Yoga - Class Descriptions
All the YOGA classes begin with centring. 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 honoured 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. Emphyasis 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 accomodate each individuals abilities. This class is 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. As it is done in the later evening, more time is dedicated to prepare for a restful night’s sleep. It is very important not to over stimulate the body which would interfer with proper sleeping patterns. We must learn to honour the body’s need rest during which time it becomes renewed, strengthened and revitalized.
Teen YOGA
Gentle YOGA class for TEENS ONLY. The practise of Yoga can be a phemominal 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 mal-adaptive 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 our mind perpetually bombards us with – 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
These classes are specifically designed to help strengthen and balance the body, mind and spirit for the preganacy journey. The class prepares mom-to-be for labour, not just physically, but mentally as well. Developing a strong pelvic floor is not just great for pregnancy and labour, but also enhances the sensation and brings about heightened awarness during intimate connection.
Post-Natal YOGA
A wonderful class specifically designed for mom’s and infants. Once post-partum bleeding has stopped mom and baby can venture out and enjoy a social class together. Babies enjoy yogic massages that mom’s are taught. Moms enjoy the benefits of their body’s speedy return to it’s natural state. Nursing, diaper hygiene, cooing and cuddling are all welcome. No expectations are made for any classes as each infant has their own natural rythme and seldom do they match with anyone else. The class is very free flowing and modified each second to accomodate everyone.
For saftey reasons, once baby is mobile this precious experience must come to an end. Take advantage of this short period of time and enjoy a wonderful break WITH your precious bundle of joy.
Denis is registered with Yoga Alliance
