MOVEMENT ARTS CLASSES

Everyone welcome! No experience necessary. Each class begins with a guided meditation, followed by a talk on a certain topic, and ends with another guided meditation. These classes will utilize books such as How to Transform Your Life and Modern Buddhism by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso, available as free ebooks.

Baguazhang, eight diagram palm, is a traditional Chinese movement art based on the I Ching and deeply rooted in ancient Daoist longevity exercises and internal alchemy practices. Along with the arts of Taijiquan, Xingyiquan and others, Baguazhang is part of a family of arts referred to as Chinese “internal arts”. As well as being a highly developed fighting art, the internal art of Baguazhang is an excellent health maintenance system. Baguazhang’s movements help to instill in the practitioner the ability to develop and use the spiral energy that is inherent in all things, both great and small. These movements help to develop a strong, unified body structure, while also massaging and tonifying the internal organs. Its internal work, neigong, is based on the acupuncture meridian system used in Traditional Chinese Medicine. By combining the mind through intention, correct postural alignment and breathing techniques, Baguazhang connects us with our body’s innate wisdom and opens, balances and nourishes the body’s intrinsic energy system to preserve health and ward off illness. The attributes developed for self defense are proper body mechanics, fighting theory and the use of internal energy. Because these are different than the traditional fighting attributes of speed and strength, these skills can be practiced and excelled at by everyone, regardless of age. Regular practice develops a unified body that moves with power, balance and agility, while energizing the body and calming the mind.

Pre-Natal Yoga is a practice designed especially for all stages of pregnancy. These classes generally focus on soothing the discomforts that may accompany pregnancy while encouraging one to become fully present and fully connected within the body. Yogic breathing practices have been shown to be effective and useful during the labor and delivery process. A pre-natal yoga practice is an opportunity for the mother, or mother to be, to take time to nourish herself and her body during this special time.

Post-Natal Yoga is designed for women who have recently given birth (at least 6 weeks post-partum). This practice is about reclaiming the body after pregnancy and learning how to find a graceful balance between giving to others and receiving what is necessary and nourishing for you. Post-Natal Yoga focuses building strength and stamina while offering deep stretches, deep breathing, and deep relaxation.

Restorative yoga offers gentle movements and postures that restore, relax, and rejuvenate one’s whole being. This practice often employs the use of blocks, bolsters, blankets and straps to give the extra support needed to completely let go. Restorative yoga is largely based off of an Iyengar practice which is focused on providing the support necessary to properly align the body to retrain cellular and muscular memory. It is a great practice for those new to yoga and is a great remedy for anxiety, degenerative conditions, depression, or structural issues.

Wanna feel lighter then Air? Come try something a little different this Fall with the people you love. Joaquin will introduce the basics of Therapeutic Flying. Therapeutic Flying, AKA 'Lunar AcroYoga' is a unique practice that is inspired by yoga, acrobatics, and Thai massage. Pairs can expect to move through yummy partner stretches, ‘fly’ on each other’s feet, and give & receive a luscious massage techniques. We'll use our hands, feet, arms, and legs to guide the receiver through assisted stretches and deep compression of joints and muscles to restore lost flexibility and relieve tension. This is appropriate for all body types. It's a lovely evening with a little bit of effort you can experience maximum relaxation. This is a great opportunity to be playful and connect with fellow yogis in a meaningful way! No experience necessary. Partner is NOT REQUIRED. Expect to have fun!

Vinyasa literally means linking breath with movement. This practice focuses on synchronizing inhales and exhales with the bodily movement from one asana, or posture, to another with poise, intention, and grace. Through a yoga practice, we explore what it means to ground the breath through Pranayama, or yogic breathing exercises, and how to utilize the breath to build a greater awareness of the body, mind, and spirit and the depth of their connection. Vinyasa yoga is an awareness practice that builds stamina, strength, balance, and flexibility, while focusing the mind and contributing to one’s overall health and wellness.

Yin yoga is a quiet, meditative practice that consists of passive postures held for up to five minutes to allow for a deep, meaningful stretch. Because this is a passive practice, the muscles have a chance to relax, hidden tension melts away, and we have the opportunity to stretch deeper with intention and with breath. Yin Yoga results in deep relaxation, a more balanced breath, more supple joints, greater ease of movement, and less limitation in the body. This practice invites all participants to slow down, breathe, and let go.