New Garden Yoga Current and Future Class Descriptions

New Class Descriptions for 2010

It is important to know that each studio designs its own Level Descriptions according to its average weekly student population as well as the particular goals of its instructors. In truth, nearly every yoga class contains multiple levels that are a result of each student's daily fluctuations in energy level and physical ability. A safe approach to understanding the levels at a new studio is to start at Level One and proceed thru the levels until you find a class that offers opportunities for personal growth.

 Level One Introductory

This entry-level class is designed for those who are new to yoga or new to the studio, those who are returning to classes after a significant break from their training, and those who are recovering from a serious injury or illness. This level is also generally safe for most pre-natal mothers-to-be thru the second trimester.

 Level Two Intermediate

Also known as ‘Refining Your Practice”, this level refers to the on-going process of learning how to do a wide variety of postures, breathing exercises, and meditation methods in more detail. A minimum of one year of Level One Introductory training at any studio is the pre-requisite. 

 Level Three Advanced

The advanced level is reserved for students with a minimum two years of Level Two Intermediate training and who are interested in Alignment-Based techniques. The following skills are required: sirsasana, urdhva dhanurasana, adho mukha vrksasana, janu sirsasana, and the sarvangasana cycle. Participants must be knowledgeable about how to modify their own postures when necessary. These monthly classes are offered in a workshop format of 2.5 hours and can be used for CEU credits related to Yoga Alliance requirements.

Meditation Instruction

Concentration and Meditation are related skills. Yoga postures develop a deep concentration on the body that can eventually prepare a student for future sitting, walking, and reclining meditation methods. However, it is actually not necessary to study the yoga postures before adding meditation to your life. Join us on the first Sunday of each month to learn how to do an essential practice that has been scientifically proven to reduce mental stress and ease physical pain.

Restorative Postures & Breathing Techniques

Supported yoga postures ("Restoratives") balance and center the body and mind for the inward practice of breathing techniques (Pranayama). Level Two and Three students who can do shoulderstand for five minutes will be well prepared for this class. Pranayama practice quietly rejuvenates the body while calming the nervous system.

Stress Management Yoga & Meditation

Anxiety, worry, fear, depression and sorrow can be reduced with regular practice sessions that include both active and passive yoga postures, simple breathing techniques, and a few minutes of meditation. Level One – Three students may attend. Each student will be offered posture alternatives appropriate for their level.

Vinyasa Yoga

The classic sun salutations and variations are a wonderful way to warm the body. We will work with the standing poses and seated poses, inversions and back bends. Our focus will be on incorporating breath and bandha techniques during the poses and toward adding the vinyasa (linking movement) between poses in a fun and light-hearted way. Alignment and modifications with props will be presented as a part of the vinyasa experience.