I teach a style of Yoga known as Integral Yoga® founded by Sri Swami Satchidananda in 1966. Unlike many of the current styles of Yoga practiced today, Integral Yoga® is not a contemporary adaptation and instead is more in line with the classical tradition of Yoga dating back thousands of years. Since I attended my first Integral Yoga® Hatha class in 1994, I realized there was something very distinct and exceptional about this style. After class I felt energized yet relaxed, alert yet calm. A few years later as I trained to teach beginner, intermediate and advanced level classes, I came to understand the benefits and sequencing of the Integral Yoga® class. I have been teaching level specific and mixed level classes in different settings for over 20 years.
Groups of 5 people minimum
Available on Zoom or in-person
Key Components
A key component to an Integral Yoga® class is its defined structure of moving students from the gross, physical practices to the more subtle practices and quieter states of mind. The great sage of Yoga, Patanjali, defined spiritual practice as “effort towards steadiness of mind” and this simple teaching is the thread moving through every authentic Integral Yoga class independent of who the teacher is. The Integral Yoga® class is a masterpiece when appreciated for its value of leading practitioners to a quiet and steady mind. (Learn more..)
Integral Yoga® classes create a space where students can feel safe to practice at their comfort level, discouraging any sense of competition. When the competition element is removed, students can then focus inward, follow their own sensations for guidance, and respect any physical limitations they may have at a given moment. This not only keeps a person’s practice safe, but more enjoyable. No matter what the level of the student, they will experience the numerous benefits. Ultimately a practitioner may come in touch with more subtle and enduring aspects of their being.
Each asana (posture) is practiced with balance between effort and relaxation, with each individual finding just the right place to hold a pose. The class structure itself is also designed to embody this balance between effort and non-effort, balancing the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems, for an effect of overall well-being.
The class includes
- Centering practice – From the start we move from thinking to being present. Depending on the venue, repeating a short sound vibration can help quiet the mind
- Eye movements – Tones eyes and optic nerve and provides a soothing rest to eyes. Releases mental tension.
- Sun Salutation – Serves as a warm-up and general tonic for entire body.
- Rest periods – Interspersed throughout class, short rests balance effort with relaxation. Consciously, one learns to release physical tension.
- Asanas (postures) – Tone and oxygenate organs of body, and benefit the systems of the body: circulatory, respiratory, endocrine, digestive, nervous, lymphatic, musculoskeletal. Balance energizing (ha) and calming (tha) energies. Sequenced for minimal maneuvering to encourage a flow of concentration throughout class.
- Yoga Nidra (deep relaxation) – Provides a profound relaxation to body and mind while remaining consciously alert. Brings students in touch with inner peace. Can take practice, however many students discover a deep rest never previously experienced.
- Pranayama (breathing techniques) – Teaches proper breathing. Increased oxygen intake. Brings alertness, focus and calm to mind, an ideal mental state in preparation for the final meditation.
- Meditation (1-3 minutes) – Transition from breathing techniques to meditation occurs naturally and focusing the mind is facilitated. Over time one slips deeper into one’s own true nature.
How to get started
You can schedule one class or a series of classes to learn and experience the foundations of an Integral Yoga Hatha class.
A minimum of 5 people per class is required. Okay to have all beginner students or a mixed level of students.
The duration per class can vary from 1 hour to 1-1/2 hours depending on your schedule and preference.
The cost per class is $15 per person.
To learn more, have any questions or are ready to schedule your first class, please contact me by phone, email, or by clicking “register” above.
I hope to hear from you soon, and to assist your group with healing your body, mind, and soul with Integral Yoga Hatha.
testimonials
“I am fond of saying, ‘Yoga is never a bad idea!’ and Padma’s classes are a big reason why. After ten years, I am aware that her style of teaching–spacious, specific, both gentle and challenging, encouraging and consistent–make returning to the mat a self-sustaining reality for me. The combination of attention to body awareness and mindful witnessing that she encourages is the best possible combination for me.”
~ Celeste
“Padma guides students with clear and well-paced instruction. Variations are offered to meet the needs of students with different experience levels, and to ensure that students are practicing safely. Her classes focus on developing a clear mind and accessing the inner spirit. Improved posture, physical well-being and useful relaxation techniques are some of the benefits from my years of classes with Padma.”
~ Barbara