Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga and the Primary Series
Ashtanga Yoga, in the tradition of Sri K. Pattabhi Jois, a renowned Sanskrit scholar and yogi of Mysore, India, is a science and a practice that has evolved over thousands of years. The approach is based on a specialized sequencing of postures and a focused breathing technique.
This dynamic form of Hatha yoga utilizes a unique form of breathing called ujjayi, which means "victorious", to synchronize breath and movement. The breath initiates the movement allowing the body to flow from one posture to the next.
The purpose of this continual flow of action is to create internal heat in our bodies to produce the cleansing and detoxifying effect associated with this system of yoga. Ashtanga Yoga places equal emphasis on Strength, Stamina, and Flexibility.
The Primary or First Series of Ashtanga Yoga, also referred to as Yoga Chikitsa, which literally means Yoga Therapy, detoxifies and realigns the body. The deep forward bending of this practice cleanses, purifies, and tones the internal organs of the body and aids in the prevention of the accumulation of waste products.
This class is designed to introduce students to the sequence of postures that make up the Primary Series of Ashtanga Yoga and a great place to begin your practice. The "slow" classes take the time to lay down the fundamentals of moving with the breath and maintaining concentration and ease students into the physical Ashtanga practice. Margaret is a wonderful and insightful teacher, skilled at working with beginners and students who are taking it easy working with injury and easing back into practice.
Short Form
Same as our "Slow Ashtanga" classes but a slower paced "Vinyasa" class for beginning students and anyone wanting a gentle and flowing practice.
Open to all levels and recommended for young and old, injured and athletic alike, this challenging yoga class builds strength and flexibility through slower-paced vinyasa sequences.
Dynamic, liberating, creatively sequenced vinyasa* classes based on the Ashtanga system. But with unconventional sequencing. Same breath (Ujjayi Pranyama), same Bandhas (internal energy locks), same power! All levels welcome.
*Ancient Yogic texts emphasize vinyasa meaning "breath-synchronized movement". It is a method of synchronizing a progressive series of postures with a specific breathing technique (ujjayi pranayama). This process produces internal heat and a purifying sweat that detoxifies the muscles and organs. the result is improved circulation, a light and strong body, and a calm mind.
Extravaganza
A dynamic yet healing practice that integrates mind, body and breath with a meditative flow. The Yoga House Extravaganza is a liberating, creative dance between breath and movement offering participants an invigorating and enlivening tool towards finding your true self, bliss and boundless well-being.
Yoga House Extravaganzas are usually held only on Holidays and Special Occasions and Events. All students and levels are welcome!