Deep Stretch Yoga
Deep Stretch Yoga is a slower moving class which integrates the principles of essential breath work, yin yoga, and vinyasa yoga. Each class will concentrate on a designated area of the body, working deep into the connective tissue and muscle to provide a profound level of release. We will incorporate longer holds with segments of gentle flowing movement. This class will challenge you physically yet provide a safe, nurturing environment for spiritual and emotional wellbeing.
Yin Yoga
Yin yoga has been referred to as "old school yoga" because of it's similarities to the original form of asana practice (yoga poses.) As Yin yoga is rediscovered more and more students are adding this form of yoga to their regular practice. A dedicated yoga practice will make anyone healthier, stronger, and more flexible, but at some point the muscles will have reached their limit of flexibility. New depths in postures, deeper ranges of motion, or an increased flow of energy may only be achievable by focusing on the deeper tissues of the body. This is why so many students are finding Yin Yoga to be the perfect compliment and balance to their more active practices and lifestyles.
Yin Yoga will also teach you how to “exercise” your awareness and sensitivity by slowing down, paying attention and involving yourself mentally in what you are experiencing. This skill quickly reduces stress. The practice of Yin Yoga also brings you a deep sense of peace and well-being.
Vinyasa Flow Yoga
Classes described as vinyasa or vinyasa flow synchronize the breath with a flowing sequence of postures and typically use transitional vinyasa sequences between sustained postures as well. Vinyasa yoga often includes components such as sun salutations, ujjayi pranayama, bandhas (constrictions of specific muscles and organs to contain energy) and drishti (gaze.) Vinyasa flow teachers compose their classes in ways that connect poses with breath-synchronized movements. Asanas, vinyasa and pranayama are creatively sequenced to develop internal awareness, build heat and explore energizing effects.
Ujjayi Pranayama
Ujjayi pranayama (victory breath) is the breathing method used during many styles of yoga practice. A whispering "haaahhh" sound is made by contracting the glottis in the back of the throat and breathing through the nostrils with closed lips. Yoga classes may also include other forms of pranayama, but ujjayi is the continuous rhythmic breath that builds heat and provides a mantra of ocean sound to enhance the fluid nature of the practice. The ujjayi breath should be long and deep; this stretching of the breath serves to calm the mind. Yoga practices which incorporate ujjayi pranayama are often referred to as a moving meditation, as the continuous awareness of breath helps develop focus, concentration and draws us deeper into internal sensations.
