Class Descriptions and Guidelines

Beginners Hot Yoga: This class consists of a sequence of Yoga postures and Pilates postures designed to stretch, strengthen
and balance the body.    The first 1/2  of the class consists of standing postures; second 1/2 of class posture are done on the back,
belly or seated.  If you enjoy heat and love to sweat this class is for you!   Class temp. 100-105

Hot Yoga:  Taking your Hot Yoga practice to the next level.  In these classes we hold postures a little longer,  we may introduce
new posture, and we crank the heat up a bit more to 110.  Each teacher has a unique style of Hot Yoga to offer.  Try them all you
may find you like the variety.
If you are new to yoga we recommend attending the Beginners Hot Yoga class first.

Mixed Level Vinyasa:  A dynamic flow class offering a bit more of a challenge for those who are ready to deepen their
practice. Beginners are encouraged to work at their own pace.

Beginners Yoga:  If you're new to yoga or would like to go back to the basics and have no interest in practicing in the heat this
class is for you.  Tim or Kristen will guide you through basic postures with emphasis upon alignment.  Modifications will be
taught for those wishing to deepen the posture or anyone who may need an alternate way to do a posture.  This class will continue
to be on the schedule as long as there is interest.

Ashtanga :  This all levels class focuses on a specific sequence of postures which are linked through movement (vinyasa) and
breath (pranayama).  Ashtanga is an athletic flow combining strength, flexibility and stamina for a complete practice.  In this class
the first half of the primary series as taught in Mysore, India will be explored.

Slow Flow: Sometimes it's so nice to hang out in a pose and just see what happens within yourself. We're slowing things down a
bit allowing time to savor the sensations that arise with each pose.  Ruthie brings her knowledge of back care basics along with her
experience of listening to her own body through years of physical suffering (see testimonials to read her story).  Her intention is to  
offer you a practice where you may slow down and allow yourself to just be present.  

Mixed Level Yoga:  Tim uses the teaching tools he learned while studying at Yoga Works to offer an eclectic mix.  There are
days where you flow from one posture to the next and there are days where you may not flow.  You might hold postures and
through the sensations that may develop while holding you may notice your body, as well as your mind, adjusts to a new level of
understanding.  Great class for those interested in deepening their relationship to the practice of yoga.

Guidelines for Practicing Yoga at Balance

-Practice on an empty stomach.  Allow 2-3 hours after a large meal and 1 hour after a light meal or snack

-Wear loose comfortable clothing or exercise wear.  Do not wear any heavy perfume/cologne and some   people have allergies.

-Yoga is practiced in bare feet.
Remove your shoes before entering the studio.

-Please enter the studio quietly and begin to settle down and/or warm-up.  This add to the serene environment of the
studio and enhance the yoga experience.

-Please arrive at least 10 minutes early to sign-in.

-If you arrive late, please wait until after meditation to roll out your mat; if you occasionally need to leave early, please allow at least 5
minutes for final relaxation and leave before the class takes savasana.

-Please,
no cell phones in the studio-either turn them off or leave them in your car.

-Leave coats and backpacks in locker rooms as space is limited in the studio.

-We suggests you purchase your own sticky mat for personal hygiene reasons.  
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-Notify your instructor if you have any chronic injuries, medical issues or special limitations before each class.  We can help you modify poses
or give alternative suggestions.

-Yoga can be very
beneficial for pregnant women. Some poses are contraindicated, so please inform your teacher if you are pregnant.

-The teachers give hands-on adjustments/assists to guide students toward proper alignment and greater depth/refinement of postures.  If you
are uncomfortable with this, please feel free to let us know and we will kindly respect your wishes.

-Respect and honor your body by not pushing past your limits of strength and flexibility.  Stay present in the process and not obsessed
with the outcome.  
Relax, this is just yoga!