What To Expect In A Typical Yoga Class?
At DessiYoga, we aim to create a welcoming and serene space where you can embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery and holistic well-being. Our classes are designed for practitioners of all levels, whether you're a beginner or an experienced Yogi. We believe that Yoga is a path to balance, harmony, and inner peace, and our instructors are here to guide and support you throughout your practice.
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Class Introduction and Personalisation
Before we begin the class, we invite you to settle and find ease in your body and mind. We value your well-being and will ask you about any injuries or health conditions that may require special attention. It's important for us to know if there's anything specific you're uncomfortable with so that we can tailor the class to meet your needs, whether it's certain poses or any concerns. We also offer chair Yoga options for those who may prefer or require the support of a chair throughout the class.
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Thoughtfully Designed Sequence
Each Yoga class is carefully crafted with a purpose in mind. Every pose and movement has a significance, and we enjoy sharing the reasons behind them. We encourage slow and mindful movement, using the breath as a guide to determine the effectiveness of each pose for your body on that particular day.
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Overview Of A Typical Sequence
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Our classes typically follow a sequence that allows for a well-rounded practice, with variations and modifications based on specific focus areas. Here's an outline of what you can expect:
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Relaxation and Breath Awareness: We begin by connecting with our inner selves through breath awareness, allowing us to be present in the moment. Different breathing techniques are introduced, including belly breath, resting breath, and chest-to-abdomen breath. The chest-to-abdomen breath supports us during our asana practice.
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Preparatory Poses: These poses gradually warm up the spine and joints, preparing the body for a safe and beneficial practice. We also use preparatory poses to increase energy and synchronize movement with the breath.
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Standing Poses: We move into standing poses once the body is adequately warmed up. These grounding poses enhance stability and strength, while bringing attention to the natural curves of the spine and their alignment with other body parts. Chair Yoga adaptations are available for those who prefer or require the support of a chair.
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Standing Balancing Postures: Balancing poses allow us to cultivate stillness, focus, and control. They strengthen the mind-body connection, increase body awareness, and promote core strength. Chair Yoga variations are provided to ensure everyone can participate.
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Seated Postures: Seated poses provide an opportunity to ground and relax, creating a meditative state. Props, including chairs, are often used to support comfort and alignment, allowing the spine to remain long and balanced.
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Reclined Hip Focused Postures: These poses promote a sense of calmness and clarity. They release tension, improve hip mobility, and cultivate acceptance of where we are in life. Chair Yoga modifications are available for those who need them.
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Core and Arm Strengthening Poses: Mindfully building strength in the core and arms without pushing beyond our limits is emphasized. Consistent practice over time fosters safer arm strengthening poses and mobility in the shoulder and wrist joints. Chair Yoga practitioners can also engage in these strengthening poses with suitable adaptations.
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Back Bends: Back bends open and stretch the front of the body while strengthening the back muscles. They invigorate and bring a sense of freedom, activating the heart energy center and promoting emotional well-being. Chair Yoga variations are offered to ensure inclusivity.
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Seated Forward Folds: These poses promote tranquility and release tension in the neck, back, hips, and hamstrings. They facilitate a shift in focus inward, allowing us to let go of accumulated stress or emotions that no longer serve us.
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Seated Spinal Rotations (Twists): Seated twists offer numerous benefits and can be safely practiced with minimal warm-up. They increase spinal mobility, stimulate energy channels, improve digestion and circulation, and massage internal organs. Our instructors will guide you to perform seated twists safely and effectively.
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Shoulder Stretches: These poses help us understand and address any imbalances in the shoulder girdle area, preparing us for inversions.
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Inversions: Simple inversions, such as supported leg elevation, have a myriad of benefits. They restore and rejuvenate the body, balance the nervous and endocrine systems, aid digestion, and relieve leg and lower back fatigue. Chair Yoga practitioners can also enjoy the benefits of inversions using appropriate modifications.
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Closing with Meditation, Pranayama, and Gratitude
We conclude each class with a short meditation, allowing you to witness the effects of your practice and cultivate awareness of sensations within.
For “The Journey” classes only, we may incorporate simple mantra vocalisation and the practice of Bhramari (humming bee) breath to deepen relaxation.
We also dedicate time to accessible pranayama, specifically, Nadi Shodhana (Alternate Nostril Breathing), which balances prana flow, purifies energy channels, and promotes calmness and mental clarity. Lastly, we express gratitude to ourselves, our teachers, and the lineage of Yoga for their guidance and wisdom.
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Please remember that your well-being is our priority, and we encourage you to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new exercise or Yoga practice, particularly if you have specific health concerns or conditions. We are honoured to be part of your Yoga journey.
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