At East Meets West Yoga, our core class offerings are rooted in the Ashtanga and Vinyasa traditions of yoga.

Ashtanga is a vigorous style of Hatha yoga in which a set sequence of poses, the Primary Series, are linked together by the breath in a continuous flow. Described as a moving meditation, this is an alignment-orientated practice that develops concentration and builds strength in equal proportion to flexibility. For more experienced practitioners, we offer the Ashtanga Primary Series taught in the traditional method of Mysore, India by Shri K. Pattabhi Jois. Students will be led through the postures of the primary series to the rhythm of the vinyasa count in Sanskrit. 

Vinyasa is adynamic style of yoga that uses sun salutations and a powerful breathing technique called Ujayyi breathing to link poses into a creative, continuous flow. This practice cultivates awareness, mindfulness and presence, as well as the excitement of new and challenging poses and sequences. It is a challenging alignment-oriented practice that develops strength, flexibility and balance in equal proportions.

Ashtanga and Vinyasa classes are recommended for students who have taken the Intro to Yoga course or have prior yoga experience.

In addition, we offer a variety of additional options for people in all stages of life and fitness.

For the beginner...

Intro to Yoga Course (requires preregistration) and Beginner drop-in Class is for those new to Yoga or with no experience with the Vinyasa or Ashtanga style of Yoga. This course will introduce the fundamental poses while focusing on the breathing technique and alignment principles that build a solid foundation for a flowing Ashtanga and/or Vinyasa yoga practice. No experience necessary.

Slow Yoga for Strength and Balance (requires preregistration) is appropriate for students with injuries, chronic conditions or limitations related to age or size. Enjoy a gentle, simple yet comprehensive practice that focuses on joint mobility in the spine, shoulders, hips and extremities. Increase range of motion, reduce pain, alleviate stress and improve quality of life. This course is non-sequential, students may begin mid-session based on space availability. No experience necessary.

For those who want a more meditative practice...

Yin Yoga focuses on the slow, patient, opening of the fascial layer of the body. The fascia is the connective tissue (shrink wrap) that underlies the skin, wraps the muscles, holds the bones together and is the conduit for the meridians through which energy flows. Over time chronic tightness of this layer causes stiffness and inflexibility restricting mobility and energy flow. Fascia responds differently then muscle and requires this slow approach to facilitate opening. This is a deeply meditative practice. No prior yoga experience required.

Gentle/Restorative Yoga is appropriate for all students seeking the benefits of a very relaxing, gentle and restorative practice. Deep restorative work improves range of motion and joint mobility, reduces pain and the effects of stress. Students with injuries, arthritis or other chronic conditions, limitations related to age or size as well as students with a more vigorous yoga practice will benefit from this practice. No prior yoga experience
required.

For students with an established practice who are looking to develop a personal practice...

Mysore/Self Practice times are for students who are interested in developing a self-guided personal practice to help discover all that yoga can offer. The time spent going inward teaches us about our bodies and ourselves and kindles our interest in self-discovery. We develop a body-mind sensitivity during our time on the mat that begins to translate to our time off the mat. All students with an established practice, whether it be ashtanga, vinyasa or something more gentle, are encouraged to come join us in a warm space and supportive community. Students may begin their practice within the designated time frame under the guidance of experienced instructors. Teachers will provide individual attention, modifications, alignment advice and therapeutic alternatives to help students progress at any level.  For more information related specifically to a Mysore practice, please read the attached Mysore Practice Guidelines.

Pre/Post Natal Yoga (requires preregistration) teaches yoga techniques to help you prepare for and meet the challenges of birth and motherhood. No prior yoga experience required.  This course is non-sequential, students may begin mid-session based on space availability. No experience necessary.

For kids and family...

Our Kids Yoga and Family Yoga courses and workshops are offered through Sproutin' Yoga.  Registration is required.



For those interested in meditation...

Mindfulness Meditation Class Regular practice of mindful disciplines, including yoga, meditation and pranayama (breathing exercises) reduces the consequences of stress in our lives and cultivates resilience. This weekly class will offer instruction and support to individuals who look to make these practices part of their lives. There is no set fee for this class. A donation is requested to cover costs of the materials. Participants are encouraged to stay for Restorative Yoga, the practice of which enhances the development of a strong and stable mindfulness practice.