A Transformative Posture & Alignment Workshop with Loulou James

Loulou James, creator of the Buttafly (and the Buttafly Technique), delivered an exceptional Posture & Alignment workshop that left attendees enlightened and inspired. From the very start, the session engaged us with a simple yet eye-opening method to explore our individual flexibility, instantly highlighting how unique each of our bodies truly is.

This seamlessly transitioned into an experiential practice of 'just sitting' with most of us in Sukhasana. A quick round of self-assessed scores (1–10) revealed just how challenging and uncomfortable sitting can be for many, while a few found it effortless. Loulou expertly unpacked the reasons behind these differences, guiding us to understand the anatomy of sitting and the crucial role of postural muscles.

Through vivid explanations and visual examples—using real spines as references—Loulou highlighted areas of 'conditioning' in even experienced yogis that can compensate for natural posture and alignment and cause posture to be 'out of alignment' . This insight set the tone for deeper exploration as we began to differentiate the roles of postural and movement muscles.

Somatic movements became a key focus, helping us connect with our body's internal sensations and cultivate conscious awareness. One standout practice involved coordinating coccyx and cervical 'curling' to create gentle spinal stretching while maintaining a mindful connection to how the body feels. As Loulou put it, "The spine organises itself from the bottom up and the top down, and at every vertebra in between”

We were also reminded of the vital role connective tissue and fascia play in supporting flexibility and energy flow. Practices emphasised how fascia suppleness and its mobility foster better muscle function, joint movement, and overall posture.

A particularly fascinating element was the exploration of eye movements and their energetic impact on the spine. Loulou expertly proved how the direction of our gaze influences head and neck alignment, which, in turn, affects spinal posture and overall balance. This connection was a revelation for many participants and deepened our understanding of the intricate relationship between the body and mind.

By the end of this expertly delivered workshop, it was clear how we sit and maintain our posture will never be the same!

Loulou's unique insights and practical tools have empowered us to approach alignment with greater awareness, leaving a lasting impact on both body and mind.

If you have the chance to attend a workshop with Loulou James, don't hesitate—it's an experience not to be missed!

https://thebuttafly.com

How aware are we of the 'conditioned' movement of our bodies?