Yoga is the cessation of the fluctuations of the mind. It arises from the stillness within our being.
Updated: 3-6-2010
Our new Shala opened on Monday February 1st and the new class schedule is shown below.
Day
Class
Time
Location
Teacher
Sunday
Mysore-style (all levels)
9:00 am-10:45 am
Ride the breath
Fran
Foundations of Ashtanga (level 1-2)
11:00 am-12:15 pm
Ride the breath
Kathy
Monday
Restorative Yoga (all levels)
10:30 am-12:00 pm
Ride the breath
Peggy
Ashtanga for Beginners (Level 1)
6:15 pm-7:30 pm
Ride the breath
Fran
Tuesday
Guided Moon Sequence (all levels)
10:30 am-12:00pm
Bluepoint yoga
Kathy
Mysore-style (all levels)
6:00 pm-8:00 pm
Ride the breath
Fran or Kathy
Foundations of Ashtanga (level 1-2)
6:30 pm-7:30 pm
Duke University Wilson Gym
Fran or Kathy
Wednesday
Guided Moon Sequence (all levels)
6:00 pm-7:30 pm
Ride the breath
Kathy
Thursday
Mysore-style (all levels)
6:00 pm-8:00 pm
Ride the breath
Kathy
Friday
Mysore-style (all levels)
6:00 am - 7:45 am
Ride the breath
Fran
Guided Primary Series (level 2-3)
11:30 am-1:00 pm
Ride the breath
Stacy
Saturday
Guided Moon Sequence (all levels)
9:00 am - 10:30 am
Ride the breath
Kathy
Guided Primary Series (level 2-3)
11:00 am-12:30 pm
Ride the breath
Vera
NEW CLASS PRICE SCHEDULE:
**Students with a valid student ID receive a 20% discount to the below listed prices**
1) Single class drop-in = $15
2) 5-class pass card = $65
3) 10 class pass card = $120
4) Monthly Unlimited = $140
DETAILED CLASS DESCRIPTIONS
1) Mysore-style Ashtanga Yoga and Vinyasa Krama Class:
Description: This class is suitable for all levels of practitioners and is conducted in accordance with the traditional method as currently taught in Mysore India. It can accommodate practitioners from complete beginners to those students practicing the Primary and/or Intermediate Series of Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga; as well as the Moon and Lion Sequences as developed by Matthew Sweeney (www.yogatemple.com)
In the mysore-style format, students are expected to memorize the sequence of postures and practice at their own individual pace and rhythm. Each student is then given given individualized instruction and adjustments. Beginning Ashtanga students will first learn the foundational Sun Salutations (Surya Namaskarya A and B) followed by the standing posture (asana) sequence. Once the standing sequence is developed, the postures of the primary series are introduced, as well as the finishing sequence asanas. The postures are learned sequentially, one at a time. In this way, the Primary Series (1st Series) is developed at each student's individual pace which varies according to factors such as kinesthetic sense, fitness and health levels, abilty to concentrate; and finally, demonstrated proof that the seqeunce has been committed to memory. The above process also applies to the Moon Sequence postures; i.e., beginners will begin with Chandra Namaskar A and B; and then progress through the standing and seated postures.
Experienced students will receive a variety of personalized instruction and hands-on adjustments designed to deepen the experience and promote correct action within postures; as well as faciliate deeper awareness within the core energetic body. In particular, the correct, mindful, application of the breathing system (ujjayi pranayama, bandhas, vinyasa, and dhristi) is strongly emphasized. As with beginning students, additional asanas in the sequence (either Primary, Intermediate, Moon, or Lion) are added as the student is deemed ready.
Who should attend: Students of all levels, from complete beginners to experienced practitioners of the Primary and Intermediate series of the Ashtanga Vinyasa system; as well as practitioners interested in developing the Vinyasa Krama sequences (Moon and Lion) as developed by Matthew Sweeney.
2) Guided Primary Series Class
Description: This class is not suitable for beginners. Students are expected to have already been practicing Ashtanga for some time, and have completed all or most of the primary series (at least through Navasana). Unlike the mysore-style class where students practice at their own pace and level; in this class, students will be guided (led) by the teacher through the entire primary series with the traditional vinyasa counting system. The purpose of this class is to teach the student a sense of rhythm and flow, while also emphasizing the correct number of vinyasas (breaths) for each posture and associated transition.
Who Should Attend: Experienced students that have completed all or most of the primary series. Minimum level of proficiency should be up to Navasana.
3) Guided Class: Foundations of Ashtanga Yoga
Description: This class is suitable for beginners. Unlike the mysore-style class where students practice at their own pace and level; in this class, students will be guided (led) by the teacher through the first half of the primary series (up to Navasana) with the traditional vinyasa counting system. The purpose of this class is to teach the student a sense of rhythm and flow, while also emphasizing the correct number of vinyasas (breaths) for each posture and associated transitions. In addition instruction is provided on foundational breathing principles, Suryanamaskar A and B, and correct alignment actions for each asana.
Who Should Attend: Open to all levels of practitioner, but is most suited to beginning students or practitioners not familiar with the Ashtanga method.
4) Guided Moon Sequence Class
Description: This is suitable for all levels of practitioner; and is a guided class through the entire Moon Sequence as developed and taught by Matthew Sweeney (www.yogatemple.com). Matthew is an advanced practitioner of Ashtanga Yoga, having completed the Advanced B section (4th series). He developed this sequence as a cooling and therapeutic complement and alternative to the Ashtanga primary series. It is designed to be quite calming, but also energetic in its effects. The sequence works the entire body, but is particularly effective at opening the hips, shoulders, and sacral areas.
Who Should Attend: Open to all levels of practitioner, but is most suited to practitioners familiar with the Ashtanga method; and the primary series in particular.
5) Ashtanga for Beginner's
Description: This class is for complete beginners as well as those that are relatively new to ashtanga yoga and would like to get some detailed instruction on the "fundamentals" of breath, bandhas, vinyasa and postures.Class format consists of a combination of: discussion topics on yoga philospophy and principles, teaching on correct breathing and alignment within postures, and a beginning ashtanga flow sequence composed of sun salutations, and standing, seated, and finishing postures.
Who Should Attend: Complete beginner's as well as those students relatively new to ashtanga yoga interested in addtional detailed instruction on some of the building blocks and foundational pricnciples..
6) Restorative Yoga
Description: Restorative yoga is a path to mental and physical well being. Its goal is to nurture and heal the body. Using support and props, restorative yoga alternately stimulates and relaxes the body and reduces mental stress. Restorative yoga works by integrating all the systems of the body and by balancing Prana (male) and Apana (female) energies. The class starts with meditation, moving into gentle stretches to warm up the body before the healing and gentle restorative asanas. Wear warm and comfortable clothing.
Who Should Attend: This class is suitable for all students levels. Come to this class to relax, renew, and heal the body.
EXCITING NEW WORKSHOP OFFERINGS FOR 2010
1) Weekend Workshop with David Swenson,
When: Friday, April 2nd – Sunday, April 4th 2010
Where: 3700 Hillsborough Rd, Durham NC 27715 (SafeSkills Movement Arts)
Contact: kathy@ridethebreath.com, 919-475-3848
Cost: $225 for entire workshop or $45 per session (3 session minimum)
NOTE: Students with a valid ID will receive a 15% discount
Day
Time
Session
Description
Friday
6-8 PM
AN INTRODUCTION:
Exploring the Fundamentals of Ashtanga Yoga
This class is an introduction to the building blocks of Ashtanga Yoga; Breath, Bandhas and Vinyasa. It is open to all levels of experience, including complete beginners.
Saturday
9-11 AM
ALL ABOARD THE ASHTANGA TRAIN
A Fully Conducted Primary Series Class
This class is designed for those already familiar with the First Series of Ashtanga Yoga. It will be conducted like a train ride that will continue from the opening sun salutations to the closing sequence; followed by a deep relaxation.
Saturday
12:30 – 3PM
FLYING, FLOATING, HANDSTANDING:
A Fun-filled exploration of Vinyasa and Arm balances
David likes to refer to this class as: “The Physics of Flight”. There is always plenty of laughter and fun. All levels may attend even if you have never done a handstand before, as alternatives are provided.
Saturday
3:30 – 5 PM
BREATH, BANDHAS AND PRANAYAMA:
Exploring the Mantra of Ujjayi and the Mysteries of Energy Locks
There is no other sound more universal than breath. It is not tied to language or culture and is “chanted” from the first moment of birth. This class will focus on the mantra of ujjayi breathing within asana practice, as well as during pranayama. In addition to breath work, the class will also explore the invisible world of energy locks -- Bandhas.
Sunday
8:30 -10:30 AM
NADI SHODANA, A GUIDED TOUR:
An Introduction to the Intermediate Series of Ashtanga Yoga
Students should have a regular practice of the First Series in order to attend this class. There will be an introductory discussion of the dynamics inherent to the Second Series. David will then lead the class through a portion of First Series acting as a springboard into as much of the Second Series as seems appropriate.
Sunday
12:00 – 2:15 PM
INVERSIONS, BACKBENDS, AND SITTING WITH BREATH
Finding Stability When the World is Inverted and Returning to Breath
This class will explore the opposing forces and dynamics of inverting the body by building a solid foundation from which to grow. Backbends will be redefined as front body openings; and sitting quietly will be explored as an active participation in self-exploration through developing a relationship with our breath.
Sunday
2:30-4 PM
EIGHT LIMBS AND DAILY LIFE
How does yoga practice apply within the context of daily living?
Underlying the mysterious and complex philosophy of Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras is a truly profound simplicity that may be applied within the context of our daily lives. This class will discuss the Eight Limbs of Ashtanga Yoga and explore their applications within day-to-day life.
Don’t miss your opportunity to study with this world famous teacher and practitioner. David Swenson makes Ashtanga Yoga accessible and fun for all!
2) Matthew Sweeney, 1 Month Intensive, August 8th -- September 3rd, 2010: “ Consistency and Creativity”
Where: Ride The Breath Yoga Shala (www.ridethebreath.com)
814 Lancaster Street, Durham, NC 27701
Contact:kathy@ridethebreath.com (919) 475-3848
We are extremely grateful to host our teacher, Matthew Sweeney, for a month-long intensive focused on both traditional Ashtanga Yoga and Matthew's Vinyasa Krama sequences. The intensive will consist of 2, two-week sessions; and registration will be limited to provide for an in-depth and personal experience with this outstanding teacher. Curriculum and Pricing details are described below, and other logistical details, e.g., local housing options to be provided soon. Don't miss this amazing opportunity to study with Matthew for an extended period in an intimate setting.
1) The intention for the 1 Month Program is to provide consistent self-practice for students to learn the traditional aspects of Ashtanga Yoga and the inclusion of alternative sequencing displayed in Matthew’s book Vinyasa Krama. Students can pursue one or the other of these methods or a combination of the two. This course will be a unique experiment in self-practice where the main goal is individual guidance rather than adhering to rigid set formats.
2) It is preferable for students to commit for a complete month, although two weeks is also an option. If a student can only attend for two weeks, then they must sign up for the first two weeks. Individual exceptions can be granted on a case-by-case basis for students that have studied with Matthew previously and are already practicing the Moon and/or Lion sequences.
3) Each of the Sunday sessions are designed to be stand alone workshops; thus, students that cannot commit to the 2 or 4 week program can attend these casually, either by individual session or for the whole day. The pranayama classes can also be attended casually, but students must commit for all 4 classes, i.e., it is not allowed to sign up for less than all four classes.
4) The teacher training aspect is through individual application to Matthew only. Please keep in mind that although the basic structure of the course is certain, many of the smaller details, such as class times, may be subject to change.
Program Pricing:
Entire Program (4 weeks all inclusive) = $900
First 2 Weeks Only = $500
Ala Carte Pricing:
All 4 Sunday Workshops = $300
Individual Sunday Workshop (morning and afternoon sessions) = $80
Individual Workshop sessions (morning or afternoon) = $50
Monday afternoon Pranayama Classes (all four classes) = $160
GENERALIZED TIMETABLE
Sunday Morning Workshops: 9.30am -12am, Led Vinyasa Class (Level 1 to Level IV)
Sunday Afternoon Workshops: 2pm-5pm, Technique Class (Foundation, Strength, Flexibility, Balance)
Monday through Thursday: Morning mysore-style classes, max 15 per session.
Monday Afternoons: 2pm-5pm, Pranayama, Meditation, and Yoga discussion.
Fridays: Morning self-practice session (adjustment free day).CURRICULUM DESCRIPTION
Week 1: The Moon Sequence: Developing your foundation and incorporating alternatives into your practice.
During the first week of the course the main focus will be on integrating the Moon Sequence into a weekly practice, or demonstrating your understanding of it if you have already learned it from an authorised teacher. Students can practice the Primary series during the latter half of the week.
Chandra Krama : The Moon Sequence
9.30am. The first session will commence with an introduction about Vinyasa Yoga and the practice of Chandra Krama. The Moon Sequence is a gentle flowing vinyasa form accessible for all levels. Although this sequence was originally intended for practice on the full moon, the new moon, and during the menstrual cycle, it is appropriate at any time for women or men. This sequence emphasizes the hips, groin, lower spine and abdominals, which will feel awake and alive after moving through the postures. It takes pressure off the neck, shoulders and wrists (common from the standard jumps in the Ashtanga series) and is useful as a regular alternative to the intense heat of the traditional Ashtanga. Whether old or young this sequence is great for any age. Some Yoga experience is recommended.Sunday Workshop (I)
Foundation: Developing technique for Standing Postures
2-5pm.The first technique class will begin with a basic warm up and progress through many if not all of the Moon sequence and Primary sequence standing postures. Simple techniques will be explored, with an approach towards the polarity of different forms and concepts of alignment. Hands on instruction will be given so the class will be practical rather than simply technical or intellectual. Guidance on how to improve your adjusting skills will also be explored for those students who are teachers or teachers-to-be.
Monday Afternoon: Pranayama and Meditation (I)
2-5pm. The first pranayama class will cover essential details on applying ujjayi pranayama (breathing with sound). A few different postures will be explored to offer guidance for improving the breath in each asana, and a simple counting method for applying this pranayama in a comfortable manner. An examination of the therapeutic aspects of pranayama and meditation will be covered. Metta bhavana, or the practice of loving kindness, a simple and beautiful Buddhist meditation will conclude the session. Students are expected to implement each of the pranayama and meditation techniques into their daily practice for the week following.
Week 2: The Primary Sequence : Developing Strength and Flexibility
During the second week of the course the main focus will be on integrating the traditional Primary and Intermediate Series, or as much of these as the student is capable. This will include increasing competency and consistency with the standard vinyasa and encouraging the development of the back bending process in these series.Sunday Workshop (II)
Yoga Chikitsa : Half Primary Sequence
9.30am. The second led session will begin with instruction on Uddiyana Bandha and Nauli Kriya. Following this, Matthew will guide the students through the first half of the Primary Series. Students will be encouraged to attempt the postures to their own particular level of ability to avoid pain and injury and to maximize the sense of joy and ease that is possible in the traditional sequence. An examination of some of the anatomical and physiological outlines of the Primary seated postures will conclude the session. Some Ashtanga Yoga experience is necessary for this class, though students will be encouraged to omit any postures that are particularly problematic.
Jumping Through and Jumping Back
2-5 pm. This class will explore the methods and techniques necessary to implement greater ease and ability with jumping through and jumping back. It will begin with a warm up for the wrists and then explore the jumps in Suryanamaskara in a step by step manner. Using these techniques as a platform, the progressive application of the jumps in and out of the sitting postures will be developed - both cross-legged and straight-legged. These useful techniques have been comprehensively developed over many years and are applicable for students of any level.Monday Afternoon: Pranayama and Meditation (II)
2-5pm. The second pranayama class will explore viloma pranayama and anuloma pranayama, or breathing with pauses. These techniques are particularly helpful for improvement of ujjayi paranayama and kumbhaka, or breath retention. The meditation covered will be on the development of awareness of each chakra (energy wheel) and the possible blockage/release in each.
Week 3: Primary, Intermediate and Beyond
Exploration and ExpansionThe third week of the course will focus on adding to your Ashtanga practice, and for those students who have attended a previous course the exploration of the Lion sequence and other alternative sequences. Some students will be encouraged to do more of the Moon Sequence and Primary Sequence to improve stability in the foundation of vinyasa practice.
Sunday Workshop (III)
Yoga Chikitsa : Full Primary Sequence
9.30am. Taught in a flowing and informative manner, this class will take the students through the entire Primary Series from start to finish. Students will be encouraged to attempt the postures to their own particular level of ability to avoid pain and injury and to maximize the sense of joy and ease that is possible in the traditional sequence. A discussion and answer session will conclude this class, with examination of some of the anatomical and physiological outlines of the Primary seated postures and individual body types. Any aspect of the Primary postures not covered in the previous Sunday class will be covered in this one.
Back Bending and Mula Bandha
2-5pm. This class will begin with a short vinyasa warm up. This will be followed by exploring variations of back bending and drop backs. Simple hands on exercises will be provided to increase awareness of the articulation of the lower spine, pelvic floor and psoas muscles. This session will also include some practical advice for understanding and applying the mula bandha, or root lock and will conclude with a group discussion.Monday Afternoon: Pranayama and Meditation (III)
2-5pm. The third pranayama class will cover nadi shodana, or alternate nostril breathing, considered to be the king of all pranayama. The meditation to explore will be on kevala kumbhaka and raja kevala kumbhaka – or observation of breath and mind.
Week 4: Developing Intermediate and Advanced Practices - individual guidance.
The main focus in the final week will be on individual guidance – students can focus more on the traditional practice or on the alternative sequencing depending on the need. Select students can attempt the Vinyasa Krama Bound and Flying Sequences.
Sunday Workshop (IV)
Simha Krama: The Lion Sequence
9.30am. This sequence is the second series that Matthew has designed. The Lion Sequence flows from the Moon Sequence, introducing postures that expand upon concepts begun in the latter series. It involves exploration of different standing postures, therapeutic back bends, a shoulder opening sequence and a playful approach to various inversion postures. This sequence can be a useful alternative to the traditional Intermediate Series where you may find certain postures problematic or simply inappropriate for you.
Shoulder Sequence and Inversions
2-5pm. This class will begin by revisiting the shoulder sequence taught in Simha Krama, followed by an exploration of headstand the fore-arm balance and handstand. A combination of easy to follow techniques and a fun atmosphere of learning will infuse this session. This class will finish with a summary of the course and a group discussion to end.
Monday Evening: Pranayama and Meditation (III)
2-5pm. The fourth pranayama class will revisit some of the work already done and add kumbhaka, or breath retention, to each of the breathing techniques - ujjayi, viloma, anuloma and nadi shodana. A group discussion and exploration of the spiritual dimension will conclude the session.
3) November 6-8, 2010 ==> Steven Forrest, Introduction to Evolutionary Astology,
Last, but certainly not least, world renown evolutionary astrologer Steven Forrest (http://www.stevenforrest.com/) has agreed to teach a 3-day workshop to introduce evolutionary astrology to interested beginning students. This is a fantatstic opportunity to be introduced to this insightful and profound method for understanding our indvidual life's purpose via one of the world's foremost experts. Steven has had a powerful and extremely positive effect on our lives and we hope to share his gifts with the Durham community. The only pre-requisite for the course is to read Steven's introductory book, "The Inner Sky", prior to the workshop. Details will follow soon!
TO REGISTER FOR ANY OF THE ABOVE WORKSHOPS, OR REQUEST ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT: kathy@ridethebreath.com or call 919-475-3848.
Private or Small Group Lessons
Sometimes prospective students can be intimidated by the thought of beginning their home practice. Private or small group lessons allow the student(s) to begin in a one-on-one or small group setting where they can ask questions and receive personalized instruction.
One-on-one or small group (2-4 people) lessons
A. Guided session (student is counted through the series or partial series)
B. Traditional Mysore-style session (student performs sequence from memory at his/her own pace and rhythm)
Typical elements included:
• Individual asana and alignment instruction
• Adjustments in key and/or problematic asanas
• Fundamentals of breath, bandhas, and vinyasa
• Techniques for developing and maintaining a personal practice
• Satsang (teacher-student discussion of Ashtanga Yoga method and philosophy)Rates: $60/hour (single) or $40/hour for small group
Note: For dedicated students needing financial assistance, a limited number of reduced rate and/or "scholarship" slots will be available.
