Ann Arbor Ymca

Lois Steinberg Yoga Workshops February 11-13, 2011

Download the brochure pdf or  register online

Ann Arbor YMCA yoga classes are taught in the tradition of living yoga master B.K.S. Iyengar. Iyengar – considered by many to be the most important living yoga master – has spent most of his life educating people around the world about the emotional, spiritual, intellectual and physical benefits of yoga. The Ann Arbor YMCA is the home of the first United States Iyengar yoga studio, which opened in 1973.

Yoga poses, or asanas, are taught with a safe, systematic approach to help the student develop strength, flexibility, endurance, concentration, and improved body alignment, while fostering a greater sense of inner well-being. Iyengar instructors use props, such as sticky mats, straps and walls, to help students create better body alignment and in turn give students more ease and confidence in the asanas. Props are provided in each class.

Ann Arbor YMCA yoga instructors are caring, highly qualified and Iyengar-certified. Our dedicated, clean studio is fully equipped with props, including a rope wall, chairs, bolsters and backbenders.

Throughout the week we offer a variety of class levels, days and times. Please follow the prerequisites when registering for classes. The lower level classes teach the terminology and basic techniques that are required for the higher-level classes. Talk to the instructor if you have questions about your readiness for a particular class.

Gentle Yoga
For students who prefer a slower-paced, more supported approach to yoga. Props will be used to accommodate individual differences. Not a therapeutic class.

Level 1
If you are new to Iyengar Yoga—even if you are fit and familiar with other schools of yoga- you should begin your study in a Level 1 class. You will learn critical fundamentals in Level 1 that are important in higher level classes, such as basic principles of alignment. You will gain strength, flexibility, stamina, and balance, while learning how to use props to facilitate ease in the poses. You will also learn how to set up and practice shoulder stands. You should repeat this class until you feel confident in the concepts presented.

Level 1-2
This class is for students who feel they are ready to move on from Level 1. A conversation with your instructor can shed light on what it takes to move to this level. You should know how to set up for and be familiar with the practice of shoulder stands. You will delve more deeply into poses learned in Level 1 and will also be introduced to more complicated poses. Again, you will learn to use props to support your learning journey.

Level 2
We recommend a minimum of one year of study in Level 1 and 1-2 before moving to a Level 2 class. A conversation with your instructor can shed light on what it takes to move to this level. Inversions are practiced regularly in Level 2, as are backbends. Poses are studied more deeply, and more complicated poses are introduced and practiced. Props will continue to be used to facilitate ease in the postures. You must have a basic grounding in Iyengar Yoga before participating in a level 2 class.

Guided Iyengar Practice
If you are looking to take your own practice to a new level, this class is for you. Your own knowledge of Iyengar Yoga will be challenged, as you follow the instructor in a guided practice. Confident Level 1-2 practitioners will be fine in this class. This is a two-hour guided practice.

Yoga For Pregnancy
The gentle stretches and strengthening poses taught in this class can produce beneficial effects for mother and baby. For new or experienced students at any stage of pregnancy.

Vinyasa Yoga
Vinyasa yoga is a rhythmic, flowing, and dynamic practice that includes attention to detail and is structured around building mindfulness into ones yoga practice. Class will emphasize sun salutations, standing postures, and introduction to some seated postures and back bends. The intention for practice is to build heat and detoxify the body, free the mind from habits, and enliven the spirit.

Yoga for Runners
Yoga for Runners is a class for runners of all abilities and experience. Our aim will be to improve performance and pleasure in running, and to prevent injury. Much of the focus will be on stretching, but we will go deeper than just becoming more limber.  We will tone underused muscles, build mental strength and stamina, and begin to correct the body imbalances that can lead to chronic pain and injury. Non-runners are welcome. Appropriate for anyone interested in a shorter yoga class.