Yoga Workshops

Spring 2012 Yoga Workshops

Yoga Workshop Information

Workshops are complimentary for facility members who have group exercise class access.

Facility members who have not purchased group exercise class access may attend by paying the $10.00 drop-in fee at the front desk of Hemenway Gymnasium.

There is a $15.00 fee for Harvard Affiliates without membership.

Affiliates must present a valid HUID at the front desk in order to participate.

Twenty-five class passes will be available 30 minutes prior to the start time of class on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Please bring a Yoga mat, water and wear loose, comfortable clothing. Props will be supplied unless otherwise noted. Workshop offerings are subject to change. All workshops will take place in the Multi-purpose Room at Hemenway Gymnasium.

For questions, please contact Assistant Fitness Program Manager Kerry L. Smith at ptrainer@fas.harvard.edu or call 617.495.2608.

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Yoga for Absolute Beginners: Do you want to try yoga, but are unsure of where to start? Come to this workshop and learn what it’s all about. This workshop will cover the different approaches to and characteristics of classes in the different styles of this ages-old tradition. In addition to discovering a sampling of Yoga poses, this workshop will include explanations of some of the basic terminology, concepts, and practices that make up the foundation of Yoga (but which often go unexplained). Explore yoga at a pace that is appropriate for true beginners—with plenty of time for Q&A!  Teacher: Ray Iasiello      Saturday, January 21^st, 2012 from 12:00-1:25PM

Adventures in Meditation: Are you curious about what Meditation is all about?  Do you want to discover it for yourself and give it a try? This workshop will provide the answers to these questions…and more! Research has shown that meditation can contribute to an individual's psychological and physiological well-being. We will study the history of meditation and then practice a variety of meditation practices from breath contemplation to mantra meditation. This workshop will explore the different varieties of meditation and you will discover the style that is right for you through various exercises and discussions. No prior experience with meditation is needed. Dress in warm, comfortable clothing.  Teacher: Larisa Fernandez     Saturday, January 28^th, 2012 from 12:00-1:25PM  

Yoga for the Office: Are your shoulders and neck tight from sitting and staring at your computer all day? Cubicle-dwellers and 9-to-5ers will discover yoga poses that can help loosen tight upper body muscles and rejuvenate you from head to toe during the work day. Learn simple yoga poses and breathing techniques that you can do at your desk, while standing at the water cooler or even while working the fax or copier machines. You will leave this workshop ready to turn your office or cubicle into a place where you can relax and recharge yourself for a productive workday!  Teacher: Kerry L. Smith    Saturday, February 11^th, 2012 from 12:00-1:25PM 

Yin Yoga: Yin Yoga targets the deep connective tissues of the body - the tendons, ligaments and cartilage. The practice emphasizes deep release with long holds, which promotes circulation of energy through the meridians (energy channels) of the body. A Yin practice can lubricate joint spaces and increase flexibility, especially in the hips, pelvis and lower spine, which makes for great cross-training for a more active yoga practice or other physical activities. Additionally, Yin yoga is excellent preparation for seated meditation, both physically and mentally. In this workshop, we'll learn some background and principles of Yin Yoga, by bringing awareness to slowing down, going deep, and connecting to our inner voice of guidance: sensation.   Teacher: Julianne Corey  Saturday, February 18^th, 2012 from 12:00-1:25PM

Intro to Arm Balances: Are you interested in advancing or refining your practice with arm balances but aren't sure how to approach the next stage? This workshop will focus on a variety of arm balances and how to work up to the point of lift off. This is an opportunity to get off your feet and onto your hands for some fun and exciting playtime. An opportunity to push your limits and discover that the assumed impossible is absolutely possible when given the right tools to work with. Poses will include Crow, Side Crow, Eka Pada Koundinyasana, and Eka Pada Galavanasana/Flying Pigeon Pose. The workshop will allow some time for questions and/or any other arm balance poses you may be curious about. All levels welcome; basic yoga knowledge a plus.   Teacher: Lotsie Cash      Saturday, March 3^rd, 2012 from 12:00-1:25PM  

Yoga for Runners: Come stretch, strengthen and learn to maximize your breathing in this fun workshop! Whether you're a weekend warrior or training for your millionth marathon, yoga is a great tool to boost your running as well as prevent and relieve injuries. This 90-minute vinyasa flow will target hips, hamstrings and core strength and will introduce steady breathing techniques. Equal parts exercise and rest, you'll leave this workshop with some great pre- and post- run stretches and a better understanding of your body and breath to support a lifetime of healthy running. All levels welcome!  Teacher: Abby Thompson             Saturday, March 24^th, 2012 from 12:00-1:25PM  

Headstand & Shoulderstand: Headstand (regulation of sleep cycles) and Shoulderstand (think: metabolism) are the king and queen of asana. Learn how to prepare for these poses to minimize and eliminate neck and shoulder discomfort and to prevent injury. We will explore how to train your body and mind to practice these beneficial poses safely and without fear. Refine and enhance your understanding and performance of them, or if you are new to them, learn how to create a safe and certain foundation for future practice. Headstand isn’t recommended for anyone who has had a stroke, head or brain injury, has glaucoma, or hypertension.   Teacher: Ray Iasiello      Saturday, April 7^th, 2012 from 12:00-1:25PM