Class Styles & Descriptions
Class Styles
- Introduction Courses
- Hot Yoga, Hot Flow
- Hot 26
- Power Yoga, Power Flow
- Hatha Yoga, Hatha Flow
- Kripalu Yoga
- Yin Yoga
- Restorative Yoga
- Shanti Yoga
- Prenatal Yoga
- Ashtanga
- Ashtanga Mysore
- Satsang
- Kirtan
- Meditation
- Pilates (*)
Some classes are combining 2 or more styles above, like our Yin & Ashtanga, Yin & Meditation classes, or Prenatal Shanti yoga classes
(*) Currently not available.
Introduction Courses
These course are designed for students new to Yoga, run in 6 week sessions and offer a comfortable environment for students to become familiar with these practices and learn proper techniques.
Each week builds upon the last with the goal of preparing students to comfortably drop-in to regularly scheduled classes and to continue develping their own practice.
Check the Introductory Courses descriptions.
Hatha Yoga
At Santosha, we use the term Hatha Yoga to describe classes in which traditional Hatha poses or asana's and breathing exercises (pranayama) are taught in each class.
The emphasis is on working deeper into the asana to your own ability through principals of alignment, breathe and awareness. Poses are sequenced by the teacher to open the body in a progressive and safe way.
~ Hot Yoga ~
Hot Yoga is a detoxifying practice in an intentionally heated room. Expect to perspire! Hot yoga is an ideal practice for flushing the body of toxins, increasing flexibility and building core strength. Hot Yoga is a pre-set sequence of asanas, which allows for the practioner to observe their progress over time in a systematic way. All postures can be modified to suit the individual. This series is a cardiovascular workout that strengthens, tones, and stretches the muscles while calming the mind and reducing stress. Regular practice helps improve concentration, balance, endurance, and alleviates fatigue.
Bring a water bottle and personal towel to all hot yoga classes - we can provide one for you!
~ Hot 26 ~
If you like Bikram Yoga you will love our Hot 26 class! Hot 26 class is a pre-set sequence of asanas, which allow for the practitioners to observe their progress over time in a systematic way. This series is a cardiovascular workout that strengthens, tones, and stretches the muscles while calming the mind and reducing stress. Regular practice helps improve concentration, balance, endurance, and alleviates fatigue.
Bring a water bottle and personal towel to all hot yoga classes - we can provide one for you!
~ Power Yoga ~
Power yoga is a general term used to describe a vigorous, fitness-based approach to vinyasa-style yoga. Most power yoga is closely modeled on the Ashtanga style of practice.
However, unlike Ashtanga, power yoga does not follow a set series of poses. Therefore, any power yoga class can vary widely from the next. What they have in common is an emphasis on strength, breath and flexibility.
~ Hatha Flow / Hatha Yoga ~
In a Hatha class, traditional asanas and breathing exercises are practiced in a gentle flow. The emphasis is on working deeper into the asana at your own ability through the principals of alignment, awareness and breath. Poses are sequenced to open the body in a safe and progressive way.
~ Kripalu Yoga ~
Kripalu yoga is known as "the yoga of compassion". This moving meditation reduces stress while developing balance, endurance, strength and flexibility. Mindfulness is emphasized. Students are encouraged to practice at their own comfort level. Options are offered to lessen or increase challenge.
~ Yin Yoga ~
Yin Yoga is a quiet meditative practice in which seated poses are held for several minutes to allow the student to move deeply with awareness and long smooth breathing into the asana. The Yin approach is very grounding and stimulates the flow of "Chi" through the meridians of the body.
Yin Yoga and Meditation
This Yin class begins, or ends with 15 to 25 minutes of seated meditation.
~ Restorative Yoga ~
Soften, breathe and be supported. Using bolsters, blankets, blocks and pillows, allow yourself to receive the rest and restoration that your mind, body and heart need through a practice of opening and release. This class effectively counters the effects of daily stress and is the perfect compliment to stronger forms of yoga. All levels - every body.
~ Shanti Yoga ~
Be yourself! Unlearn habitual tension, be present and feel fully alive in an unhurried experience of yoga. "Infinite time and no ambition": based on the work of Vanda Scaravelli, Shanti Yoga creates space for reflection, release and rejuvenation, by following the body instead of working against it. Come home to yourself through this gentle, mindful and embodied practice.
~ Pre-Natal Yoga ~
Take time and make room for the baby, first in your body, then in your life. This class gives time to connect to oneself, but also to share with other Moms in a supportive environment. The movements are slow and mindful with an emphasis on breath and release with specific back care and positions for labour.
Ashtanga Yoga
~ Ashtanga / All Levels ~
The focus of this class is on the correct internal and external alignment in the Primary series asanas, while still incorporating some vinyasa flow. A level one class will develop the more difficult asanas from the Primary or Second series, while an alI level class will work on the form and foundation of the first half of the Primary series. This class offers insight into principles of alignment using breath and internal awareness as a root.
New Students welcome!
~ Ashtanga / Level One ~
The focus in the level one class will be on the pacing and sequencing of the Primary or Second series. “Vinyasas” will be included between each asana in the traditional continuous flowing style.
Previous Ashtanga experience is recommended
~ Ashtanga / Level One/Two ~
Intermediate practice. Solid Ashtanga practice is recommended. Try a class and ask the teachers for orientation, if needed.
~ Mysore ~
It is in Mysore India that Sri.K. Pattabhi Jois has dedicated his life to the practice and teaching of Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga. The term "Mysore" is used to describe this method of practice where students go at their own pace under the guidance of the teacher.
Students may start or finish anytime during the class. The instructor gives individual guidance to the students, and assistance in mastering specific asanas in the primary or second series. Students of all abilities are welcome to attend.
A print out of the Ashtanga series is available to take into the class with you for reference. Work at your own pace and reap the benefits of a guided self-practice!
Yoga After Dark
One Friday each month, Santosha Yoga Elgin hosts unique classes and live music events that are designed to open the mind and expand your awareness!
** Check the website for upcoming Yoga After Dark Events **
Satsang/Kirtan
Satsang is a gathering of the yoga community. We sit in silent meditation, practice Kirtan, and engage in an open discussion about some aspect of the spiritual path. On occasion, there will be selected reading or special talk about Joelle's yoga.
Kirtan is call and response chanting, generally in the tradition of, but not limited to, WAH!, Krishna Das, and Jai Uttal. The setting is informal, and anyone is welcome to lead. Please bring your favourite chant and instrument. Feel free to arrive late or leave early.
** Check our website for upcoming Satsang/Kirtan Events **
Pilates
The Pilates classes offered at Santosha Yoga Westboro will take you through a level appropriate series of the original Pilates Mat Work. We will guide you in understanding the proper form and technique of the Pilates Method which will help you to achieve a stronger more flexible body and gain a richer sense of body awareness. Our focus is to help you attain your best level of physical fitness.
Pilates consists of a series of precise, rhythmic, fluid movements achieved through a harmony of breath, concentration and control. It is a comprehensive method of physical and mental conditioning developed in the 1920s by German fitness pioneer, Joseph H. Pilates.