Descriptions
It's not always easy to get the feeling of a class from it's name and level on the schedule. The words may not be familiar and the levels may be relative. We've tried to give some guidance. Please feel free to try different classes.
| Styles | Levels |
| Ashtanga Yoga | Level 1 |
| Vinyasa Yoga | Level 1-2 |
| Intro to Yoga | Level 2 |
| Prenatal Yoga | Level 2-3 |
| Lunchtime Yoga | Open |
| Candlelight Yoga | |
| Community Yoga | |
| Community Meditation |
Classes
Ashtanga Yoga: This is a dynamic system of sequential postures, linked through coordinated breath and movement, which generates a purifying internal heat. The "Primary Series" also known as Yoga Chikitsa , or Yoga Therapy, is meant to strengthen and purify the body. Consistent practice of Ashtanga yoga sets one on a path of profound transformation. In the vigorous Ashtanga classes, you will practice the same series of poses each class with little variation. For more information about the history of Ashtanga Yoga and its founder Sri K. Patthabi Jois, please go to www.ashtanga.com
Ashtanga I (Half Primary Series): This class introduces students to the dynamic quality of Ashtanga yoga. This class moves throughout the sun salutations and standing postures, while also exploring the postures and sequence of the first half of the Ashtanga Primary Series. The class is designed to develop strength, coordination, flexibility, and concentration while introducing students to vinyasa (flowing sequence of transitional movements), Ujjayi breathing (an intense resonant breath), bandhas (energy locks) and dristhis (visual focus).
Full Primary Series: This class is devoted to teaching the full Primary Series of the Ashtanga yoga system. The student learns the importance of utilizing ujjayi breathing, bandhas, and drishtis while moving through the postures of the Primary Series with correct vinyasa. This is an intense yet invigorating practice, which over time develops suppleness of the body, clarity in the mind and lightness of spirit.
Mysore Style: This class offers the experience of Ashtanga yoga as taught at the Ashtanga Yoga Research Institute in Mysore, India. Students in this class practice either the first half of the primary series, the full primary series, or the second series at his/her own pace while the instructor works with students individually to assist and adjust them in their practice. It is not necessary to have the series committed to memory. Your instructor will give you assistance. This method of practice helps to put the student in touch with the deep meditative aspects of the practice as you move in time with your own breath.
Vinyasa Yoga: Vinyasa yoga is a style of yoga where the breath is linked with movement and the poses are sequenced for a specific effect. Vinyasa yoga has influences in a variety of styles including Ashtanga and traditional forms of Hatha yoga. Vinyasa is also often called "Flow" yoga because students physically "flow" from one pose to the next. This style is easily adapted to the needs of the student and is great for building both strength and flexibility. Different sequences and postures may be explored each week. Teachers may interweave different styles of yoga depending on their personal backgrounds and experiences. If you have questions about a particular teacher's style, please check her bio or contact us for more information.
Vinyasa Foundations: This vinyasa class (see vinyasa description) has an emphasis on mindfulness, integral movement and breathing techniques, creative and progressive sequences adaptable to the students' abilities and needs. Ideal for the continuing beginner yoga student as well as those seeking to refine their practice.
Anusara Inspired: The poses in Anusara Yoga are considered to be "heart-oriented," meaning that they are expressed from the "inside out." On our mat, we endeavor to always remember the spiritual purpose or highest intention of practicing hatha yoga including reconnecting with our innate Goodness and expressing ourselves from the Divine place.
Prenatal: This restorative and gentle yoga practice is safe for pregnant women at every stage of pregnancy. The class incorporates poses and pranayama (breath work) to assist the mother during her pregnancy and help with labor and delivery. Informed by the traditional Hatha Yoga tradition, the class promotes flexibility, strength, alignment, concentration and relaxation.
Introduction to Yoga: If you are new to yoga, or want to get reacquainted, this four-week series covers the basics of yoga including proper alignment of basic poses, modifications for injuries, and proper breathing techniques. This is a basic vinyasa yoga class. This is a unique class in that we require registration and space is limited to 14 students to provide more personalized instruction.
Community Yoga: This free yoga class is offered through the generous donation of time and expertise of our teachers. This is a great way to experience a variety of teaching styles, while gathering with the community and experiencing our way to extend the benefits of yoga to all. The yoga class is one hour and is a moderate class appropriate for most people who have a little familiarity with yoga. The teacher and style may from week to week.
Community Meditation:The meditation is 30 minutes and is open to all, usually consisting of one or two shorter meditations.
Lunchtime Yoga: This mid-day class is appropriate for beginners, those recovering from injury on those who wish to have a slower more gentle class.
Candlelight Yoga: This Monthly class is meant to help recharge and restore the body, mind and soul. Combining elements of slow flow vinyasa, Yin Yoga, restorative yoga, deep relaxation, and guided meditation in a soothing stress-free environment, this class will use techniques that have been shown to help strengthen the parasympathetic nervous system and the immune system. You will feel a deeper connection to yourself and your body. Doing this from time to time helps to build a reservoir of energy that our normal busy lives deplete.
Levels
Level 1-2: This class is suitable for someone with a little yoga experience or who would like a slower paced class
Level 2: This is a more dynamic class suitable for those with some yoga experience or advanced beginners. Teachers may introduce other aspects of yoga such as breathing techniques, energy locks, chanting and meditation.
Level 2-3: Similar to Intermediate, this class may explore more challenging poses or move at a faster pace. Please note that even if you are physically fit, a student at this level should possess a general knowledge of yoga poses and proper alignment in those poses. None of our classes are strictly advanced.
Open: Teacher will give options suitable for different levels
