OUR CLASSES
Less sweat, more mindfulness. Instead of fancy poses and speed, we favour a slower pace and attention to detail. Our focus is on good breathing habits, appropriate alignment, and accessibility for everyday people.
KUNDALINI YOGA
The moves and poses of Kundalini Yoga are largely different to those of Hatha-based yoga (what you commonly see on social media). Rhythm is the key - be it in form of repetitive movements, breath patterns, rhythmic recitation of mantras, affirmations, or sound - as Kundalini Yoga aims to synchronize the body's natural rhythms in order to restore its innate healing capacities. Furthermore, the multi-faceted nature of the exercises is an excellent training for the brain (think neuroplasticity!), which balances the entire nervous system and increases awareness on multiple levels.
Therefore, Kundalini Yoga is often called "The Yoga of Awareness".
All classes are beginner friendly as each student can move at their own pace and level of intensity.
Intensity: gentle – strong (depending on how far you would like to take it)
Level: all; experienced students are invited to increase pace or try more challenging variations where suitable
Hatha Yoga is an umbrella term for the postural yoga which you commonly see these days. Today, there are many branches that differ enormously in pace and intensity. Our approach is rooted in the traditional lineage of Sivananda Yoga, which favours a slower pace with a strong focus on breath and body/mind awareness throughout.
In addition to the traditional teachings, we often use gentle rhythmic movements or repetition before holding a pose as this helps to release tension, increases circulation, and assists your body to approach the final shape with greater ease. Props may be used to make poses more accessible, or to bring the focus to a specific area of the body.
Our Hatha Yoga classes come in four different ways, taking into account the time of the day, and offering an opportunity to complement your existing routines.
HATHA YOGA - Release & Unwind
This slow-paced and largely floor-based class is ideal to wind down after a stressful/exhausting day. The focus is on releasing tension from the body through more gentle practices. These can include gentle rocking moves, the use of props to support the body, occasional self-massage, or staying longer in a (supported) position to explore subtle movements or sensations within the body.
Intensity: gentle - moderate
Level: all
TIP: Very active people may find the slow pace quite challenging! In this case, you best attend a “Reset & Balance” or "Philosophy & Practice" class first (see below).
Should you feel uncomfortable on the ground, Kundalini Yoga might be a better choice as most moves can be practised while sitting on a chair. Those with back problems may also have a look at our "Yoga for Sensitive Backs".
HATHA YOGA - Reset & Balance
A complete practice including breath work, movement, and relaxation. The session offers both energising/toning as well as calming/releasing exercises that help to bring balance to the physical body, its subtle systems, and the mind. The aim is to "reset" body & mind - bringing them back into a balanced, neutral state.
We typically work through the whole body, often playing with the opposites such as left/right, front/back, movement/stillness. We may also consider imbalances that are related to the time of the day or the seasons.
Intensity: moderate
Level: all
HATHA YOGA - Strength & Focus
Similar to "Reset & Balance", but this class includes more standing poses and stronger, more advanced variations of the regular moves. Longer holds add to the challenge and can turn even a "simple" pose into an unexpectedly intense experience. Staying focused is the key!
Intensity: moderate - strong
Level: intermediate
TIP: We recommend that you already have some yoga experience and a general understanding of postural alignment before attending this class.
HATHA YOGA - Rise & Shine
Our early morning classes are designed set you up for the whole day: Starting with body awareness & breath work, we then move through several rounds of the Sun Salutation (including variations of the traditional flow), followed by a selection of energising and uplifting moves/poses. The session concludes with a shorter relaxation and a few minutes of stillness that allow you to set your intentions for the day.
Intensity: moderate - strong
Level: all
TIP: If you are new to yoga and have no regular exercise routine, we recommend attending a couple of slower classes before signing up to this one as you may find the Sun Salutations quite challenging, especially if you have knee or back issues. In that case you may try our "Yoga for Sensitive Backs".
PHILOSOPHY & PRACTICE (Hatha/Kundalini)
WHY do we do what we do, and HOW does it work? These classes are a great opportunity to get a better understanding of the different elements of traditional Hatha or Kundalini Yoga and their effects on health & wellbeing.
Each session focuses on a certain aspect of the practice. We will look at both traditional philosophy and modern-day science and discuss how these concepts can relate to our everyday lives. The conversation is followed by a complete practice, including breathwork, movement, and relaxation, in which we continue to explore the topic of the day.
We offer two classes per week, one for each style.
Intensity: moderate
Level: all
BEACH YOGA (Hatha/Kundalini)
An invigorating morning practice with a view: In the summer months (October - March), the early morning classes become "Beach Yoga" as we practise outdoors on Altona Beach. Be surprised how different the same practice feels on uneven ground and being exposed to the elements! Watching the sunrise alone is an incredible experience, but in combination with yoga it’s just unbeatable!
In case of rain or strong winds and in the winter months we move indoors so that you can maintain a consistent practice.
PRENATAL YOGA
Our Prenatal yoga classes are designed to meet the needs and challenges of mums-to-be in all stages of pregnancy and include both Hatha and Kundalini Yoga.
While Hatha yoga has a focus on good posture and healthy movement habits, Kundalini Yoga is particularly helpful for stress relief, focus and a positive mindset. We address common issues such as SPD (Symphysis Pubis Disorder) or back pain, and practise various moves and breathing techniques that can be helpful during labour.
Intensity: gentle – moderate
Level: all; no previous yoga experience required
ENQUIRIES: 0411 169 072 | info@inner-smileyoga.com | @InnerSmileYoga