Shakti Yoga Classes

The Sanskrit word hatha is thought to be derived from the verbal root “hath” which means “to force” or “hold firmly” and thus Hatha Yoga is sometimes called “forceful yoga.” It is also thought to be the combination of two words “ha” meaning “sun” and “tha” meaning “moon” and thus Hatha Yoga is said to balance the opposing energies of the body – sun and moon, male and female. Hatha Yoga is most often identified with the practice of physical postures (asana) and breathing techniques (pranayama).

Shakti Yoga is committed to offering you sound, wise instruction in a context which honors the ancient traditions of Hatha Yoga. Our classes are nurturing, safe and noncompetitive, with an emphasis on lightness and laughter when appropriate. We look forward to sharing the joy and benefits of yoga with you.

Flow

Follow the flow of breath through sequences of interweaving asanas (postures) that change from class to class. Flow is an evolving form of traditional hatha yoga that focuses on integrating intention, breath and movement, awareness and alignment, strength and flexibility, and “your practice with daily life.” Instructors weave together teachings that can inspire physical, energetic, mental, and pure bliss states of consciousness.

Gentle

Open to all levels and recommended for young and old, injured and athletic alike, our soothing gentle classes focus on an exploration of basic yoga poses and how to connect them through attention to breathing, alignment and mindfulness. Therapeutic in nature, you will learn techniques to help you gain flexibility while immersing yourself in a relaxing class that moves at a perfectly slower pace – allowing ample time to enjoy each pose. Expect lots of deep stretching and lingering in yummy floor poses. Meditative and relaxing techniques will also be introduced– perfect for stress.

Moderate Flow

This class is designed for beginners with experience in basic yoga poses and for those new to vinyasa flow yoga. The pace is energetic yet comfortable as we move through sequences that build alignment in essential yoga poses. Slowly awakening and warming the body, we move into sequences investigating the connection between breath, and movement.

Restorative

This is a gentle, therapeutic style of Yoga that uses props to support the body to deepen the benefits of the poses. It is a soothing and nurturing practice that promotes the effects of conscious relaxation. By supporting the body with props, we alternately stimulate and relax the body to move toward balance. Some poses have an overall benefit, while others target an individual part, such as the lungs or heart. All create specific physiological responses which are beneficial to health and can reduce the effects of stress-related disease.

“Many paths are possible. Whichever path is sincerely traveled leads to inner peace.”