YOGA FLOW (1 hour) ∙ $5 DROP-IN
A multi-level fun Yoga flow to gently tone the body while providing a full body stretch to reduce tension and improve flexibility. Various breath techniques are practiced along with postures to improve balance. Various equipment is provided such as resistance bands, blocks, a chair and a stick to improve range of motion in interesting ways. On some days, you’ll need to bring your own 36 inch foam massage roller. You’ll be notified by email one day prior to class. Please bring a Yoga mat and arrive at least 10 minutes early to get settled with your props. Beginners are welcome!
YOGALATES (1 hour) ∙ $5 DROP-IN
A flowing exercise class combining the disciplines of Yoga and Pilates to tone the postural muscles (abs, lower back and buttocks), improve flexibility, reduce stress and relieve back pain. Emphasis is on breathwork and cultivating a mind-body connection. Please bring a Yoga mat, two light weights (1 or 2 lbs) and a resistance band and arrive at least 10 minutes early to get settled with your props. Beginners are welcome!
Classes at Transfiguration Parish
- Transfiguration of our Lord Parish is at 11775 Filion, H4J 1T4 at the corner of Dudemaine
- Free parking on street or church parking lot. Please read the street parking signs
- Enter by side door along Filion marked Church Hall (look for the white shelter in winter).
- Wear comfortable clothing and remove your shoes or boots before entering the Yoga space.
- At your first class you’ll need to sign a waiver form. If you have any injuries or health issues, please let me know so that I can offer pose modifications
- For any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to contact me at kathleen_yamasaki@yahoo.com
YOGA CLASS ETIQUETTE
Arrive early to prepare mind and body. Arrive with enough time to change, find a space and arrange your mat and props. Keep conversations to a minimum. Your time before class should be spent in mindful breath, gentle stretching and internal focus—a late arrival means you miss out on these benefits.
Unclutter the Yoga space. Personal belongings should be placed away from the yoga space, keeping just your class equipment or water nearby. Less clutter means less distraction and more space to move freely.
Honor your body. During your practice, pay attention to signs of discomfort and modify your postures or ease off accordingly. Don’t compare yourself to others as every BODY looks different in every pose.
Plan to stay for the whole class. If you must leave early, please inform the teacher before class and leave before the start of Savasana to minimize any disturbance.
Turn off your cellphone. Allow yourself time to disconnect from the world and give your body and mind the gift of complete presence.
Inform the teacher of any injuries or health issues that may affect your practice as different options can be offered during the class.
TIPS FOR YOUR PRACTISE
Follow these tips to achieve a more effective and meaningful practise
Breathe. Breathwork is an essential part of your practise to oxygenate your muscles, improve your mood and focus your concentration–especially in more challenging poses.
Feel. Focus on the bodily sensations of every pose to cultivate a strong mind-body connection. Be accepting of emotions that may present themselves as you move your body in different ways and as you rest in Savasana.
Honor and listen to your body. Customize poses to suit your unique body and feel free to skip a pose altogether, resting in Mountain Pose, Child’s Pose or Knees to Chest instead.
Let go of negative self-talk and judgement. Imposing limiting thoughts on your abilities weakens the body. Instead, focus on the joy and discovery of movement.
Set aside expectations. Focus on the preferences and needs of your present-day body. A pose that was accessible last week may not feel comfortable today and your approach to a pose may vary from one side of the body to the other.
It’s not a competition. Don’t let your ego or sense of perfectionism lead you into strain or discomfort.
Stay present with yourself. As thoughts of the past or the future pull your focus away, let your breathwork serve as an anchor, grounding you to the experience of the moment.