Class Descriptions - Greenville Yoga

Class Descriptions

In each type of class, the poses are similar. The sequencing, pace, and class energy differs based on the teacher and their teaching style. Feel free to try all styles of yoga to find one that suits your needs, or mix and match classes for what your body needs in a given day.

Ashtanga Yoga

Ashtanga Yoga is a well-preserved, ancient system that is based on a lineage of teacher to student tradition. It is a focus on yoga as the eight limbs of practice, asana (the poses) being just one eighth of practice. Most characteristic of Ashtanga is its fast pace and routine sequence of asanas [poses], designed to be a journey of moving meditation. The practitioner learns to focus and concentrate their energies into three aspects: posture, breath, and gaze. In this class students will learn the sequence of postures that make up the Ashtanga practice as it is currently taught in Mysore, India. This is a very physical practice in a heated room that will help guide you within. The poses are the same in each class so you can feel your body as it progresses through this system. In addition to the sequence, students will learn how to customize postures and for their own bodies so that everyone feels that they are moving forward in their own individual practice.

Empower Yoga Classes (Iyengar Influenced Yoga)

Empower Yoga
Do things you never thought you possible as you develop your strengths and overcome limitations in this alignment-based class. Each class is taught using a systematic approach to build poses safely. Increase your awareness of the subtle mind / body connection through practicing the poses and the use of yogic wisdom. This is a very safe place to practice yoga and explore your limitations in a caring and curious manner.

Therapeutic Yoga
Perfect for anyone with back injuries, physical limitations, or those very new to yoga. This is a one-hour class focusing on strengthening the body through the use of props and relaxing in the process. The class will focus on restoring the body and mind. Students with Multiple Sclerosis and Fibromyalgia are invited to attend this therapeutic class.

Flow Classes

Community Yoga
A $5 class offered throughout the week. This is a beginning level class that is suitable for first time students, or students who enjoy a slower paced class. Class on Saturday & Sunday is the same gentle flow with an additional meditation to close your practice.

Mindful Flow
Classes are centered around deep breathing and working with each student’s needs, as well as the collective needs of the group. Mindful Flow takes into account any injuries or pre-existing conditions you show up with. The pace of class is set by deep, fluid breathing which is taught at the beginning of each class. From there, we move with the breath through standing poses and balance poses to build strength. Next, we move to the floor for poses to release stress and tension from the body. This is a balanced practice that will leave you feeling better than when you walked into class. If no level is stated, it is an all levels class.

  • Level 1 & 2 is suitable for beginners or those that enjoy a slower flow. More time is spent on alignment and breathing. Pregnant students welcome to attend.
  • Level 2 & 3 is an intermediate practice with slower transitions and longer holds. An understanding of deep breathing and basic alignment in the yoga poses is expected.

Yoga for Women’s Health
This class is for all women at any stage of life- prenatal and postnatal students are encouraged to attend. The poses taught are beneficial to all women; however, the benefits for those going through life changes or physical changes are even greater. Flow gently through class with poses that will strengthen the body and spirit, while calming the mind. This class is appropriate for all levels and bodies.

Meditation Class

A guided class, perfect for all levels of experience, including beginners. Consistent meditation practice promotes: a calm and peaceful mind, relief from stress and anxiety, physical wellbeing and improved relationships. Each session will include a brief introduction, a guided meditation and a brief closing discussion. Everyone is welcome. No special clothing is required.  Classes led by Kelsang Nyema of the Ganden Center in Columbia, SC.



Mom and Baby Yoga

A gentle practice designed for postpartum moms and their infants. This class will address common aches and energy challenges of the postpartum mom. Please come at least 4-6 weeks after your baby has been born out of respect for your body. Please talk to the teacher before class so she can help create a class that addresses your current needs and physical level. Mothers can come who are new to yoga, or those with an existing yoga practice. All mothers are welcome to attend this class.

Restorative Practice for Facing Cancer

Greenville Yoga and the Greenville County Cancer Society offer this class to all whose lives have been touched by the challenge of facing cancer.  The group comes together to create space for relaxation, healing, returning to peace…  There is no cost for this yoga class and no prior yoga experience is needed. More information and additional support programs by the Greenville County Cancer Society at http://www.cancersocietygc.org.  For further questions email Nina at n_kristeva@yahoo.com

Sivananda Yoga

A system of hatha yoga (the yoga of movement) that progresses systematically through the body’s major muscle groups and energy (chakra) areas. Be prepared to experience boosts of energy and mental keenness, as well as deeper sleep and personal peace. Appropriate for all levels.

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