GENTLE classes are designed for those who are new to yoga, have physical challenges or desire to practice within a very gentle framework.
LEVEL I
IYENGAR -- BACK TO BASICS classes are for new Iyengar students as well as those
who wish to bring a deeper understanding and integrity to their yoga practice.
Whether starting at the beginning or going back to the basics, you will gain a
strong foundation of the fundamentals of the poses. Standing poses, seated
poses and twists as well as some basic inversions will be taught.
MIXED
LEVEL I/II IYENGAR classes are for students who have some yoga experience.
Basic postures are refined and Sirsasana (headstand), full arm balances,
backbends and pranayama are introduced.
MIXED/MODERATE
classes are designed so a variety of levels can practice together. Concepts and
postures are introduced at the basic level. Deeper explorations take place for
students as they incorporate an understanding of the basics. Those with more
experience explore the deeper aspects of the postures. Open to all levels.
MIXED
VINYASA classes are taught with a strong focus on the internal forms of yogic
alignment and connecting with the breath. Poses often flow from one to the
next. The word vinyasa translates as "breath linked flow" The fluid
nature of the body is accessed, increasing strength and developing flexibility,
allowing the mind and body to experience freedom. This is open to all levels.
MODERATE
classes offer students the basics of yoga as well as a more in-depth
exploration of the poses, exploring more advanced poses. As with all other
classes, the poses are guided with attention to body alignment, flow of breath
and cultivation of awareness. These classes are not for those who are nursing
injuries.
RESTORATIVE
classes are designed to allow the body to fully relax. Basic poses are
introduced using props, supporting the body to relax fully. Once in a supported
pose, the elements of breath and awareness are introduced. This allows the body
to receive the healing benefits of yoga with minimal effort. Restorative
classes are an excellent place to begin the healing process from injury and
disease. They also offer the physically fit a place to fully relax and
rejuvenate.
KIRTAN
is chanting the Sanskrit names of the Divine. This form of yoga is from the
bhakti tradition, that of devotion and service. Chants are led in a call and
response mode and are more about opening the heart than getting the melodies
and words just right. The kirtans are led by various leaders within our
community. Kirtan is free and all are welcome.
OM:
Why do
we chant Om. Om comprises the three inner most basic sounds a human being can
make: Aah Ooh Mmm. This takes us out of the realm of the intellect. It is beyond thought. It is liberating for
our body, mind and soul, to start a practice with the acknowledgement that one
can go beyond thought.
PRANAYAMA:
The
work with our breath starts with sensing the inner atmosphere of our organism.
The basic emotional stance we take to ourselves and the world.
The
process of breathing is one of the great miracles of existence.
Chance
your breath, change your life.
MEDITATION:
A
simple yet profound method proven to improve the quality of our lives. Through
following very simple, practical instructions we can learn to let go of the
causes of our stress and dissatisfaction and to gain the inner peace and
clarity we seek.
