Group Class Descriptions

Pranayoga synergistically cultivates Strength, Mindfulness and Spiritual Awakening. The techniques of Pranayama (deep yogic breathing), Bandha (core focusing and subtle energy control), Mindfulness (concentration and awareness) and Mudra (gesture) are integrated with Asana (yoga postures) in a strong, active, engaged, full body, meditative practice. Pranayoga is fully adaptable to students of any level.

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about the specific classes offered.

Current Schedule of Classes

Pranayoga practice is highly adaptable, so beginners, intermediate and advanced students are able to participate in almost any of the classes. The practice relies upon the energy of the student. You can put as much of yourself into the class as you feel appropriate. Pranayoga works through your energy and commitment. The general pace of the classes is moderate, so there is ample time for you to adjust the practice (up or down) to your level of ability and your energy level of the moment.

If you have found that Gentle and Restorative classes have been appropriate for you, the Breathe and Release, Asana and Dhyana and Sunday Asana/Meditation classes would be recommended. The Energization and Mixed Levels classes may be appropriate for you, but it may be best to try one of the others classes first.

If you generally feel comfortable in Level II/III or Intermediate/Advanced classes, then you will want to try the Advanced, Mixed Levels, Asana and Dhyana and Energization classes. The Breathe and Release and Sunday Asana/Meditation classes can also be quite challenging when you put your energy, focus and commitment into the practice.

All Pranayoga classes have a meditative quality to them (focus, concentration, mindfulness, awareness, mental and emotional balance and ease). If you want to penetrate further into yogic Meditation, you should take Asana and Dhyana, Morning Meditation and Sunday Asana and Meditation.

Class Descriptions

Pranayoga Breathe and Release

This class is appropriate for Yoga beginners, seniors and those with limitations due to injuries and surgery. A gradual unfolding and expansion is accomplished with deep breathing in conjunction with yoga postures; the pace is quite moderate and relaxed. Similar to Restorative classes, the body's own weight is used to assist the process of stretching, lengthening and creating space in joints, soft tissues and muscles. There is an equal application of energy with intention and gravity with release. Deep Yogic breathing (Pranayama) facilitates the unfolding via deep internal expansion/contraction associated with the breath; breath awareness also generates a peaceful and focused state of mind.

Pranayoga Energization

This morning class is highly energizing and awakening yet also brings a centered calm to the start of the day. Prana is activated and moved throughout the mindbody. There is extensive use of the breath linked to movements and the postures. Mental focus and full body awareness are also emphasized. Inversions are sometimes practiced in this class.

Pranayoga Mudra

Mudra means sign, seal or gesture. Pranayoga Mudra practice is a series of gestures and movements which resemble to some extent the practice of Tai Chi. It moves energy through focused awareness and physical engagement of the body. Deep Pranayama (yogic breathing) is linked to the gestures and movements. Mudra practice generates a deep state of mindfulness and a centered, focused calm. It can be challenging or soft, according to the energy you bring to it.

Pranayoga Mixed Levels

This class focuses on Asana (posture) practice in a slow flow format. The postures and the movements into and from the postures are linked to the breath with focus and awareness. Full mindfulness of breath and body is cultivated. The expression of the Asanas is practiced as a full body, moving meditation. Deep core focusing and expansiveness from the core is key. This can be a very challenging class, but a student can take breaks at any time or take a less challenging version of a given posture.

Gentle Yoga and Meditation

Asana (postures) and Dhyana (meditation) are interwoven. The challenges of the physical body via the postures are utilized as objects of concentration and awareness along with yogic breathing (Pranayama) and core focusing (Bandha), building a mindful condition that is then put into short meditations. We then continue with more Asana, progressing further into a engaged, awakened meditative awareness. The class can be very challenging or soft depending on the energy that you bring to it.

Pranayoga Advanced

This class will challenge your bodymind to focus, concentrate and develop and express your energies. The pace is somewhat faster than other Pranayoga classes, poses are held for longer periods and control and precision in the transitions between poses are emphasized. If you feel comfortable in the Mixed Levels and other Pranayoga classes, you are invited to try Pranayoga Advanced. With time and consistent practice you will master the postures, movements and techniques and will fully cultivate Strength, Mindfulness and Spiritual Awakening.