Thinking of trying yoga? Our mission, here at Balance Yoga and Healing Center is to create a safe, warm and down-to-earth environment that invites everyone who feels ready to start a yoga practice. Please know that physical flexibility IS NOT a requirement for yoga. We only ask that you come with an open mind. Those brand new to yoga, as well as long-time practicing yogi’s alike, should know that our staff strives to meet you where you are and accommodate all “levels” of practitioners. We will be able to give proper modifications where needed, as well as the ability to challenge those with more experience.

Below you will find a very well thought out list of the classes we offer with their respective descriptions which closely reflect what you can expect to receive in a class.

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

The Mysore style of yoga asana practice is a wonderful & appropriate way for you to learn & practice the specific sequence of Ashtanga Yoga asanas as it is has been taught by Sri K. Pattabhi Jois in Mysore, South India. The Class setting is ideal for your growth and evolution in this tradition. The classroom is silent; you'll place your mat down and practice the sequence of postures moving at your own pace and receive individual verbal assistance & physical adjustments from the Ashtanga Teaching Staff. This is a fantastic opportunity to either learn this revered method, or deepen your current Ashtanga practice.

**PLEASE NOTE- MYSORE CLASSES ARE FOR STUDENTS WHO ARE TRULY READY TO LEARN AND COMMIT TO AN ASHTANGA YOGA PRACTICE AND REQUIRE PERMISSION FROM STACY BEFORE ATTENDING.**

Appropriate for All Levels: There are no pre-requisites, nor do you need to know the sequence. In the Mysore class, the practice of Ashtanga Yoga is learned one posture at a time over many days, weeks, months & years. Typically, it takes 6-8 months of practicing at least 3 days per week to acquire a solid foundation. In your first several classes we will teach you the beginning portion of the sequence [expect your practice times for the first few classes to take between 30-45 minutes]. Gradually over the weeks of regular practice [minimum 3 days/wk], additional postures will be introduced at a pace that ensures accurate memorization of the sequence, competency in the postures, and proper focus [the amount of time spent in class will increase accordingly]. This is an ideal process that, with patience and regular practice, allows you to easily learn and assimilate the Ashtanga Yoga sequence and system.

Half of the Primary Series will be taught in this class; stopping at Navasana (Boat Pose) and then moving into the Closing Sequence of Postures (Backbends & Inversions).A somewhat vigorous class which incorporates challenging poses such as half lotus. Most appropriate for students with some minor yoga experience, however, all are welcome.

The entire Ashtanga full primary series will be taught at a good pace.

An abbreviated Full Primary Series Ashtanga Yoga Practice where we’ll move through the majority of the first half of Primary and then continue to do a handful of postures past Navasana (boat pose) and then finish with the closing series.

These are great classes for people brand new to Ashtanga yoga (some general yoga experience is highly recommended and will be very helpful) as well as continuing Ashtanga students who would like to deepen their practice. The classes are broken down into 3 six-week sessions and should be completed in the order listed below for beginners or taken as a "refresher course" for those already practicing the Primary Series.

A full exploration of Surya Namaskara(Sun Salutations) A & B as well as thorough coverage of all the standing postures of the Ashtanga Yoga Method.

The "Closing Sequence" of postures will be taught; begining with correct and safe backbending and an in-depth explanation/practice of the Inversion Cyle of the Ashtanga Method. (headstand, shoulderstand, etc).

The seated asanas of the Ashtanga Method will be covered which include forward bends, spinal twists, an exploration of full Lotus pose and some challenging arm balances.

Vinyasa Flow is a term that covers a broad range of yoga classes. The word Vinyasa means “breath-synchronized movement.” In other words, the teacher will instruct you to move from one pose to the next based upon an inhale or an exhale. This technique is sometimes also called Vinyasa Flow, or just Flow because of the smooth and fluid manner in which the postures are linked together. Vinyasa Flow cultivates physical strength, endurance, flexibility, balance, focus, and moreover, establishes a mindful discipline that is supportive in attaining your personal goals. Please note the time of day will influence the nature of the class in order to honor our natural energy cycles.

Sri T. Krishnamacharya is considered the greatest yogi of our times. He dedicated his life to bringing the tools of the timeless discipline of yoga to modern world. His work has inspired nearly every yoga style and tradition that is practiced today all around the world, and he is acknowledged as the grandfather of modern yoga. T.Krishnamacharya taught how to adapt and apply the ancient discipline of yoga to individuals in order to promote health, longevity, alleviate sickness and to improve quality of life. This class will address the many needs of people, whether physical, emotional, mental or spiritual. We will integrate various tools of yoga including physical postures, breathing techniques, chanting, gestures and meditation to guide students toward healthy personal goals and pursuits.

Relax, Restore and Renew! The perfect class for a Friday evening after a full week’s work! A handful of gentle asana (postures) are practiced with the help of props such as blankets, blocks, straps, bolsters and eye pillows. Accompanied by relaxing music, candles and the gentle voice of the teacher, sets the tone for an absolutely peaceful and rejuvenating experience!! You will surely start your weekend off feeling wonderful.

This is not your standard post natal-play-with-your-baby class (although you're encouraged to bring your pre-crawling baby)! Now that we've embraced our bellies and fallen in love with our babies, it's time to love thyself! This is a carefully planned class focusing on rebuilding abdominal and pelvic floor muscles, gaining strength and endurance, working toward getting back into pre-baby shape with some much needed stretching and deep breathing. Please do not plan to come to this class and play peek-a-boo with your sweet one.....this is total momma time (with a little nursing and diaper changing thrown in!).

Gaining physical strength from the yoga asanas, the calming and pain management techniques through the breathing exercises, and the support and friendships found are just some of the gifts experienced from practicing yoga throughout your pregnancy. * Having your doctor’s approval is necessary. “Whereas having my kids is the best thing that I’ve ever done in my life, having my yoga practice is certainly what got me through my pregnancies, labor and deliveries (not to mention my daily life as a mommy!). I am exceptionally blessed, in that during my pregnant days, I was able to spend a LOT of time info sharing with Midwives, doula’s, lactation specialists pre-natal body workers and other yoga teachers to explore and learn the needs of pregnant women”. - Cher Lyman

This is a fun and playful class full of songs, games and stories, all designed to introduce children to yoga. Yoga postures will be introduced and practiced, as well as some easy breathing and relaxation techniques. Kids Yoga (Ages 5-8) Fun! Mindful and Creative! Yoga classes can benefit your child in a number of ways by: developing strong and flexible bodies with an emphasis on balance, coordination and strength; increasing their mental concentration, focus and attention skills; build self-esteem and encourage an inner confidence. Some mind engaging arts/crafts and yoga games will be used as a means of engaging the children creatively.

Come join Katie Feldman as she leads the little yogis through postures that work on balance, strength, mental focus, and patience. Some mind engaging arts and crafts & yoga games will be played as well. You'll surely see the calm and peace in your child when you pick him/her up after class!

Iyengar Yoga is based on the teachings of the living yoga master B.K.S. Iyengar, author of the classic yoga treatise Light on Yoga, who began teaching in Pune, India, in 1936 at the age of 18. Today, at 93, he continues to teach and inspire students all over the world. His daughter, Geeta, and his son, Prashant, are also accomplished teachers and authors of yoga texts. The Iyengar family’s teachings are deeply grounded in the yoga sutras of Patanjali, an ancient summation of the path of yoga considered to be at least 2,500 years old. B.K.S. Iyengar’s intense practice and almost seventy years of teaching have produced significant innovations in the teaching of the art and science of yoga. To learn more about B.K.S Iyengar visit www.bksiyengar.com.

What to expect from this method of yoga.
Qualified and rigorously trained instructors committed to excellence in teaching A safe and systematic progression of yoga postures to develop each student’s ability and skill, both within each class and from class to class Sequencing that develops strength, flexibility, stamina, concentration, and body alignment Individual correction and knowledge of how to adjust postures for common physical problems

• Precise use of language
• Demonstration and teaching of specific points to develop understanding and intelligent action
• Individual correction and adjustment of students, when necessary

Integration of the yoga philosophy with the practice of asana Incorporation and relevance of practice into daily life Ways to use yoga to ease various ailments and stress Use of props, such as blankets, blocks, and straps, to facilitate learning and adjust yoga postures to individual needs.

“Regular practice of yoga can help you face the turmoil of life with steadiness and stability.”
-B.K.S. Iyengar

Perfect for beginners, yet steeped with tons of valuable information and a 'back to the necessary basics' feel for already practicing yogis. This class combines postures taken with an emphasis on form and alignment, hands on adjustments, breathing techniques, inspiring philosophy & some basic meditation.

Belly dance is an ancient form of Middle Eastern dance that inspires feelings of joy, love, sorrow, and friendliness and today is performed worldwide. My dance program incorporates many aspects of general fitness, Zumba, and of course belly dancing, my workout involves the whole torso, especially the hips, the gluteus muscle & the mid-section of the body. It is a wonderful compliment to any fitness routine, and is ideal for anyone regardless of age or what shape you are in.

Tai Chi Chuan is an art that enables one to rediscover their natural flow and rhythm through movement. This class will look at the many dimensions of Yang style Tai Chi Chuan. Together, we will explore the classical 108 movement form and use it to create a strong foundation through correct structure and body alignment practices. However, Tai Chi goes far beyond forms, its real focus is on understanding the underlying energetic principles. We seek to move fluidly without hindrances, to move like water. How will we develop these principles and the fluidity of water? Through the practice of basic movements, form, qigong and two person exercises (Push Hands) we will explore many exercises, techniques and principles designed to lead one towards natural movement, Qi development and flow.

This gentle class offers inspiration and bonding for women with breast cancer and other cancers. Class includes breathing exercises, slow arm stretches, lymphatic self-massage, restorative yoga and balancing work appropriate for women during and after cancer treatment.