Each class will have a different class sequence that will build towards a fun and physically challenging apex pose.  During the lead up to the apex pose, the five anusara principles of alignment will be utilized to safely warm up the necessary regions of the body.  You will receive a lot of individual attention because I give both verbal and physical adjustments to help you expand into your asanas with optimal body placement.  Modifications will be provided for individuals where necessary or desired.  A class theme will often be presented where the physical benefits of poses are outlined or where the non-physical benefits of yoga are explored and physically manifested.  Savasana is usually about ten minutes and includes a physical adjustment to help  you relax. 
As an added benefit, you will get to know the other people in the class because we will help each other do some partner yoga poses.  Levels 2 3
 

This class is vigorous and previous experience in yoga is recommended The class is based on Ashtangas' traditional postures that links breath with movement in a powerful flowing sequence. It cultivates strength, flexibility, alignment, concentration and stamina. Levels 2 3

Have you wanted to give yoga a try but felt like you really wanted a beginner's class to get you through the door?  Do you have a friend that you would like to see take yoga?  Are you already taking yoga classes and would like the opportunity to explore the basics with other beginners? In this course we will explore breathing techniques, usage of yoga equipment (props), proper alignment of feet and hands, pelvic position to keep your lower back safe, opening the upper chest, how to keep the knees safe and common yoga postures (asanas).  You will learn how to link postures with your breath in a yoga sequence called the sun salutation.  Best of all, the format will allow time and space for questions and the exploration of individual variations needed for the intricacies of your own body.
The Yoga Connection is offering a six week beginner yoga workshop on Fridays from 11 am-noon.  The first class will be April 26, 2013.  Pre-registration required. Cost $60.00.  No drop-ins please.
 

Treat yourself to a guided experience of breath, hatha yoga and deep relaxation.  You'll stretch and strengthen muscles, move from a strong core, deeply relax and calm your mind.  Kripalu yoga encourages honoring any limitations and listening to the wisdom of the body.  Modifications and variations of postures are offered for a more gentle or moderate practice.   Classes begin with a centering on the breath, warm-ups, then a flow of postures with emphasis on body awareness and alignment.  All movement is led by the breath.  Classes end with a final relaxation and the opportunity for a period of meditation/contemplation.

Gentle Kripalu:  Emphasis on deep conscious breathing, full body stretching, strengthening and relaxation.  Alignment principles,  and a focus on balance and core strengthening  to keep the body safe and strong.  Lots of modifications and moving slowly with intention to savor the full effects of the postures.  Perfect for students who want to balance out the more vigorous yoga practices, regain strength or range of motion after illness or surgery, or simply want  a practice that promotes overall health and outlook on life  All levels

Moderate Kripalu: Expands on the basics with additional postures, breath techniques.  Emphasis on a flow-based practice of moving from one posture to another, coordinating breath and movement.  Postures may be held longer to increase stamina and endurance, deepen the concentration and explore the interplay of breath, energy and sensation. Level 2

Gentle/Moderate:  Postures will be offered in stages with gentler versions offered first, followed by variations for  more challenge. Levels 1 2

Kundalini yoga combines the use of sound currents, active movement, brief holding postures, breath rhythms and meditations to move energy in the body and to reset biorhythms.  Deep relaxation techniques are also a part of every class.  Its popularity is growing world-wide and it is formulated so that anyone in any condition can benefit from it.  Kundalini yoga is well-known to help people cope with chronic  fatigue, cancer and other chronic conditions.  It works in a sequential way to disperse energy, strengthen the nervous system and help increase intuition.  This year we will be working from Guru Ratana's book "Transitions to a Heart-centered World" and Guru Prem's "Divine Alignment." Levels 1  2

This gentle yoga course focuses on encouraging stretching and body movement through basic postures. This course offers adapted postures and the use of props and other aids to allow all senior students to participate as they feel they are able. Level 1
Thursday's class:  We will not be doing yoga on our hand's and knees.  The chair is an option for all or part of this class.

Whether you are a golfer, a hockey player or a couch potato, you can improve your flexibility and strength.  You may also find that yoga helps your balance as well as increasing your ability to focus and relax.  Over this series of classes you will be introduced to a daily practice that will enable you to make incremental gains in all of these areas. Levels 1 2

This class is recommended for people who want to do yoga and other activities but find these too painful. Common back problems are addressed by practicing a simple series of movements which focus on developing stability and strength in the core muscles of the body.  These movements, when synchronized with the breath, literally unwind tension in the body and foster greater self-awareness. Not appropriate for acute conditions.  Pre-registration required.  Level 1

This course is offered to residents in the Sharbot Lake area through the Sharbot Lake Family Health Team.  It is a program designed to support individuals facing health challenges both physical and/or emotional that are persistent in nature. Such conditions include chronic back and joint pain, heart conditions, diabetes, arthritis, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue, asthma, multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer's (early stage), stress, anxiety and depression.  There is no fee for this course but spaces are limited.  Please call 613-279-2100  to arrange an interview prior to March 13, 2013. 

Yoga therapy customizes a yoga practice so that it meets your specific goals. There are many  yoga "tools" to explore.  They include: postures, breath practices, meditation techniques, visualizations, and relaxation techniques. The tools can be utilized individually or integrated to help you become physically stronger, improve sleep, manage stress, cope with anxiety and depression, increase energy levels, make lifestyle changes, and address negative thoughts and behaviours.  Most importantly you will receive ongoing support and encouragement from the yoga therapist as part of the work together.