Yoga Studies

This class is for teachers and students of Yoga that wish to deepen their practices and studies of Yoga in new areas for personal growth and transformation.    

June 17 — Love Your Bolster!

Presented by Laura Mrosla

A bolster is a versatile Yoga prop that can support proper alignment, conscious breathing, reduce joint strain, and release tension, particularly in restorative poses.  But bolsters can be used creatively in active poses too!  In this Yoga Studies class, we will explore both active and restorative ways to use the prop we love to relax with.  All levels.

June 24— Building Stable and Healthy Shoulders and Hips

presented by Janet Lilly

The shoulder and hip joint are both ball and socket joints however they differ in the purposes of the joint and its range of motion. In this Yoga Studies class we will explore how to increase strength and flexibility in both joints.  All Levels.

July 1—Goal Pose:  Garudasana (Eagle Pose) – Fly Like an Eagle

Eagle Pose can be intimidating with trying to balance on one leg with stiff hips and grouchy shoulders.  But when the pose is broken down step by step and we focus on each part of the pose, we can fit it back together again and appreciate its benefits.  Garudasana strengthens the calves, ankles, thighs, and hips as you build your balance and core strength. It can help improve concentration. And it is truly an antidote for the shoulder strain that comes from sitting at a computer for long hours. All Levels.

July 8—Yoga for Spinal Health and Back Strength

This active practice will help release tension in the back and spinal muscles and help develop strength and flexibility.  For the spine to maintain healthy alignment, poor postural habits need to be reversed and mental stress released.  All Levels.

July 15—Exploring Meditation

Studies have documented that the benefits of meditation include: lower blood pressure, lower heart rate, less anxiety, improved feelings of well-being, and deeper relaxation.   The challenge can be trying to figure out what meditation style to practice.  Just like the physical practices, there is not a “one size fits all” method.  This class will explore many different techniques, including methods from The HeartMath Institute, Ho’oponpono, Purna Yoga Meditation Snacks, and Loving Kindness Meditations.  Then it’s up to you to explore and practice further!  All Levels.  

July 22—Practices to Release Tension in the Upper Trapezius 

Tightness in the upper trapezius can contribute to the impingement of surrounding structures, which may lead to further symptoms and complications. Tightness of the trapezius muscle not only causes pain in the shoulder and neck, but also can be a leading contributor to tension headaches. 6 Months of Asana Practice.

July 29—Yoga for the Wrists and Hands

The carpel bones and ligaments in the wrists form a little tunnel through which nerves and tendons from the muscles in the forearm travel to the fingers. Repetitive stress can cause inflammation and adhesions between the tendons and the bones and can become misaligned.  The wrist is also susceptible to arthritis. The muscles and tendons of the hands and fingers can get tight and restricted from overuse. This wrist and hand program includes yoga practices and exercises to help bring them back into balance!  All Levels.