Yoga Journeys to India , Mexico , Greece * Santa Cruz and Bay Area classes and retreats with Phoenix Artemisia

Each class, depending on the setting, may begin with chanting a traditional Sanskrit invocation for blessing in our practice, or simply with Omkara (chanting of AUM to open to the breath/ emotional awareness/ Spirit. In the beginning, I like to offer a few postures that integrate core body and spinal alignment, such as seated or reclined spinal twist, a standing pose or two, a core-strengthening movement, or a simple rudimentary pranyama like Alternate Nostril breath to develop whole body attentiveness, enjoyment and mindfulness before we begin the more dynamic Sun Salutations. We always do several types of Surya Namaskar--the Salutation to the Sun-- which increases energy, overall flexibility, encourages concentration on the breath, and lends a devotional element to the practice.

My current "style" is a blend of what has reverberated and proven trustworthy and inspiring from the Vinyasa and Iyengar methods. Vinyasa is distinguished by breath-to-breath linkage between the postures which are sequentially choreographed, unfolding from one to another. "Vinyasa" is a word comprised of two participles, "vi" or movement and "nyasa" or the conscious placement of energy in the body for blessing, healing, and spiritual strength. Through intent, mudra, breath awareness and posture this conscious direction of focus at various points of bodily alignment allows the mind to surrender to a naturally arising meditative state. Flexibility, strength, coordination, and emotional balance increase as concentration on the breath and body expand the mind's capacity to rest in the present Moment.

Students are guided through moderately paced sequences of standing, seated, reclined and --for Level 2-3 and up-- inverted asanas with an emphasis on rhythmic, deep breathing and precise alignment, combining longer holding periods with dynamic transitions between the postures. This cultivates a cleansing internal heat and raises the body's healing energy by bringing blood flow to rejuvenate internal organs and tissues, strengthening the respiratory and cardiovascular system, increasing lymphatic drainage, and reducing blood pressure.

Over the years my study of Iyengar Yoga has caused me to value the effects of holding poses for significant time for maximizing their physical benefits and also encouraging meditative equilibrium and maturity of vision in the healing states of awareness that Yoga offers to a student. We spend at least a third of the class holding postures for a couple of minutes on each side, during which time you will learn about relevant anatomy aspects of the posture and health benefits associated with each pose. I also like to delve into philosophy and psychology inspired by the universal experiences detailed by Yogic and Buddhist scriptures, and have a penchant for sharing poetry and readings from other traditions as well.

Most locations where the classes are held provide some Yoga props but it is always best to bring your own mat and any other props you may have. If you are attending a public class of mine for the first time, please let me know prior to class if you have any injuries or special needs.