Teaching styles 5.16.26

Here is an introduction to the teaching styles that are popular currently. I offer most of these styles, and can also create a personalized workout for almost any other style you request.

-          Hatha – best for beginners – a slow flow – with an emphasis on proper alignment and instruction on basics

-          Vinyasa – best for intermediate /advanced students. This involves moving fluidly between poses with continuity in your flow, while aligning breath with your movement.  This discipline increases heart rate by moving quickly from one pose to another

-          Ashtanga   - best for intermediate or advanced students. Fixed sequences and specific postures link physical poses… building physical strength, mental focus, and balance.

-          Bikram - this style is performed in a heated room of up to 105 degrees with higher humidity to increase flexibility and promote detoxification thru sweating. There are 26 basic postures, with each one performed twice.

-          Iyengar – the focus is on precise alignment and technique. It can use block and belt props to achieve safe poses while controlling your breath.

-          Kundalini – Combines mantras, postures and breathing techniques for more spiritual energy, and is sometimes referred to as the yoga of awareness.  It releases the energy in your body trapped in the lower spine.

-          Yin yoga - for any level students.  Slow flow, long held poses (typically 3-5 minutes), this is best for targeting deep connective tissues…. to increase circulation and improve flexibility.

-          Restorative – involves stretching by using supported poses, and recovery by focusing on relaxation and easing tension.

Mantra: I am power, I am courage, I am me. Peace begins within me.

Hot or not: Sound bath and multi-sensory yoga – some classes are now using crystal bowls, gongs and aromatherapy to enhance deeper relaxation and better mental health. A sound bath immerses the yoga practioner with various instruments to create calming sounds and vibrations. These help and promote reduced stress, relaxation and overall well being. This is not for all yoga practitioners. Please consult a doctor if you have a pacemaker or other metal implant, epilepsy, mental health conditions or pregnancy. If you are interested, please contact me about personalized class offers.

Pose of the week: Reverse Warrior: (Viparita Virabhadrasana) this is a standing yoga pose that acts as a side bending opening variation of Warrior II. It strengthens the quads, arms, torso and neck while stretching the side body, chest, groin, hips and shoulders. The pose should be approached cautiously by anyone with neck, hip, spinal or shoulder injuries

Please see Patreon site at “Vinyasa with Vanessa C“ for the full video and instructions