Class Descriptions
The classes in this section are inspired by Sangha Yoga's primary style, Para Yoga®.
Private Yoga & Meditation Sessions
Private sessions are typically schuledued 2-3 weeks in advance. Offered by Karina and Kara. (full details here)
Pure Basics - Beginning Yoga (8 week semester)
Pure Basics are the foundations for any yoga practice: an understanding of what yoga is and how it works to support physical, mental, and spiritual wellness: focus on personal alignment in the six categories of yoga poses. theory, breath techniques, and yoga postures designed to build core support and encourage relaxation will be shared in this gentle class. (Developed by Karina- Taught by Karina & Kara) All adult ages, body types and fitness levels welcome.
Tantric Hatha/ Level 1-2: (on-going)
Tantric Hatha Yoga is "Hatha/Vinyasa" style yoga + the intelligence of posture sequencing for specific energetic and health effects. This class explores flowing movements and alignments in classical postures which are presented systematically to safely open the body; ideal for building strength and flexibility and mental focus. Pranayama (breath work), mantra (sound), and meditation are included in tantric hatha classes. (Taught by Karina, Kara, and Kirsten K) Prior completion of the Basics classes are helpful but not required; beginners welcome.
Beginner - Intermediate: Para Yoga® (on-going)
Gently exploring the conscious link between breath and movement, this "Tantric Hatha" class will offer a mild pace of yoga postures and sun salutations, simple breathing techniques, short seated meditation periods, and basic philosophies. Emphasizing the health benefits of practice, mindfulness and self-care - this class has a therapeutic approach- meeting the needs of the day. Beginners welcome. (Taught by Karina & Kara)
Advanced Class: Para Yoga® (on-going)
A powerful and dynamic tantric hatha class. A primarily vinyasa asana practice, with long holds and more advanced postures prepare us for comprehensive pranayama and meditation techniques. Exploring advanced kriyas and specific energetic intentions, we begin to awaken to the power of the subtle forces...this class will work out the body, mind and soul. (Taught by Karina& Kara) At least one year of prior yoga experience is recommended.
Early AM Yoga: (more details)
Welcome and prepare for your day with a gentle, yet invigorating morning yoga experience perfect for the beginning and intermediate yogi. We'll wake up, stretch, and build strength while breathing deep and centering ourselves for the day ahead. Changing facilities are available (no showers) before and after practice.
EveryBODYoga (on-going)
See full details for this therapy oriented class designed for every adult body type, age, shape and fitness level! Beginners welcome. (Taught by Lille) - (Please read this important health note in Q2).
College Night (student discounted - drop in)
Designed for the student's physical, mental and financial needs, this challenging, fun and stress reducing class is Only $7.00, with your student ID! Click here for more details. (Taught by Karina& Jerry) Beginners Welcome.
Yoga Power Nap (on-going)
This 30 minute class is the fastest and easiest way to reduce stress and anxiety, while restoring vitality and mental focus! One of the techniques used in this class is called Yoga Nidra. Read what Karina's yoga master, Rod Stryker said about Yoga Nidra in Yoga Journal Magazine.This class is designed for: busy downtown professionals, college students, or anyone seeking to recharge during the lunch hour. - no yoga attire necessary. (Taught by Kirsten K)
Meditation Class (special dates & details)
Learn to cultivate a clam, clear and tranquil mind by learning how to meditate as the yogi's have for thousands of years. Some light stretching prepares the body to sit comfortably to then be guieded toward your clam, steady center.
SYTT Scholarship Class (on donation) link
This ongoing weekly class will be hosted by graduates of the Sangha Yoga Teacher Training Program (SYTT). These classes will be in a Beginner/Intermediate format. They will be offered on donation to raise money for for the SYTT Scholarship Fund. (This class has a suggested donation of $7/person, but is not limited to that donation.)
Yoga for Charity
This gentle Tantric Hatha/Para Yoga class holds a special place in Karina's heart: see details here
Beginners Welcome!
The classes in this section reflect how Sangha Yoga celebrates diversity
Kundalini Yoga - (on-going)
As taught by Yogi Bhajan...A vigorous and rhythmic yet meditative yoga; using breath, mudra and mantra to help us discover our greatest potential for excellence in body, mind and spirit. (Taught by Alycia) All levels welcome.
Community Classes (discounted - drop in, see teacher line up)
"Sangha" means community. Community Classes are taught by rotating instructors within the Kalamazoo area. Anyone who has a certification to teach yoga can sign up to teach these classes. These classes are only $7.00! Beginners Welcome.
Belly Dance: 6 week semester (see dates)
Learn the extraordinary benefits of Belly Dance. Belly dance is one of the most ancient and evolved forms of dance in the world. This dance form involves gentle, curving, circular movements guided by beautiful music that improves flexibility and coordination. The program is a full-body workout that slims and tones your body through easy to follow low impact and strength dance moves while improving grace and posture. The workouts combine traditional strengthening exercises with total muscle isolation steps that tone your abs, arms, waist, hips, buns, and thighs. (Taught by Joette)
Hot Vinyasa (on-going)
This powerful flow class includes a variety of standing postures including sun salutations. This class brings energy to the body and clarity to the mind. This class is a great 60 minute workout for the body and mind. Done in an 80 degree room, you'll sweat your prayer! Join us on Fridays. Levels 1-3 Welcome (Taught by Kristin F and Lillie)
Restorative Yoga (on-going)
Restorative Yoga is the most nurturing and relaxing type of yoga. All poses are done lying on the floor, supported by blankets, cushions and other props. These techniques restore balance to the autonomic nervous system though deep relaxation. This class opens and closes with call and response chanting. Beginners Welcome, learn more.(Taught by Ann)
Family Yoga (on occasion)
Parents learn and develop, beginning to intermediate, yoga flow; and most importantly share the experience with your kids! This is not yoga for kids, but rather a tolerant and nurturing environment where parents act as role models to encourage the practice of yoga in your children. By inviting children into this sacred space, parents gain the support they need to grow in their ability to remain mindful with loving acceptance and gratitude; on and off the mat.
Yoga 4 Kidz ( 6 Week Semester)
This class is a fun way for your child to be guided through the yogic journey. Yoga 4 Kidz will help your child to relax, focus, pay attention, boost self confidence as well as develop both inner and outer strength and flexibility. We will be using classical Hatha yoga postures, breathing and meditation techniques while using games and creative activities to expand your child's imagination and reach their fullest potential! Ages 5-12 (Taught by Chelsie)
Pranayama (yogic breathing techniques)
Pranayama
harmonizes the body, mind and spirit bringing awareness to the abundance of energy within and around us. Pranayama connects us to the present moment and helps restore the mind to simplicity and peace- it is the path to deeper relaxation and meditation. The practice of pranayama increases the supply of oxygen to the brain and develops concentration, clarity of thought, endurance, strong immune systems, regular digestion and relief from pain. Join in this pranayama class to experience its health benefits firsthand and increase positive energy. All are welcome - no prior yoga experience necessary. These yogic breathing exercises can be performed seated in a chair, on the floor and sometimes lying down. (Taught by Kristin F)
Level 1 - 2 Hatha / Vinyasa Yoga Classes
"Hatha Yoga” is commonly understood as the seated, lying, and standing yoga postures. “Vinyasa” often implies flows of postures linked together with the breath like sunsalutations. - These classes will focus on the principles of alignment as well as how to culitvate balance in the inner and outer life. Learn how to maximize the effect of poses using various props. These classes draw from different yoga styles and traditions to cultivate strength, flexibility and mental focus both on and off the mat! (Taught by Mark & Kristin F)
Prenatal Yoga
This prenatal yoga class is for women at all stages of pregnancy. In this class you’ll physically, mentally & emotionally prepare for childbirth. Learn to adjust to the physical changes to your body and manage discomforts. You’ll gain strength, flexibility & self confidence. Gentle hatha yoga, kundalini, and dance movements will shared along with breath work, imagery and meditation techniques. - Learn to consciously focus on and spiritually experience your pregnancy. This delightful class will enhance your ability to relax & enjoy your pregnancy with other women. - Please consult your physician or midwife prior to participation (Taught by Alycia or Chelsie)
