Yoga for Life - Classes

Gentle - for the beginner or those with physical concerns

Gentle yoga introduces the basic yoga postures and breathing techniques, focusing on gradual, safe and compassionate movement. Body awareness, strength and flexibility will improve with patience and gentle repetition.

Moderate - for those with some experience

A more energetic class with the option of going deeper into the poses, holding them longer, and exploring a wider range of pranayama (breath control). Suggestions for adopting a fully yogic lifestyle are offered.

All Levels - for all levels of experience

Different options are offered for each pose, allowing beginners to focus on safety and alignment while more advanced students hold longer and move more deeply into poses.

Moms and babies

The class provides an opportunity for mothers to regain strength and flexibility, to bond with their babies in an enjoyable activity and to connect and network with other moms. No previous yoga experience is required. The class consists of a series of warm-ups, breathing and yoga postures designed specifically for a new mom and her baby. Special attention is placed on correct posture to combat the stress caused by feeding, lifting and carrying a baby. Particular emphasis is placed on strengthening the back, abdomen and pelvic floor, as well as relieving tension in areas such as the neck, shoulders and back.

The babies get involved too, as mothers hold them in their arms or on their legs, playfully stretching together or using the weight of the baby to help soften tight muscles. Mothers also sing or chant as baby lies close on the blanket. The babies are treated to a short session of gentle baby yoga and massage, allowing them to share in the benefits of the class, including the relief of common discomforts. Restless babies find great comfort as they feel their mother’s breathing become calmer, deeper and slower.

The class is gentle and relaxing, making allowance for the major changes in mothers’ bodies, and rebuilding core strength gently and gradually. Everyone is encouraged to move at her own pace. The class is very informal and lively, and totally unpredictable -- yoga moves are fitted around the needs of each baby. Throughout the class, moms stop to feed or soothe their babies and rejoin the movements when it is comfortable to do so.

Regularly practicing a postnatal, baby and me yoga program has many advantages and benefits, and can dramatically aid in:

- bonding with your baby
- improving posture
- increasing over-all endurance, strength and well being
- reducing back tension and discomfort
- building core strength and stability (including abdominals)
- reducing anxiety and stress
- making new friends with other moms and babies

It is a good idea to wait for about 4-6 weeks after the delivery of your baby before attending class. (8-10 weeks after a caesarian or until you receive the go-ahead from your doctor).