone, some experience with yoga is recommended and serious injury or extreme limits to mobility are contraindicated.

Douglas Ridings has been teaching yoga at 8 Limbs Yoga Centers since 1999. He learned these techniques while on sabbatical in India this past winter and spring at Vallabhatta Kalari in Chavakkad, Kerala under the guidance of Guru Krishna Das.

CAPITOL HILL, with Douglas Ridings

Saturdays, October 13 – November 17, 12:30 – 2:00 PM

Cost for 6-week series: $150

Note: Our series require a minimum of five registered participants, by five days before the start date; if you are considering joining please register early.

Cancellation Policy: Refunds of 90% up to five days prior to start of series. No refunds allowable after that time.