Health & Fitness

Item Description

CLASS DESCRIPTIONS

Hatha Yoga is the traditional form of yoga in which postures are practiced to align, strengthen and promote flexibility in the body. Breathing techniques and meditation are also commonly practiced. All classes on the schedule are hatha yoga, unless otherwise noted.

Ashtanga Yoga is a mixed level class where each student is given personal attention to learn the series, as taught by Sri K. Pattabhi Jois.  This series is specifically designed to create a balance of strength, flexibility, and mental clarity.  It is appropriate for anyone as its empowerment comes from finding your own way through, as those around you find theirs.

Iyengar Yoga, devised by B.K.S. Iyengar and refined over his lifetime is a system of hatha yoga postures (asana) and breathing (pranayama) for people of all ages, abilities, and walks of life. Iyengar yoga stresses (1) precise movement and action, and correct alignment in all postures; (2) the use of props which enhance and enable the correct action of the poses and makes them accessible to any type of body, flexible or stiff, healthy or ill; (3) precise sequencing of poses, allowing the teacher and/or practitioner to respond to particular physical, physiological, or psychological needs, combined with (4) timing and pacing of the poses, which can be carefully altered, varied and adjusted according to need. Iyengar yoga teaches purity of intention and integrity of process.

Prenatal and Postnatal Yoga 
Moms to be with little or no yoga experience and those with an existing yoga practice are equally welcome. These classes focuses on strengthening and opening the body, learning how to relax, and breath awareness, in order to experience a comfortable pregnancy, and prepare for birth and recovery. Check the schedule for specific prenatal, postnatal and combination classes.

Restorative Yoga utilizes a series of supported poses designed to relax the body and soothe the soul.

Slow Deep Stretch emphasizes flexibility in the major muscles as well as those surrounding the primary joints. Emphasis is placed on the breath to open space through the body and relieve physical and mental tension.  Slow-Deep-Stretch is influenced strongly by Taoist Yoga, a form of Chi Kung, an ancient Chinese art comprised of various techniques for developing and directing vital energy, known as chi or prana. This class is appropriate for beginners.

Kundalini Yoga is based on the chakra system and focuses on the healing of specific areas of the mind, body and emotions. Its "sets" incorporate dynamic movements, breathing, meditations and guided relaxation.

Pilates is a popular training program created and named by Joseph Pilates has become a key influence in mind/body movement.  Introduced in New York in the 1920’s, Pilates was adapted by dancers, gymnasts and performers, who needed agility and strength without bulky musculature. Originally part of a private session on equipment, the mat work has evolved into a class of its own.   While a group setting allows for less individualized attention, this class will emphasize good technique.   Proper form allows one to build strength balanced by flexibility, and is important in preventing injuries and promoting overall health.  Concepts from other bodywork methods are incorporated into class when applicable.  This is not just a mindless series of Pilates exercises; the class is tailored to the student’s needs. Emphasis on strengthening the abdominals, flexibility of the spine, coordination, and using the mind to control body actions are some core concepts of the method.  Breath is integrated to facilitate ease in the movement.

Item Special Note

Expires 12/31/11