Yoga practice with me is awareness-based. With either group or private lessons, I hope to develop mindfulness and build strength and flexibility.
I offer a variety of classes that are suitable for people of all fitness levels, body types, and life situations. Also, Maitri Studio is fully equipped with everything you’ll need—yoga mats, meditation pillows, towels, blankets, and eye masks.
Browse my schedule for class opportunities, or call to discuss your options.
Body sensing is a deeply meditative practice—it is also my favorite class to lead. For me, it is a deep and self-teaching practice that I’ve come to know intimately.
Gentle, guided movements promote a moment-to-moment awareness of the body as it shifts slowly through space. This type of yoga is more about feeling into the living flow of the body than directing into some pre-conceived "correct" posture. We work to sense into this living flow as it happens, and at times, it is as though the body is sensing itself.
Body sensing can be difficult to explain, but if you give it a try, it could have profound meaning within minutes. Classes are equally suitable for those with or without prior yoga experience.
Viniyoga is a unique teaching approach that uses yoga—postures (asanas), meditation, sound, chanting, and even the study of texts—to meet the individual needs of participants based on their present condition and personal potential. I studied this approach with Gary Kraftsow at the American Viniyoga Institute.
No two Viniyoga classes are alike, but the guiding principles are the same. The sequence of postures chosen depends on the physical and emotional condition of the participants, who are guided through a series of very precise movements. Depending on your fitness level, the physical practice may be gentle or vigorous and strong. Both beginner and advanced classes are available.
The American Viniyoga Institute lists four points that characterize the Viniyoga approach:
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Repetition and stay: The use of repetition into and out of postures in addition to holding postures
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Function over form: The emphasis on function rather than form in asana practice, and the science of adapting the forms of the postures to achieve different results
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Breath and adaption: The emphasis on breath as the medium for movement in asana, and the science of adapting the pattern of breathing in asana to produce different effects
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Art and science of sequencing: The refined art and science of combination, which allows teachers to create sequences of different orientation, length, and intensity to suit the intention and context of each practice
Yoga Nidra or “yogic sleep” is a guided meditation practice that promotes deep relaxation. I take a compassionate approach to these classes because they can truly bring about positive change and personal growth. Research has shown that Yoga Nidra can reduce depression, insomnia, chronic pain, anxiety, and PTSD.
Classes are suitable for those with or without prior yoga experience.
While lying down, participants are led through a progression of steps that are intended to help release negative emotions and thought patterns, calm the nervous system, and develop a capacity to meet any and all life circumstances you might encounter. Yoga Nidra puts you in the role of self-observer: connecting with every aspect of being, feeling the body, sensing and connecting breath, and discerning your own feelings and emotions.
I’ve trained extensively with leading Yoga Nidra expert Richard Miller. To learn more, visit the Integrative Restoration Institute.
Yoga therapy considers the person as a whole: mentally, spiritually, and energetically. It can involve posture and exercises in addition to breath, meditation, and mantra. Yoga therapy can be helpful if you have an injury or physical or mental pain, but it can also simply support one's body and mind to live more at ease. Yoga therapy can be a more holistic adjunct to traditional physical therapy.
One-on-one yoga therapy lessons are tailored to the individual. It requires active participation and a desire to move toward greater health through practice and self-regulation. You and I will work to assess what is needed, and we will develop a practice to actualize your goals. This typically takes time, and many people come for at least five sessions. You'll also need to carry on with the practice to sustain and deepen its benefits. Please call me to discuss your needs or see if yoga therapy might be right for you.