Yoga - Class Descriptions
All the YOGA classes begin with centering. This is time dedicated to create the space. We bring the body into stillness, invite the mind to empty, place our emotions in neutral and open our spirit to receive. All the classes are based on the Hatha style of yoga, yet at times may incorporate a flow typical of Vinyasa yoga or similar to Ashtanga yoga.
Some aspects of Yin yoga is noted when we pause for an extended period of time in an asana and as well Kripalu yoga is touched on in some of the restorative postures. The classes are a beautiful blend of some of the most time honored practices from the East. Pranayama (breathing exercises), meditation, asana (poses) and some chanting are all incorporated into most classes. “You do not need to bend over backwards to benefit”. There is so much more than just the poses to experienced and enjoyed in a Yoga class.
Gentle YOGA
All levels will enjoy this peaceful, rejuvenating class. Emphasis is on joining the breath with spinal movement. This in itself, quiets the mind, bringing about a wonderful sense of calm. Verbal and hands on guidance is offered to help each student become familiar with proper alignment. Modifications are recommended and explored to accommodate each individuals abilities. This class enlivens every cell of the body, releasing tension, detoxifying the body and creating a calm, clear and focused mind.
Conscious YOGA
This class is very similar to the Gentle Yoga class. The main difference is noted at end of the class. This class is offered later in the evening, therefore more time is dedicated to prepare the body for a restful sleep. It is very important not to over stimulate the body which would interfere with proper sleeping patterns. We must learn to honour the body’s need to rest. When we sleep peacefullyour bodies becomes renewed, strengthened and revitalized.
Restorative-Flow YOGA
Once again this class is very similar to the Gentle Yoga, but there is a constant FLOW. Involving more restorative asanas and Yin (slow/gentle) movements. Specifically delivering beneficial Yoga to those with a wide variety of health conditions, such as diabetes, heart and circulatory conditions, auto-immune disorders, arthritis and many others. This class will help to trigger the natural healing process through the use of yoga postures with props, pranic healing/breath work and visualization.
Power YOGA
This fun, challenging class combines traditional yoga with dynamic movement and breathing. Practice begins with centering, followed by postures to warm up all major muscles and joints, then moves into a challenging series to build core strength, balance, flexibility, and endurance. The practice places demands on all of the muscle groups, boosting circulation and improving muscle tone. Yin style postures (long-held postures that stimulate the health and flexibility of the joints) are incorporated throughout. Class ends with deep relaxation and breathing. Vigorous sequences can be expected, however each pose can be modified to suit the practitioner’s level of skill. All levels welcome!
Teen YOGA
Gentle YOGA class for TEENS ONLY. The practice of Yoga can be a phenomenal tool to help deal with the challenges of high school, college or the start of university. Classes will help develop skills to modify and improve on maladaptive coping mechanisms that may have been adopted by over stimulated adolescent minds. Classes explore the ‘egoic’ mind and offer insight to the ‘mind games’ that we are all perpetually bombarded with – unfortunately it is usually negatively chatter. This class helps build self-confidence, independence and brings about the use of the ‘new’ brain or neocortex. It will help with releasing negative patterns and creating new pathways in the brain. “Boy, I wish I had these tools as a teen!”
Pre-Natal Yoga
Pre-natal yoga prepares women physically, mentally and emotionally for the process of childbirth. Yoga increases strength, stamina, flexibility and body awareness and it reduces fatigue and improves relaxation. The class includes a mixture of balancing, strengthening and restorative poses as well as breathing techniques. It is beneficial for every stage of pregnancy and does not require previous yoga experience.
Yoga for Runners
For runners and endurance athletes. Yoga for runners focuses on the body needs of runners. This class is designed to bring awareness to the structural and muscular imbalances caused by repetitive strain on the specific muscles and joints used in running. Each week incorporates work in areas key for runners: hips, hamstrings, core strength and breathing.
Denis is registered with Yoga Alliance
