Aspen Yoga Studio - Forrest Yoga System

Welcome to the Aspen Yoga Studio. My name is Richard Bird.

I first opened the Aspen Yoga Studio in 1999 to serve both Aspen locals and its' many visitors from all over the world. Over the years I've had the honor of guiding thousands of individuals in The Forrest Style of Hatha Yoga.

I can honestly say that I would not be alive today if I hadn't incorporated yoga into my busy life in 1987. And, I would not be teaching or practicing yoga had I not returned to Ana Forrest in 1999 and trained in her Style of "Forrest Yoga".

One of the trademarks of Aspen is that it is unique and special, on the cutting edge of forward thinking, exercise and mind, body, spirit practices.

From my 22 years of study, practice and 13 years of teaching yoga and the healing arts, it is my experience that Forrest Yoga is on the cutting edge of mind, body, and spirit practices as well as exercise. A perfect fit for the Aspen Community and our visitors.

As a Forrest Yoga Instructor my first responsibility is provide you with a safe and sacred space to unwind, heal and practice yoga. Appropriate verbal and hands-on adjustments may be offered however, it is not required you accept the assistance.

What Is Forrest Yoga And How Is It Different From Other Popular Styles Of Yoga?

Forrest Yoga does not have a set sequence. Instead there are generalities to do at different times.

We begin with breathing and grounding. This gets your awareness into your body and creating inner space.

A conscious warm-up follows to release the neck, shoulders and hips so your body is not shocked or resistant to stronger and more flowing postures.

Forrest Yoga is known for its' core conditioning and abdominal work. If your core (the area from pelvic floor to inner top of skull) is weak or unconscious, you set yourself up for strain or injury in other areas. Notably the shoulders, neck, low back, knees and hips.

But, if you do the abdominal series early and consciously you can have a struggle free practice where sun salutations, standing and more challenging postures become easier.

We do lunges (my favorite) to get your energy balanced, grounded and connect you below your waist, before moving into standing sequences.

As you move on in years your energy tends to rise and you live more in your head or mental body. Long posture holds with conscious breathing gives you enough time for your joints to open and your bones and muscles to settle and adjust before moving to the next posture.

After your warm down and Svasana you'll feel strong, balanced and energized. Ready to move into your day peacefully, vibrating above the challenging energies and stresses you often encounter.