Class Descriptions

What should you expect?

• We usually begin with a centering practice (sitting or lying down). We then warm up, practice asanas (postures) and pranayama (breath work), cool down, and end with shavasana (final relaxation).

• Sometimes we have an opening and/or closing chant (such as “Om”) and sometimes we don’t.

• The studio is non-denominational but also all-accepting. We incorporate yoga philosophy but we do not incorporate any type of religious philosophy.

• Classes can range in size between 2 and 20 people but we always have space for everyone.

• We practice barefoot on yoga (sticky) mats. If you don’t own one we have loaner mats you can use and clean afterwards. Exercise mats are not a suitable substitute for a yoga mat.

• Yoga postures release toxins in the body through the organs and glands so drink water after class. You already drink lots of water? Drink more!

• All of us teaching at Body Balance are well-trained and we are adept at offering variations for poses and helping you find your potential. If you respect yourself, your limitations, and your inner guide, you should never injure yourself. Remember, your practice begins right where you are! There’s no pressure to “achieve” in our studio, but simply to practice breathing and trying to remain present.

General Suggestions:

• For your first visit, please arrive 15 minutes early to fill out a brief release form.

• Avoid eating or drinking for 1–2 hours before class.

• Wear loose, comfortable, layered clothing.

• It is important that the instructor knows of any injuries or issues you may be experiencing.

• First class wasn’t what you expected? Give it a few tries before judging.

• Please do not wear scented products to class as many people are sensitive.

Class Styles:

All classes welcome all levels. We try to encourage “do what you can” rather than “do what we say.” Let your inner guide be your Guru (dispeller of darkness).

Gentle Yoga

This class focuses on modified and restorative poses, breath work, and relaxation techniques. Students learn how to draw attention inward to the breath and to the body. This is a great place to start if you are new to yoga, have been inactive for some time, or just want a gentle way to increase your flexibility, strength, and balance.

Restorative Yoga

Think of Gentle Yoga, but long holds supported with lots of props and most of the postures practiced on the floor. It provides relief for the fascia and the connective tissue in addition to the muscles and joints. Delicious treat for your precious being!

Hatha Yoga

This basic class follows a  tradition that is more than 5,000 years old. This is the most common and approachable style of yoga in the west. A regular practice of classical yoga poses with awareness and breath work increases energy, strength, flexibility, and balance. Each class is varied and we strive to customize the classes to what the attending students are in need of improving or addressing. These classes create balance between pranayama (breathing) and all the categories of asanas (poses): standing, balancing, abdominal strengthening, side, forward, and backward bends, twists, inversions, and include a closing with final relaxation. Sometimes you will sweat and sometimes you won’t–but you will feel rejuvenated AND relaxed when you leave.

Vinyasa Flow Yoga

This class is a beautiful marriage between flowing movement and making space to pause. Sometimes there’s more flow; sometimes there’s more space! It can be energetic or not. Depends on the energy of all those present…. It’s a treat. Come and experience this journey if you haven’t already!

Pilates (Begins Tuesday, August 20th)

Open the Body through Pilates is the focus of our newest class addition..

Come open the hips and the upper spine through a pilates mat class with Laura. This class will have more spinal extension than a typical pilates mat class with an emphasis on opening the front of the hips and the chest, as well as some standing work.

This will help us mitigate the effects of computer and desk work, driving posture, and any sedentary habits we employ. You will feel infinitely stronger and lighter upon adopting this class as part of your regular routine!

OCCASIONAL OFFERINGS

Workshops and focused series

TBA

Free Yoga at Stewart Park (This is offered each summer)

Free Yoga at Stewart Park is sponsored by Roseburg Parks and Recreation Department and has been offered since 2012. Since its inception, Body Balance had been leading this event but now we have an entire group who volunteer to lead.

Bring a yoga mat or a picnic blanket. Some shade is available but wear your sunscreen. It is taught by a variety of instructors, so expect a variety of styles. Suitable for all levels. Cancelled if raining. PLEASE arrive a few minutes early to sign in and get settled. Thank you.

Yoga Basics

This class focuses on going deeper into the fundamentals and details of asanas(postures) and pranayama (breathing practice). It begins with time spent on breathing and centering practices and will be followed by a specific focus. Some examples of the class themes may include the action of the body (i.e. internally rotating the hips or shoulders) or specific asana groups (i.e. back bends or hip openers). This class is ideal for beginning students who are just finding their way as well as experienced students who want to refine and deepen their practice.

Guided Meditation

This session offers us an opportunity to explore different types of meditation. We sometimes begin with a simple pranayama practice (breathing practice), or some simple asana (posture) stretches. The meditation leader introduces a theme or a focus as needed and then we sit in silence for 20-25 minutes. It is appropriate for beginners as well as experienced practitioners. If you would enjoy leading a session and sharing your technique please contact us.