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yoga styles

At the Light Centre we have many different styles of Yoga.

Read the descriptions below and choose a teacher who best suits the style you are looking for.

Vinyasa / Vinyasa Flow / Hatha

Vinyasa means the exact synchronization of breath and movement. A Vinyasa class weaves together a creative sequence of postures, including sun salutations (warming), standing postures (stabilizing), forward bends (introspective) back bends (invigorating) and twists (cleansing) linked together by the thread of the breath, gradually warming the body, stretching muscles and opening the joints and finally concluding in stillness and deep relaxation (savasana).

Many of the in-house classes (including the beginner courses) at the Centre use Vinyasa / Hatha as the core style.

Teachers teaching this style: Nicole; Fiona; Amanda; Kore

Jivamukti / Dynamic

Jivamukti and Dynamic classes are vigorously physical and stimulating. Classes include Vinyasa (flowing asana sequences), hands-on adjustments, Pranayama (breathing exercises) and deep relaxation. To keep the practice inspiring, asana sequences are ever-changing with music playing an integral role in the class.

Teachers teaching this style: Stewart; Catia

Ashtanga

Ashtanga is a practice that follows a set sequence of postures. "Ashtanga" literally means eight limbs: Yama (abstinences), Niyama (observances), Asana (postures), Pranayama (breath control), Pratyahara (sense withdrawal), Dharana (concentration), Dhyana (meditation), and Samadhi (contemplation). There are three levels with each level requiring full development before proceeding to the next. The sequential order of asanas is to be meticulously followed with each posture a preparation for the next, developing the strength and balance required to move further.

Teachers teaching this style: Katie; Nathalie

Anasura

Anusara Yoga, a heart orientated practice strongly focused on the universal principles of alignment. Anusara means “To Flow with Grace” and was developed by John Friend in the 1990’s in the USA.

Teachers teaching this style: Sophie

Restorative / Therapeutic

In restorative or therapeutic yoga, props are used to support the body so that you can hold poses for longer, allowing you to open your body through passive stretching. Restorative postures are usually adapted from lying or seated yoga poses with the addition of blocks, bolsters, and blankets to eliminate unnecessary straining. This style is especially suitable for people who want a gentle class or those who are recovering from injury.

Teachers teaching this style: Katie; Graham

Pregnancy

Pregnancy Yoga is an excellent way to prepare you for labour and the birth of your baby. Signing up for an antenatal yoga class is a great idea. You'll learn postures that won't strain your body, and you'll meet other mums-to-be, too.

Teachers teaching this style: Nicole

Sivananda

Sivananda is an unmodified classical and holistic version of Hatha Yoga designed to stretch and tone the whole body. The teachings are practised as originally presented in India by Swami Sivananda in 1936. Sivananda Yoga is an international practice which follows the same format worldwide.

Teachers teaching this style: Kore

Iyenger

Iyengar is initially learnt through the in-depth study of asanas (posture) and pranayama (breath control). Mr Iyengar has systematised over 200 classical yoga Asanas and 14 different types of Pranayamas from the simple to the incredibly difficult. In practice Iyengar yoga focuses particularly on correct body alignment. It often uses props like wooden blocks, chairs, blankets and belts to help the body into the correct positions.

Teachers teaching this style: Kore

Pranayama

Pranayama is a set of Breathing Exercises that form one of the Five Basic Principles of Yoga. From a Yogic point of view, proper breathing will bring more oxygen to the blood and to the brain, and will help control Prana or the vital life energy. Pranayama Yoga also goes hand in hand with the postures or Asanas. The union of these two Yogic Principles is considered as the highest form of purification and self-discipline, covering both mind and body.

Teachers teaching this style: Sophie

Light Centre, 9 Eccleston St, Belgravia, London SW1W 9LX. Tel: 0207 881 0728. © Light Practice Ltd, 2011

0207 881 0728

New Mysore Ashtanga
Club - £15, 5-day trial

Monday to Friday 6-9am For more information call reception on 0207 881 0728 or click here

6-week Yoga Improver’s Course

Wed 13th June, 7.45-9pm

If you want to continue learning as you practice Yoga then this course run by popular teacher Nicole Miller is for you..
Cost: £72 for 6 weeks
more information.....