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Class Description
New to Ashtanga? New to Yoga?
You do not have to wait and take a workshop before starting your practice at The Yoga Shala. If you are completely new to yoga practice, we encourage you to come to the Basics classes on the schedule and learn the traditional sun salutations a and b (surya namaskara) before moving on to all of the classes on our schedule. Understanding and correctly practicing surya namaskara avoids common practice errors and supports a lifetime enjoyment of yoga practice.
Each month The Yoga Shala offers an introductory workshop on the practice of Ashtanga Yoga. Please see the workshop page of our website for information on our next scheduled Intro Workshop.
Basics
These guided classes focus on establishing an understanding of the fundamental principles of Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga . Attention is given to correct practice of surya namaskara (the sun salutations) in combination with the traditional breathing technique. The practice follows the rhythm of the breath to move in and out of each posture. Establishing a strong foundation of the basic principles of this practice allows the student to move into any of the classes on our schedule safely and with confidence.
Mysore-style Ashtanga Yoga
Mysore teaching is offered everyday but Saturday on our schedule. Sessions are appropriate for the absolute beginner to the advanced student. Students are guided individually by the instructor in the traditional ashtanga sequence at his or her own pace. Over time the student learns the traditional sequence of yoga postures with guidance and assistance. The instructor works within the student’s level and ability, so the class is always moving at the correct pace for that individual. We ask that newcomers to this teaching technique watch all or part of a session first before beginning this method.
Students may walk-in the studio at any time during the session, but we ask that you allow at least 45 minutes of practice time. This is great class to take if your practice schedule needs to be flexible and making it into the room at an exact start/finish time is difficult for you. Please view the online schedule for the start and finish times for our Mysore classes each day.
Primary Series Class*
The Yoga Shala offers led primary series ashtanga classes twice a week, Friday mornings at 9:00am and Sunday mornings at 8:00am. Each session is approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes in length. Primary series class is guided in the traditional format with both the asana names and vinyasa counted in Sanskrit. The session begins with the meditative repetition of surya namaskara, followed by standing sequence, seated asana, reclining asana, inverted asana, seated breathing and savasana (rest). Some experience in yoga practice is recommended for this class, particularly an understanding and practice of surya namaskara a and b.
*Please note that on the first Sunday of each month this class is taught as an introduction to the second series of ashtanga practice. Experienced practice of the primary series is recommended for attendance.
Mixed Level Ashtanga Classes
Each session incorporates the sun salutations traditional to ashtanga practice and include a variety of postures from the ashtanga practice, concluding with seated breathing sequence and resting posture (savasana). The postures practiced in each session will vary from session to session as the instructor’s focus shifts based on the needs of the class. Attention is given to establishing a foundation of correct alignment and yogic breathing principles. The inverted postures of shoulderstand (sarvangasana) and headstand (sirsasana) are introduced in these classes.
Ashtanga Improv
This class is an opportunity for students of all levels to come together and explore a wide range of yoga postures in a varied sequence that is based on the postures of ashtanga primary and second series practice. The shala staff rotates teaching this class, so students and staff both have an opportunity to get to know each other’s practice and teaching styles. Each teacher will offer up a well-rounded class that is a vigorous exploration of posture and breath, with a little meditation and philosophy tossed in for good measure. This class is a wonderful way to begin your weekend.
Sanskrit
Sanskrit class is taught on Tuesdays from 10:45am to 12noon. The study of this sacred language brings with it a deeper understanding of the yogic tradition. Chanting, learning the Sanskrit alphabet and practice reading and pronouncing words are all done with guidance from the instructor. This is an ongoing study of Sanskrit and students are encouraged to attend regularly. Registration fees and meeting schedule differ from our regular schedule, so please view additional information on this class as it is listed on the workshop pages.
Meditation/Pranayama and Philosophy
On Thursdays at 10:45am Val will sit with interested students and explore the practice of pranayama, meditation and yogic philosophy. Sessions will last about 45 min and are free to all shala students. Any donations given for the teachings will be directly donated to the Dorothy Day Hospitality House in Danbury. The Yoga Shala students and teachers currently give their time to the DDHH on the first Thursday of each month.
Youth Yoga Classes**
The Yoga Shala youth classes are divided by age group. Youth students from 7 to 12 years old meet on Thursdays at 4:30pm and high school students (8th grade by permission) meet on Fridays at 4pm. Each age group is designed to facilitate an introduction to, and understanding of the practice of yoga. Instructors work with the students to develop a personal yoga practice that encourages flexible bodies and minds. Attention is given to breathing, the physical practice of yoga postures and relaxation techniques.
**Registration in advance is required for our youth program. Drop-in attendance is not permitted.
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