Dharma Yoga Shala

Class Descriptions

All of our classes are based on the continuous practice and teachings of Classical Yoga. Shiva Namaskar Vinyasa series is a stairway to bliss that reintegrates the continuous flow of prana (cosmic energy) through the spinal column, and emanates deep into all areas of the physical, metabolic, intuitive, and bliss body.  It promotes harmony within all layers, so an integrated state of radiant health is achieved.  The progression of postures flow in a uniquely challenging and physically absorbing manner.  Using intense, yet non-strenuous exercises that are designed to twist, stretch, manipulate and gain control of the body, you will strengthen and tone the muscles, glands and internal organs.  Weight problems and disease are gradually brought to an end.  The postures are performed with slow graceful movements, so fantastic feelings of inner calm and self-control are felt immediately.  All classes are classical in nature with a meditative and flowing manner.  Personal instruction is given.  With regular practice, health & stamina are attained & Self-realization can easily follow.

Level I is the perfect introduction to Yoga, teaching the fundamentals of the postures, breathing and relaxation in a safe and nurturing environment.  Using a slower blend of vinyasa (flowing), this class moves through all the main postures, with a focus on correct alignment and ease of purpose to warm up the body, bring flexibility the all muscles and joints and wake up the nervous system.  Pranayama (breathing) is incorporated into all the movements, so fantastic feelings of inner calm are felt.  We emphasize practicing in a relaxed manner and feeling content during your practice. This practice ends with deep relaxation, breathing and meditation to remove impurities and bring a sense of well-being to the body and radiant peace to the mind.

Level I & II is more challenging than a Level I class, with the next phase of postures and their variations from level 1 being introduced, in a vinyasa (flowing) style.  Geared for students at all levels, though a familiarity with the basic standing poses is recommended.

Level II is more challenging than the Level I or Level I & II class, incorporating more progressive poses and variations from Level I series, in a vinyasa (flowing) style. Geared for students at all levels, though a familiarity with the basic standing poses is recommended. A series of deeper balancing, stretching, back bending, twisting and inverted postures is taught.

Level III is more challenging than Levels I-II and is geared toward Intermediate-Advanced students, though Advanced Beginners who wish to practice are very welcome. Be ready for an amazing and deeply challenging practice.

Maha Sadhana (with Chandra) – These Master classes are for Intermediate-Advanced Students and Yoga Teachers. Rooted in Classical Hatha Raja Yoga, Chandra will take you through a practice of asanas (postures) and their variations in a progressively flowing manner. These amazing sessions begin with Spiritual Purification discussions and continue with in-depth and challenging Shiva Namaskar Vinyasa Advanced Posture Series, a challenging and physically absorbing Hatha practice, including Mantra, Purification, Pranayama, Meditation, Deep Relaxation and Yogic Philosophy, all seeped in the classical tradition. Personal attention and help are given throughout the session as well as direction toward to true goal of Yoga. This is an advanced practice, not for beginners. All classes with Chandra are pre-registration only.

Gentle Yoga offers a slow, moving posture sequence, which will gently flow through one's muscles, bones and joints. Your body and mind will be trained to work with and through any discomforts or injuries in a natural healing manner. You will feel very calm, relaxed and meditative as you progress through the session. This class is especially beneficial for those returning from illness or injury, seniors, pre-natal, and those just wishing to enjoy moving slowly.

Restorative is a gentle, deeply relaxing practice ideal for recovery from injury or illness, stress reduction, to compliment an active practice or simply renew the mind, body and spirit. You will learn how to incorporate props such as blankets, bolsters and blocks. We will use the breath to assist you in restoring and letting go in the asanas. This class will enhance any type of class you attend. All levels welcome.

Meditation (with Chandra) Divinely revealed techniques that will prepare your mind for the serious practice, greatly strengthening the powers of concentration. Learn to draw your attention away from the noisy, restless world and place it within, where the truth lies. Pre-Registration only.

Kirtan is devotional group chanting, held once per month (see workshops page for dates). Bhakti is devotion, and one of the easiest and fastest ways to uncover the True Self--the aim of Yoga. Calling for, or chanting the names of the Divine is considered the most simple method to find peace. Everyone is welcome. Pre-registration only, so please email the school if you would like to attend.

Donation Class (on Sundays) This Level I weekly class is taught by one of the current student-teachers in our 240 hour teacher training. This class is solely donation for the public and all are welcome.