What is yoga?
The word “yoga” is derived from a Sanskrit word which means to join or to yoke. In the Western world, yoga is often defined as union of body and mind. Because it is a seemingly esoteric concept and has a spiritual component, some people find yoga intimidating. There is no doubt that yoga is much more than a physical practice. Yet, whether or not one is on a spiritual path, an asana practice in and of itself will, at the very least, promote structural stability and physiological and emotional health. Eventually students can use the physical body to access consciousness and eventually reach deep into the mind.
What should I expect in a yoga class?
Yoga is an ancient practice that has been handed down through the ages from teacher to student. This unbroken tradition can be found all over the world. Yoga classes at Inspire Yoga are made up of a series or sequence of poses or postures, known as asanas. These asanas were designed to tone the whole body and provide a sense of physical well being which, in turn, strengthens and calms the mind. Types of asanas include standing poses, seated poses, twists, forward bends, back bends, and inversions.
What are the different types of yoga offered?
HATHA YOGA
Hatha yoga refers to the general practice of yoga asanas (postures) to develop flexibility and relaxation; to encourage proper alignment of the body; and to bring balance, strength, and calmness to the practitioner. Appropriate for the brand-new beginner as well as the experienced yogi, these classes focus on the basic postures and exercises, practiced one at a time with attention to building a good foundation, and balancing effort with rest. Sun salutations are often practiced as a warm-up, and standing poses may be linked one to the next, cultivating the technique of flowing from one posture to the next in a safe and conscious way.
GENTLE YOGA
Gentle yoga focuses on basic postures, breathing exercises, and gentle therapeutics. This practice is appropriate for those suffering from arthritis or fibromyalgia, or with limited mobility due to other factors. Pregnant women may also choose this class. Beginners as well as anyone with injury, pain, or other special needs will benefit.
VINYASA
Vinyasa yoga is an evolving form of traditional hatha yoga which, with regular practice, creates profound life changes. Vinyasa, which literally means “to place in a special way” explores dynamic sequences of poses designed to cultivate increased strength and flexibility and reduced tension and stress. In a typical Vinyasa class, we link breath to movement in a continuous flow of postures which are carefully chosen by the instructor based on the appropriate level of each class. This combination of breath, movement, and intense focus builds an internal heat that heals and revitalizes mind, body and spirit. These classes are most suitable for those with some experience in yoga.
YOGA FLOW
This gently flowing hatha class introduces the principles of vinyasa, or flow, in a safe and supportive way. The slow, graceful practice builds strength, promotes deep stretching and detoxification. This class will nurture brand new beginners and challenge experienced students.
Power flow
Designed to build strength, stamina, flexibility, and balance, this sequence is modeled after the Bikram series of poses and is performed in a heated room to safely promote deep stretching and detoxification. This series is appropriate for any level of practitioner, including the brand new beginner. Bring a towel and water to this class.
Anusara-inspired yoga
Anusara Yoga, a style of hatha yoga founded by legendary teacher John Friend, combines precise physical alignments with a joyful connection to the heart. Through the Universal Principles of Alignment, balanced energetic action, and the power of intention, the practice of hatha yoga becomes a beautiful process of transformation and celebration. With a regular and dedicated practice, we can reconnect to our own true nature of equanimity, balance, sensitivity, courage, and harmony.
Vinyasa
Vinyasa yoga is an evolving form of traditional hatha yoga which, with regular practice, creates profound life changes. Vinyasa, which literally means “to place in a special way” explores dynamic sequences of poses designed to cultivate increased strength and flexibility and reduced tension and stress. In a typical Vinyasa class, we link breath to movement in a continuous flow of postures which are carefully chosen by the instructor based on the appropriate level of each class. This combination of breath, movement, and intense focus builds an internal heat that heals and revitalizes mind, body and spirit. These classes are most suitable for those with some experience in yoga.
Beginners 5-week sessions
Recommended for students of all ages and fitness levels, these five-week sessions focus on introducing new students to the practice of yoga. They will prepare new students to enter ongoing classes and help more experienced students refine and deepen their practice. Participants will learn the key points of yoga history and philosophy, the basic postures and their modifications, and begin to still and focus their minds. Through conscious breathing and simple yoga postures in a safe and supportive environment, students will gain a new perspective on life and confidently begin or continue a lifetime of yoga practice.
See our schedule page for the next Beginners session.
Yoga Basics
This course introduces the basic postures of Anusara Yoga refined by alignments, actions and uplifting qualities of the heart. Start at the beginning and progress each week in classes that include breath awareness and deep relaxation. Designed for those starting Anusara yoga and continuing beginners.
What do I wear?
It is best to wear comfortable clothing to a yoga class but preferably something not so loose or baggy that it gets in the way of movement or interferes with the teacher’s ability to see that you are properly aligned and using your body correctly. Yoga is practiced without shoes or socks.
Where do I start?
If you are new to yoga, it is best to start with beginner classes and learn the system rather than relying on the fact that you are in good shape and jump right into more advanced classes. This means beginning with either Gentle Yoga, the Beginners workshop, or Anusara Yoga Basics; combined with or followed by a good amount of hatha or yoga flow classes. Hot Yoga classes are also perfect for the more adventurous beginner; be prepared to work hard and sweat! Once you are comfortable with basic alignment and breathing techniques, feel free to join the vinyasa flow classes. Only you and your teachers can determine at what point you move on to more advanced practice. Many students choose to stay at level 1-2 for years in order to master the basics and work at a pace that is comfortable for them. If you have any questions, contact the studio for advice on classes or teachers that would be appropriate for you.
What do I need to bring?
You will need a yoga mat. Bring your own if you have one, or rent one from us for $1. It is highly recommended to purchase your own yoga mat. We sell several types here at the studio. You may want to bring a towel, particularly to hot yoga or Vinyasa classes.
Come well hydrated! If you are coming to hot yoga, you may want to have a bottle of water with you. For vinyasa and hatha classes, drinking water can become a distraction. You are kindly asked to leave your water bottle in the lobby. Please come with an empty stomach.
