Class Descriptions

Hatha Yoga is the traditional form of yoga in which postures are practiced to align, strengthen and promote flexibility in the body. Breathing techniques and meditation are also commonly practiced. All classes on the schedule are hatha yoga, unless otherwise noted.

Ashtanga Yoga is a mixed level class where each student is given personal attention to learn the series, as taught by Sri K. Pattabhi Jois.  This series is specifically designed to create a balance of strength, flexibility, and mental clarity.  It is appropriate for anyone as its empowerment comes from finding your own way through, as those around you find theirs.

Iyengar Yoga, devised by B.K.S. Iyengar and refined over his lifetime is a system of hatha yoga postures (asana) and breathing (pranayama) for people of all ages, abilities, and walks of life. Iyengar yoga stresses (1) precise movement and action, and correct alignment in all postures; (2) the use of props which enhance and enable the correct action of the poses and makes them accessible to any type of body, flexible or stiff, healthy or ill; (3) precise sequencing of poses, allowing the teacher and/or practitioner to respond to particular physical, physiological, or psychological needs, combined with (4) timing and pacing of the poses, which can be carefully altered, varied and adjusted according to need. Iyengar yoga teaches purity of intention and integrity of process.

Prenatal and Postnatal Yoga
Moms to be with little or no yoga experience and those with an existing yoga practice are equally welcome. These classes focuses on strengthening and opening the body, learning how to relax, and breath awareness, in order to experience a comfortable pregnancy, and prepare for birth and recovery. Check the schedule for specific prenatal, postnatal and combination classes.

Restorative Yoga utilizes a series of supported poses designed to relax the body and soothe the soul.

Slow Deep Stretch emphasizes flexibility in the major muscles as well as those surrounding the primary joints. Emphasis is placed on the breath to open space through the body and relieve physical and mental tension.  Slow-Deep-Stretch is influenced strongly by Taoist Yoga, a form of Chi Kung, an ancient Chinese art comprised of various techniques for developing and directing vital energy, known as chi or prana. This class is appropriate for beginners.

Kundalini Yoga is based on the chakra system and focuses on the healing of specific areas of the mind, body and emotions. Its "sets" incorporate dynamic movements, breathing, meditations and guided relaxation.

Pilates is a popular training program created and named by Joseph Pilates has become a key influence in mind/body movement.  Introduced in New York in the 1920’s, Pilates was adapted by dancers, gymnasts and performers, who needed agility and strength without bulky musculature. Originally part of a private session on equipment, the mat work has evolved into a class of its own.   While a group setting allows for less individualized attention, this class will emphasize good technique.   Proper form allows one to build strength balanced by flexibility, and is important in preventing injuries and promoting overall health.  Concepts from other bodywork methods are incorporated into class when applicable.  This is not just a mindless series of Pilates exercises; the class is tailored to the student’s needs. Emphasis on strengthening the abdominals, flexibility of the spine, coordination, and using the mind to control body actions are some core concepts of the method.  Breath is integrated to facilitate ease in the movement.

Qi Gong

CLASS LEVELS, etc.

Level 1 is a beginner class.

Level 1-2 is an intermediate class. Beginners are welcome.

Mixed Level is an intermediate to advanced class. Beginners are welcome, but may need to take breaks on their own as needed.

Level 2-3 is an intermediate to advanced class. Not appropriate for beginners.

Flow classes move more quickly and might make you sweat.

Community classes are the same as regular classes but cheaper. Like a movie matinee.

BENEFITS OF YOGA

There are many benefits of practicing Yoga. The following are just some of the physical, emotional, and energetic benefits of doing yoga:

• Body Strength and Stamina
• Greater Flexibility
• Reducing Everyday Aches and Pain
• Rehabilitating and Healing Injuries
• Stress Reduction and Relaxation
• Mental and Emotional Benefits
• Better General Health
• Spirituality

Body Strength and Stamina
Increased body strength and physical stamina are the most obvious benefits of practicing yoga. Muscles and joints grow stronger. The increased muscle tone and improved posture makes you more attractive.

Flexibility
Yoga also concentrates on flexibility. This is one of the major differences between yoga and other forms of exercise. A flexible body is a more comfortable place in which to live. The muscles and joints are more resilient to the jolts and shocks of everyday life. This can help you prevent accidents and injuries.

Reducing Everyday Aches and Pain
Repetitive movements and postures from your daily life cause many of your aches and pains. Your habits of sitting, standing, driving, working, typing, or housework create the body in which you live. By treating your body to new and ergonomically-correct activities, you can correct and compensate for other less-healthy physical habits.

Rehabilitating and Healing Injuries
Yoga used therapeutically can rehabilitate and heal problem areas. Select exercises that do not re-injure already weakened areas and then use appropriate exercises to strengthen the injured area. Yoga also includes opening up to "healing energy." Be patient. Problems usually do not arise instantly. Instant solutions are rare.

Stress Reduction and Relaxation
One of the most common complaints of modern life is stress. An estimated 60% to 70% of all illnesses are stress-related. Stress contributes to the wide-spread diseases of our century -- heart disease, high blood pressure, and cancer. Reducing stress reduces the incidence of these killers. Plentiful rest, a healthy diet, and proper exercise are three ways to minimize the ill effects of stress. Yoga is a fabulous stress-reducing exercise system. Not only does it temporarily reduce stress, but as the nervous system gains strength, your long-term stress level declines.

Mental and Emotional Benefits
Yoga makes you feel good. It is an opportunity for introspection and inner awareness. A good yoga session gives you a more positive outlook on life, a sense of balance, and a feeling of internal harmony. Greater mental performance and clarity gives you a clearer sense of priorities. Most importantly, your yoga practice is something that you do just for yourself. It is a personal affirmation that you are a worthwhile human being, worth spending time with, and worthy of being cared for.

Better General Health
This age-old science benefits you in ways that are not be obvious to the naked eye. Breathing exercises better oxygenate the blood, cleanse you of toxins, and give you healthier skin. The physical exercises increase circulation and improve the function of your organs and glands. The nervous system gains strength and resiliency. Digestion and elimination function more efficiently. In addition, the immune system is pumped up to increase your over-all level of health and well-being.

Spirituality
Last, but certainly not least, yoga is practice of uniting with the Divine. All of us have different ideas of the Divine. Whatever your version -- a gray-haired old man with a special interest in you, an exotic Hindu goddess with coins dripping from her hands, a vague notion of the "universal spirit," the Great White Spirit In The Sky, YAHWEH, or whatever -- yoga is a tool with which you can build a closer relationship to It, Him or Her. Yoga is a meditative practice that can help you experience God in your own way.