class descriptions
Introduction to Yoga (Free weekly offering)
Offered weekly for the new student who wants to learn about yoga styles, philosophy and benefits. You’ll also learn yogic breathing techniques, fundamental postures, and experience a deep relaxation. Your instructor will be happy to answer any questions you have about yoga or our classes. [Sign up here.]
Yoga Basics (The Series)
This class is a perfect fit for the new yoga student wishing to ‘start at the beginning,’ learning the foundations of yoga practice and philosophy. The class will teach correct breathing methods, increase strength in the arms, legs and torso, and improve balance and posture. You will be comfortable in a wide range of postures (asanas) so that you will be prepared to enter any yoga class at Yoga Hawaii. Pre-registration required; sign up here.
Yoga Basics (Level I, II and Mixed)
In these ongoing classes you'll learn solid fundamentals and alignment of the muscles, bones and joints in the classic yoga asanas. You'll begin to gain a deeper awareness of your body and develop higher levels of focus, strength, flexibility and endurance. In Level II you'll be introduced to inversions and the more complex postures, as well as hold postures for longer periods. Each teacher teaches from his or her unique training and background. [Meet our teachers.]
Yoga for Older Adults (59+ or with limited mobility)
This modified yoga four-week series for mature adults (59 years and older), or those adults with limited mobility, is designed to help improve strength and flexibility. Stretch and hold poses in simple ways to gradually ease tight joints and muscles and build strength, reduce or prevent chronic pain, regain mobility, coordination, balance and fulless of breath. Leave class feeling relaxed and refreshed! Class size is limited to 10 people. [on hiatus for summer.]
Yoga for Kids (ages 5-7 yrs; and ages 8-10 yrs.)
By using nature and animal-themed games, dance and song to stimulate the mind, the creative spirit and enhance the health, this class is a safe and fun environment for children ages 5-10 years of age and level to expand, explore and express their unique physical, emotional, and mental gifts. The class combines yoga postures, games, breathing, and relaxation to help transform the body, mind and spirit of our young ones, building the foundation for a bright tomorrow for all of us! [on hiatus for summer.]
Surya Namaskara in the Iyengar Yoga Tradition
In this class each of the asanas incorporated in the sun salutation are broken down individually and taught according to the Iyengar method. The asanas are then linked in a continuous cycle along with the incorporation of carefully selected and sequenced standing, seated, twisting, backbending and restorative asanas.
Vinyasa Flow
Vinyasa is a joining or linking mechanism, and this class features flowing sets of postures that can be modified based on your experience level. The instructor may introduce postures that show up in Ashtanga Primary or Second Series or from other styles of yoga entirely. The hallmark however, is that the postures will be linked through the use of the vinyasa.
Vinyasa Flow (Yin/Yang Style)
Yin/Yang Is a slow steady vinyasa that gradually moves students into the longer deeper holds of a yin practice, such as floor postures, hip openers, forward bends and twists, closing with pranayama, meditation and shavasana. Students are in encouraged to experience their energetic body in conjunction with their physical body. This class invites all levels of practitioners to delve deeper.
Vinyasa Flow (Anusara Inspired)
Anusara-inspired Vinyasa will link together a wide variety of postures including simple arm balances and inversions. A common theme will be weaved through the class in order to introduce the principles of alignment as taught in Anusara Yoga. This is an all-inclusive mixed levels class where each individual is encouraged to work at their own pace honoring their body.
Vinyasa Flow (Swásthya Yoga)
Swásthya Yoga is the name of the systematization of the ancient yoga known as Dakshinacharatantrika-Niríshwarasámkhya Yôga, considered by some to be the most complete yoga in the world. It is a technical and powerful style of yoga, and incorporates many of the elements of a vinyasa flow class, including flowing postures, as well as chanting and sutra information.
Intro to Ashtanga (Four-week series, $48/series, or class coupon)
A vigorous practice-–in the traditional style of K. Pattabhi Jois–-that utilizes sun salutations, deep rhythmic breathing, and an energetic series of asanas to build heat and detoxify the body. Learn the essentials of the Ashtanga Primary Series—Surya Namaskara A & B, the bandhas, the ujjayi breath, the dristhis and asanas—in a workshop-style format. Class material will vary each time. You are welcome to remain at this level for as long as you wish. [Sign up here.]
Ashtanga (Half Primary Series)
In a workshop-style class, you will complete poses from Primary Series, at the teacher's discretion. Intro to Ashtanga is highly recommended before entering this class (or by permission of the instructor). You are welcome to remain at this level for as long as you wish.
Ashtanga (Primary Series)
This is a practice class where you'll do the full Primary Series, building endurance and strength. Intro to Ashtanga and Ashtanga Half Primary are highly recommended before entering this class (or by permission of the instructor).
Ashtanga (Intro to Second Series)
This class slowly introduces several of the postures of the Second Series. You should feel comfortable with the entire Primary Series flow, know how to do a chakrasana, show obvious control of bandhas and ujjayi breath, and be able to do headstand without support. If you are unsure whether you are ready for this class, please ask your instructor.
Ashtanga (Second Series)
A talk-through class that consists of most of the postures from Second Series, depending on the focus of the class that day. You will be assisted in achieving new poses and working deeper in the ones you already know. It is recommended that you have a solid understanding of the Primary Series before entering this class.
Ashtanga (Mysore Practice)
This class is similar to having your own private lesson since you work at your own pace and level, getting help for the postures that are most challenging for you. If you are a beginner, you are welcome to come but may be given a shortened practice depending on your capabilities. Instructor will assist you in determining what level to work at, and will guide your practice.
Intro to Meditation
Although meditation—a yogic practice that is aimed at stilling the mind and creating inner connectedness—is simple to learn, it may take years or lifetimes to master. Come to this guided class to learn the basics of meditation and then practice in short sittings that allow you to build your endurance for these disciplines. Sundays, coinciding with dates that Vishnu's Yoga Basics class is held. [Check here for dates.] $10/class, donation to the instructor
Please feel free to talk to us regarding any concerns about your ability to participate in any of the classes or if you would like a class recommendation based on your goals.