IN-STUDIO: Restorative Yoga
see all reviewsRooted mountain pose Grounding through each fingertip Earth holds, steady, strong Waves of breath flowing Like tides washing through the soul Peace in ebb and flow Arms spread like bird's wings Endless blue expands above Spirit soars, released
Breathing Room is a nourishing space of growth and support for individual and collective…Flow w/ Greg
see all reviewsWalker subbed for Greg during this session. They clearly walked through the poses, explaining proper form and walking the class through a challenging flow. I felt very welcome as a first timer and will be going back for more classes in the future!
Ascent New Haven is an indoor climbing (bouldering), fitness and yoga community in…Restorative Yoga
see all reviewsIn the heart of East Rock, New Haven, a town known for its academic prowess, East Rock Shala emerges as a beacon of mindfulness and physical well-being. This studio, with its recent addition to the ClassPass fitness app, represents a growing trend in accessible wellness practices that we believe merits attention. The Wednesday evening restorative class at East Rock Shala exemplifies the kind of thoughtful, health-focused programming that our increasingly stressed society desperately needs. In an era where the constant barrage of digital stimuli and professional demands takes a toll on our collective mental health, spaces like East Rock Shala offer a vital counterbalance. The studio's approach is noteworthy. By eschewing mirrors and encouraging closed-eye practice, it fosters an environment of introspection rather than comparison. This philosophy aligns with growing concerns about body image and self-esteem in our image-obsessed culture. The provision of loaner props further democratizes the practice, making it accessible to practitioners of all levels and a broader range of economic backgrounds. The class itself, a blend of pranayama, yin (more yin than pure restorative) yoga, and supported asanas, represents a holistic approach to wellness. By emphasizing slow, deep breathing and extended pose holds, it addresses not just physical flexibility but also mental resilience. In a time when the American Psychological Association reports rising stress levels across the nation, such practices could play a crucial role in public health strategies. However, while we applaud East Rock Shala's efforts, it's important to recognize that such wellness practices remain out of reach for many Americans. The inclusion in ClassPass is a step towards accessibility, but more must be done to ensure that the benefits of mindfulness and yoga are available to all segments of society, not just those with disposable income and flexible schedules. As we navigate the complexities of modern life, spaces like East Rock Shala remind us of the importance of pause and reflection. They offer a model for how we might reimagine our approach to health and well-being on a broader scale. It is our hope that policymakers and community leaders take note of such initiatives and work towards integrating similar practices into our schools, workplaces, and public spaces. In the end, the success of studios like East Rock Shala points to a larger truth: in our relentless pursuit of progress, we must not forget the simple yet profound act of breathing, moving, and being present. It is in these moments of stillness that we often find our path forward. To underscore the importance of yoga, we offer this reflection: In the quiet of East Rock's hallowed space, Where breath and movement intertwine with grace, The mind finds solace, the body finds ease, As tension melts and worries cease. With each inhale, new strength we gain, Each exhale releases remnants of pain. In stillness we discover our core, And in motion, we learn to soar. Flexibility grows, not just in limb, But in spirit, as ego's light grows dim. Balance found on mat extends to life, A steady anchor in a world of strife. So let us praise this ancient art, That heals the body, mind, and heart. In East Rock Shala's nurturing embrace, We find our center, our strength, our place.
we teach Mysore-style ashtanga yoga, vinyasa, restorative and yin yoga, and meditation…