Class descriptions

SYS Vinyasa Open Class

All levels welcome! This class utilises the framework of Vinyasa yoga class, a dynamic form of authentic Hatha yoga – to introduce dharmic teachings.

Each breath, each moment is an invitation to experience the mind in its natural state – free of fabrications. Emphasis is placed on the awareness of the breath & its linking to movement as the underlying principle of the practice.

To the external observer- the outer form of this practice may seem dynamic or strongly physical. However, for the yogini engaged within in – it is the stillpoint within the dynamism that is experienced. Utterly transcending concepts such as dynamism and stillness… and experiencing the natural state beyond all conceptualisation.

The sequence changes regularly to emphasize awareness through repetition of surya namaskar, standing postures, forward bending, back bending, twists and inversions. Contemporary music may (or may not) be interspersed throughout to support the theme of each class. Every class culminates with stillness & seated meditation…

This class is not recommended for complete beginners.

Jivaumkti Open Class

Whether you’re a beginner, deciphering the difference between vrksasana (tree) and sirshasana (headstand) or an advanced yogi who can put both feet behind their head, the Jivamukti Open class welcomes you, as it is open to practitioners of all levels.

You work at your own pace, following the teacher’s verbal as well as hands-on guidance. Asana options will be provided for beginners, intermediate and advanced students.

A typical Open class incorporates the five tenets of Jivamukti Yoga: shastra (scripture), bhakti (devotion), ahimsa (kindness), nada (music) and dhyana (meditation) by presenting classical yoga teachings as relevant to one’s life on and off the mat, drawn from the Focus of the Month essay, supported by chanting, breath awareness, flowing vinyasa sequences, alignment exploration, hands-on assistance, relaxation and meditation.

All Open classes include 14 points: asanas, meditation and spiritual teachings— in a sequence creatively designed by the teacher.

The class is called “Open” because it is open and suitable to all levels of practitioner. The teacher will not demonstrate the class.

Jivamukti Spiritual Warrior

Jivamukti Spiritual Warrior classes are designed for busy people who only have an hour to practice. The class is fast paced and invigorating.

The structure is a fixed set sequence instructed in a vinyasa style. It is a fully balanced class which includes asana warm-up, chanting, setting of intention, surya namaskar, standing poses, backbends, forward bends, twists, inversions, meditation and relaxation. The teacher focuses on keeping the pace moving and does not stop to give spiritual discourses.

Since the asana sequence is always the same, a student will pick it up quite quickly after only a couple of classes. Spiritual Warrior classes are one hour in length and open to all levels.

Yin Yoga

Yin Yoga is a floor based practice. The focus is on slow and sustained stretching and longer holds in the poses to access the deeper and denser tissues of the body. The major energetic channels (meridians) in the subtler layers of the body are in turn stimulated, strengthening the quality of prana in the body and causing the removal of blockages. This facilitates in an increase in harmony and balance in the body-mind relationship.

Ashtanga Guided Self-Practice