Yoga Class Descriptions & How to Prepare

Shanti is the Sanskrit word for peace and Yoga is the practice or set of practices for Self-Realization.  Therefore, Shanti Yoga can be interpreted as the search for peace through Self-Realization.

  

 

 

What To Wear, What To Bring
Wear loose, modest, airy, comfortable clothes, ideally in layers. Come early enough to change your clothes and be on time for class.  Your last full meal should have been no less than 3 hours before class; snacks may be taken. Mats, cushions, chairs and blankets are available.

Hatha Yoga Open Classes

  • Multi-level classes in a peaceful, nurturing environment

  • Non-competitive, supportive atmosphere that welcomes every “body”

  • Small classes with personal attention

  • Special poses for menstruation and pregnancy

  • Learn about what the asanas do for your body and mind during practice

  • All classes include stress release, Surya Namaskar (Sun Salute), Relaxation and Dharana (concentration)

  • Traditional, regular yoga practice improves balance, coordination, strength, flexibility, and glandular /metabolic function.

  • It also facilitates detoxification, and helps one experience greater calmness, clarity, and groundedness, allowing us to go beyond the mind to connect with the Higher Self or divine within.

    See Class Schedule for descriptions of current offerings.

Private Yoga classes

This is a great option if you are new to yoga, have special needs, or just prefer a more customized approach to asana practice. Classes may be held here in the Ashram or in your home. Please inquire: shantiyoga.sol@gmail.com or call: 301 654 4899. Fees are $40/hour.

Foundation of Yoga: Practice & Principles

This is the recommended entry course for everyone new to the Ashram, even those who have been practicing yoga for many years. This 6 week class incrementally teaches a complete Hatha Yoga routine in the style of Swami Sivananda, including a variety of pranayams (yogic breathing).

The free introductory lecture by the Ashram’s Guru, Victor (Vyasa) Landa, provides an overview of the 8 limbs of Raja Yoga.

The remaining sessions are each dedicated to one of the 5 principles of Hatha Yoga: Proper Breathing, Diet, Exercise, Relaxation, and Positive Thinking/Meditation.

In-class material includes film and audio recordings of Vyasa, and in-person instruction by Durga. Tuition is $150 and includes a text book and a CD or digital file of the asanas routine for home practice.

FOY is the pre-requisite for Shanti Marga, “The Path to Peace.”

Shanti Marga (The Road to Peace): Applied Yoga Philosophy

In this 10-level course we study the vast science of Raja Yoga. Theory is provided to give the necessary preparation for practice as learning is fundamentally experiential. Levels progress from Beginner to Advanced. Please click here for a more detailed overview and description of each level.