ASHTANGA | VINYASA | KUNDALINI | ANUSARA | GENTLE YOGA | KIDS YOGA

There are several class types to choose from covering all levels of instruction from beginner to advanced. Whether you are brand new to yoga or have been practicing for a long time, the classes at Yoga Shala can take your practice to the next level.

The emphasis in all of the classes is asana fundamentals, while at the same time providing clear, concise explanations of yoga philosophy and breathing techniques. The classes provide a foundation of practice for the many contemporary Vinyasa styles currently available.

Each individual is unique and in their own place in their yoga practice, so the levels provide only a very general guide to class selection. Given the broad range of individual experience and exposure to yoga, many of the classes at Yoga Shala are offered at the Beginner-Intermediate Levels or at the Intermediate-Advanced Levels. These classes are balanced over the two levels both to introduce intermediate practitioners to more advanced techniques and to provide fundamentals of practice for more advanced practitioners.

Beginner: These classes are geared toward practitioners who have never practiced yoga, have practiced yoga to a very limited degree, or those who would like to have a complete and thorough re-introduction to yoga principles and practice.

The classes typically begin with a few minutes of instruction and then move into asana practice. During the asana practice the Ashtanga poses are broken down and explained in detail. As the class progresses on a weekly basis more poses are introduced until the entire sequence is completed. These classes can be taught in six week sessions or on a weekly basis.

Intermediate: These classes are geared toward those who are familiar with Ashtanga or Vinyasa practice. Students at this level have been introduced to poses like headstand, some hand balances like bakasana (crane pose), and urdvha danurasana (backbend) but who may not be proficient at such postures.

Advanced: These classes are geared toward those who are proficient at the Ashtanga Primary Series or who have familiarity and some level of proficiency at postures like headstand and a variety of hand balances and backbending postures.

Given the physical nature of the Asthanga and Vinyasa form of yoga, it is highly recommended that students come to class on an empty stomach and bring water if they are not used to an extended practice.

In these styles of practice sweating is encouraged and intended because of the purifying nature of the sweat - the yoga studio is typically set at about 80 degrees - so it is also recommended that practitioners bring a towel. The studio has towels (and mats) for rent if you forget or find you need a towel. You can learn more on the following pages about Ashtanga, Vinyasa, and Kundalini.