Experienced (90 min)

For students who are familiar with asana at a continuing level and are wishing to deepen their understanding of yoga. These classes will give the student an opportunity to move into a more "advanced" practice of asana, pranayama and meditation.

** Please note: There will be NO Drop In's allowed in this class, nor may it be used for a Missed Class make up option for  regular registered classes.

Kundalini Yoga (90 min)

A dynamic system of yoga using breathing, mantra, mudras and movement to ground and release energy. The class is based on the teachings of the 3H0 Kundalini practices in the lineage of Yogi Bhajan.

Yin Yoga ~  (90 mins)   

Yin Yoga is an inwardly drawn practice of seated and reclining asanas that are held for 3 - 5 minutes that work with  the hips, pelvis and lower spine of the body. The longheld poses stimulate connective tissues (ligaments, fascia and soft tissue) which creates more flexibility in the joints than a traditional "yang" or muscular tissue practice that generally focuses on rhythmic, repetitive movements to stress the fibers of the muscles.

The yoga postures found in a yin practice can also be beneficial to the entire being due to the effects on the meridians of the body as found in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). A Yin yoga class is a welcomed complement to a more "yang" or active style of yoga or athletics (cycling, running) that emphasize the lengthening and contracting of the muscles. Some yoga experience is suggested.

Yin/ Yang Yoga Fusion ~  (90 mins)   

Yin/Yang Fusion combines the cooling, meditative practices of Yin with the warm, energetic practices of Yang movement.  This class will be a balance of effort and ease as we integrate a practice for opening and lengthening the yin tissues of the body, with sequences to awaken energy (Qi) and free deep-seated tension in the yang tissues. Yin and Yang practice incorporates both the warm & cool, male & female, sun & moon and allows the student to explore the sensations particular to each practice. Some yoga experience is suggested.

PreNatal Yoga Series (75 min)

These safe and supportive classes will include relaxation, breathwork and gentle movement to nurture you and your baby during pregnancy and help prepare you for birth and motherhood. Yoga is an ideal modality for all stages of pregnancy.  The emphasis on increasing body and breath awareness can allow you to work with the transformations of pregnancy with calm and confidence. Variations will be given for all stages of pregnancy. Allstages of pregnancy welcome. The class size will be limited to ensure a safe and supportive environment.

Pre-registration is required.

Introduction to Meditation Series (75 min)

A 6 week meditation course that provides a foundation for developing a meditation practice. Each week introduces a new focus or technique and builds on the previous week. Through silent and guided meditations, participants will learn how to quiet emotions, mind and spirit. Learn how to breathe and relax effectively, reduce internal chatter and use positive thinking techniques to enhance present moment experience.

Restorative Yoga (75 Mins) Restorative yoga may be referred to as active relaxation. Restorative poses are poses of "being" rather than "doing". The body is placed in a supportive environment using props (bolsters, blankets, blocks & straps) with gentle attention to the breath. The props relieve the muscles and bones from their roles of support and action which then allows the nervous system to send fewer messages and become quieter. Restorative poses cultivate the habit of attention. You may learn to identify how and where you hold tension and then consciously release it. Restorative yoga is beneficial for times when you are stressed from daily life, fatigued, when recovering from illness or injury or for times before, during and after major life events. Please bring a yoga mat and 3 blankets. Class size is limited to 6 participants.

YOGATHRIVE ~ From Surviving to Thriving   (75 mins)

Beyond Cancer, Yoga for Wellness  ~ Therapeutic Yoga for Cancer Survivors

Yoga THRIVE is a research-based, therapeutic yoga program for cancer survivors either on or off treatment.              This gentle, 7- week program is based on hatha yoga, but has been modified for cancer survivors - especially those who are experiencing stiffness, pain, stress or fatigue.

 Dr. Nicole Culos-Reed (University of Calgary) has been researching the benefits of this program in collaboration with Susi Hately - Aldous, Kinesiologist and Yoga Teacher, (specializing in therapeutic yoga - Functional Synergy Inc.) since 2002. Past participants have found significant benefits in overall mood, stress levels, physical strength, range of motion and quality of life. Research continues to be tied to the program, but participation in the research study is voluntary and involves completion of a confidential questionnaire at four different times.      

No previous yoga experience is necessary and the program is progressive as each class builds on the next. Classes are held once a week over a 7- week period and pre-registration is required. A support person is also welcome to register for the class if desired.

The Instructor of this course have been trained at the University of Calgary with this protocol and is a certified yoga instructor who will ensure individual attention and safety within the class. A minimum number of 6 participants are needed for the classes to run.