When we met with Rainbeau Mars, yoga spokeswoman (pictured), we were a little intimidated. She’s taken her new yoga method, Ra’yoKa, to 24 countries, and rumor has it she’s about to direct a new yoga studio with attached resto in Hollywood (owned by none other than Juliano of Raw).
Turns out she’s charming and relaxed–though her yoga method, a martial arts/yoga fusion, kicked us into the stratosphere:
It takes concentration. Like Shaolin monks, we practiced a rolling Downward Dog with feet “tennis ball distance apart.” Rising up on our heels, we tucked our chins and rolled our chests toward the floor, ending in Cobra, then reversed the movement.
It takes power. We went from basic yoga poses, like Warrior I, into kung fu-style kicks, sword-drawing moves and face blocks.
It takes balance. With Zen focus, we moved from Half-Moon Pose to standing and back, never letting our free foot touch the ground.
And we sweated. “For people who feel they can’t relax, this is sportier,” explains Mars.
We’re over the moon for it.
Want to try? Check out Mars’ free, at-home workout guide here, book a private session by emailing Mars here, or check out her DVDs.
4 comments
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Rainbeau, I am finally seeing more flow with my ra yoka practice! Breaking it up into segments really helped me. LOVE the practice! On a personal note…my niece has a resemblance to you! Ayla Simone…She’s a college student…and San Diego DJ. And…of course from a Holistically centered family! ;-D
I just finished my first ra’yoka session and I feel so invigorated and alive! Thank you, Rainbeau, for creating this new way of practice! I had viewed the video once through before attempting practice. I knew I’d be a bit confused since so much of it is new, and I was, but I wasn’t confused to the point of frustration. I believe having being an almost daily practitioner of yoga for over 13 years now, especially with Rainbeau Mars (and Shiva Rea) dvds, and having experience in the past with Shaolin Kung Fu and also Tai Chi did help me with the movements. I found the Ra’yoka practice fun and playful, while also challenging. I loved the fluid movements, and I also loved allowing the heat to build, finding greater movement in mind and body through the fluidity and heat. In essence, I loved it! I believe this practice will help invigorate and heal my life.
Rainbeau, thank you so much for all of your material you release and share with us. You helped me through a difficult pregnancy with your prenatal dvds which culminated in a natural childbirth and a healthy, beautiful, non-traumatized baby girl last year. You’ve helped me deepen my yoga practice with your inspiring and clear and concise yoga dvds. I fully appreciate all of your work and dedication that you bring into the world. You help me be the best I can be.
from one mother to another,
Namaste,
Nicole Philippi