Welcome to SHIZEN!

These classes will start from this september!

Please refer to the following guide when you choose classes.

• Students new to yoga or new to yoga at SHIZEN →　Yoga Basics or Basic 1
• For those who wishing to practice gently in a supportive environment →　Gentle Yoga
• Focusing on deeply relaxing and rejuvenating the body and mind→Restorative Yoga
• Pre and Postnatal Yoga → Prenatal Yoga, Yoga Moms or Hai Hai Yoga
• For those wishing Meditation and Philosophy → Meditation or Series Class(Needed booking)
• For those developing your practice →　Basic2, Intermediate or Advance

Yoga Basics

For those students new to yoga or new to yoga at SHIZEN (This class is offered only in Japanese.)

This class is for those new to yoga. It is a concise introduction to basic details not necessarily covered in regular ongoing classes. What is yoga, how do we breathe during poses, what are the props for and how do we use them. The first fundamentals of standing, and sitting poses are also introduced.

Basic 1

Recommended for those new to yoga , unfamiliar with  props or the alignment approach of SHIZEN Yoga, or for students who would like to establish a clearer understanding and foundation of the basics.

A class to become familiar with your body, your breath, the basic structure of poses and correct use of props.  This class will begin to develop stability, flexibility and balance, utilizing alignment principles through the practice of a variety of fundamental postures including preparation for and introduction of shoulder stand.

Basic 2

Recommended for continuing students from Basic 1, experienced yoga students unfamiliar with the correct use of props or the alignment approach of SHIZEN Yoga, or who would like to continue to review or continue to establish an understanding of the basics.

A class to build upon the primary understanding of Basic 1 and to increase core strength, flexibility and balance, through the practice of  more challenging fundamental postures. Shoulder stand is a regular part of the practice in addition to preparation for and introduction to headstand and backbend. The fundamentals and introductory exercises of breathing will be introduced.

All Levels

A general overall yoga class with posture adaption’s and level options for attending students.
All levels accepted--students new to yoga are encouraged to attend Basic 1 prior or in addition to this class.

Intermediate

Recommended for continuing students from Basic 2 or students who are familiar with props and principals of alignment established in Basic 1 and 2.

Intermediate classes apply the principals of alignment from Basics 1 and 2 towards more challenging poses that require increased strength, flexibility and balance. This class includes back bend, headstand and shoulder stand practice in addition to the development of shoulder stand variations, and hip openings for lotus.

Advance

Recommended for continuing intermediate students and experienced teachers with a well-established yoga practice utilizing the alignment principals.

Emphasizing knowledge and execution of alignment in more challenging poses with increased duration of time in fundamental poses. Introducing forearm balances, back bends, lotus and inversion variations that continue to develop and maintain core strength and flexibility in mind, body and spirit.

Gentle Yoga

Gentle Yoga is recommended for those who are concerned that regular classes may be too rigorous, or for students who prefer a gentler pace. In Gentle Yoga, both standing and sitting poses will be practiced without strain, facilitating the flow of energy and allowing for confidence to build naturally.

Nao’s classes emphasize the importance of breath, and all movements are coordinated with the breath. Sachiko’s class begins with an all-around, active practice, while the second half is spent in relaxation.

Restorative Yoga

Restorative yoga focuses on deeply relaxing and rejuvenating the body and mind. This class involves a longer holding of poses, which are usually deeply supported by bolsters, blankets, blocks or other props. It allows the body to be in a comfortable and restful position. By staying for several minutes at a time in gentle forward bends, back bends, twists, inversions (as simple as putting the legs on a bolster), the parasympathetic nervous system is stimulated and it helps balance the body and mind. Restorative yoga helps relieve stress, release tension and recover from injury or illness. Ideal for every one.

Prenatal Yoga

This class helps mothers-to-be develop strength, flexibility, and focus to prepare for birth. Through the practice of asana (poses) and breathing, we nurture the body’s needs and attend to its changes throughout pregnancy. A yoga practice to increase awareness and create trust in the body’s ancient wisdom to engage in the power of labor.

You may begin Maternity Yoga classes after the 14th week of your  pregnancy, and may practice as long as you feel well.  Some students  come to class on their due date!  No prior yoga experience  necessary.

Yogamoms (Postnatal Yoga)

Bring your baby to class, do yoga, and meet other new moms! Babies from 1-9 months are welcome in this class, which addresses the needs of new moms. Focusing on strength, balance, and relaxation, this class includes easy poses which can also be practiced at home. Nursing, diaper-changing, and rocking the baby also become part of mom’s yoga practice.

Hai Hai Yoga(Postnatal Yoga)

Bring your baby to class, do yoga, and meet other new moms! Babies from starting crawling are welcome in this class, which continues to address the needs of new moms. Focusing on strength, balance, and relaxation, this class includes easy poses which can also be practiced at home. Nursing, diaper-changing, and rocking the baby also become part of mom’s yoga practice. Any level of yoga experience welcome.

Meditation (Intro)

A complementary practice for yoga students of all levels, meditation is known in Tibet as Inner Yoga.  This class will introduce a range of practical meditation methods for experiencing deep relaxation, bliss and clarity of mind. Focusing on practical application in daily life, sessions will include guided meditations that can also be practised at home. Suitable for anyone who sincerely wishes to realize greater joy and personal freedom in every situation that life brings.