Iyengar Yoga 101

A 5-week introductory series taught by Colleen Fontes, an Iyengar Certified teacher.  Students new to Iyengar yoga will learn the basis of the Iyengar Method and the foundation of basic postures.  Come and experience how this methodical approach to the study of hatha yoga leads to not just increased vitality and ease of movement , but also to self awareness, intelligent evaluation and profound inward reflection.  Iyengar Yoga 101 is also suitable for anyone who skipped beginner classes and needs a primary foundation.  After this series students can continue in the Beginner or Multi-Level regular classes.

Beginner Yoga

Provides a solid introduction to the classic yoga asanas (physical postures), breath work and relaxation.   Students learn  how to align correctly in each pose,  avoid common injuries and how to integrate movement with the breath.  This series is suitable for students new to yoga, or those returning after a long absence.

Gentle Beginner Yoga  

For beginner students who need a gentle introduction to yoga.  Although the class is taught at a slower pace students are still challenged to improve their  strength, balance and flexibility.

Intermediate Yoga

I ntroduces the more advanced classical asanas(physical postures), refines the practice and techniques of introductory asanas and challenges the student to a higher level of balance, strength and flexibility.   More advanced Pranyama (yogic breathing) is covered.

Multi-Level Yoga

A mixed class suitable for advanced beginners and  intermediate level students.  Poses are taught with variations that allow the student to select their level of challenge.  The pace and difficulty of the class is more challenging than the regular beginner class and students must have greater strength and flexibility at this level. Pranyama (yogic breathing) is included.

Vinyasa (Flow Yoga)  

This class is a mixed level class that is also suitable for beginners.  It  combines the teaching of alignment based yoga asanas (poses) with more vigorous yoga flows (vinyasa).  A yoga flow, or vinyasa, is where individual poses are linked together creating a continuous stream of movement .  As the student moves from one asana to the next  the challenge is to maintain the integrity of each pose..  Suitable for high energy students who like to keep moving.  If you have a diagnosed back condition or other ailment please contact the studio first to see if this class is suitable for you. 

Introduction to Meditation for Beginners

Meditation is an ancient practice, yet has relevance in helping  to soothe the stresses of  modern life.    In this 4 class series we will explore foundational meditation techniques drawn from a variety of traditions, which will include working with the breath, using sounds and mantras, images and visualizations, mindfullness and "natural " meditations.  These techniques teach us how to quiet the mind and gently connect with inner awareness during daily activities, creating spaciousness.     It brings us to a more centered and harmonious way of being.    Taught by Susan Wilson E-RYT, a highly skilled yoga and meditation instructor with over 25 years teaching experience.  

Monthly Meditation Group

Open to all levels, from complete beginners with little or no experience to those more seasoned practitioners.  Participation in a monthly group is a great way to stay motivated.  Within a supportive group environment new students  can explore the different styles, techniques and types if meditation and advanced students are helped to sustain a more consistent home practice.  Each class will combine a meditation practice with a discussion period that introduces simple yet powerful ways to integrate the benefits of meditation into daily life.  Taught by Susan Wilson E-RYT . (For a more structured introduction to the techniques of meditation see Introduction to Meditation for Beginners.)

Slow Stretch/ Restorative Yoga

Combines slow yoga stretches with relaxing restorative  poses and is an excellent class for stress reduction.  Restorative yoga focuses on  both physical and mental relaxation.   Slow stretching poses eases tight joints and muscles, provides particular relief to the shoulders, neck and back thereby making the whole body feel more comfortable.   Students leave feeling rejuvenated and refreshed.  

Pranyama (Yogic Breathing)

The techniques of Pranyama  harnessing increased positive energy, described in yogic terms as "prana" or life force.  Pranyama is taught in all classes beginning with basic breath awareness in the beginner classes.  Pranyama is one of the eight paths of yoga.

Prenatal Yoga

Helps keep the expectant mother toned and relaxed, encouraging her to "tune in" to her body and her breath.  Appropriate yoga poses help the student develop flexibility and strength and can provide relief for many of the discomforts normally associated with pregnancy.  Particular emphasis is on conditioning the pelvic floor and abdominals which are important for delivering the baby and for postpartum recovery.  The workshop is suitable for students at any stage whose pregnancy is progressing normally.  It is helpful if the student has some yoga experience but not essential.  Those with high risk pregnancies should call first to discuss their situation as a group class may not be appropriate for them.

Postpartum Yoga

Suitable for mothers who have delivered in the prior 6 weeks to 2 years.    It focuses on building back the strength and elasticity of abdominal and pelvic regions as these areas of the body experience the most stress during pregnancy, labor and delivery.    (Not currently scheduled as of 9/1/2011, however contact us if you are interested.)

Yamuna® Body Rolling

A wonderful system that combines the benefits of deep tissue massage with building strength and fitness. Using specially designed inflatable balls students are guided through precise routines - each one targeting specific muscle groups, joints or bones. Resulting benefits include improving circulation, detoxifying body tissue, opening up chronically tight areas and increasing range of motion within joints. Developed by body worker Yamuna Zake, the system is based on yogic principles and highly complimentary to the practice of yoga. For more detailed information click on the menu option.