Charlie does not teach a traditional yoga class at Bella Prana; instead he helps students realize their full functional flexibility and range of motion through bodywork. He is an accomplished flexibility master who has established himself as one of the premier authorities on the subjects of stretching and mobility. We are grateful for the knowledge he brings our students and the help he provides to everyone – inside and outside the studio. Charlie is our July teacher of the month and shared some of his knowledge below!
When/How did you discover yoga?
In the early 80’s people in the Yoga community sought me out for help breaking down the different Yoga postures, helping them overcome their short spaces, and then putting everything back together. I made a lot of friends, they shared a lot of what they knew with me, from personal experience, and lots of literature. One of my favorite books ever “The Complete Illustrated Book Of Yoga” came from a friend, Paul, who shared many hours of discussion about Yoga and its benefits.
What do you love about teaching yoga?
As a Flexibility Trainer interacting with the Yoga community, one of my biggest joys is watching students achieve their range of motion goals. Helping them, so they can practice Yoga at a higher level, and helping them get there in a healthy way. Lots of gain, no dings or dents. Turning “I Wish”, into “I Can”. Helping people achieve. For me, there is a lot of joy in that.
How has yoga and meditation changed your life?
Being around the Yoga community is joyful for me. There is a very positive energy, in the people, the studio, and the Yoga community. Being in the space with our team is always happy. Regarding Meditation, it’s something I have used as a tool since the early 70’s. It always helps with mental clarity and calmness.
Why do you teach at Bella Prana?
I have always worked to place my program in the finest places in the area in which I live. I have run Flexibility Programs at a variety of top facilities over the last 41 years of my teaching career. Roni, Tina, and the Crew that is Us, are as fine a collection of people as there is on the planet. I proudly enjoy being a part of the team.
What is your go-to stretch for students with tight hips?
For really tight hips, small space stretching techniques combined with “Wedge Work”. Super soft pressure with a lot of focus on protecting the joints from the spine to the knee. Lots of attention to keeping the back out of play. And Most Important, Patience!
You can find Charlie’s Functional Flexibility classes at Bella Prana Yoga & Meditation in Tampa, Florida.