Yoga
The art of Yoga is the union of breath, body and spirit. What began as a meditation practice evolved into a physical practice of various postures called asanas. Two leading teachers that helped bring yoga to the Western world are: BKS Iyengar and Swami Sivananda. Popular styles of yoga include Ashtanga, Kripalue, & Kundalini; all three styles have influenced the classes that Studio³ offers. Simply interpreted, Hatha Yoga means physical. The class encompasses breathing techniques and meditation while moving into postures. As the lower body begins to connect with the earth below it becomes grounded and simultaneously, the upper body is free and light reaching upward. This feeling of length and greater awareness is something that over time will begin to stay with you always!
Studio³’s focus is to approach the asanas (postures) mindfully. Our intent is to individual attention that assists with each person’s unique attributes that contributes to bettering their practice. In an easy learning environment and with detailed cueing, the goal of better alignment, balance and greater confidence will be achieved. Classes will always include relaxation and breathing techniques, as well as a variety of asanas that work to increase flexibility, balance and concentration. Each class will conclude with a simple meditation to finish the hour. With a subtle undertone of the Pilates principles, the strength of both disciplines will be shared, connecting traditional yoga with core awareness.
Pilates
Developed by Joseph Pilates in the 1920’s, Pilates has evolved from a fitness regime once thought exclusive to dancers to a coveted workout that benefits those looking to get in shape and those whose goals are to keep active in daily activities with minimal pain and increased vitality. Pilates has proven to be beneficial for both the professional athlete and weekend warrior, as well as the physically fit who want to increase their stamina, muscle endurance and the all important mind-body coordination and connection.
Pilates involves exercises on both specialized pieces of equipment and on the floor, working to accommodate your goals and needs. While it is known as a key choice of workouts to strengthen the body’s core, including the abdominal muscles, back and shoulder girdle muscles, its staying power as a workout lies in its quick progression to becoming a full body workout. Not only will you find your larger muscles toned, but Pilates will target the layers of muscles, getting into the deep ones that will improve posture, expand lung capacity and create longevity in everyday and extracurricular activities. As the original mind-body workout, Pilates challenges and improves your coordination which works with your mind and mental focus.
Gyrotonic®
Created by Julio Horvath, Gyrotonic® is a system of exercises that emphasizes freedom of movement in a continuous workout pattern. Allowing the simultaneous stretching and strengthening around the joints, Gyrotonic® works on breath patterns that enhance both aerobic and cardiovascular activity and is a key part in facilitating a more efficient neuro-muscular connection.
Working on the Professional Pulley Tower, clients learn to move with an emphasis on circular and spiraling movements. Fully adjustable to accommodate both the strength of the individual and his or her body type, the pulleys assist in creating a smooth, even and constant movement that carries on throughout the Gyrotonic® workout. The overall result is a more mobile spine that supports a holistic connection between the mind and body and the overall balance and awareness between both.
What is Reiki?
The word Reiki is broken down as Rei- which means universal or spiritual wisdom and Ki- the life force. Akin to the chi in Chinese healing practices, the prana in Sanskrit and mana in Hawaiian, these concepts are the fundamentals that make up Reiki.
Reiki (ray-key) involves an attuned practitioner placing their hands on or slightly above the body and passing healing energy from the universe into whatever needs attention in the body. During a session the receiver is clothed and lying comfortably while the practitioner scans the entire body passing energy to help open and cleanse the seven major chakras.
What is CranioSacral Therapy?
CranioSacral Therapy (CST) is a gentle, light-touch method that involves evaluating and enhancing the craniosacral system. This system consists of the membranes and cerebrospinal fluid that surrounds, protects, nourishes and cleanses the brain and spinal cord. If there is an imbalance or dysfunction within the craniosacral system then sensory, motor and/or neurological impairments can develop within the body.
Together, Reiki and CranioSacral Therapy integrate beautifully as both approaches demand the skills of a gentle touch and the tapping into energy that runs through and around all of us.
An experienced practitioner will listen to the body and adapt the session accordingly. The receiver may experience a variety of physical and emotional experiences that can span from a state of relaxation and peace to changing body temperatures to physical or emotional releases of tension areas that have manifested within the body.
