Class Description
All classes consist of five main elements:
- centering
- warm-ups
- breathing exercises (called pranayama in yoga)
- yoga poses (called asanas) and
- relaxation techniques
Classes may also include some meditation skills. Most classes are 1½ hours in duration.
Students at all levels are encouraged to go at their own pace and do only what they can.
The environment is always non-competitive and about listening to your body's needs and its inherent wisdom.
The focus in usually inwards on oneself not outwards on others. "It's not about how it looks from the outside,
but how it feels from the inside."
The emphasis is on what you can do, not what you can't do.
Students are encouraged to select a class appropriate to their level of ability and knowledge,
but can attend classes at
other levels with the caveat that they are responsible for their well-being and resolve to not overdo it.
Beginner - Introduces basic breathing exercises, yoga poses and relaxation techniques in an easy and accessible manner.
For those who are new to yoga or looking for a gentler class. Teacher often models the exercises and provides in-depth explanations.
Plenty of warm-ups included to avoid injury.
Intermediate - Assumes students are familiar with yoga and have a certain level of fitness.
Poses and pranayama are more involved and challenging and are practised for longer. Warm-ups shorter.
Explanations and demos only of more advanced exercises.
All Levels - Everyone is welcome, but techniques are not always demonstrated or fully explained in order to not interrupt the flow of class.
Modifications of different levels of a yoga pose are provided to accommodate all levels of ability.
Easy-Does-It Chair Yoga - Much gentler and often shorter.
Suitable for seniors or those who feel limited physically or energetically due to chronic illness or recent surgery.
Many activities may be done using a chair. More focus on warm-ups and relaxation techniques.
Builds a greater range of flexibility and balance in the body.
Advanced - Prepare to sweat. Prepare to breath. At this level, yoga can become an aerobic activity.
The pace is faster with minimal warm-ups. May include many sun salutes and advanced poses such as handstand, headstand, wheel etc. Poses may be held for longer.
Assumes a high degree of fitness and/or flexibility and a willing spirit.
Teen Yoga - Yoga for teenagers in a non-competitive environment. Indirectly addresses self-esteem and
confidence issues as well as anger management and stress relief. Poses may
be taught at a more challenging level depending on the physicality and flexibility of participants.
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