Class Descriptions
listed alphabetically
INTRO TO ASHTANGA
An introduction to to the style of yoga called Ashtanga. Flow through a set series of standing and seated postures based on variations of short forms of the First Series of Ashtanga Yoga. Good for beginners, or anyone who is interested in trying an Ashtanga style practice. A gentle approach to Ashtanga that will cultivate body awareness, strength, and mindfulness.
ASHTANGA YOGA—INTERMEDIATE PRIMARY SERIES
Ashtanga yoga is an athletic vinyasa style practice, consisting of a prescribed series of postures, use of the bandhas (“energy locks”), and observance of the ujjayi breath and other pranayama techniques. Ashtanga means literally “eight limbed”, indicating that the eight limbs of yoga are applied to the practice, both on and off the mat. This particular class will explore the majority of the Primary Series postures, with an emphasis on alignment and breath; recommended for students with some yogic experience and a desire for a challenging practice. Music may be used, though it is not a traditional aspect of the Ashtanga yoga practice.
ASHTANGA/VINYASA
A dynamic class that will rotate between the ashtanga full first primary series (see ashtanga description) and a vinyasa flow (power yoga) class. Class suitable for ages 14 and up. Call or email if you wish to know who is teaching and what style class will be taught that week. Come dressed to sweat.
BEGINNER’S YOGA
Yoga for every BODY. No experience necessary, each class will be suited
to beginners, but those with experience are welcome, too. Learn breathing
techniques, stretch and strengthen the body and quiet the mind. Give yoga a chance to change your
life. Be sure to review the “Preparing for Class” link
that is on our schedule page, or call/email with questions.
CANDLELIGHT YOGA
A gentle, flowing class for yogis of all ages and abilities. Great class for beginners. Ease into your work week with this soothing practice in our beautiful, candlelit studio. Occasionally includes restorative yoga poses, and yoga nidra.
CHILDREN’S YOGA
Children love yoga, and we hold classes for children periodically; check the calendar for classes currently scheduled. Children's classes are usually aimed at specific age groups; realize that well behaved children ages 12 and up can attend most yoga classes on the regular schedule.
We will begin with centering and warm-ups, then learn some poses. Children will learn how to breathe properly, and use their breath to help with stress, focus and relaxation. We will also play some yoga games and learn how to care for our wonderful growing bodies! Classes will end with a relaxation that will sometimes include visualization techniques.
HATHA FLOW
A challenging class that awakens the body/mind connection and brings awareness to how we breathe, this is a flowing style of yoga practice incorporating sun salutes, forward bends, backbends, and inversions that focus on aligning body and mind through the rhythmic movement of the breath. This class focuses on moving toward a state of surrender to the moment and each pose, increasing flexibility of mind and body, and creating a state of renewed vitality and health.
HATHA YOGA
Hatha Yoga classes include poses (asan) and breathing techniques (pranayama). Classes are more of a workshop format, with a specific emphasis in each class. For more information, see our About Hatha Yoga page.
HATHA YOGA, LEVEL 1 & LEVEL 2
Classes that indicate Level 1 are geared for beginners or people with a little yoga experience. Also a great class for someone looking for a little less intensity.
The Level 2 class has little more intensity. Focus on building strength and increasing endurance in the poses. This class will also introduce more advanced postures. Some yoga experience suggested.
KARMA YOGA CLASS
This weekly class is offered to benefit the community. A $5.00 donation is requested which will be given to a different charity each quarter. The class will be an all-level power/vinyasan class and it is appropriate for practitioners of all levels, even those who have not taken a beginner class. Current Karma class is Gentle Hatha, on Tuesdays at 4:00 pm.
MYSORE PREP
This is a led, vinyasa flow class that will teach you a sequence that you can eventually remember in order to build your own personal yoga practice. The class will flow in a similar format each week, though some of the poses will change. Continued attendance will help to prepare you for your own practice at home, or at the weekly Mysore class.
POWER YOGA (VINYASA)
Power Yoga is an athletic, vinyasa (unbroken sequence) class. In these classes the postures are all connected with movement; one pose naturally “flows” into the next. We begin with centering, warm-ups, then move into a more active practice. We wrap up with cooling, calming postures, and end with a deep relaxation. Poses flow quickly from one to the other, so a knowledge of basic yoga poses is required.
POWER YOGA EXPRESS
Same great workout as a regular 1 hour power class, squeezed into a time-saving 45 minute class. Less of an emphasis on inversions, and more emphasis on sun salutations and working up a sweat.
SATURDAY SWEAT
We’re going to crank up the heat, and work up a sweat, while practicing with a fun dance-party vibe. An all-level class with an emphasis on sun salutes and non-traditional poses. Feel free to move and groove to the beat. YOU MUST BRING YOUR OWN MAT, OR RENT OURS. Bring water and a towel.
TRIYOGA BASICS
TriYoga is a flowing style of yoga developed by international yoga teacher Kali Ray. Basics classes focus on movements to free the hips and spine, and incorporate all the traditional practices of yoga, with emphasis on TriYoga’s unique spinal wavelike movements and theory of “relaxation-in-action.” TriYoga is accessible to all individuals, body types and ranges of ability. Flowing and sustained postures are integrated with conscious breathing (pranayama) and focused mind (mudra). Specific breathing techniques and hand gestures are held throughout the practice, encouraging mindfulness and awareness. TriYoga is a deeply meditative practice that allows a student to find the union of body, mind and spirit.
YIN YOGA
Yin Yoga is a perfect complement to the dynamic and muscular (Yang) styles of yoga that emphasize the lengthening and contracting of the muscles. A Yin practice helps to release tension within and around the connective tissues of the body specifically around the hips, thighs and spine. Yin is characterized by long holds, intense breath work, relaxing music, and a calm meditative atmosphere. This class is suitable for all levels of students.
YOGA AND BELLYDANCE
Discovery how yoga and bellydance complement one another. This joyful, unique and refreshing fusion of yoga and belly dance is designed to offer you an easy, fun, and all around body workout for stress relief while enjoying the freedom of expressing yourself! You will be introduced to both slow and fast steps each class by drilling basic movements and putting them together in fun combinations allowing you to move and groove to world music. Bellydancing strengthens and tones not only your belly but also your arms, torso, bum, and legs. Bellydancing also gets the heart beat going providing an aerobic workout as well. This class is appropriate for all levels and provides an opportunity for women to dance with each other and feel empowered by the art of the bellydance!
YOGA CONDITIONING
Looking to get in shape or increase your overall body strength? Yoga Conditioning is the perfect way to go. Taught at a vigorous pace this lively class will combine Vinyasa sequences, challenging standing/balancing poses, and Pilates mat exercises that will work together to build strength, stamina, and flexibility. Special areas of focus will include upper body and core strength! We will finish the class with a cool down sequence, designed to re-center your body and spirit. |