begin/renew
Being a beginner can be a complete state of being. In Zen Buddhism the concept refers to an attitude of openness, eagerness, and lack of preconceptions when studying a subject. This is true, even if you have studied the subject at hand at an advanced level. You can always choose to approach the world as a beginner.
This series of five classes will immerse you into the groundwork of building a solid yoga practice through:
- asana: body alignment
- pranayama: breath awareness
- dhyāna: meditation
beyond the basics
Expand your awareness of yoga’s eight limbs from asana (posture) to pranayama (breathwork) and beyond. This class offers you a chance to explore the deeper layers of alignment, anatomy and some of the lesser recognized branches of yogic practice. If you have been taking class consistently for at least six months and are interested expanding your knowledge of yoga as a whole, this is your class.
fundamentals
Fairly new to yoga? Our fundamental level class is designed with the beginner in mind. The focus is an introduction to basic yoga poses & healthy alignment. Your practice will focus on standing asana (poses) such as Tadasana (mountain), Virabrahdrasana I & II (Warrior poses), Trikonasana (Triangle), Adho Mukha Savasana (Downward Facing Dog). Seated poses plus beginner modifications to inversions and backbends will also be included. Yogic breathing, meditation, and relaxation techniques are also incorporated.
classical hatha
While almost all styles of yoga offered here are hatha based, at Yoga Elements our hatha classes concentrate on the learning of traditional asana (postures), breathing, mindfulness, and listening to the body. Unlike our Vinyasa based classes in which students flow through poses connected by sun salutations, in a Hatha class, emphasis is placed on longer held poses, core strength, flexibility, balance & concentration.
core and restore
Guided breath work to release chronic holding. A core strengthening session with asanas essential for supporting the spine. End with restorative poses supported with blocks, straps and bolsters to release shoulders, hips and spine. This class is appropriate for all levels.
kripalu
A flow of postures with emphasis on body awareness, alignment and coordination of breath & movement. Students are encouraged to practice at their own level, using variations and modifications to give postures more or less challenge. Classes may be enhanced by music, aromatherapy and inspirational readings to promote meditative awareness.
prenatal
For our pregnant Yoginis. Strengthen and open the body in preparation for the natural process of pregnancy and delivery. Learn poses to relieve common discomforts of pregnancy. Enjoy the sacred space to connect to the new growing life. All levels of experience and stages of pregnancy are welcome. Please get a yoga “okay” from your Obstetrician.
purely restore
This class is designed to facilitate deep relaxation and rest. The class includes pranayama (breathing exercises), guided meditation while students recline in a restorative position. During deep relaxation, all the organ systems of the body are benefited.
A few of the measurable results of deep relaxation are the reduction of blood pressure, serum triglycerides and blood sugar levels in the blood, the increase of the “good cholesterol” levels, as well as improvement in digestion, fertility, elimination, the reduction of muscle tension, insomnia and generalized fatigue.
Restorative poses are an important part of any long-term yoga practice: they recharge our energy reserves, heal the effects of stress, and bring our nervous systems into a more balanced state.
therapeutic wisdom
For those 50 years and older. We were not born with a manual for our bodies. Dawn has studied yoga therapeutics with internationally recognized experts. This class combines practices scientifically recognized to safely bring the body back to its optimum performance. Safely and effectively reduce neck, back and shoulder pain. Learn how to use yoga props to adapt poses to your body rather than trying to make your body fit a pose. Increase strength and energy levels. Feel like yourself again.
vinyasa flow
A powerful flow of hatha yoga postures, linked through a series of connecting movements, synchronized with smooth, deep breathing. Learn safe transitions between poses to flow through your practice. This class is not recommended if you have shoulder, knee or hip injury/arthritis.
yin yang yoga (earth)
Build muscle strength and flexiblity with a flow of heat building Yang poses. Then stretch connective tissue to open hips pelvis and lower back in a safe way with long held and supported Yin poses. A balanced practice perfect for the end of the day.
you and me kiddo (earth)
A yoga practice for a kid and their favorite adult.
The habits we cultivate as youth can be a benchmark for our whole life. Young folks can acquire physical and physiological benefits such as toned muscles, upright posture, a balanced nervous system, and free and healthy breathing patterns through the practice of yoga. This class will assist your child to start on the right path physically while also offering cues for mental grounding and awareness.
A wonderful chance to bond with your child.
Adult (18 and up) must be accompanied by a young person (suggested age range is 5-9) to attend class.
