Class Descriptions
Shakti Yoga Studio offers classes suitable for all levels of practice. Please find detailed descriptions of all our regular classes below. If you have any questions about which class is right for you, please contact us.
Hatha Flow 1
Suitable for beginners and more experienced practitioners, this class explores a variety of yoga poses (asana) and breath techniques (pranayama). Postures flow in a way that builds heat, strength and endurance while lengthening and rejuvenating the body’s muscles and connective tissues. Modifications will be provided so that all students regardless of age, body type or experience level can participate fully and to their own personal edge (previously called Introduction to Hatha).
Hatha Flow 2
Designed for continuing beginners and intermediate practitioners, this class continues the exploration of poses (asana) taught in Hatha Flow 1 and also introduces more challenging poses and variations. Postures flow in a way that builds heat, strength and endurance while lengthening and rejuvenating the body’s muscles and connective tissues. In this dynamic and balanced practice a deep connection between breath, body and mind is cultivated (previously called Hatha Flow).
Heart Flow Yoga
This class is a celebration of heart! Using a masterful system of bio-mechanical principles to align the body, and an uplifting theme to connect more deeply to the heart, this class will inspire you to live your yoga more fully, on and off the mat. Classes are led by Meaghan Burridge or Robin Penney, both students of Anusara Yoga. Suitable for continuing beginners and intermediate students. For beginners we now offer Heart Flow 1 (at Torbay Road) and Heart Flow Mixed Level (in Mount Pearl).
Hatha Flow Mixed Level
The Mixed Level class is designed to be accessible to those new to yoga while still maintaining relevance for a more experienced practioner. This class includes fewer heat building flows but incorporates a wider range of asana than would be presented in the Hatha 1 class. All poses are presented with a beginner variation for those new to the practice. Those more comfortable with the postures are welcome to move into the more challenging versions. Students are encouraged to practice at the level that is appropriate for their experience level so that everyone is able to obtain optimum benefit from the poses in a supportive and enjoyable enviroment.
Yoga 101
This foundation course is for people who are new to yoga or who have been away from the practice for long periods. In a four class session we’ll explore the fundamental yoga postures, breathing exercises and relaxation methods in a comfortable, supportive environment. Each class will explore new ideas and techniques so that at the end of class #4 participants are prepared for a full-length practice.
Detox Flow
Our daily life exposes us to toxin in many forms. The air we breathe, the food we eat and the products that we use leave our bodies in need of regular cleansing. Unhealthy thought patterns and emotions can also be toxic and as detrimental to our overall physical and mental health as poor diet or inactivity. This class aims to assist the body in removing these physical, mental and spiritual blockages through a series of postures that are designed to optimize the cleansing of the body, stimulate the organs and remove blockages that disrupt the normal function of our bodies systems. The meditations and imagery used in this class also work to shift mental stagnation and remove unhealthy thought patterns. The flowing series in conjunction with a warm room works to heat the body from the inside out to encourage a sweat response and to create an environment that opens the muscles for deep release.
Yin Yoga
Yin Yoga is a series of traditional yoga postures practiced on the floor and held in position for three to ten minutes. Most forms of Yoga practiced today are Yang, they emphasize muscular movement and contraction. By contrast Yin Yoga targets the connective tissues (including fascia) of the hips, pelvis and lower spine by relaxing the surrounding muscles. This class is suitable for all levels.
Prenatal Yoga
Prenatal classes are designed to optimize expectant mothers’ physical and mental health while promoting the bond between mother and child. Breathing exercises are emphasized throughout the class to calm the mind, and prepare the body for delivery. The poses are modified to accommodate Mom’s blossoming figure at each stage of pregnancy. Each is carefully chosen to stretch and strengthen muscles needed to support the body during pregnancy and childbirth.
The class ends with a relaxation period. The instructor leads a guided meditation that not only relaxes and nourishes the body and mind, but gives Moms the time to focus and truly enjoy this short and special time with their child. Expectant moms from 12 weeks to delivery are best suited for this class. This class is also an opportunity to share experiences with other expectant moms.
Mom & Baby Yoga
A gentle yoga class geared toward enhancing the developing bond between mom and baby. Moms spend time with their new baby while reconnecting with self and gently strengthening, toning and calming postpartum body and mind. A supportive environment to exchange experiences with new moms and introduce your baby to new friends. No need for a baby sitter or disrupting baby’s feeding schedule. Class appropriate for babies six weeks to preactive crawling stage.
Family Yoga
This light hearted class is for Kids age 3-5 and an accompanying adult. Yoga for kids builds confidence and calm. This class uses yoga poses, songs, stories and activities to get kids moving, promote positive social interaction and teach kids to connect with their bodies and emotions. Get ready for some yoga fun!
Chair Yoga
This class makes yoga accessible to people with physical limitations or reduced mobility, such as older adults or people with chronic conditions. The class is done with the support of a chair. A variety of other props are also used to modify postures as required. Each class includes breathing practices to enhance lung capacity and mindfullness, supported yoga postures for strength and flexibility and a deep, guided relaxation.
Gentle Yoga
This relaxing class explores breath and movement with a slow moving series of postures that allows the body and mind time to absorb all the benefits that each posture has to offer. Students are encouraged to listen to their bodies and participate at a level that energizes and opens the body with ease and comfort. Yoga props such as bolsters, straps and chairs may be utilized by those who need support holding the postures. All postures done in this class can be adjusted to accommodate those with limited upper body strength, joint conditions or other mobility issues. Participants must be able to lie on the floor and get back upright with ease. Those without specific physical limitations can also participate in this class and perform the postures in their complete form.
Restorative Yoga
Rebalance, recharge and restore with this deeply relaxing class. Restorative yoga is practiced with a variety of props that support the body in long-held asanas, which are used to actively relax both the body and mind. A restorative practice will leave you feeling refreshed and ready to take on the week ahead. This class is appropriate for beginners and recommended for anyone who wishes to experience the rest and nourishment that a Restorative Yoga practice offers.