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Tamarack Programs & Activitites > Yoga > Yoga Class Descriptions 

Yoga Class Descriptions

Class Length

Most classes are 90 minutes long except as noted on the schedule.

Visit our Styles & Definitions page for more information on types of yoga. Please inquire if you are unsure which class would suit you.


Advanced LevelAdvanced Level       
Advanced students have a strong practice and understanding of alignment principles; must be able to attain a full backbend from the floor without assistance, and do a handstand at the wall. Commitment is requested and highly recommended.



All LevelsAll Levels       
Viniyoga

Viniyoga arose from the practice of Sri. T. Krishnamacharya, who developed practices for individual conditions and purposes. Sri. T. Krishnamacharya is the teacher of well-known contemporary masters B.K.S. Iyengar, K. Pattabhi Jois and Indra Devi. His own son, T.K.V. Desikachar, continued with his principles and developed Viniyoga. Viniyoga makes use of modified yoga poses that can be designed to meet the specific needs of an individual and to enhance healing, flexibility and strength of joints. Practices may include pranayama, meditation, reflection, study and other classic elements, but the emphasis of Viniyoga is on coordinating breath and movement.



AnusaraAnusara       
A powerful Hatha Yoga system that unifies Intrinsic Goodness with Universal Principles of Alignment. Anusara embodies an uplifting philosophy that looks for the good in all people and all things.



Ashtanga YogaAshtanga Yoga       
Ashtanga Yoga is the system of Yoga taught by Sri K. Pattabhi Jois at the Ashtanga Yoga Research Institute in Mysore, India. This method of Yoga involves synchronizing the breath with progressive series of postures—a process producing intense internal heat and a purifying sweat that detoxifies muscles and organs. The result is improved circulation, a light and strong body, and a calm mind.



Beginning YogaBeginning Yoga    04/08/08   
Drop-in & Series classes focus on basic classical yoga postures, alignment principles and breathing techniques. Newcomers to yoga should start here, or in Gentle Yoga. Beginning level is also recommended for those who may wish to strengthen the foundation of their practice, or who may simply want an ongoing practice that is in harmony with their level of flexibility.



Blossoming Goddess Yoga Series<br>(7/7 - 7/30)Blossoming Goddess Yoga Series
(7/7 - 7/30)
       
A class for teenage girls (ages 12-18) that focuses on celebrating the emerging female form. We will focus on yoga postures, breathing and meditation techniques, and some discussion of the yamas and niyamas (ethical precepts and observances).



Breathe & Relax (All levels) Breathe & Relax (All levels)        
Taught by rotating instructors.

Relax deeply from the stresses of life. Class consists of restful, supported yoga and breathing exercises to bring the body and mind to a restful state, release residual tension, and restore natural balance and harmony. Everyone can do this and benefit, even people who have never before done yoga. Please bring a blanket and 2 small pillows. Release your weekly hassles for a fresh start to the weekend.



Continuing Level YogaContinuing Level Yoga       
Emphasis on deepening awareness of the body, and understanding of alignment principles. Should be able to perform the Sun Salutation series. Movements are more flowing than in beginning classes. Knowledge of the basic poses is assumed, with posture variations and breathing practices to help you deepen your experience.



Core AwarenessCore Awareness       
Core Awareness builds our understanding and awareness of our powerhouse of strength: the deep muscles of the pelvis and abdomen. When we tap into these, we can build our Hatha Yoga poses on a foundation of strength, which expands outward into our limbs, and strengthens the back, as well. This class will help you tone and flatten your abs, build stability into your Hatha poses, and use breathwork to deepen awareness of the core.



Gentle Beginning YogaGentle Beginning Yoga       
Explores gentle movements to increase flexibility, strength and well-being. Students are led through stretches, yoga postures and breathing practices, then guided into deep relaxation. Ideal for those with chronic pain or stress, those returning from illness or injury, or anyone who would like a gentle approach to practicing yoga.



Gentle Yoga for WomenGentle Yoga for Women       
Invites you to a practice designed for women, in a slow-paced, caring atmosphere of acceptance created by women working together.



Intermediate Level YogaIntermediate Level Yoga       
designed for those who already have a strong yoga practice and a good understanding of alignment principles. Vinyasa, or dynamic movement through a sequence of poses, is part of some intermediate sequences. The class requires strength, stamina, flexibility, and willingness to move into more advanced postures than those offered in a beginning/continuing class.



Intermediate/AdvancedIntermediate/Advanced       
This series is designed sequentially to help you prepare for and move into the more advanced poses you have been wanting to master. Commitment is requested and highly recommended.



Intro to Pilates Series<br>(7/3 - 7/24)Intro to Pilates Series
(7/3 - 7/24)
       
Lori Zimmerman will lead this 4-week class to introduce you to the concepts of Pilates. We will take it slow and learn the biomechanics of the movements. The class will progress in a way that allows you to learn about the body, master movements with no unnecessary pain and develop an understanding of the philosophy of Pilates. At the end of this course, students will be prepared for a Beginning Pilates Mat class.



Intro. to Yoga<br>(now - 8/6)Intro. to Yoga
(now - 8/6)
       



Nia Series<br>(now - 7/21)Nia Series
(now - 7/21)
       
Nia is a non-impact, barefoot exercise technique for all ages and abilities. It combines influences from dance arts, martial arts and healing arts with an emphasis on moving comfortably and joyfully "your body's way." The benefits are myriad, including joy (emotional well-being), trunk and spine flexibility, improved balance, cardiovascular conditioning, leg strength, using up excess calories, improved posture, understanding how to move without hurting yourself, and experiencing the connection between your mind and your body.



Prenatal YogaPrenatal Yoga       
For pregnant women (spouses and partners are welcome, too). The class includes a mixture of balancing, strengthening and stretching poses that are appropriate during pregnancy, emphasizing breathing and relaxation. Give your baby the gift of yoga — a relaxed mom! No yoga experience is necessary.



QigongQigong       
Qigong (chi gong, chi kung) is the centuries old movement art and practice of cultivating Chi energy (also known as the vital force, prana, Ki, Great Spirit,) This class consists of gentle, joint loosening exercises, meditative walking and balance exercises, longevity breathing and the 7 graceful and energizing movements of Dragon and Tiger Qigong. In Dragon and Tiger Qigong, the acupuncture meridian lines are stimulated
by moving the hands through the aura along specific pathways to increase, relax and release stagnant chi.



Senior StretchSenior Stretch       
A gentle, yet energizing program of yoga exercises and breathing, designed for Seniors, M.S. sufferers, or anyone who wants to work on flexibility and strength, without standing for long periods or sitting on the floor. Class is seated in chairs.



Senior Stretch (Advanced)Senior Stretch (Advanced)       
Advanced Senior Stretch follows the guidelines of the Senior Stretch class, however students are led through movements that involve standing.



Simply Yoga - All LevelsSimply Yoga - All Levels       
Please call for more information. Thanks!



Yoga Plus Series!<br>9-week Series: 6/24 - 8/19Yoga Plus Series!
9-week Series: 6/24 - 8/19
       
This class will help you:
•Improve overall strength
•Build bone density and help prevent
osteoporosis

•Improve balance, coordination, and flexibility
•Increase energy throughout the body
•Improve posture and alignment

For Beginning and Continuing Students
Includes: • Hatha Yoga • Hand-weights,
• Core Work • Breathing!

A series for Beginning and Continuing students, using hand-weights, yoga postures, Pilates core work and the breath. This class has been designed to help you: improve overall strength; build bone density and help prevent osteoporosis; improve balance, coordination and flexibility; increase energy throughout the body; and improve posture and alignment.



Beginning/ContinuingBeginning/Continuing