Time Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday
9 AM Method Restorative Integration Restorative Mild
Class Class Class Class Flow
10 AM Outdoor *
6 PM 5 Element * Astanga
Vinyasa
6:30 PM Asht Viny *
* Indicates that the class is held at a location other than the studio, see below for detail.
If you are interested in a time where there is currently no class, let me know.
Class Descriptions
Your first class is free.
Pricing: $12 for a drop in
$55 for a 5 class pass
$100 for a 10 class pass
Private classes can be useful if you're just starting or need clarification and more personal attention than is possible in a regular class.
Method classes emphasize learning how to be sensitive in your own body. There is a heavy focus on ulolas or wavelike movements between poses to help people become familiar with their bodies. This class is not only for beginners. It is highly recommended for all newcomers to Ananda Yoga Studio. Much yoga that is practiced especially in the so called hard styles like Ashtanga Vinyasa and Power Yoga leads to a numbing of the body and an insensitivity that matures in injury rather than yoga. The method class addresses this head on. This class reveals why honesty in practice is not possible without sensitivity.
Restorative classes are centered around sensitivity and accessibility. We take are time here moving and holding poses in a comfortable and stable way. This class is especially good for folks with injuries, those who have cultivated a great deal of wisdom and people that simply want a gentle class where fundamentals are more easily clarified.
Integration - classes are about taking the sensitivity and fundamental learned in the method level and applying them in a unified way. The crux of the matter here is cultivating the sense of unity facilitated by Sarvangabandha. This class is open to all levels.
Outdoor Flow classes are held at the Adobe & Pines Inn in Ranchos. From the main light in Ranchos with the post office on the left heading south on 68 follow the road for 1/2 mile and look for the Adobe & Pines Inn on the left. These outdoor classes are a moderate flow open to all levels. Its a real pleasure to practice outside. Park in the general parking area. Class meets by the labyrinth at 10 AM on Saturday mornings. If weather is questionable, call the studio at 575-758-9340.
The Ashtanga Vinyasa Primary Series is the classical series brought to us by Pathabi Jois at the direction of his instructor, Krishnamacharya. It's worth noting that 3 of the major styles that are practiced today namely Vini, Iyengar and Ashtanga Vinyasa not to mention their offshoots like Anusara and Power Yoga are here because of Krishnamacharya. This is a difficult series and not for beginners unless you are young or very athletic. This class takes about 1 1/2 hours. It addresses the body comprehensively. Here at Ananda we approach it with alignment and sensitivity. Modification with props is acceptable.
5 Element Yoga is a class designed to clarify and balance the elemental nature of yoga practice. The classical model of the elements indicates that a balanced practice will express alignment, flow, bandha, breath & awareness with equality. In this class we will identify which areas we need to work on and work on them. This class meets at 6 PM Wednesday and is held at Santosha Yoga studio which is located on Paseo del Pueblo just south of the Plaza across from Smith's.
Asht Viny class is again the Ashtanga Vinyasa Primary series. See above description. This class meets at 6:30 Monday and is held at Santosha Yoga studio which is located on Paseo del Pueblo just south of the Plaza across from Smith's.
Moderate Flow classes are varied sequences that are connected with vinyasa or flowing, breath synchronized movement. They are open to all and you can always modify. Alignment, bandha application and breath awareness will all be present here with out as much verbal reference from the instructor as found in the method and integration classes.
Mild Flow classes are meant to have a slightly chilled Sunday tone. These classes can be modified for all levels but generally these will be gently flowing classes where we continue to clarify fundamentals.
All Classes cultivate refinement of sensation so that
all styles can be accessed safely and honestly.
General tips for attending classes at Ananda:
First timers should try to arrive 15 minutes early to allow the instructor to get to know your level of health, ability and what you would like to get out of the class.
Water is neither required nor avoided. If you're thirsty during practice, drink.
It's always good to practice yoga on an empty stomach, follow this as much as possible within reason.
We have mats & props at the studio but you're free to bring your own and not use any.
As individuals we have varying amounts of tension in the body. Expect your body to be unique and practice accordingly. In other words, here you are encouraged to listen to your body before anything else.
If you have any injuries or past surgeries even if they were l0ng ago and have completely healed, let the instructor know before class starts.
Yoga means unity. Have your practice expressing this principle as much as possible.
Upcoming Workshops:
Stay tuned for more detail on the September workshop on clarifying personal practice.