What is Yoga?

IMG_3287Yoga is an ancient science developed over 5,000 years ago in India. Its purpose is to calm the mind so we can abide in our peaceful nature. All the practices performed lead to this end. The practices of Yoga can be done by anyone from any background, and are available to everyone. Integral Yoga, as formulated by Sri Swami Satchidananda, combines the various methods of Yoga so that we may have a healthy body, peaceful mind, and useful life.

How do Integral Hatha Yoga classes differ from other forms of Yoga?

Integral Yoga Hatha classes are spiritual in nature.

They guide the student to go gently inward and experience the effects of the posture. The classes are never competitive. Silence, acceptance, and awareness are used to relax the body and calm the mind.

Classes generally begin with a short chant, followed by 45 minutes of yoga postures (asanas), a deep relaxation, breathing practices (pranayama), and a short silent meditation. They close with brief chanting. The total class time is typically 1 hour and 20 minutes.

If you have concerns, or are limited in movement due to a physical condition, we suggest our Gentle Yoga class.

Please check with your physician if you have any special needs or limitations, and then inform the teacher before class.

Can anyone do the asanas?

The Hatha Yoga class can be done by most everyone. These classes are not designed for pregnant women so if you are pregnant we strongly recommend that you take a Prenatal Yoga class

Our Level I classes are designed to teach the basic Yoga postures to anyone who is relatively healthy. It doesn’t matter how stiff you are or if you’ve never done Hatha Yoga before.

If you have concerns, or are limited in movement due to a physical condition, we suggest our Gentle Yoga class.

Please check with your physician if you have any special needs or limitations, and then inform the teacher before class.

What else do you offer?

iyi_houseThe Integral Yoga Institute offers a wide range of spiritual teachings.

We have classes in Hatha Yoga, Meditation, Pranayama (breathing practices), and Raja Yoga (the science of Yoga).

We also offer open meditations, kirtans (chanting), satsangs (spiritual discussion), puja (worship services), laughing meditations, cooking classes, stress management workshops, and more.

Please, consult our schedule of classes and calendar of events to get more information.

What is an Ashram (or Institute)?

An ashram (or institute) is a community of people dedicated to a common goal of living a spiritual life. We live here to participate in a life of dedication and service.

The Integral Yoga Institute has a residency program for those interested in deepening their commitment to Yoga. Contact us for more details and include “Residency” in the subject line.

We also have a guest program for those who would like to experience living in a spiritual environment and do spiritual practices for a shorter time.