A practice that combines Mantra, Pranayama, Asana and Dhyana*. Hatha translates to “force”. The intention is to balance the opposing lunar and solar forces within the body. We hold the poses longer & focus on their alignment which can be physically and mentally challenging. Building resilience and connection through structure. This class doesn’t use music. Beginner-friendly as there is more time & explanation.

*Definitions of sanskrit terms:

• Mantra = repeating/chanting short sentences in Sanskrit to focus the mind and create vibration.

• Pranayama = vital life force expansion with (in this class) gentle breathing techniques.

• Asana = the different shapes we guide the body into. Asana directly translates to “stable & comfortable pose” - which is the desired outcome… at some point :D

• Dhyana = uninterrupted flow of attention where the mind dwells on an object or self without judgment, also known as meditation.
  

Vinyasa translated means “to place in a sacred/special way". We’re linking movement with breath and are moving through a sequence of Asanas (poses) in a fluid way. Chiara normally keeps a sequence for one month and develops it further to deepen the practice. Previous experience of Asana alignment is recommended as there is less explanation in this class. Vinyasa is a more modern way of practicing yoga that focuses on the physical aspect. Music is used to support this dynamic class.

Your gentle reminder to return from human doing to human being. We use movement, breath & focus to soften into the layers and wires of ourself. A mellow sequence of asana is supported by pressure-point massage with cork balls/blocks, calming breathing exercises, and relaxing meditation techniques. Chiara changes the topic for her Gentle Flows weekly. She’s often inspired by Hindu mythology, yoga philosophy or the five elements of traditional Chinese Medicine. Very beginner friendly and a good class to try first at The Village.

Our most soothing combination. A yoga practice in which we hold the poses 3-6 minutes while being supported by many props like soft mats, bolsters, blocks, pillows & blankets. Sounds from crystal & metal bowls, rain stick, seed curtain, wind chime & co will be played once we're settled in each pose. No recorded music or digital connection is active during this class. Coming into the yin side of things which, in Chinese Medicine, is said to represent (among other things) the night, darkness, nurturing energy & calmness. Suitable for everybody.

The only yoga class on our schedule that is “not really yoga”. And yet body, breath & mind feel more connected after this somatic practice. Expect a mix of high intensity cardio, body weight training, pilates, and a dance party how you would normally celebrate it in your kitchen. Always with the invitation to make it yours. Slow or fast, soft or strong, sweaty or gentle. Shake your dust & practice noticing what you need. Come as you are and find a way of moving that builds resilience. Suitable for everybody.

First we shake our dust and then we soften into some grounding poses to land in a soothing Sound Bath. Read the description of Shake the Dust for the shake part. A Sound Bath is a deeply-immersive, full-body listening experience that intentionally uses sound from crystal bowls & co to nurture your mind and body. Lay down, listen & soften. Suitable for everybody.