Rule #1: Freefall

Rule #1 of Gravity Yoga, and that which trumps all the others, is called ‘Freefall.’

This is how it works: a pose will be called out in class, you’ll get into the pose, and then you will do everything within your power to relax. To become effortless. To…freefall!

Basically you’re going to try your best to go limp across your whole body.

Pretty easy, right!?

For certain poses, absolutely. For instance: if you’re lying flat on your back, splayed out like a dead body, ‘Freefalling’ is a piece of cake because you are entirely supported by the Earth.

Alas, other stretches are much more challenging.

For example, if you’re in a forward fold, you can’t fully let go of your body otherwise your legs will collapse and you’ll fall!

So is it even possible to support the body using some muscles while relaxing other ones nearby?

Yes, but it’s a difficult needle to thread.

Fortunately, this part of the practice does get easier with practice, patience and applying the nervous system hacks.

Unfortunately, it gets more challenging when you take into account Rule #2: ‘Hang Time.’ I’ll explain more on the next page. See you there.
– Ethan ॐ

P.S. It’s not enough to intellectualize this material, so if you’re confused and want direct guidance please check out the ‘Freefall’ video in the practice section below. There we’ll practice a “Block Bridge” pose to stretch out your low back and hips.