Yoga Class Info and Booking
Offerings - Beginners welcome!
How are you managing today?
I hope that you are thriving in Body, Mind & Spirit.
Balancing all is sometimes tough, but if you can attain this "balance" then you likely will have better immune efficiency, resiliency, and an overall feeling of well-being. Yoga offers this on many levels.
You don't need to be an experienced yogi to start a class........ you only need to start!
I am known in the community for a compassionate approach and for adapting classes to meet individual needs.
This deeper, and more accessible way of practicing yoga, creates ease in your body, greater resilience,
emotional flexibility, and health.
Crystal Spirit's yoga studio and outdoor garden provide a supportive and welcoming space, where students of all ages and physical abilities can come unwind and explore the healing benefits of somatic Kriya Yoga.
Here is an expanded exploration of Kriya Yoga: Philosophical Foundation: Self-Realization: Kriya Yoga is rooted in the philosophy of self-realization, which emphasizes direct experiential knowledge of the divine or the true self. Unity of Body and Spirit: The practice acknowledges the interconnectedness of the physical and spiritual realms, aiming to unify the individual's consciousness with the universal consciousness. Pranayama Techniques: Kriya Breathing: Central to Kriya Yoga is the practice of specific pranayama (breath control) techniques. Kriya breathing involves conscious regulation of the breath to control the life force (prana) within the body. Cleansing Breath: Practitioners learn techniques to cleanse and purify the subtle energy channels (nadis) in the body, promoting a more balanced flow of prana. Meditation Practices: Concentration and Stillness: Kriya Yoga emphasizes the cultivation of deep concentration and stillness of the mind through meditation. Practitioners engage in meditation techniques that help quiet the mental chatter and lead to a profound inner stillness. Inner Exploration: The meditation practices in Kriya Yoga encourage introspection and inner exploration, facilitating a heightened awareness of one's thoughts, emotions, and spiritual essence. Spinal Breathing: Awakening Kundalini Energy: Kriya Yoga incorporates techniques to awaken the dormant spiritual energy (Kundalini) believed to be coiled at the base of the spine. The systematic practice of spinal breathing is said to raise this energy along the spine, leading to heightened states of consciousness. Commitment and Discipline: Initiation and Training: Traditionally, Kriya Yoga is taught through initiation by a qualified teacher. The initiation imparts specific techniques and mantras to the practitioner. Regular Practice: Consistency and regularity are paramount in Kriya Yoga. Practitioners are encouraged to establish a dedicated daily practice to experience the full benefits of the system. Path to Self-Realization: Purification: The systematic techniques of Kriya Yoga are considered tools for the purification of the mind and body. This purification is seen as a crucial step toward self-realization. Integration with Daily Life: Kriya Yoga is not just a set of practices confined to a specific time or space but encourages the integration of yogic principles into everyday life.
Mat Class in Studio
Wednesdays. 9 - 10 am
$15 pp
email me if you want to be on a waitlist, or see if there is space
Chair Class in Studio
Mondays 10 - 11 am
$15 pp
(email me if you want to be on a waitlist, or see if there is space)
A seated chair yoga class is a modified form of yoga designed to make the practice accessible to individuals who may have mobility challenges, limited flexibility, or difficulty with traditional floor-based yoga poses. This type of yoga is often practiced in a chair or with the support of a chair, making it suitable for people with various physical conditions, including seniors, office workers, and those recovering from injuries. Here's an overview of what you might expect in a seated chair yoga class: Introduction and Warm-Up: The class typically begins with a brief introduction and a warm-up to prepare the body for the seated yoga practice. Gentle neck, shoulder, and wrist stretches are commonly incorporated to release tension and improve mobility. Seated Asanas (Poses): Participants perform a series of yoga poses while seated on a chair or using the chair for support. Common seated poses include seated mountain pose, seated forward fold, seated twists, and seated side stretches. Breathing Exercises (Pranayama): Emphasis is placed on breath awareness and controlled breathing exercises (pranayama). Simple breath techniques, such as diaphragmatic breathing or deep belly breathing, are often incorporated to promote relaxation and focus. Core Strengthening: Seated core exercises are integrated to build strength in the abdominal muscles. These may include seated leg lifts, knee-to-chest movements, or pelvic tilts. Balance and Stability: Balance poses are adapted to the seated position, promoting stability and coordination. Participants might practice seated tree pose or seated eagle pose, using the chair for support. Mindfulness and Relaxation: A seated chair yoga class often includes elements of mindfulness and relaxation. Guided meditation or visualization exercises may be incorporated to enhance mental well-being. Cool Down and Stretching: The class concludes with a cool-down segment, which may involve gentle stretches to release tension in various muscle groups. Participants are encouraged to focus on maintaining good posture and body awareness throughout. Accessibility and Adaptations: Instructors in seated chair yoga classes are trained to offer modifications and adaptations based on the individual needs of participants. Props such as blocks or cushions may be used to enhance comfort and support. Community and Social Interaction: Seated chair yoga classes often foster a sense of community and social interaction. Participants may engage in discussions or share experiences, creating a supportive and inclusive environment. Seated chair yoga provides the benefits of traditional yoga, including improved flexibility, strength, and relaxation, in a format that accommodates various physical abilities. It is an excellent option for those looking to experience the positive effects of yoga while seated comfortably.
"Hatha Kriya Yoga" ia a combination of two distinct yoga styles: Hatha Yoga and Kriya Yoga. Let's explore each of these individually to understand their respective characteristics: Hatha Yoga: Definition: Hatha Yoga is one of the classical forms of yoga that emphasizes the physical postures (asanas) and breath control (pranayama) to achieve balance between the body and mind. Physical Practice: In Hatha Yoga, practitioners engage in a series of asanas and focus on the alignment of the body. The practice aims to develop flexibility, strength, and balance. Breath Awareness: The integration of conscious breathing is a key component of Hatha Yoga, with an emphasis on coordinating breath with movement during the asanas. Kriya Yoga: Definition: Kriya Yoga is a spiritual practice that encompasses a set of techniques designed to purify the mind and body, leading to heightened spiritual awareness. Breath Control and Meditation: Kriya Yoga includes specific pranayama techniques (breath control) and meditation practices. These techniques are believed to accelerate spiritual development and foster a deeper connection with the divine. Roots in Ancient Tradition: The Kriya Yoga tradition has deep roots in ancient yogic texts and was popularized in the modern era by figures like Lahiri Mahasaya and Paramahansa Yogananda. "Hatha Kriya Yoga" is not a widely recognized term in the traditional sense, it's describes a yoga practice that incorporates elements of both Hatha Yoga and Kriya Yoga. In such a case, practitioners might engage in physical postures and breath control from Hatha Yoga alongside specific meditation and purification techniques from Kriya Yoga
Restorative yoga is a gentle and therapeutic style of yoga that focuses on relaxation and rejuvenation. In a restorative yoga class, the emphasis is on allowing the body to release tension and stress through supported, passive poses. This type of yoga is particularly beneficial for individuals looking to unwind, de-stress, and promote overall well-being. Here are key features of a restorative yoga class: Supported Poses: Restorative yoga involves a series of fully supported poses using props such as bolsters, blankets, blocks, and straps. Props are strategically placed to provide comfort and encourage deep relaxation in each pose. Passive Stretches: Unlike more active styles of yoga, restorative yoga poses are passive and held for an extended period (usually 5-20 minutes). The extended duration allows the body to gently open up and release tension over time. Focus on Breath: Conscious and mindful breathing is a fundamental aspect of restorative yoga. Participants are encouraged to engage in slow, deep breaths to promote relaxation and enhance the meditative aspect of the practice. Dim Lighting and Calming Environment: Restorative yoga classes often take place in a softly lit, serene environment to create a calming atmosphere. Gentle music or guided meditations may be used to further enhance the relaxation experience. Minimal Movement: Participants make minimal physical effort during a restorative yoga class. The emphasis is on letting go of muscular tension, allowing the props to support the body fully. Stress Reduction: Restorative yoga is known for its ability to activate the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting the relaxation response and reducing stress. The gentle poses and deep breathing help counteract the effects of chronic stress on the body and mind. Healing Benefits: Restorative yoga is often used therapeutically for individuals recovering from illness, injury, or experiencing chronic conditions. It can enhance flexibility, improve circulation, and promote the body's natural healing processes. Mindfulness and Meditation: The extended holds in restorative poses provide an opportunity for mindfulness and meditation. Participants are guided to bring awareness to the present moment, cultivating a sense of inner peace and stillness. Accessible to All Levels: Restorative yoga is accessible to practitioners of all levels, including beginners and those with physical limitations. The use of props allows for customization, making it suitable for individuals with varying abilities. Class Structure: A typical restorative yoga class may consist of a sequence of carefully chosen poses, each held for an extended period. The class often concludes with a period of relaxation, such as Savasana (Corpse Pose), to integrate the benefits of the practice. Restorative yoga provides a nurturing and supportive environment for individuals to experience deep relaxation and promote overall well-being. It serves as a valuable complement to more dynamic forms of yoga and exercise.
TESTIMONIALS
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“I was in a car accident and the sustained injuries to my central nervous system caused pain and limited movement. I was not able to partake in my usual yoga class. I learned of Elizabeth's restorative yoga class and decided to give it a try knowing that yoga practice heals. I learned very quickly that Elizabeth was a very knowledgeable yoga teacher whom I could trust. I found that within the group class Elizabeth intuitively works with each person individually. Elizabeth has eyes at the back of her head! Each class works on the whole person, mind, body, and spirit. But it was Elizabeth's most beautiful loving spirit that impacted me the most. I had found a place to heal. With so much gratitude." ~ Margaret
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"My massage therapist noticed a dramatic improvement in my spine. I was told (in the past) that I have a curvature in my spine, which often causes complications. Now, there is a dramatic improvement and I can thank my yoga practice for that.” ~ R
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"Between the Restor and Aqua yoga sessions, my knees no longer bother me as badly as they have in the past. My range of motion and muscular health are vastly improved and I no longer feel like my shoulders are up around my ears! Liz is always attentive and helpful when we are trying to reach our potential for poses and she is very intuitive when it comes to knowing what we need and how we feel. I sincerely feel that my quality of life has improved and although stress is always part of our lives, I now have the tools I need to manage it! "~ Melissa G.
Class Costs
In Person Classes/Courses 60 minute
pre register $15.00 {or course cost}
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Private Yoga Sessions (Single)
In studio: $60 per hr.
On location: $120 + km
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CANCELATION POLICY FOR ALL PRIVATE SESSIONS
Less than 24 hours cancelation (or no show), results in the per hour fee charge.
Private Yoga Sessions (Group)
In studio: $60 Per hr + $10/ per person
On location: $120 + km + $10/per person
Corporate or Conference Yoga Contact Elizabeth
"The subtle Body floats in all of us, we have all experienced it after a pose .... if we give ourselves time. Assessing this subtle energy allows an Awakening to happen. A system for experiencing a transformation of Consciousness which enriches one's life on every level .
Stay informed of updated offerings: check back often and sign up for my non-invasive newsletter here! If you have any questions regarding classes, events, or such, please connect with me via email or by phone/text: +1-604-845-9642.
TESTIMONIAL:
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Restore Yoga is a wonderful class that is very beneficial for the whole body; I have noticed immediate results in lowering blood pressure and blood sugar levels, as well as stress levels from meditation and gentle movement, which are essential at any age. Wellness for Body and Mind! Thank you for teaching and guiding us! ~ Yvonne