Yoga and the Pelvic Floor: A workshop for women*

Proper strengthening and stabilizing of the pelvic floor helps to create the correct foundation of each movement in the body. This is the true meaning of “core work.” Whether you experience any of these conditions, or are just plain curious about this region of the body, this workshop is for you:

• pelvic pain
• lower back, hip or groin problems
• discomfort during sex or while using tampons
• skin irritation *leak when laughing or sneezing
• have to go the bathroom too often
• prolapsed organs 
• pre and post pregnancy

In this workshop, we will locate, assess, soften, stretch, strengthen and exercise the muscle groups of the pelvic floor, discuss mula bandha, abdominal health and how to utilize the pelvic floor in asana. Part one of the workshop will begin with anatomy, lecture and discussion, followed by subtle experiential movements to awaken your understanding of this often ignored area. Part two will be two yoga practices for hypertonic and hypotonic pelvic floors.  The protocol is similar to the classes taught in the UCSF studies. A series of specific exercises and asanas for the pelvic floor will follow. Handouts will be provided. Bring your friends, sisters, mothers and daughters. Although helpful, no yoga experience is required. This workshop qualifies for continuing education credits with Yoga Alliance. This workshop will be recorded and accessible for 48 hours after the event date.

*or those who identify as women

About Leslie:

Leslie Howard is an Oakland-based yoga teacher, specializing in all things pelvic. She leads workshops and trainings nationally and has written a book about the female pelvis, Pelvic Liberation. She is a regular presenter for the Yoga Journal conferences and a regular contributor to Yoga Journal magazine.  Her own struggles with healing her hips and pelvis led her to intense study of the anatomy, physiology, cultural messaging, history and energetics of this rich place. Her teaching is informed by over 3500 hours of yoga study with senior Iyengar yoga teachers.  She considers Ramanand Patel her most important influence and mentor. She has designed two very successful studies for UCSF on yoga to alleviate incontinence and pelvic pain. To learn more about Leslie, visit www.lesliehowardyoga.com