class descriptions

yoga basics 1: Breathing

An introduction to the correct way to breathe during the yoga class. This class is intended to provide an awareness and experience of the various phases of breathing, and to explain the most important breathing exercises (Pranayama). A particular focal point is learning Ujaii breathing correctly. This form of breathing guides and surrounds the yoga positions and, through regular practice, leads to increased vitality and improved oxygen intake for the body. It will be pointed out that the most important places to be aware of are Nadi Sodhana stomach area breathing when in lying positions, and breathing when sitting and standing in order to integrate the so-called 'Bandhas'. This will be taught across simple 'Vinyasa' sequences, in which the basic idea of connecting movement and breath will be practised. From here, in this first section of the series, several fundamental aspects of yoga will be taught, such as where yoga originates, what 'Namaste' and 'Om' stand for and several of the most important basic philosophical principles of yoga.

yoga basics 2: Sun Salutation

The different variations of the Sun Salutations will discussed and initially taken apart to analyse the various movements individually. The sun salutation is a warm-up exercise for the whole body, which at the same time activates circulation and breathing.

Even through the sequence of the sun salutation alone, we can observe several essential positions in yoga. We will focus in particular on creating the correct relationship between muscular tension and a flowing sequence, in order to ensure an optimal practice with low impact on the joints. Several key positions will be taught, such as Downward Facing Dog, looking at the feet positioning in the Warrior poses, and Cobra in comparison to Upwards Facing Dog; always whilst paying attention to the correct use of the breath.

Introduction to Yoga Sun Salutations.

yoga basics 3: Standing poses and twists

This class focuses on the most important aspects of the standing positions, in which a further basic principle of Yoga Stira/Sukha Asanam (strength versus ease) will be taught. Several typical positions which will be taught here are the Warrior poses and their variations, the Outstretched Right Angle, Triangle, Half Moon, Pyramid and the Standing Splits, amongst others.
Aside from that, the various twisting positions will be covered: sitting, standing and lying. In the twist positions it is vital to first achieve a solid basis, as the body can only truly recognise the effects after a long practice and if the position is led from the base upwards

yoga basics 4: backbends

The back bends are a further focus in yoga and signify expansion; the opening up of the whole being and heart in a strive for what is good, true and beautiful. Some of the most important back bends in yoga are the Cobra, Locust, Bow, Bridge (also using a block for support), the Camel (as well as with variations from beginner to advanced), and the Fish.

yoga basics 5: Forward bends and hip openers

The forward bends, which, on a physical level focus on stretching the back of the body, and also on a spiritual level work to develop a feeling of devotion and humility, will be in focus in order to be enable a practice that is safe and kind to the back, e.g. by flexing the foot and using proper breathing to gain greater length through the back. Typical positions here are standing forward bends (Uttanasana) and sitting forward bends (e.g. Janu Shirshasana, Pashimottanasana, Upavista Konasana and Badha Konsasa). The increased flexibility and elasticity as well as emotional opening, which are generated through forward bends are supported and further developed by the so-called 'Hip Openers' - these exercises often go even deeper and reach layers of the body and mind, which are often difficult to access.

yoga basics 6: inverted poses

The final part of the Yoga Basics Series focuses on the reverse positions, e.g. Shoulder Stand, Head Stand, Hand Stand and a range of variations of the under arm positions. In order that the body remains stable in these Asanas, the strengthening of the centre is of great importance. For this reason, stomach exercise is also an element of this course.
On a spiritual level, twist movements generate courage and trust. Both of these must, first of all, be developed from a strong core.

yoga level 1

For beginners and all those who want to learn and deepen their knowledge of Yoga basics. Fundamental positions and breathing techniques are taught step by step and special attention is paid to the needs of the individual.

yoga level 1 / back focus

For beginners and all those who want to learn and deepen their knowledge of Yoga basics with a strong focus on strengthening the back.

Fundamental positions and breathing techniques are taught step by step and special attention is paid to the needs of the individual.

yoga level 1-2

For beginner and advanced students.

yoga level 2

For Yogis with at least 6 months of practice in Hatha Yoga. The sophisticated positions in this advanced class combine gracefully with one another. One is challenged to also hold the asanas for longer lengths of time, in order to deepen one’s strength, balance, and stretch – come celebrate the sweat!

yoga level 3

Suitable for everyone who has been practicing yoga regularly for at least six months. In this challenging class, various, often advanced, yoga poses flow into each other gracefully. At times, long fixations interperse the deep and fulfilling feeling of flow, that this class generates. Intense and sweaty!

moonlight yoga

Mixed Level. Designed to provide calm and relaxation, and to prepare you for a wonderful night's sleep. Soft, regenerative Yoga postures and special breathing techniques nourish body and soul. The class includes a longer meditation.

new teachers

These classes are taught by graduates of Spirit Yoga's first annual teacher training course. After their intensive training and countless apprentice hours, we invite you to take advantage of the energy, freshness and expertise that these new instructors bring to each class. Fees: 8,--€

postnatal yoga

This revitalizing Yoga class promotes the physical and mental well-being of new moms after the birth of their baby. Specific Yoga positions help to rebuild muscle tone, stability and physical strength. The class offers new moms a soft transition back into the "real" world. You're welcome to bring your new baby and give him or her a chance to experience the movements with you and also to make his/her first contact with other babies. Postnatal Yoga may begin as early as 6-8 weeks after birth.

Further information and offers for young moms and parents.

power lunch

Mixed Level - For beginners and advanced students. This class is the healthiest way to spend your lunch break - it's relaxing, strengthening and revitalizing all at once. Includes concentrated breathing techniques, special Yoga positions for the neck, shoulders and back, stomach exercises and inverted positions.

prenatal yoga

Pregnancy is a time of great change. This class allows expectant mothers to pay special attention to the needs of their bodies and their growing babies. Soon-to-be-moms learn to prepare themselves naturally and consciously for the upcoming birth and to minimize the various aches and pains that go along with pregnancy. Special Yoga positions and breathing techniques designed specifically for pregnant women supply strength, stamina, calm and harmony.

Further information and offers during maternity.

soft yoga

sunrise yoga

Mixed level - For beginners and advanced students alike. This class will revitalize you, center you, strengthen you and freshen you up. It's the perfect start for a busy day. Start times vary day to day to match your schedule.

sunset level 1-2

For beginner and advanced students. The 60 minute praxis will revitalize and relax your body and mind.

team teaching

Practice makes Perfect: An important part of Spirt Yoga's Teacher Training Program includes the opportunity to practice teaching. Four Teacher Trainees share the time together, in order to share what they know. Participants get a good deal of personal attention and adjustments. Only during teacher training period. Please check next dates at Spirit black board. Price: 4€

pilates level 1

For new students / beginner.
Pilates is a physical fitness system developed in the early 20th century by Joseph Pilates in Germany. Pilates called his method Contrology, because he believed his method uses the mind to control the muscles. The program focuses on the core postural muscles which help keep the body balanced and which are essential to providing support for the spine. In particular, Pilates exercises teach awareness of breath and alignment of the spine, and aim to strengthen the deep torso muscles.

pilates level 1-2

Mixed level. For new and more advanced students.
Pilates is a physical fitness system developed in the early 20th century by Joseph Pilates in Germany. Pilates called his method Contrology, because he believed his method uses the mind to control the muscles. The program focuses on the core postural muscles which help keep the body balanced and which are essential to providing support for the spine. In particular, Pilates exercises teach awareness of breath and alignment of the spine, and aim to strengthen the deep torso muscles.

pilates level 2

Only for students with longer Pilates experience.
Pilates is a physical fitness system developed in the early 20th century by Joseph Pilates in Germany. Pilates called his method Contrology, because he believed his method uses the mind to control the muscles. The program focuses on the core postural muscles which help keep the body balanced and which are essential to providing support for the spine. In particular, Pilates exercises teach awareness of breath and alignment of the spine, and aim to strengthen the deep torso muscles.

kindergarden - child care

We take care of your kid during your yoga- / pilates class or when you would like to visit the spirit spa.

meditation

Spirit Yoga offers a guided meditation in cooperation with our partner Integrales Forum every Wednesday at 8 p.m. 

Integrale Spiritualität

NEU: Studiengruppe Integrale Spiritualität (im 4.Stock, Skyroom)Eine Kooperation von Spirit Yoga und dem Forum für integrale Theorie und Praxis Berlin

mittwochs, ab. 30.September 2009, 18 - 19.30h

Zwei Schwerpunkte werden in dieser neuen Studiengruppe verfolgt. Zum einen ist dieses neue Angebot ein Übungsweg, bei dem die TeilnehmerInnen selbst ausführlich Gelegenheit haben, viele Facetten der Integralen Spiritualität unter sachkundiger Anleitung selbst zu praktizieren. Zum anderen ist dieses Angebot auch eine Art Studium, bei dem fundiert theoretische Kenntnisse der Integralen Spiritualität vermittelt werden.

Einerseits geht es darum die praktischen Basismodule der Integralen Spiritualität kennenzulernen und einzuüben. Eng verbunden mit dem persönlichen Übungsweg, geht es andererseits darum, eigene Beobachtungen und Erfahrungen aus dem Alltag in den integralen Zusammenhang zu stellen und sie zu erörtern. Zu Beginn werden wir uns mit dem Buch
Integrale Spiritualität von Ken Wilber beschäftigen.

Für eine Teilnahme bedarf es keiner Voraussetzung. Ein Einstieg ist jederzeit möglich. Empfehlen möchten wir eine regelmässige Teilnahme, da die Übungen stark
von Wiederholungen leben und die Qualität der Diskussionen gespeist ist von einer kontinurlichen Teilnahme. Die fortlaufende Studiengruppe kann auch eine wunderbare Ergänzung zu dem Studium Integrale Spiritualität sein, dass wir ab Mai 2010 anbieten
(Ausführliche Informationen dazu siehe www.integralesforum-berlin.de).

Kursverlauf:
18.00 bis 18.45 Übungen, praktische Beispiele aus den integralen Basismodulen
18.45 bis 19.30 Austausch, Diskusssion anhand praktischer Fragen und dem Studium der Literatur

Teilnahmegebühr: 10 Euro (bitte bar vor Ort bezahlen)

Kursort: Rosenhöfe, Aufgang G, 4. Stock (Skyroom)

Kursleitung: Matthias Ruff
Bildender Künstler, Kunst- und Theoriestudium an der Universität der Künste Berlin. Yogalehrer, BDY (Ausbildung bei Imogen Dalmann und Martin Soder, Berliner Yoga Zentrum), Zen-Praxis bei Willigis Jäger (Ko-un-Roshi). Leitung des Forums für Integrale Theorie
und Praxis Berlin in den Rosenhöfen in Berlin-Mitte

Bei Interesse, besteht mittwochs nach der Studiengruppe die Möglichkeit ab 20Uhr an der Meditationsklasse teilzunehmen.
Kursverlauf:
20.00 - 20.20 Körper- und Atemübungen aus dem Yoga
20.20 - 20.45 Meditation
20.45 - 20.50 Pause/Gehen/Yoga
20.50 - 21.15 Meditation

Teilnahmegebühr: 10 Euro

inversions

INVERSIONS - Every 1st and 3rd Saturday per Month
This class focuses mainly on handstands and other inversions, it gives the student time to practice various methods to come to handstands and for more advanced students variations. Olof will present you with various "drills" and methods that will with practice help you become a stable "handstander". Your work will be with partners and alone. You need to bring a willingness to practice these inversions; looking around at what other people are doing without trying it yourself is not allowed in this class. Olof has helped many people in their first (sometimes brief) balanced handstand. HIs method is simple and based on many years of experience. Additionally, fun is key, so whether it is hand-, elbow-, head-, or shoulder-stand, come along and play while learning to balance upside down.