Styles of Yoga

Kripalu Yoga

Kripalu yoga classes at JOY are a vinyasa flow style practice, which links fluid movement with deep yogic breathing. We practice precise alignment, combined with meditation, and spiritual intention, which will teach you how to bring yourself fully present in your body. As practice deepens, this ability to be present becomes a tangible force, transforming the techniques of yoga into an inner journey towards healing, health, happiness and to awaken higher potentials. Expect to be challenged appropriately according to your abilities.

Hatha Yoga

Hatha is a broad word to describe a system of yoga that was developed hundreds of years ago. Radical at the time, it simply means physical exercise/asana is included in the practice, rather than just meditation or mantra. Since then, a variety of “schools” of hatha yoga have developed, including Kripalu, Anusara and Ashtanga bringing there own area of focus into practice. Our Hatha yoga teachers are experienced in many of these “schools” of yoga. Therefore, each teacher offers a more eclectic approach from several years of dedicated practice.

Kundalini Yoga

Just as all rivers end up in the ocean, all yogas end up raising the Kundalini. What is the Kundalini? It is the creative potential of the human being. – Yogi Bhajan′′The ancient technology of Kundalini Yoga rejuvenates body, mind and spirit with revitalizing exercise/asana, breath/pranayama, the science of sound/mantra, uplifting meditation and relaxation that promotes health, happiness and spiritual awareness.

Specialty Classes

Insight Meditation

A method of meditation from the Theravada Buddhist tradition. During this class, you can expect to learn step by step techniques of both sitting and walking meditation, that concentrates and calms the mind, and softens the heart.

We create a respectful and safe environment where people from all traditions, backgrounds and beliefs are welcome to begin a journey into self-realization. We will coach you in techniques that will help you observe your responses to daily life. We will encourage you along the path of transformation Weather you are brand new to meditation, or experienced, insight meditation is a profound practice that leads one to live with a clear mind, and peaceful heart.

Kundalini Yoga

Just as all rivers end up in the ocean, all yogas end up raising the Kundalini. What is the Kundalini? It is the creative potential of the human being. – Yogi Bhajan

The ancient technology of Kundalini Yoga rejuvenates body, mind and spirit with revitalizing exercise/asana, breath/pranayama, the science of sound/mantra, uplifting meditation and relaxation that promotes health, happiness and spiritual awareness.

Prenatal Kundalini Yoga

Prenatal (Kundalini) Yoga uses postures, breathing, and meditation to help mothers-to-be discover a deeper sense of peace and harmony within. Gain flexibility, focus, strength, and awareness through a gentle practice that is designed especially for the pregnant woman's needs. It is a time for connecting, nurturing, slowing down and learning to meditate, while being in the company of other mothers-to-be.

A KUNDALINI PRENATAL CLASS INCLUDES;

• Stretches and exercises that are presented with variations appropriate for all stages of pregnancy. There will always be kegels and squats.
• A 3 minute “keep up exercise”. These are some of the best preparations for labor because they safely develop strength and take you beyond what you thought you could do.
• Time to connect directly with your baby, sometimes through singing and dancing.
• Meditation and breath work. This practice helps you to make better decisions, to respect yourself and others, and to feel calmer and more at ease.
• Deep Relaxation, so you can leave class feeling calm and refreshed.

Restorative Yoga

Restorative yoga is a method of Hatha yoga, developed to rejuvenate your energy by providing a quiet space for rest and relaxation. Asanas are practiced in a passive manner, while being supported on props such as blankets and bolsters.

During this workshop you will learn a sequence of restorative yoga postures, breathing and relaxation techniques to reduce stress, headaches, insomnia and menstrual pain. You will learn how to replenish your energy, increase mental alertness and live more fully in the present moment.

Living Yoga: Philosophy, History and Practice - Mixed Level

Journey into an historical overview on the rich philosophy of yoga. Through lecture, discussion, video and yoga practice, you will discover how to incorporate these ancient teachings of inner peace, directly into your life today.

Rise and Shine Kripalu Yoga - Mixed Level

Greet the day with an inspiring morning yoga session! You’ll leave class vitalized, balanced, and ready for everything.

Yoga for a Healthy Menstrual Cycle

This class is designed to provide women with valuable information on how to relieve menstrual problems and maintain a healthy cycle.

You will learn:

• How to alleviate cramps and relieve PMS.
• Address problems such as: heavy bleeding, fatigue, endometriosis, uterine fibroids, and ovarian cysts.
• Discover how our emotions play an important role on creating a healthy cycle.
• Understand how to sequence your yoga practice for pre and post-menstruation.
• Restorative Series: restful asana to be practiced during the menstrual cycle
• How to adapt your asana practice while menstruating during a regular community class

Class Levels

Gentle

A beautiful flowing class, appropriate for anyone who wishes to slowdown, come inward and relax. Expect to experience stretching, awaken your flexibility, and rejuvenate your energy with restorative poses. An attitude of compassionate self-acceptance is emphasized as an essential element of practice.

Beginner

An introductory class emphasizing safe and proper alignment during yoga postures. Explore breathing techniques and deep relaxation to calm the mind, soften the heart, and strengthen your body. Appropriate for new students, and all those looking for a class reviewing the basics.

Beginner/Moderate

?A transitional class for beginner students into the moderate level. Here we start to explore moderate postures in great detail. Students will often request which posture to focus on that day, and occasionally we have posture clinics. Vinyasa (flowing postures) will be introduced. Prerequisite: Three months Beginner Yoga, and/or those who are in good physical health.

Moderate

Intermediate: A challenging flowing class (vinyasa). Learn how to hold intermediate postures for longer periods of time while cultivating inner focus, concentration and compassion. Introduction into inversions and arm balances. Prerequisite: three months beginners’ yoga.

Vigorous

Advanced: A dynamic and uplifting class. Great for experienced students looking to explore the deeper practices of Kripalu. Introduction of challenging postures such as full backbends, arm balances and inversions. Deepen your understanding of pranayama, yogic philosophy, and experience Kripalu’s unique meditation in motion. Prerequisite: three months moderate kripalu yoga or teachers permission.

Community Class

By Donation. Suggested minimum is $5.00. All donations go to charity.