Yoga - Ayurvedic Hatha, Yin

Ayurvedic Hatha / Beach Yoga

Hatha is a system of yoga practices that includes many physical techniques that this class will incorporate - asana (poses), pranayama (breathing practices) and meditation.

Aligning with the Ayurvedic seasons, your class will combine strength, flexibility and stillness.  Starting with mindful breathing, you’ll first quieten the mind and relax your body.   A creative sequence will work towards an Ayurvedic peak pose or intention.  This balanced practice will include both moving and static poses at a rhythm aligned to the current season.  As always, a generous savasana awaits you at the end of practice to integrate and relax, followed by pranayama and meditation practices.

Summer, the Pitta season, is characterised by its hot, sharp and intense nature.  The sprouts that started in spring are in full bloom, with nature fully active through the hot, sunny days.  The invitation during this season is to focus on cooling, spacious and calm practices.  Bringing in the qualities of peace, quiet and acceptance.

Autumn and the start of Winter is the season associated with Vata, being colder, drier and windier.  Nature is starting to retreat from the heat and vibrancy of summer, leaves are falling and days are becoming shorter.  During this season practice focuses on grounding, stabilising and warmth, allowing you space to slow down and nurture yourself.

From around the Winter Solstice to the end of Spring, the Kapha dosha is dominant.  Nature is moving through the dark, wet winter, with the days being damp, heavy and cold.  As we transition into spring, nature starts to awaken from the depths of winter.  Just as the seed needs energy to burst upwards from the earth, our practice needs to adapt to be more dynamic, heating and expansive, stimulating our prana (life force energy) to move towards Summer.

Class is open to all levels.

Yin

Yin Yoga is a quiet and contemplative practice.  Creating shapes that suit your individual needs, long holds (two to five minutes) will influence fascia and connective tissues in a way that softens and nurtures us.  Passively holding these postures, we use breath and mindfulness to relax, quieten and feel, entering into a meditative state – conscious, present and curious. The perfect compliment to the more dynamic, yang styles of yoga, Yin allows you time to let your body sink deep into postures to release and soften.

Class is open to all levels.