How do I know which class is right for me?
Level 1. Appropriate for all fitness levels, including those recovering from illness or injury. Lots of modifications and moving slowly to savor the full effects of the postures. All body types welcome.”
Level 2. Appropriate for both beginner and more experienced yoga students who are already physically active.
Level 3. Appropriate for those who enjoy a more physically vigorous practice. Some yoga experience is recommended but not required.
Our Courses
| Alignment based Yoga |
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. |
| Ashtanga |
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 |
| Introduction to Meditation |
Shamata Meditation is sometimes called Mindfulness Meditation or Calming Meditation. It is called Mindfulness Meditation because mindfulness is a main part of the technique. It is called Calming Meditation because calmness is one of the main results. Shamata meditation is about training ourselves to become more comfortable with and controlled in all aspects of our collection of body/mind components (thoughts, feelings, perceptions, intention and awareness) and learning to recognize the calmness, focus and clarity that is always available to us wherever we are. All Levels Not offered spring 2012 |
| Karma Class |
One of the traditions of our practice is karma yoga, meaning the yoga of service. The Yoga Connection is committed to making yoga available for those who cannot afford to pay the regular price. This class will be offered on the basis that each student contributes what they can afford. The class will be basic with more challenging options offered for those who are looking for a more vigorous practice. This class will replace run/walk/to yoga but if students are interested in a group run or walk beforehand, this can be organized. Levels 1 2 |
| Kid's yoga |
This class is suitable for ages 7 to 12. Co-operative games, partner activities and themes are used to explore yoga poses, breathing exercises and relaxation in a fun and playful setting. |
| Kripalu |
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 emphases on body awareness, alignment and movement 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, a focus on balance and core strengthening is emphasized 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, The Yoga of Conscious Awareness |
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 |
| Seniors |
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 |
| Urban Poling/Yoga |
Urban poling/Nordic walking involves walking with specialized poles. Poling involves all the major muscles, especially the core muscles and can burn 20-46% more calories. This course includes warm-ups, a guided walk, cool-down yoga related stretches and time to socialize at a local coffee/tea shop. It is easy to learn, fun and suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels. However, participants should be able to walk comfortable for 45 minutes. All Levels |
| Yoga Basics for Men |
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 you focus, balance and increase your ability to 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 |
| Yoga for Better Backs |
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 |
| Yoga for Core Strength and Stability |
Gentle: This class will progressively develop stability and strength in the core muscles of the body through carefully sequenced postures. Adaptations, modifications and props will be tailored to the needs of the individual. With properly aligned movement linked to the breath, students will become more focused and self-aware. As the mind quiets, students will directly experience the wisdom of the ancient practice of yoga. Levels 1 2 Intermediate: This class expands from the same premise as the gentle class and is suited to students with prior yoga experience. Once the five basic principles of core alignment are mastered, we will move into more challenging postures to develop stability and strength. Levels 2 3 |
| Yoga for the Fascial System |
Fascia is a specialized system of the body. Arranged in flat sheets or in a spider web network, fascia penetrates and surrounds all organs, muscle groups, nervous system and blood vessels. Fascial tightness is a common source of pain and postural imbalance. Beginner: A gentle class which introduces basic yoga poses and myofascial release self-treatment techniques. Appropriate for people new to yoga and those experiencing life challenges of pain and/or fatigue. Level 1 Not offered Winter 2012 Intermediate: These classes are suited to people with prior yoga experience who would like to explore deep tissue work and a more challenging practice. Levels 2 3. |
| Yoga for Persistent Health Concerns: |
This course is offered to all residents of Lanark County through the North Lanark Community Health Centre. It is a program designed for individuals with specific health concerns 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 613 259-2182 to arrange an interview prior to September 9, 2011. Level 1 |
| Yoga Sutras of Patanjali |
This course brings alive the ancient philosophy underlying modern-day yoga. We will explore the key teachings of the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali which will be integrated into a yoga practice including postures, breathing, sound and meditation. There will be time for questions and discussion. This is a class which will bring a deeper meaning to your yoga practice as it moves beyond the mat and into the challenges of day-to-day living. All Levels |
| Yoga Therapy |
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. |
| Zumba Gold and Yoga |
"Ditch the workout and join the party". Zumba Gold is a fitness program designed to bring exciting Latin and International dance rhythms to the active older adult or the beginner participant. This fun, latin-inspired class combines motivating music with unique moves and simple, easy-to-follow combinations. It's great for the body, mind and spirit. The 50 minute cardio portion of the class will be followed by related yoga postures and a final relaxation. Please wear sneakers without deep treads. All Levels |