Although this morning may have been cooler, summer is not over yet as the weekend is promising to be glorious!
Welcome to Our Newest Instructors
Cheryl O'Connor, who will leading the beginner yoga class on Monday nights. Cheryl's enthusiasm and vibrant personality is a wonderful complement to the energy and vibrancy that resonates in each of our yoga classes and for which we have been recognized. Cheryl is a graduate from Still Point Resort's teacher training program and is taking a yoga sequencing primer sequence from the amazing teachers at Upward Dog. Cheryl will also be leading the occasional Power yoga classes. Welcome Cheryl!
Angi Barry, who will be leading boot camp and group conditioning classes. For those of you who worked through her squat sequence 2 weeks ago, you already know how great she is! Angi has taken the Y group strength instructor certification training and is always eager to keep her knowledge and skills current with their ongoing professional development workshops. Welcome Angi!
Labour Day Weekend Classes
The fall schedule officially begins on Saturday, September 4th. To celebrate our fall launch, we are offering a free yoga or fitness class on Saturday, September 4th and Sunday, September 5th. This is our thank you for the amazing support you keep giving us that has allowed us to grow.
Labour Day (Monday) the studio will be closed.
Class Sign in Sheets - NEW
To track the use of the studio, there will be a sign in sheet at the studio door. Please place your name in the class that you are attending and check-off whether you are a drop in, card holder or member (September - December unlimited fee).
We are asking that you pay or stamp your cards at the beginning of each class rather than the end.
Have a great weekend,
Darlene M
Offering the most comprehensive schedule of classes in yoga, Spinning and Group Fitness (HIIT, BootCamps, TBC, PILOXING, 15-15-15-15)led by internationally and nationally certified qualified instructors and teachers.
Friday, August 27, 2010
Monday, August 23, 2010
What to expect from a Power Yoga or a Vinyasa Class - New Classes at the Studio
My experience has been that when most yoga students see the term "power" in a yoga class description, they to want to roll up their yoga mats and run!
The term "power" conjures up images of challenging poses that bring up an intimidation factor-the reality is the "power" in power yoga isn't the physical poses, but the power originates from within each student. From a technical perspective, power yoga is based upon surya namaskar A & B (sun salutation) that flow non-stop to create a purifying heat, calm the mind and tone the body. It is an incredible class for building strength, stamina, flexibility; tone the body and is a great class for athletes (runners, cyclists, golfers, hockey players, etc.) but is also a class that can be adapted for someone new to yoga (although, my recommendation is that anyone new to yoga to get comfortable with sun salutation prior to trying a power class-remember, it's all about steadiness and comfort while in any class!)
Each power class is different as there is no set sequence to follow-so there is alot of variety in a typical class.
Our New Classes: Power 1 and Power 2
I will introduce a hot power class again in the winter-for the Fall schedule, there are 2 power classes.
Power 1 is a great class for beginning and continuing students who want to cultivate greater awareness, strength and stamina. It lays the foundation for power yoga 2
Power 2: This class is a continuation of Power 1 and a great class for those with experience in power yoga. It is moderate to advanced in intensity.
Vinyasa classes, I think to compare to a dance. Each pose is synchronized with the breathe (think cat-cow, inhaling and exhaling). Although yoga is about the breath as you move from one pose to another, vinyasa classes seem to just flow. There is no set sequence, so expect a lot of variety in a class.
Our newest class: Core vinyasa yoga
Your core is more than just your physical core-it is also the centre of your creative energy. If you've been enjoying the flex and flow yoga class, you are in for such a treat with this series. This class will transform your life-starting with the inner body first, resulting in greater changes on your mat. You'll also see greater changes in your self-esteem, confidence and direction of your inner wisdom.
Yin Restorative yoga
Yin, quite simply, is pure bliss that targets ligaments. tendons and fascia within the body. Each pose is held for a longer period of time that allows a safe and gentle opening of connective tissue that will leave you feeling spacious and lighter.
The term "power" conjures up images of challenging poses that bring up an intimidation factor-the reality is the "power" in power yoga isn't the physical poses, but the power originates from within each student. From a technical perspective, power yoga is based upon surya namaskar A & B (sun salutation) that flow non-stop to create a purifying heat, calm the mind and tone the body. It is an incredible class for building strength, stamina, flexibility; tone the body and is a great class for athletes (runners, cyclists, golfers, hockey players, etc.) but is also a class that can be adapted for someone new to yoga (although, my recommendation is that anyone new to yoga to get comfortable with sun salutation prior to trying a power class-remember, it's all about steadiness and comfort while in any class!)
Each power class is different as there is no set sequence to follow-so there is alot of variety in a typical class.
Our New Classes: Power 1 and Power 2
I will introduce a hot power class again in the winter-for the Fall schedule, there are 2 power classes.
Power 1 is a great class for beginning and continuing students who want to cultivate greater awareness, strength and stamina. It lays the foundation for power yoga 2
Power 2: This class is a continuation of Power 1 and a great class for those with experience in power yoga. It is moderate to advanced in intensity.
Vinyasa classes, I think to compare to a dance. Each pose is synchronized with the breathe (think cat-cow, inhaling and exhaling). Although yoga is about the breath as you move from one pose to another, vinyasa classes seem to just flow. There is no set sequence, so expect a lot of variety in a class.
Our newest class: Core vinyasa yoga
Your core is more than just your physical core-it is also the centre of your creative energy. If you've been enjoying the flex and flow yoga class, you are in for such a treat with this series. This class will transform your life-starting with the inner body first, resulting in greater changes on your mat. You'll also see greater changes in your self-esteem, confidence and direction of your inner wisdom.
Yin Restorative yoga
Yin, quite simply, is pure bliss that targets ligaments. tendons and fascia within the body. Each pose is held for a longer period of time that allows a safe and gentle opening of connective tissue that will leave you feeling spacious and lighter.
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Re-scheduled Balancing Acts & small Inversions Workshop
Sorry, but I have to cancel tonight's free workshop and re-schedule for next Wednesday, August 25th. All other details are the same.
Monday, August 16, 2010
Schedules and Start of Fall Session
August 19-23, I am away so there are no classes scheduled at the studio.
Fall schedule-has been sent for publication on the web. Regarding the "you can come to any class you want" pricing structure that was offered winter of 2010, there is an option of unlimited classes from September 4-December 19th for 255.38 (includes HST) payable in installments of 127.65 on September 1 and October 1. There are some very minor fee increases of 1.00 due to the harmonized HST; increases in studio utilities.
There are 2 bootcamps offered during the fall schedule-due to the studio size, we will be monitoring class size and making a determination if we need to cap the class at 8 or 10 participants.
Fall schedule-has been sent for publication on the web. Regarding the "you can come to any class you want" pricing structure that was offered winter of 2010, there is an option of unlimited classes from September 4-December 19th for 255.38 (includes HST) payable in installments of 127.65 on September 1 and October 1. There are some very minor fee increases of 1.00 due to the harmonized HST; increases in studio utilities.
There are 2 bootcamps offered during the fall schedule-due to the studio size, we will be monitoring class size and making a determination if we need to cap the class at 8 or 10 participants.
Sunday, August 15, 2010
Balancing Acts & Small Inversions Yoga Workshop: August 18th
When: August 18th
Time: 6:00-7:15 p.m
Where: Studio
Do you find yourself falling over in tree? This mini-workshop will explore various standing balances while working on core stability. I like to think of standing balances as similiar to flying-sometimes there is turbulence, sometimes the air is clear and we soar. The standing balances we are exploring:
- variations on tree pose (from the simple to challenging variations)
- Warrior III
- Eagle
-extended hand - to-big toe pose
Invsersions:
- shoulder stand
- plow
- forearm balances
The Studio @ Davidson's Courtyard
Time: 6:00-7:15 p.m
Where: Studio
Do you find yourself falling over in tree? This mini-workshop will explore various standing balances while working on core stability. I like to think of standing balances as similiar to flying-sometimes there is turbulence, sometimes the air is clear and we soar. The standing balances we are exploring:
- variations on tree pose (from the simple to challenging variations)
- Warrior III
- Eagle
-extended hand - to-big toe pose
Invsersions:
- shoulder stand
- plow
- forearm balances
The Studio @ Davidson's Courtyard
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Pitta Season
Now that the pitta season is coming upon us, we will explore the active principles of pitta dosha.
It is during summer that pitta dosha, inherently driven by solar force, is most predominant. It is comprised of the fire and water elements. Pitta dosha is the expression of radiant energy, both within our bodies and in the universe. It is this energy that fuels all biochemical activities, including transformation, digestion, metabolism and assimilation. Pitta is responsible for enzymatic and endocrine activity, the regulation of body temperature, pigmentation, vision, intelligence, vitality, ambition, courage and understanding.
The key qualities of pitta are hot, sharp, light, liquid, spreading, slightly oily and fleshy smelling. When these attributes build up within the body due to wrong diet and lifestyle, pitta accumulates and begins to manifest various imbalances.
When pittas key qualities are in a balanced state, the pitta person exudes bliss, joy, truth and robust health. Pitta individuals tend to possess a strong-willed, passionate and fiery disposition. They are the natural leaders in society, being ambitious, organized, bright and disciplined. Pittas favor noble professions and often earn plenty of money to spend on luxurious items.
They are the ones who enjoy staying up late at night, burning the midnight oil. The pitta body type is naturally athletic and one of medium height, weight and musculature. Their skin is often freckled, sensitive, oily and warm. Their hair may be straight, silky and oily and their eyes are often sensitive to light. Pittas have intense appetites and thirst. Don't even talk to a pitta person until they have eaten!
During the summer season, due to the hot quality, pitta people become more susceptible to heat related ailments. Signs of increased pitta in the body include excessive body heat, heartburn, hyperacidity, peptic ulcers, acne, skin rashes, diarrhea and early graying of the hair. The pitta person is prone to a low tolerance for heat, sunshine, or hard physical work. When out of balance emotionally, the sharp quality of pitta arouses aggression, irritability, anger, hatred, judgement, criticism, and jealousy.
Special care must be taken in order for them to remain cool, calm and peaceful. In general, to balance pitta, we learn to apply its opposite qualities to any given imbalance. For example, if a person has eaten chili peppers, making their mind sharp and agitated we will treat them with cooling foods, remedies and practices.
Pacifying pitta during the hot summer season requires living in harmony with the inherent rhythms of Nature and observing patience and compassion with ourselves, others and environment.
Here are some practical suggestions for balancing the pitta person during the seasonal changes that occur in summer and early fall:
Upon awakening, do some yoga asanas, including the Moon Salutation, Tree, Boat, Bow, Bride, Locust, Triangle and all abdominal twists. The emphasis throughout your practice can be on surrendering, forgiving, softening and being gentle with yourself.
Practice cooling pranayama after your asanas. Either Shitali pranayama or left-nostril breathing will cool and calm the hot quality of pitta dosha. Be sure to release any remaining internal heat from within the body before meditation.
Follow your breathing exercises with some peaceful meditation. A regular meditation practice assists in quieting the active pitta mind, releasing anger and allowing the sense of control to dissipate. Meditation should leave one feeling cool and calm in both mind and heart.
Give yourself a slow and loving full body massage before taking a shower. As a base, use sunflower or coconut oil, which are cooling and nourishing. Essential oils of rose, sandalwood, jasmine or lavender can be added to further enhance delight and healing.
Drink a tea of cumin, coriander, fennel and rose to pacify the hot quality, improve digestion and calm the mind.
Wear clothing of light texture and color. Excellent choices would be cotton, linen and silk of white, blue and green. Red and yellow shades tend to increase the fire that is already present.
Eat foods that are cooling and calming, sweet, bitter and astringent.
Coconut, cucumber, watermelon, steamed greens, mung beans and basmati rice are excellent choices. Sipping cool (not iced) water throughout the day keeps pittas fires at bay. When the hot and sharp qualities are acute it is best to avoid spicy, salty, oily and sour foods such as chilis, pickles, french fries and citrus fruits respectively. Due to pitta's raging appetite, it is in their best interest that they never miss a meal!
Enjoy regular, relaxing, peaceful walks in Nature to calm the inherent intensity that a pitta person may experience. Other activities to please pittas senses include swimming, gardening and walking in the moonlight.
(from aryuveda seattle)
It is during summer that pitta dosha, inherently driven by solar force, is most predominant. It is comprised of the fire and water elements. Pitta dosha is the expression of radiant energy, both within our bodies and in the universe. It is this energy that fuels all biochemical activities, including transformation, digestion, metabolism and assimilation. Pitta is responsible for enzymatic and endocrine activity, the regulation of body temperature, pigmentation, vision, intelligence, vitality, ambition, courage and understanding.
The key qualities of pitta are hot, sharp, light, liquid, spreading, slightly oily and fleshy smelling. When these attributes build up within the body due to wrong diet and lifestyle, pitta accumulates and begins to manifest various imbalances.
When pittas key qualities are in a balanced state, the pitta person exudes bliss, joy, truth and robust health. Pitta individuals tend to possess a strong-willed, passionate and fiery disposition. They are the natural leaders in society, being ambitious, organized, bright and disciplined. Pittas favor noble professions and often earn plenty of money to spend on luxurious items.
They are the ones who enjoy staying up late at night, burning the midnight oil. The pitta body type is naturally athletic and one of medium height, weight and musculature. Their skin is often freckled, sensitive, oily and warm. Their hair may be straight, silky and oily and their eyes are often sensitive to light. Pittas have intense appetites and thirst. Don't even talk to a pitta person until they have eaten!
During the summer season, due to the hot quality, pitta people become more susceptible to heat related ailments. Signs of increased pitta in the body include excessive body heat, heartburn, hyperacidity, peptic ulcers, acne, skin rashes, diarrhea and early graying of the hair. The pitta person is prone to a low tolerance for heat, sunshine, or hard physical work. When out of balance emotionally, the sharp quality of pitta arouses aggression, irritability, anger, hatred, judgement, criticism, and jealousy.
Special care must be taken in order for them to remain cool, calm and peaceful. In general, to balance pitta, we learn to apply its opposite qualities to any given imbalance. For example, if a person has eaten chili peppers, making their mind sharp and agitated we will treat them with cooling foods, remedies and practices.
Pacifying pitta during the hot summer season requires living in harmony with the inherent rhythms of Nature and observing patience and compassion with ourselves, others and environment.
Here are some practical suggestions for balancing the pitta person during the seasonal changes that occur in summer and early fall:
Upon awakening, do some yoga asanas, including the Moon Salutation, Tree, Boat, Bow, Bride, Locust, Triangle and all abdominal twists. The emphasis throughout your practice can be on surrendering, forgiving, softening and being gentle with yourself.
Practice cooling pranayama after your asanas. Either Shitali pranayama or left-nostril breathing will cool and calm the hot quality of pitta dosha. Be sure to release any remaining internal heat from within the body before meditation.
Follow your breathing exercises with some peaceful meditation. A regular meditation practice assists in quieting the active pitta mind, releasing anger and allowing the sense of control to dissipate. Meditation should leave one feeling cool and calm in both mind and heart.
Give yourself a slow and loving full body massage before taking a shower. As a base, use sunflower or coconut oil, which are cooling and nourishing. Essential oils of rose, sandalwood, jasmine or lavender can be added to further enhance delight and healing.
Drink a tea of cumin, coriander, fennel and rose to pacify the hot quality, improve digestion and calm the mind.
Wear clothing of light texture and color. Excellent choices would be cotton, linen and silk of white, blue and green. Red and yellow shades tend to increase the fire that is already present.
Eat foods that are cooling and calming, sweet, bitter and astringent.
Coconut, cucumber, watermelon, steamed greens, mung beans and basmati rice are excellent choices. Sipping cool (not iced) water throughout the day keeps pittas fires at bay. When the hot and sharp qualities are acute it is best to avoid spicy, salty, oily and sour foods such as chilis, pickles, french fries and citrus fruits respectively. Due to pitta's raging appetite, it is in their best interest that they never miss a meal!
Enjoy regular, relaxing, peaceful walks in Nature to calm the inherent intensity that a pitta person may experience. Other activities to please pittas senses include swimming, gardening and walking in the moonlight.
(from aryuveda seattle)
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