Classes
INTRODUCTION
This class takes the mystery out of yoga. 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 health.
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.
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.
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. Please speak with Jane before signing up for this class.
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)
HATHA/FLOW
This class begins with instruction in the alignment of poses and proceeds toward linking all the poses together in a continuous flow that moves with the breath. Energizing and fun this class may be faster linking one breath to each body movement to build heat and stamina or slower to build strength and endurance.
ALIGNED POWER
A fun and energizing class to start your weekend. Aligned power will include floor work, standing poses, balances and flow linked by the breath. Emphasis will be on alignment and awareness of muscle actions that protect the body and optimize the benefits of the poses. Previous yoga experience is preferred for this class.
TEEN YOGA
Appropriate for ages 12-16. Teens will learn to strengthen, open and relax the body through poses and the principles of alignment and awareness. They will discover how to quiet, calm and focus the mind with yoga and thoughtful attention to the breath. This class is appropriate for students who are new to yoga and is a great complement for those who participate in athletics, play an instrument, cheer, dance or all of the above.
SATURDAY 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 Saturday specialty classes.
FREE COMMUNITY CLASS
Raleigh Yoga Center offers a FREE class to the community as our way of giving back and saying thanks. This 90-minute class is held at 11 am on the second Saturday of each month. This is an ALL LEVELS class but is not appropriate for those with health concerns. Instructors vary.
RESTORATIVE
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! This two-hour class is held at 11 am on the third Saturday of the month. The cost is $20 and the class is open to ALL. Instructors vary.
“Illuminated emancipation, freedom, unalloyed and untainted bliss await you, but you have to choose to embark on the inward journey to discover it.” ~ B.K.S. Iyengar