Getting Started with

Hatha Yoga

Hatha Yoga is the path of physical yoga or the yoga of postures. It is the most widely practiced form of yoga in the world. Through proper alignment of postures (asanas), conscious breathing (pranayama) and in combination with mental focus it develop awareness, strength, flexibility and relaxation. Hatha Yoga is great for students of all levels of experience.
Hatha classes are rejuvenating and relaxing. Classes typically start with a centering practice of some breath work or a short meditation. Afterwards the instructor will guide the class through a series of poses, called asanas, and sequences of breath work (pranayama). The asana practice is designed to move the body in many different directions, encouraging strength, flexibility and balance. Pranayama practice calms the mind and encourages focus and health. The class ends with a long deep relaxation pose called savasana. Followed by a cup of warm yummy decaffeinated yogi tea for transition back into your day.

What to bring to class?

Please bring a yoga mat if you have one. We do have mats here at the studio that you may borrow if this is your first visit. Our rooms are fully equipped with yoga props, such as pillows, blankets, straps, blocks and bolsters.
Yoga is practiced with bare feet and an empty stomach. It is advisable to wait two hours after eating a meal before your yoga practice. Drink plenty of water after your class.

How often should I Practice ?

Yoga practice offers optimal benefits when practiced daily. For a beginner, twice a week is a reasonable start. Most people feel so good when they do yoga, they want to do it more and more!

Many Hatha Yoga classes use the word Namaste at the beginning or ending of class.

Namaste means “ I bow to the Divine in you ” .

Another word that is commonly used in class is OM , which means ” the Divine which manifests as all that is”.

Getting Started with

Hatha FlowYoga

Hatha Flow links the postures practiced in a regular Hatha class into a

sequence of movements that “flow with the breath “ in a more vigorous series. Hatha Flow involves moving from one posture to another with very little rest in between and creates a strong cardiovascular workout.

Who Can Practice Hatha Flow ?

Hatha Flow classes are best suited for students who:

•  Have practiced Hatha Yoga for at least one month.
•  Are familiar with Sun Salutations
•  Have practiced inversion postures such as headstand or shoulder stand, and are willing to try inversions.
•  Seek a stronger physical workout in their yoga practice.

What are the benefits of Hatha Flow?

Hatha Flow or “ Vinyasa ” yoga will build strength, increase endurance, energize your body and increase flexibility and muscle tone.
The class ends with a long deep relaxation pose called savasana. Followed by a cup of warm yummy decaffeinated yogi tea for transition back into your day.
Many Hatha Yoga classes use the word Namaste at the beginning or ending of class.

Namaste means “ I bow to the Divine in you ” .

Another word that is commonly used in class is OM , which means ” the Divine which manifests as all that is”.

Getting Started with

Hot Yoga Yoga

Hot Yoga is a style of Hatha Yoga that originated from a lineage in Calcutta, India. The yoga classes are practice in a heated room to stretch and strengthen various areas of the body. The practice brings vital balance and restores all systems to optimal health. Consistency will create physical, mental and spiritual harmony that will be felt in all areas of your life.

What to expect in Hot Yoga Class?

The room is intentionally hot. It is heated to warm up muscles, prevent injuries and allow for a deeper release in your body. Sweating will also help to flush out toxins and poisons from the body.

What to bring to class ?

Please bring a yoga mat if you have one. We do have mats here at the studio that you may borrow if this is your first visit. You will also want to bring a towel., large of small and plenty of water to hydrate before, during and after your practice. Yoga is practiced with bare feet and an empty stomach. It is advisable to wait two hours after eating a meal before you practice.

How often should I practice ?

Yoga practice offers optimal benefits when practiced daily. For a beginner, twice a week is a reasonable start. most people feel so good when they do yoga, they want to do it more often!

Namaste means “ I bow to the Divine in you ” .

Another word that is commonly used in class is OM , which means ” the Divine which manifests as all that is”.

Getting Started with

Kundalini Yoga

Kundalini Yoga, the Yoga of Awareness

Is a powerful and dynamic practice that incorporates all aspects of yoga. In addition to developing physical vitality, this ancient system of yoga works with the energy systems of the body for emotional balancing, strengthening of the nervous system, stress relief and personal transformation. It is excellent for students of all levels. The best way to learn about Kundalini Yoga is to experience it!

What to expect in a Kundalini Yoga Class?

Kundalini classes begin with a time for centering. We call this "tuning in". The teacher leads the class in the mantra: "Ong Namo, Guru Dev Namo", which means "I call upon my own inner guidance, the teacher within me". Students may follow along or listen as they like.
The class is then lead in 10 - 20 minutes of warm-up exercises, which prepare the body for the yoga set (kriya) that follows. Each yoga set involves physical postures (asana), breath work (pranayama), and meditative focus. Yoga is followed by a long deep relaxation and a short meditation that allows time for regeneration and stress release.

What to bring, what to wear ?

For Kundalini classes, you only need to bring yourself. Many people feel comfortable bringing their own yoga mat, or a towel to lie on, and a light blanket or shawl to cover up with during relaxation if they tend to ge cold. Cushions are available for you to use in the class. Wear comfortable clothing the you can move and breathe in easily. Yoga is best done on an empty stomach. If you find it necessary to eat before class, choose a light, easily digestible snack.

Keep up - Practice Makes Perfect

Ultimately, yoga practice is best done daily. Even a few minutes every day can make a big difference. But any practice, however often, will be beneficial. Two to three times a week will provide noticeable results. Some students find that having a "yoga buddy" helps them maintain their commitment to practice. Invite a friend to attend classes with your or meet a friend in class that like to keep a similar schedule. Talk to your teachers about yoga sets for home practice.

Sat Nam

In many classes, the mantra Sat Nam is used. Literally, "Sat" means Truth and "nam" means Name or Identity. Together the words mean You Identify with the Highest Truth Within Yourself. Each class ends with the song: "May the long time sun shine upon you, All love surround you, And the pure light within you, Guide your way on".