Class Types & Descriptions:

7/29/21 Update: In an ongoing attempt at more clarity and better communication, we have updated the names of two of our classes: All-Levels is now Power Yoga and Basics is now Power Yoga Basics. We’ve also adjusted the class descriptions. If you are looking for more gentle and/or accessible yoga classes, please visit our online studio. In time, we plan to return many of our non-power yoga offerings to our in-person studio schedule.

Heated Power Yoga Basics (in-studio) – A beginners class that will move slowly so new students can learn the fundamentals of a Power Yoga practice. This class is a great place to "start" or refresh your understanding of the practice. Do not hesitate to speak with the instructor if you have questions. Please Note: for in-studio Power Yoga Basics classes, we use our iWave enhanced HVAC systems to hold the room around 90-ish degrees with added humidity. (Power Yoga may not be suitable for some with certain health conditions. If you are looking for a more accessible class, checkout our restorative, gentle yoga and/or accessible yoga classes.)

Heated Power Yoga (in-studio) –  A challenging flowing class set in a warm room. Modifications and intensifications will be given. Some yoga experience is recommended but not required. Please Note: for in-studio Power Yoga classes, we use our iWave enhanced HVAC systems to hold the room around 90-ish degrees with added humidity. (Power Yoga may not be suitable for some with certain health conditions. If you are looking for a more accessible class, checkout our restorative, gentle yoga and/or accessible yoga classes.)

Non-Heated Gentle Flow (in-studio) – This approachable class incorporates slow, gentle movement linked to breath and often includes meditation. With an emphasis on stretching and relaxation, it is perfect for individuals looking for a non-heated yoga class without "yoga push-ups" or long weight-bearing holds. This class does include some transitions from standing postures to postures done sitting and/or laying on a yoga mat.

Heated Pilates Flow (in-studio) - A combination of standard Pilates movement mixed with the basics of a yoga flow and mindfulness class. Open to both beginners and those with pilates and/or yoga experience. (Heated Pilates Flow may not be suitable for some with certain health conditions. If you are looking for a more accessible class, checkout our restorative, gentle yoga and/or accessible yoga classes.)

Heated Core Mechanics (in-studio) – Improve core strength, balance, and posture with this challenging new class at SHPY! Students will be taken through a series of static movements and postures focused on building core strength through isolated muscle focus. Set to a fun playlist, core mechanics class will have you sweating, shaking (literally), standing taller, and feeling great afterwards. Class will finish with a variety of meditation work, Qi Gong, or breathing techniques. (Core Mechanics may not be suitable for some with certain health conditions. If you are looking for a more accessible class, checkout our restorative, gentle yoga and/or accessible yoga classes.)

Restorative Yoga (in-studio) – Restorative Yoga is the art of rest. We will move through four postures together (including Savasana), while being supported by props (such as blocks, bolsters and blankets). Asanas (or poses) will be held anywhere from 2-10 minutes. As long as you’re able to come to the ground, you can do Restorative Yoga! Overall, Restorative Yoga helps us access the “rest & digest” part of our Central Nervous System. Class will be held at room temperature (i.e., no additional heat added) to help promote relaxation. (Non-Heated. Restorative classes are 60 minutes in length. Our most accessible class.)

Pay-What-You-Can Power Yoga (in-studio, currently on pause) – Our most affordable class since you get to determine it’s value with your “donation." A step up from our “Basics” classes but not as intense as an “All Levels” class.  Modifications will be given and you will experience a flowing class at a slower pace. (Non-Heated. Pay-What-You-Can classes are 60 minutes in length. Pay-What-You-Can Power Yoga may not be suitable for some with certain health conditions. If you are looking for a more accessible class, checkout our restorative, gentle yoga and/or accessible yoga classes. Also, there is no preregistration for this class as it runs on a walk-in first come basis.)

Accessible Yoga (livestream, currently on pause) – This hour-long class consists of: Centering, Warm-Up Movements, Asana (yoga poses), Relaxation, Meditation and Pranayama (breath work). Accessible Yoga is a class where you can practice seated in a chair for the whole class or practice some of the poses seated in a chair and some of the poses standing/sitting/laying on a yoga mat. Accessible Yoga is open to all abilities and experience levels. If you and/or a loved one is recovering from an illness or injury, living with a chronic condition, looking for a gentle approach to yoga and/or have been wanting to try (or get back into) a yoga practice but don’t know where or how to start (or continue) this offering was designed for you.

Mid-Day Gentle Movement (in-studio, currently on pause) – This special 45 minute pay-what-you-can class is non-heated and was designed for seniors but is open to anyone who wants to learn basic yoga poses while stretching. Each session ends in a guided relaxation.

Seated Meditation (in-studio, currently on pause) – A 30-minute seated meditation practice that is led by a member of the SHPY staff. All meditation sessions are FREE to the public and a great way to deepen your understanding of the practice. (Non-Heated. Bolsters, Blocks & Blankets available.) 

Studio Temperature

Studio Heat (Updated 11/27/21): Heated Power Yoga and Heated Power Yoga Basics classes will be held in a room heated to 90-ish degrees with added humidity using our our iWave enhanced HVAC systems. The Non-Heated Gentle Flow class will be held in a room heated to 75-ish degrees. The windows will be cracked, fans on and floor HEPA filters running for all classes.

YOGA ETIQUETTE... WHAT IS IT?

The following is meant to provide guidance for those new to yoga and to serve as a friendly reminder to the rest of us! 

Class Etiquette: The (Semi) Unspoken Rules of Yoga

Arrive early
Tardiness to yoga class is disruptive and disrespectful to the teacher and other students. To avoid being late, aim to arrive 15 minutes before class is scheduled to start; this gives you time to relax, breathe, and settle in. 

Turn off your cell
Make a habit of doing this before you step foot into the yoga studio; nothing is more grating then the sound of a ringing cell phone during practice. (And few things are as embarrassing as scrambling to silence your phone in the middle of class!)

Remove your shoes
The studio stays most hygienic if everyone leaves their shoes (yes, even flip-flops) outside the classroom. And pay attention where you’re walking barefoot—it’s a major no-no to tread on other students’ mats.

Talk to the teacher
If you have any injuries (past or current) or concerns, talk to the teacher before class. This way, the teacher can recommend variations on certain poses during practice to allow you to reap the benefits without unnecessary strain. Speak up if something doesn’t feel right, but don’t “hog” the teacher during class; if you have lots of concerns, consider scheduling a private session.

Relish the quiet
A yoga classroom is like a sanctuary—people come here to relax and find peace. Honor this by observing as much quiet as possible: Try not to make distracting sounds (ie, overzealous grunts and groans), and save any loud chit-chat for after class or the lobby area and avoid the gossip. 

Consider hygiene
Sweat is good—it’s a sign you’re working hard, and a healthy way to cleanse the body of toxins. However, if you’re prone to heavy perspiration, bring a towel to class to mop your brow (so you don’t drip on your neighbor’s mat) and wipe up any excess sweat on or around your mat after class.

Skip the scents
Many people have sensitivities to perfumes and scented body lotions; help us keep our studio fragrance-free by avoiding applying any aromatic products before class. If you’re concerned about stink, shower before class and use unscented deodorant.

Keep your belongings outside class
Floorspace in a classroom can be limited, so keep your “footprint” small. Limit the belongings near your mat to the bare essentials: a water bottle, towel, and maybe an additional layer for the relaxation period at the end of class. Leave your coat, purse, keys, cell phone (turned off, of course), duffel bag, and whatever else in the designated area outside the classroom.

Wear appropriate clothing
Select clothing based on what type of yoga you’ll be doing, the temperature of the room, and what will be most comfortable for the duration of class. Avoid clothing that is too baggy and loose (which can get in your way during certain poses) as well as clothing that is too tight or revealing—no one wants to witness a “wardrobe malfunction” during class!

Excuse yourself quietly
If you must use the restroom during class, it’s most polite to wait until a short period of rest like child’s pose or between asanas. Excuse yourself quietly, trying not to distract other students.

Stay ‘til the end
We ask that you stay for savasana. Savasana is a delicious period of relaxation at the end of each yoga class. If you roll up your mat and dash out the door during this quiet time, you’re not only annoying your fellow students, you’re missing out on what is arguably the most essential part of the practice. Forget about the to-do list that awaits you after class, and allow yourself to really sink in to this incredibly restoring pose. Breathe and remind yourself this is why you’re here. You’ll be glad you did!

(The above was taken (in part) from Yoga Journal and the yenyoga blog.)