CLASS DESCRIPTIONS

Intro to Iyengar Yoga: This class covers the basic principles and foundation postures of Iyengar Yoga. Standing and sitting postures are emphasized; as well as establishing a strong foundation for shoulder stand and it's variations. This class is recommended for students who: are new to yoga, returning after some time away, and for those coming from other traditions/styles of yoga practice.

Level I: This class reviews, and refines all poses and principles from the fundamentals classes while expanding the variety of postures with simple backbends, introductions to headstand, and more seated postures. It also introduces varieties of faster paced sequencing as well as longer holds of poses. Students in Level I classes will begin to explore more thoroughly the varied use of props, such as belts, blocks, chairs, walls, etc, which help to deepen understanding of the postures. Students who are new to yoga, or to Iyengar yoga are advised to begin with fundamentals courses. However, newcomers are welcome to attend these Level I courses and decide with the aid of the teacher if the class is appropriate for them.

Level 1-2: Those who have become confident in the Level 1 curriculum will move forward in this class. Headstand and further inversions are introduced. Not for beginner students.

Level 2: Students wishing to attend Level 2 classes should have an ongoing yoga practice and be able to maintain a freestanding shoulder stand for 5 minutes. Headstand is practiced regularly, and deeper backbending and twisting poses are introduced as well as arm balancings such as handstand and forearm balance.

Gentle/Restorative: Restorative and rejuvenating! A moderately paced, less rigorous class for new and continuing students. Postures are taught with more modifications and props to accommodate older students, those with stiffer bodies, and/or those with mild chronic health conditions. The more moderate pacing and focus on supported postures is also helpful to those experiencing symptoms of fatigue, stress, anxiety, or depression, or those simply needing a rest. Emphasis is given to supported poses that increase mobility and strength of the neck, shoulders, spine, legs, and opening the chest for optimal circulation and breathing.

Yoga for Stress Relief: Studies show yoga can lower stress hormone levels, increase calming brain chemicals and treat anxiety and depression. Join Dale Shields, RYT, for a 4-week class on how yoga can calm the mind and body, even in the midst of stressful times. Learn which yoga poses the Iyengar Yoga system recommends as particularly effective for promoting relaxation, tension relief, and calming the mind.

Runners Series: This series will focus on using Iyengar yoga to build strength, flexibility and to develope recovery techniques specific for runners. Come join Abbey and get ready for spring running with your improved stride!

Prenatal? If you are looking for a prenatal class we highly recommend any of Pamela Ryan's classes. With many years of experience teaching prenatal yoga, as well as having direct study of the subject under Patricia Walden (one of the two highest certified Iyengar Instructors in the country), Pamela will adjust poses in any class to suit the needs of pregnancy.

Lower Back Series: Starting in June. Certified Iyengar Yoga Instructors Pamela Ryan and David Yearwood will be co-presenting this special series targeting low back issues! Learn simple, resting and active poses to relieve pain and regain strength and mobility. Workshop suited for all levels of yoga students. Go to the workshops page to register.

Portland Yoga Studio 616 Congress St, Portland Maine 207.807.3807 portlandyoga@gmail.com