About Yoga and our Class Descriptions
What is yoga?
Yoga is a tradition and a science with roots in ancient India that has evolved over centuries to embrace the wisdom of many places and times. Although it means something different to each person, it is rooted in oneness or returning to the Source. Throughout history, it has been split into various 'schools' focusing on different aspects of yoga. Each branch is of the same tree, the tree of the Self. Yoga means union.
Yoga is a tradition and a science with roots in ancient India that has evolved over centuries to embrace the wisdom of many places and times. Although it means something different to each person, it is rooted in oneness or returning to the Source. Throughout history, it has been split into various 'schools' focusing on different aspects of yoga. Each branch is of the same tree, the tree of the Self. Yoga means union.
Styles and Teachings.
Yoga 101-is a basics class for those who want to begin or get a little more information about Yoga. This class is generally slower and perfect for those just starting out. We will work with all the essential elements of a well rounded yoga practice, but just a little slower.
Hatha Yoga -Represents opposing energies: hot and cold (fire and water, following similar concept as yin-yang), male and female, positive and negative. Hatha yoga attempts to balance mind and body via physical postures or "asanas", purification practices, controlled breathing, and the calming of the mind through relaxation and meditation. Asanas teach poise, balance and strength and are practised to improve the body's physical health and clear the mind in preparation for meditation in the pursuit of enlightenment.
Vinyasa- Denotes a flowing, dynamic form of yoga, connected to breath or pranayama in which yoga and mudra transitions are embodied as linkages within and between asana.
Yin/Yang-Yoga balances the practices of Yin and Yang yoga, finding flow in stillness and stillness in movement. In Yin Yoga, long-held passive poses draw energy into the facia, ligament and tendons of the body bringing ‘juiciness” and flexibility to these often dry stiff part of the body. In contrast, Yang Yoga (Vinyasa is type of Yang yoga) is a fluid movement of poses linked together by the breath. Heat is created, muscles are strengthened and we express ourselves energetically. In this union of practices, every part of the body is enlivened and engaged.
Universal Yoga- is a unified scientific approach to achieving liberation of consciousness through a balanced application of physical, energetic and psychic practices. Universal yoga offers a balanced combination of static and dynamic strengthening and stretching poses suitable for a wide range of physical ability levels
Acro Yoga-Blends the spiritual wisdom of yoga, the loving kindness o Thai massage, and the dynamic power of Acrobatics. These three ancient lineages form the foundation of a unique new practice that cultivates trust, connection and playfulness.
Dharma Mittra Yoga -A a classical, flowing hatha style originated by New York City-based yogi Dharma Mittra, creator of the Master Yoga Chart of 908 Poses. Dharma?s energizing Shiva Namaskar sequence focuses on opening the hips, shoulders and upper back and includes variations for every level of student. Poses are repeated so that students may go deeper into them each time. Many options are given, so that all levels will feel challenged/comfortable. The emphasis is on practicing in a playful, relaxed manner.