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Yoga is union. Literally.
By engaging in the ancient and systematic practice of yoga on the mat, we explore a method designed to help us let go of the stresses and strains of life, which cloud our perception of that already existing union. By stretching the body through asana (physical postures) and quieting the mind through pranayama (breath control) and meditation, we stimulate the latent potential within ourselves and experience a deep sense of peace, joy and connection. Ultimately, we tap into our internal wisdom, bringing us into deeper communion with the quiet voice within, which loves, guides and nurtures us. Our ordinary yoga mats become a sanctuary from which our practice of yoga, our practice of union, embraces every part of our lives.
Yoga Glossary Commonly Used Words
Namasté: The light in me honors the light in you, we are one.
Used as a salutation recognizing unity.
Om: (AUM) The sound or vibration which most closely reflects the highest form of Divinity. Chanted verbally or mentally as a tuning fork, so to speak, to invite Divinity into our practice on and off the mat and raise collective consciousness.
Shanti: Peace, or more expansively, an expression used to invoke peace in all of one’s being in order to effect peace in others.
Mantra: Translated from sanskrit to “an instrument of thought.”
It is a word or string of words repeated mentally or verbally to reflect intention and help the aspirant reach a higher level of spiritual awareness. “Om” is one such mantra.
Asana- The physical postures of yoga.
Mudra- Hand postures or gestures used in yoga facilitating specific energetic flow.
Pranayama- Breathing exercises which control prana, or life-force energy, in specific ways.
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•Wear comfortable clothes that allow for unrestricted movement. Also, yoga is practiced without socks and shoes (for safety), so be prepared to free your feet! While yoga mats are available at the studio (and frequently cleaned), it is best to bring your own. All other props are provided.
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•Please plan to arrive ten minutes early to fill out any paperwork and get settled in. Yoga is a systematic practice so try to be there for the whole class to experience the whole benefit. If you are running late (it happens sometimes!), please be courteous and quiet when entering the room.
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•Sometimes embarrassing things happen as we twist, bend and invert. It happens to us all so bring your sense of humor and gentleness with self and others as you try new things.
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•Yoga class includes a lot of breathing through the nostrils so please be considerate of your fellow yogis noses when preparing for class (i.e. don’t bathe in perfume or essential oils right before class).
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•While yoga classes tend to be introspective and quiet, making connections through talking, laughing and asking questions is encouraged. Use that good ‘ol internal wisdom to discern the appropriate times.
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•Not sure which class to attend? Gentle yoga classes, while great for all levels of experience, are a great place for beginners to start out. This type of class has a slower pace and builds basic the groundwork for more challenging postures. If have questions or are looking for guidance on the classes, please do not hesitate to contact us!
Yoga Classes for Beginners
New to yoga? Taken a class but not sure where to go from there? We can help! Contact us with your story and we’ll be happy to help you find a class that speaks to you!
Email or call us at
513-759-4458
Suggested classes for beginners:
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•Gentle Yoga, Thursdays from 7:00-8:30pm
A calming class for reconnecting with your body through a slow pace and plenty of guidance in gentle postures and the transitions between them.
What you’ll experience: Increased flexibility, strength and mobility; Relaxation, stress relief and heightened sense of wellbeing; Focus on “being” rather than “doing”
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•Gentle Vinyasa, Mondays from 7:00-8:30pm
A slower-paced vinyasa (flowing links between postures using the breath) class with plenty of guidance provided.
What you’ll experience: Increased flexibility, strength and mobility; Relaxation, stress relief and heightened sense of wellbeing; Focus on conscious movement and breathing
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•Yin & Restorative Yoga, Sundays 6:00-7:15pm
A quiet, meditative class comprised of deeply relaxing and therapeutic postures at a very slow pace.
What you’ll experience: Increased flexibility and range of motion; Relaxation and stress relief; Focus on the connective tissues of the hips and spine by employing gravity rather than muscular effort to replenish these major joints of the body and create a sense of openness and wellbeing.
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•Lunch Hour Yoga, Tuesdays and Thursdays 12:00-12:45pm
A gentle, slow-paced class for exploring postures in a relaxed and uplifting environment.
What you’ll experience: Increased flexibility, strength and mobility; Mid-day oasis of relaxation and stress-relief; Focus on breathing, being in the moment and stress-relieving movement.
• YOGA (with Spirit), Tuesdays from 6:00-7:15pm
A heart-centered (and light-hearted) mix of slow-flowing vinyasa (linking between postures using the breath) and held postures exploring the ebb and flow of each movement with plenty of guidance along the way.
What you'll experience: Increased flexibility, strength and mobility; Relaxation, stress relief and heightened sense of wellbeing; Focus on gradual opening of the muscles and compassionate body awareness.
