There are a number of strategies for sequencing classes. This is certainly not an exhaustive list, but will give you some options as you begin to devise intelligent well ordered sequences with a TEACHING THEME.
These systems are not mutually exclusive and can be combined in order to structure a class. The only rule is that the choices one makes in structuring should not be gratuitous. Teaching should always come out of personal practice. Only teach WHAT YOU KNOW. You do not need to able able to perform a posture to "know it".Teachers best teach what they themselves are exploring (seeking deeper knowing).
- Set Sequence (already optimized for maximizing the transformative effect of yoga practice) This allows for mastery and refinement along with a focus that comes from already knowing the sequence for regular practitioners.
- Ashtanga Series: (progression from healing to devotion in four series based around beginning and ending sequences. Students get one posture in each series at a time until it is perfected)
- Bikram Series: (healing to ultimate fitness in two series)
- Sivananda Series: (healthful right exercise as essential part of right living)
- Tripsichore Sequences: (set sequences with different levels of ability for performance which are progressive in difficulty. Focus is on ujjayi breath and the use of "lifts" which are and interpretations of bandhas).
- Mini-Vinyasa Menu (Jivamukti and Prana Vinyasa of Shiva Rea)
- Allow for creativity and play within a structured philosophical framework
- Chinese menu of mini sequences which are arranged tot provide a number of options for practice
- mini-sequences may be classified by function or position in a larger set of sequencing rules
- Build to a Master Posture (postures preceding it act as preparation. This allows students to understand the progression towards goals and potential-- All good classes have a component of this but it is central to this sequencing strategy.
- Master posture comes half way in and then the second half is the wind down or performance of derivative postures
- Master posture comes 2/3 the way in and then is followed by the wind-down. Usually happens with more complex and difficult postures which required more preparation.
- Near then end, followed by savasana. Good when the lead in is energetic and systematically builds.
- Focus on a Point of Learning (can be subtle or gross, points, depending on the level of the class)
- breath
- alignment
- body part
- focus
- meditative quality
- function (e.g. digestion, sleep, energizing, grounding, dosha, kosha, etc.)
- Repetition (scaffolding, with or without variations) Provides an opportunity for a fuller ritual experience.
- discover a posture or set of postures in a deeper way through a "layered experience".
- Break down barriers to a posture (fear, physical or psychological resistance, physical barriers
- Warm up/cool down (exercise model) provides a a well-rounded, familiar experience also common in Indian systems of "physical culture".
- warm up/cool down can be breath focused, physical or meditative
- set sequences follow this to some extent
- (meditation/pranayama) seated, standing, seated, savnsana, meditation
- (physical) vinyasa, standing, seated, inversions, savasana, meditation
- (chanting) posture, savasana, posture, savasana, ...meditation
