In this intensive we will continue work on body, mind and breath to deepen understandings in asana and pranayama, and begin to move beyond the idea of a set of physical practices as the ends and means of yoga.  Health of body and sense of well being are byproducts of the practice, but the study is an invitation to explore further.  In this class other techniques will be introduced to begin moving the study in those directions.

The classes will be taught from the Iyengar perspective and will presume that you have studied and have some degree of personal practice and/or attendance in Heide Grace’s intensives.

*Tracey's classes will resume in January

 

In this class we work on foundational poses, safe for all levels of practitioners.  Alternate poses are available for the beginner student.  Student is expected to make appropriate decision.  In this class we explore the poses that develop the inversions and more advanced poses.  We continue to work on standing poses fundamental to developing strength and stamina. 

In these classes we work on developing strength, stamina and flexibility.  These classes are slower in pace and great for beginners or those looking to refine their understanding of poses.  Poses are done often with props, such as blocks, blankets, ropes, and chairs.  These props help to  access new areas of the body and/ or allow us to hold poses longer than we normally could.  This has the function of increasing the beneficial nature of the postures, allowing to postures to penetrate deeper inside. GREAT FOR BEGINNERS OR THOSE NEWER TO YOGA OR LOOKING FOR A SLOWER PACE. Not a flow class

Easy Yoga with Tracey - all levels - In this class, we will untangle the tension that builds up in our bodies and minds and prevents us from feeling comfortable and easeful. We will use a combination of mindful movement, deep stretching, guided relaxation, and restorative postures to allow the body to release stress and find ease. No experience necessary. 

Open practice - Studio is open to students with an ongoing yoga practice.  This is for students who do not require instruction and know how to practice safely.   This is a time to practice what you have learned or understood from your teacher.  This is not a led practice, there is no given sequence or instruction.  Please be responsible with yourself, practice safely and with respect to those around you.  If you have an appropriate question it is fine to ask an experienced student or teacher, but try and find out for yourself if you can first answer the question.  Ideally for ongoing students of Yoga Bywater. $5

 

Pilates Mat with Lori - all levels -  With deep reverence for the original mat exercises developed by Joseph Pilates in the 1920s, this class will prioritize movement principles such as efficiency, precision, breath, concentration, center, and flow. 

Pilates Mat classes begin by observing relative alignment of the spine and pelvis, learning how to create spinal stability and how to create spinal mobility. We learn optimal ways to breathe so that our core muscles are available both by voluntary contraction and by natural reflex. We progress to movements that integrate our limbs into our trunk and develop an understanding of how movements of the spine relate to movements of the entire body. Exercises are performed lying on one’s back, side, or stomach, from seated, kneeling and standing positions. Be prepared to move your spine in all directions: forward, back and side bending, rotation, and combinations of each. By practicing Pilates regularly, we hope to optimize the connection between mind and body in order to facilitate ease, economy, and efficiency in ordinary and extraordinary movements.

New: FREE Community Yoga Wednesday 4:30-5:30 all levels welcome, this will have a rotating cast of teachers who are currently in a Teacher Training program and will be ongoing.  All welcome. 

This class is for people who practice yoga or attend class regularly, are familiar with the basic postures and are comfortable following the teacher in a set sequence with verbal cues and a breath count.