Foundations of Yoga & The Eight-Limb Path

Step onto your mat and discover a yoga class that feels like an invitation—welcoming students new to yoga while offering a return for seasoned students. This class is thoughtfully structured to introduce the essential elements of yoga in a way that’s accessible, supportive, and gently challenging, no matter your starting point.

We begin by settling in with breath and meditation (pranayama and dhyana.) Breathing exercises are designed to connect you to your vital energy. You might learn how to slow your exhale to calm the nervous system or try gentle breath ratios to bring clarity and focus. Guided meditation helps quiet the mind and bring attention to the present. These practices set a tone of mindfulness that carries through the entire class. 

You’ll also learn to incorporate mudras—simple hand gestures that add a layer of intention and subtle energy to your practice. Each mudra is introduced with a brief explanation and time to experience its effects, whether it’s grounding, calming, or energizing.

The heart of the class is an alignment-based asana practice. Each posture is introduced with clear, detailed instructions and demonstrations, so you understand not just what to do, but why it matters. We use props and modifications freely, making every shape accessible, whether you’re working through an injury, brand new to yoga, or looking to deepen your understanding of familiar poses. The pace is steady but unhurried, giving you time to explore how your body moves and responds. 

Throughout the session, we explore pratyahara—the practice of turning the senses inward. You’ll be guided to notice sensation, breath, and the subtle shifts in energy, learning how to soften your attention to outside distractions. This is a gentle but powerful tool for finding calm and focus, both on the mat and in everyday life.

As we move toward the end of class, we explore dharana, or concentrated awareness. This might look like focusing on the feeling of the breath, a single point in the body, or the repetition of a simple mantra. It’s an opportunity to practice being fully present, even as thoughts come and go.

We finish with a restful savasana, giving the body and mind time to integrate the practice. You’ll leave class with new tools for mindfulness, breath, and movement that you can take with you.

No experience or flexibility required—just bring your curiosity, your breath, and a willingness to explore. This class offers a gentle entry point for beginners, while providing enough layers for experienced yogis to deepen their practice. Come as you are—you’ll be met with compassion, clarity, and community.