HATHA YOGA

HATHA YOGA is the term used for Yoga that relates to the physical body, mind and spirit, and partially consists of the practice "Asanas" (postures or poses). As one of the 8 limbs of Hatha Yoga, the practice of Asanas is designed to open the energy channels of the body, purifying the body and focusing the mind. Our "organic" Hatha Yoga classes encourage all students of all levels to explore their own practice in a safe, structured and nurturing environment.
Our CLASSICAL HATHA YOGA classes utilize Asana, Pranayama (breath work) and relaxation as the skills to maintain good health and peace of mind. These physically, mentally and and spiritually uplifting classes will inspire and challenge yoga students of all levels.

HOT YOGA - FEATURING "THE BARKAN METHOD" BY OWNER JIMMY BARKAN

Our HOT YOGA Program features THE BARKAN METHOD OF HOT YOGA created by YOGA CONNECTION owner JIMMY BARKAN, who has been teaching Hot Yoga styles for over 25 years. Jimmy's BARKAN METHOD OF HOT YOGA is a specially designed series of Asanas performed in a heated room, thus allowing the body a deeper release. THE BARKAN METHOD OF HOT YOGA is geared toward all levels, from beginner to advanced student. Students are guided to their individual abilities and levels by our trained instructors.

YOGA FOR SCOLIOSIS, SPINE CARE & ALIGNMENT - FEATURING OWNER WENDY HERMAN

Yoga Connection is proud to be the first studio in all of South Florida that offers the internationally acclaimed Yoga for Scoliosis program designed by Elise Browning Miller, senior certified Iyengar Yoga Teacher. Our Yoga for Scoliosis Program features Owner Wendy Herman, RYT 200 and certified by Elise as a Yoga for Scoliosis Teacher/Trainer. Having experienced her own scoliosis issues for most of her life, Wendy brings a uniquely personal approach to our students with scoliosis. As a teenager in a back brace, Wendy wishes she was taught yoga and established the flexibility in her spine that she only found later in life as the result of a progressing curvature, pain and osteoporosis. She credits yoga as the only system of body & mind that has improved her spine and the quality of her life. Having practiced yoga since 1997, Wendy was amazed to learn the intricate and detailed approach to yoga designed for students with scoliosis by Elise Miller, a custom designed yoga practice that addresses each student's particular scoliosis and the right alignment that is necessary for that student’s particular curve(s). Learn from Wendy how to “balance the imbalance” in the spine through a yoga practice that is customized to lengthen the spine, de-rotate twisted vertebrae, strengthen weakened muscles and elongate shortened muscles. Learn how to use yoga props, bolsters, blankets and straps for traction, balance and support. Since every curve is different, students with Scoliosis (both structural and functional) are encouraged to take at least two private sessions with Wendy so that she can teach you the very important modifications to your yoga postures that you can use in all of your yoga classes.

In addition to those with scoliosis, our Spine Care and Alignment private sessions with Wendy will provide all students, whether or not in need of Back Care, with the proper alignment necessary in yoga practice and in all of life. Using deep breathing, gentle movement, strengthening Asanas, restorative Asanas, and precise alignment principles, these private sessions offers a personal approach to yoga practice that is rooted in the intention of taking care of our spines throughout our lives, and approaching all of our yoga practice in this precise manner. Whatever your physical condition, these private sessions will detail the means by which to maintain a healthy, strong and supported spine through precise alignment, movement, strength and flexibility.

HOT YOGA

HOT YOGA classes at Yoga Connection are an eclectic blend of Yoga styles combining the vast knowledge, experience and personalities of our amazing staff of Yoga Connection expert instructors. All Hot Yoga classes will be taught in our state of the art heated Yoga studio, and with great detail breaking down the mechanics of all postures.

HOT VINYASA - FEATURING "THE BARKAN METHOD" BY OWNER JIMMY BARKAN

JIMMY BARKAN has incorporated Asanas from his lineage into a "HOT VINYASA" (continuous flow) style, also part of THE BARKAN METHOD OF HOT YOGA. This physically vigorous class is held in a warm room and combines upper body strength, flexibility and cardio. This class is designed for students of all levels seeking a challenge.

VINYASA YOGA

VINYASA YOGA is the art of sequencing yoga postures, flowing from one asana to another, better known as "Power Yoga". Vinyasa, meaning "Flow", are more vigorous classes and offer a fast paced sequence of Asanas, flowing from one to the other, and linking the movements to breath in a non-sequential flow. Vinyasa Yoga builds upper body strength, flexibility and stamina. Using the breath/body principles of Ashtanga Yoga, beginner to advanced students are guided to their individual levels. All of our Vinyasa classes are unique to the particular sequencing and style of our instructors. Students who are brand new to Vinyasa Yoga are strongly encouraged to first attend our Gentle Yoga and Conscious Yoga classes for a slower detailed introduction to Vinyasa postures using proper body mechanics and alignment.

FLOWING WITH YOGA

FLOWING WITH YOGA is a specially designed and uniquely eclectic and powerful class that is designed to conform to the Universal Principles of Alignment with emphasis on the precise biomechanics necessary for proper alignment in all yoga and all yoga styles. All students are encouraged to find their own connection to the postures and to the body and mind connection that is the essence of all yoga. Each class will be new and interesting and dedicated to the individual abilities of all students, and is practiced in both the hot and non-heated studios. Based upon the principles of UNIVERSAL YOGA developed by Ukranian Yoga Master Andre Lappa, Flowing with Yoga steps beyond the typical training methods and systemization, to understanding that the true goal of yoga is not dependent on traditional practical yoga styles. Drawing from Ashtanga Vinyasa Flow, the precision of Iyengar Yoga and the individual sequencing technology of Viniyoga and other styles, this systemization of accumulated experience goes to a deeper understanding of yoga by infusing the creative and independent spirit into an individual practice that is uncategorized, conscious and free. According to Lappa "The perfect system can satisfy the demands of every person, from a feeble beginner to an advanced teacher. One only needs to correctly evaluate one’s capabilities and true level of development, and remember that the progress depends only on you. It is unnecessary to compare your abilities with those of other Yoga practitioners. In exactly the same way you should not deem this system as not being suitable for you because your actual level of development is still not very high." Open to all levels, each student will be able to tailor their practice to their individual ability and lifestyle.

ECLECTIC FUSION VINYASA

ECLECTIC FUSION VINYASA is a challenging and invigorating free form class that combines emotional revelation with sacred space. Designed to facilitate flow, this amazing journey into yoga will allow all students to see what the heart will deliver when the work is deep and unrestrained. As with all of our classes, this amazing class is open to all levels and each student will be instructed to their individual levels. All new students are strongly encouraged to take Introduction to Hot Yoga/Building Blocks for an in depth understanding of the mechanics of the Asanas.

INTRODUCTION TO HOT YOGA/BUILDING BLOCKS

This new and exciting addition to our Yoga program offers beginners a posture oriented clinical and practical introduction to our Hot Yoga Asanas in a one hour break-it-down class focused on the beginner but great for all students who wish to understand the deeper mechanics of the postures. So - if you have wanted to try Hot Yoga but have been reluctant to "step into the sauna", we understand! Come explore and learn, get accustomed to the heat in a nurturing environment where you will learn basic Asana and how to coordinate breath and movement. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced Yogi looking to add strength and endurance, this is the class to keep you moving forward on your Yoga journey. This class meets every Wednesday at 10:30am and once monthly, on the Monday evening on the first of each month at 7:45 (with preregistration only, but counts as a regular class, and open to all!)

JOURNEY INTO YOGA WITH AILENE

Even though all classes at Yoga Connection are taught in a safe and nurturing environment, many of us are nervous or intimidated about attending a "traditional" yoga class. If you've ever wondered if yoga is for you, but were afraid to try, or if you are an experienced yoga student who seeks to explore the deeper emotional connection to mind, body and spirit, this exciting program specially designed by Ailene is the perfect place to begin your "Journey Into Yoga". Stemming from Ailene's own personal experience, this class brings a new and special emphasis on the "acceptance" we only achieve when we learn to let go of inflexibility in both our bodies and our minds. Journey Into Yoga will allow you to explore (or reconnect with) yoga in a gentle, supportive atmosphere that emphasizes optimal health and builds strength and flexibility. Ailene will teach the basic principles of asana (postures) using instruction that encourages self exploration and growth. This warm and loving class is open to all levels, with special attention given to beginners and appropriate modifications made for experienced students. Start your own journey, learn to love yourself, and join Ailene in this unique and enjoyable class.
Ailene is also available to students who wish to study one on one in private instruction, or in small groups that wish to remain private and go to a deeper emotional level. Private instruction will be given when classes are not in session and the studio is quiet between the hours of 12:00-3:00pm weekdays and 12:30-3:30pm weekends. Just coordinate your time with our front desk.

SIVANANDA YOGA

SIVANANDA YOGA offers a meditative approach through a series of Asanas, Pranyama (breathing), Meditation and Deep Relaxation, working systematically on the body, stretching and relaxing muscles, joints and ligaments, creating a more flexible spine and improving circulation. Sivananda Yoga is one of the most classic forms of Yoga created in 1935 in India by its founder doctor Sri Swami Sivananda who encouraged all students to embrace a healthy lifestyle by combining the following five basic principles of the ancient wisdom of Yoga: proper diet, positive thinking and meditation, relaxation, breathing and Asanas.

ACTIVE RESTORATIVE YOGA

ACTIVE RESTORATIVE YOGA is just what it says: a gentle moving class that combines Restorative Yoga poses and relaxation with Yogic breathing techniques, mantra and meditation. hrough the use of props, gravity and support, students will restore balance and harmony in their minds, lives and bodies, with a sense of peace and purity through better awareness, better alignment and deeper understanding of proper body mechanics. Nurture yourselves in this loving and pampering class, and look for our monthly Restore and Rejuvenate Workshops for a completely blissful Restorative Yoga experience.

YOGA TO SACRED MUSIC

Our SACRED MUSIC YOGA class is conducted in a warm and dimly lit room, to traditional Indian music, with minimal instruction so that each student may practice in a quiet individualized place. This class is a dance of the body, breath and spirit. Because there is mnimal instruction, students must have completed at least 10 Yoga classes (of any yoga style) prior to attending our Sacred Music classes. Once the student has completed the 10 class minimum, we encourage all students to participate in this beautiful practice.

LIVE SACRED MUSIC POWER FLOW

Exclusive to Yoga Connection in the West Broward area, this popular program features our very own Barbara Sloan and Worldbeat Musician Richard Brookens in a Power Flow class to live sacred music. Richard performs with Bamboo Flutes (from India and China), Native American Indian Flutes, Tablas (drums from India), Udus (clay pots from Africa), and a Balinese Gong, along with ambient tracks from his original CD's - all combined with a challenging Asana flow utilizing breath, body, voice, sound, mantra, mind and spirit for a total Yoga experience of pure meditation in motion. Instruction and adjustment will be provided so all levels are welcome. This unique program will be offered at Yoga Connection on a monthly/bimonthly basis, so make sure to check our Events Page for dates and times, and join in the newest and most exciting yoga experience in South Florida!

PILATES

Our specialized Pilates Classes are uniquely developed by our very own, very talented Deborah Melzer.
Take advantage of our expanded Pilates Programs!

PILATES

Originally called CONTROLOGY, this exercise style was developed by Joseph Pilates as an exercise practice based upon 34 movements rooted in mat work. It is an exercise style that effectively trains and works the "core" muscles of the body, to create a strong and stable back, align the shoulders and chest to correct muscle imbalances and to achieve good posture. Our Pilates classes focus on basic Pilates principles, breath work, awareness of body alignment, efficient and graceful body movement and functionality. All yoga students should also practice Pilates for the core strength in Yoga Asanas.

PILATES WITH PROPS

An energizing mat based Pilates class based on Joseph Pilates Method of mind and body movement, Pilates with Props provibdes a full body workout using various props to establish a deeper connection to core and a heightened awareness to alignment and form. Each class is unique and designed to challenge the body by rotating through a selection of props such as resistance bands, small flexible balls, "magic circle" and large stability balls. Open to all levels, this class offers specific modifications for new, intermediate and advanced students resulting in an invigorating and inspiring experience for all.

PILATES WITH A TWIST: PILATES YOGA FUSION

A blended 90 minute class offering core based Pilates exercises combined with flowing yoga stretches to create a powerful mind and body practice, Pilates and Yoga fusion decreases stress while increasing energy, improving flexibility and joint mobility, concentration and posture, and strengthening core muscles. This transformational class not only strengthens and stretches the body but enhances performance, thought, life and breath! Students gain strength through integration in this amazing fusion class brought by our very own Deborah.

POWER HOUR PILATES

Power Hour Pilates is a dynamic one hour conditioning class based on Joseph Pilates Method intended for the dedicated student interested in strengthening, toning and elongating the body. This class offers a profound experience for intermediate and advanced students desiring to improve thier athletic skills, recover from injury, restore imbalances or just improve overall fitness level. This empowering fitness based Pilates class focuses on the development of the core region and is adaptable to individual needs and level. Each session will remind students of Joseph Pilates motto: "Physical fitness is the first prerequisite of happiness!"

YOGA for Kids, Parents, and Parents-To-Be:

THE KIDS CONNECTION AT YOGA CONNECTION (preregistration only)

LITTLE YOGIS & YOGINIS - 5 to 10 year olds learn the basics of Yoga, Asanas, Breath Work, Visualization and Relaxation for concentration, focus and strength, wonderful self helptherapies for children's health and well being. Children’s Yoga has been shown to improve self-esteem, physical health, grade point average, concentration, imagination and helps to release energy in a fun, safe environment. Using interactive games and animated postures, kids learn about animals, nature, body awareness and basic anatomy through yoga. Kids classes are scheduled for 6 consecutive weeks, with one make up class allowed if needed.

MOMMY OR DADDY & ME - a 45 minute interactive yoga class for children and a parent - ages 3 - 8 - a great way to teach yoga to your little one and practice together

ALL OF OUR KIDS WITH SCOLIOSIS ARE ENCOURAGED TO WORK WITH WENDY!

THE WOMEN'S CONNECTION AT YOGA CONNECTION (preregistration only)

WOMEN'S HEALTH AND WELLNESS - Pre and Post Natal Yoga - Gentle yoga class for Moms-To-Be and Brand New Moms! These classes require preregistration with a 10 class minimum as this program will run fo 10 consecutive weeks at a time.

THE SACRED CIRCLE

This loving and nurturing program, exclusive to Yoga Connection, is specially designed by our very own Ailene Rogers and Dr. Mike Lukens, PHD. This new 3 month intensive workshop is for parents, teens, and young adults. As we all know, life has become increasingly stressful and sheltering our children from “adult” stresses is almost impossible. Even when we try to shield our children, other influences beyond our control get past our shield--be it television, their friends, or other well-meaning adults in your child’s life. These stress-inducing influences often “fly under the radar” taking their toll on our children in unimagined ways.
Many of our children turn to external stimuli in order to soothe the pain brought about by their anxiety and stress. Some turn to food, to alcohol, to shopping, others to promiscuity and drugs. In Sacred Circle, you will have the opportunity to go deep into the causes and solutions to these issues, in a supported atmosphere. In Sacred Circle, the work can be hard. Participants will experience, move through and move past their guilt and grief in order to open the pathway for healing, honesty and joy.
This Sacred workshop is led by Michael Lukens, Ph.D., a published author and a human emotions expert with over 25 years in the field, and Ailene Rogers, who has been working with Dr. Lukens for over 10 years.
Take your relationship with your child deeper than you had ever hoped. Heal yourself, heal your child.

CHECK OUR EVENTS PAGE FOR START DATES AND DETAILS.

YOGA CONNECTION'S MASSAGE PROGRAM:

THAI YOGA MASSAGE
"THE RIGHT STRETCH"

The Right Stretch is a unique form of bodywork that combines the opening and stretching elements of partner yoga and Thai massage with the relaxing and releasing healing benefits of sports massage and Japanese shiatsu. The Right Stretch is recommended for individuals seeking to improve their flexibility, release tight joints, soothe tired muscles,increase circulation and experience deep relaxation. Students are encouraged to experience this private one on one work and may schedule their private appointments, in advance, whenever classes are not in session.

MULTI-MODAL THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE

This dynamic full body treatment integrates elements of myofascial, Swedish, neuromuscular, reflexology, positional release, Trager and therapeutic stretching, and is excellent for relieving pain and stress. Clients may specify preference of invigorating, gentle, moderate or strong. Aromatherapy is also included with your choice of essential oils.

MULTI-MODAL DEEP TISSUE MASSAGE

This massage style offers strong pressure, deep and specific work on problem areas utilizing deep tissue, myofascial, neuromuscular, trigger point, Shiatsu, Reflexology and sport massage techniques. Aromatherapy is also included with your choice of essential oils.

TRADITIONAL USUI REIKI

This ancient traditional Japanese treatment is a profoundly comforting, supportive and non-invasive experience in energetic healing. It is safe and appropriate for all people of all ages and levels of health. It can be especially helpful for those dealing with chronic health conditions, depression, stress, loss and grief. There are no oils or lotions involved and the client remains dressed while relaxing on the massage table. The feeling of Reiki treatment is described as a warm, peaceful infusion of radiance, light.

THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE

Combination massage is a gentle, powerful relaxation and healing treatment for the body and spirit that integrates elements of the Multi-Modal Therapeutic Massage with Reiki. Aromatherapy is also included with your choice of essential oils.

COMMON YOGA TERMS:

* Asana: The postures or poses which make up the practice of Yoga.

* Chakras: "Wheels" of energy located on the spine, corresponding with the five main nerve ganglia of the spinal column and the upper and lower brain. Yoga works to align the Chakras for optimal physical and mental health.

* Prana: The body's vital energy expressed through five main types of breathing.

* Shavasana: A pose designed to bring the body and the mind into a completely relaxed state.

* Ujjayi breathing: A type of breathing that resonates in the back of the throat.

* Yoga: Literally, "union" or "communion," from the root "yuj" meaning to yoke or to harness.

WHAT IS YOGA?

A Physical Practice

Most commonly, Yoga is regarded as a physical regimen. By regular practice of Yoga exercises (called postures or "Asanas"), Yoga strengthens, stretches and aligns the body and increases flexibility. The Asanas also help relieve physical, mental, and emotional stress. Over the centuries, different styles of Yoga have evolved, but all have in common the same goal of "oneness."

A Mental Discipline

Yoga can also be considered a mental discipline. Practicing Asanas requires attention to detail which develops sharp observation skills. Sitting still and meditating teaches the ability to focus on a single point for long periods. Ultimately, Yoga is a process of un-learning old habits and patterns. One learns to harness the mind's potential rather than to be a slave to its wanderings and distractions.

An Emotional Journey

Yoga seeks to bring out the best in a person: the joy at the core of every being. Sometimes, though, there are other emotions in the way. It is not uncommon for people to feel angry when holding a posture or after a deep relaxation to feel tears of joy streaming down their face. Through Yoga, one learns to express their emotions more fully without the need to suppress them or get caught up in the drama of them.

A Spiritual Path

We can also say that Yoga is a spiritual endeavor. While aspects of Yoga philosophy have been incorporated into various eastern religions, Yoga itself is not a religion. Yoga is a systematized method of exploring the question: "Who am I?" In the course of such an exploration, it is not uncommon to develop an expanded awareness of the world around you and an appreciation of who you really are and what holds you and the world around you together. A belief in God or a Supreme Being is neither a prerequisite nor a hindrance to taking up a Yoga practice.

DIRECTIONS TO STUDIO

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