Class Descriptions
ACROYOGA
AcroYoga blends the spiritual wisdom of yoga, the loving kindness of Thai massage, and the dynamic power of Acrobatics. These three ancient lineages form this practice that cultivates trust, connection and playfulness. There are 7 main elements that make up the practice: circle ceremony, asana, partner flow, Thai massage, therapeutic flying, inversions & spotting, and partner acrobatics. Our highest aim is to bring individuals into a state of union with themselves, with each other, and with the divine. From this place of mutual support, the true self can be realized, celebrated and shared for the benefit of all.
ASHTANGA VINYASA
A challenging, vinyasa-based style of yoga which begins with sun salutations and continues through a variety of standing poses. In the distinct and consistent 'primary series', attention is placed on the journey between asanas, not just the postures themselves. The breath is the prevailing guide throughout the entire practice. This full spectrum class includes forward bends, backbends, twists, inversions and more. Heated up to 80°. Short Form is a condensed version of the primary series.
BABY & YOU
A gathering of new parents brings the circle together to stretch first you, then baby and then share the practice between both. A great way to safely exercise, massage, bond and laugh with your wee one and others. This class is for infants up to cruisers.
FORREST
A moderately paced class that uses asana and pranayama to generate heat and explore limits. Forrest highlights core work, inversions, arm balances, backbends, hip-openers and twists that enable students to cultivate deep physical and emotional transformation. Teachers provide hands-on assistance and offer options to "up-level," playing with more advanced poses. Heated between 80° & 85°.
HATHA
Hatha Yoga is a system of self-cultivation that begins at the root and grows slowly. A gentle practice of physical postures and breath awareness creates a wonderful platform for stress relief, whole body health, mental clarity and peaceful longevity. This class is suitable for those new to yoga and is not heated.
HIPS, CORE, EXPLORE
The hips complete the marriage of the lower half of the body with the upper half. A healthy hip joint includes stability from well toned deep abdominal (core) muscles, a strong back and elastic hamstrings. This class will complement the active Anchorage lifestyle by preparing the body to absorb the shock of hiking, biking, running, skiing, etc. The hips hold a treasure trove of emotions, secrets, and history. When we focus a regular asana practice around the hips, it is natural for more profound layers of the body to unfurl, release and eventually heal. Explore unique hip-opening postures with some longer holds and fun ways to build strength in the core and beyond. Heated up to 80°.
INTRO TO FORREST YOGA
As a beginner to Forrest Yoga, you will learn to breathe deeply, release tension in your neck and connect to your core. Over time, you will become stronger and more centered in your body and develop techniques for safely tailoring each pose to work best for you. This is where you will learn the basics of Forrest Yoga and where you will gain confidence and begin to feel the benefits of a regular practice.
INTRO TO YOGA
Traditional yoga postures are presented with in-depth explanations and focus on alignment. The mechanics of this class will allow the body to develop harmoniously in an anatomically correct way free of injury or pain. Props are often used to enable us to experience the asanas in a deeply therapeutic way without compromising physical well being. Come out of each class with refined awareness and heightened understanding of your body and Yoga.
KUNDALINI
A physical, mental and spiritual practice built around set yoga exercises (kriyas) and mental practices (meditations), which are designed to awaken one's consciousness to the universal nature of the soul and one's spirituality. Kundalini yoga is sometimes called the yoga of awareness because it "awakens" the unlimited potential that already exists within every human being.
LITTLE LOTUS YOGA (AGES 3-5)
Down dog, proud warrior, wheel and tree come alive through story-telling, music and movement, teaching youngsters to focus and quiet the busy mind. Here, we learn to breathe and move in a fun, playful and interactive environment. This class will improve concentration, self-esteem and encourage cooperation with others.
MEDITATION
Learn to focus your attention on your breath and release your mind's continuous chatter. Let go of the daily "roller-coaster ride" of cravings and aversions, likes and dislikes. Become balanced, relaxed, and happy again and experience reality more directly, rather than reacting blindly to positive or negative events. Meditation is a natural and effective part of a regular yoga practice.
PRENATAL
Time to dispel the myth that a woman is in any way debilitated during her pregnancy! Here, a community of expecting Moms practice Yoga in a fun and safe environment to prepare the heart, hips, breath and mind for the birthing experience. Every class offers a nurturing atmosphere in which to connect with your baby and other women and restore vital energy during this sacred time in your life. Appropriate from day 1 all the way to full term. No previous yoga experience necessary.
STRETCH & RELAX DEEPLY
Restorative yoga is a gentle practice that aims to cultivate a deep state of physical and mental relaxation. With the support of bolsters, blocks and blankets, you allow gravity to do the work as the body progressively softens and releases tension. Over time, the symptoms of stress, such as mood swings, insomnia, hypertension, digestive problems, etc, subside, and as a result, we begin to feel lighter and enjoy an improved sense of self. Calming breath work and soothing music create a refreshing and inviting atmosphere.
VINYASA FLOW
Enjoy the best of many yoga styles, consciously blended, to give you a heat building, well-rounded practice. Prepare to let the mind go and color outside the lines. This challenging class, set to a progressive music play list incorporates creative Vinyasa based salutations and sequences. Expect a range of postures from balancing to inversions, twists, deep stretches, meditation, chanting, and a deeply restorative savasana. See what happens when you relinquish the need to control and perfect and take time to explore and experiment.
Levels
Level 1/2:
A class designed for NEW students and those transitioning into a more intermediate practice. Learn basic postures (asanas), proper alignment, modifications for working with injuries and develop body awareness. Study yogic forms of breathing and how to link breath and movements together.
All Levels:
These classes are designed to accommodate a diversity of yogic levels and are often taught with modifications for deepening or softening your practice to suit individual needs. All are invited from the advanced beginner to the lifelong yogi. Each class will be tailored to the people who are present. However, we do recommend all brand new students begin with a Level 1/2 class.
