Classes

INTRODUCTION

This class takes the mystery out of yoga and is a great way to discover what yoga is all about.  No experience is necessary, and the class is appropriate for all regardless of age or physical challenges. The class progresses gently with emphasis on alignment principles for safe yoga practice. Introduction to basic poses (called asana) and breathing are presented to increase strength, flexibility, stamina, balance and overall well being. You will learn how to use props (blankets, straps, bolsters) with the poses for added safety and greater success. We keep our classes small, fun and informative.

FUNDAMENTALS

Examine the fundamentals of classic yoga poses with an emphasis on alignment and safety at a pace that allows for refinement. This class is ideal for returning students who have practiced but not recently, students who have practiced before but not in alignment based methodology as well as students recovering from injuries or working with a limited range of motion.

GENTLE YOGA

Rise and shine yogis!  Start your day with an hour of gentle yoga for all levels, all ages, and all abilities. In addition to classic yoga poses, focus will be given to stretching and strengthening. Modifications will be taught and poses will be tailored to your experience and ability.

 LEVEL I

Having completed Introduction and/or Fundamentals and having an understanding of alignment-based asana study, students dedicated to learning more and developing a home practice will explore classic standing poses, twists, forward bends and simple backbends at a deeper level. Emphasis is on refining the poses and building endurance in the poses. Basic preparation for inversions is included.

 LEVEL I/II

For the experienced Level I student who wishes to transition to a deeper practice, this class offers continued refinement and variations in the poses. New poses are introduced and time in the pose is increased to build stamina. This class moves at a quicker pace. Headstand and shoulder stand refinement is included. Consent of the instructor is necessary for attending this class.  Please contact Jane prior to signing up/dropping in to this class.

LEVEL II

More advanced asanas are introduced as well as a deeper focus on the details and refinement of each pose. Physically more demanding, this class is appropriate for students strong in standing poses and inversions. Students must be able to do shoulder stand, headstand and full arm balance at the wall and push up into a full backbend with straight arms or know the appropriate modifications. Consent of the instructor is necessary for attending this class. Please contact Jane prior to signing up/dropping in to this class.

YOGA ROPES WALL

The yoga ropes wall is another prop to add to your yoga “tool belt”.  It offers the possibility of practicing poses and actions from beginner level to advanced level in a fun and informative way.  With the support you are held in traction that allows for more time, more exploration and more opening in the poses.  For some it allows you to experience a pose that might not yet be available to you without the assistance of the ropes wall.  The information you glean from the wall you can take to your mat to enhance your poses and their gifts.

WAKE & REAWAKE

Build heat in the body with sun salutations, standing poses and core strengthening moves before settling down into a long deep stretch to commonly resistant areas: hip and shoulder openers, backbends and forward bends. Add to your home practice repertoire and start your day in a joyful way! (ALL LEVELS but NOT appropriate for those who have never studied before or those with health concerns)

YOUR CORE~ BEYOND SIT UPS

A stable strong core is essential for low back support, improved posture and avoiding common muscle injuries.  It creates a deep inner strength that in turn creates a more stable powerful you.  Traditional bent knee sit-ups have been proven to be ineffective and they are also a potential pain in the neck!  This class will concentrate on poses that work the many core muscles (abdominals and back muscles) in an efficient and productive manner.  Attention will also be given to supporting muscle groups such as quadriceps and glutes.  When the core is trained with this focus you create a sense of inner fortitude that supports you on and off your mat.  Come prepared to be challenged!

YOGA FOR CANCER PATIENTS AND SURVIVORS

Dealing with the side effects of cancer therapies impacts the body physically, emotionally and mentally. This class will focus on Yoga poses that may aid in strengthening the immune system and alleviating side effects.  Blankets, bolsters and props will be used to make poses accessible.  Please note: students need to be able to move to and from the floor unassisted.

WEEKEND SPECIALTY CLASSES

Due to limited studio space, it is suggested you e-mail RYC director Jane Barrett at janebarrett@nc.rr.com or call 919-856-1390 to reserve a space in the Weekend Specialty Classes.

RESTORATIVE YOGA

Experience the mental and physical benefits of yoga with little effort thanks to a plethora of props. A sequence of supported yoga poses and breathing techniques allows you to settle deeply and completely into the pose and maximize its benefits. Learn mindful relaxation — a must for us all. Delicious!

YAY! MORE YOGA!

Enjoy the luxury of time to deepen your practice, to expand your awareness in the poses, to explore what just might be possible with a little more time on your mat. Appropriate for experienced Level I and above students.

“If the foundation is firm, the building can withstand calamities. The practice of yoga is the foundation, so that the self if not shaken under any circumstances.” ~ B.K.S. Iyengar