Yoga Class Types

Yoga Class Types

We offer so many different types of classes at SAVY suitable for all age groups and yogis at all levels of expertise. There is only ONE Yoga, though there can be different styles according to personal likes and dislikes, experiences, preferences etc. The practice at Yoga Classes of any style of Yoga such as SAVY Yoga, Hatha Yoga, Ashtanga Yoga, Power Yoga, Bikram Yoga Sivanand Yoga or Iyenger style of yoga mainly includes the same basic components of yoga which are asanas (postures), pranayama (breathing exercises), yoga nidra (relaxing techniques), mudras (physical and mental gestures) , bandhas (locking actions) and shatkarmas (cleansing acts of yoga) etc. However, the difference in the different forms of yoga lies in the sequencing, duration for which each posture is held, speed at which postures are performed, intention for the sequence, inclusion or exclusion of pranayama, marma, bandhas or mudras etc.

As every person is different from the other in regard to his/her physical strength, tolerance, flexibility, stamina, level of awareness etc. the different Yoga Classes for yoga styles termed with different names have been structured so as to meet the needs of each and every person regardless of his/her state of health or age. At our studios we make sure that full justice is done to the practice of yoga strictly adhering to the principles and guidelines laid down in the ancient yogic scriptures. So, whatever class you decide to join with us, rest assured, you’ll be doing yoga at all times! 

Various components/ elements of each London Yoga Class at SAVY are as follows:

  1. Y – Yamas
  2. N – Niyamas
  3. A – Asanas or Yoga Postures
  4. P – Pranayama or Breathwork
  5. V – Visualisation
  6. M – Meditation
  7. C – Chanting, Mantra
  8. K – Kriyas
  9. CA – Chakra Awakening
  10. LY – Laughter Yoga
  11. NY – Nada Yoga (Sound and Indian Classical Music based on Ragas)
  12. NiY – Nidra Yoga
  13. Pr – Pratyahara
  14. MT – Marma Therapy
  15. Tr – Traatak 
  16. SY – Surya Yoga 
  17. CY – Chandra Yoga
  18. Sw Y – Swara Yoga

When deciding upon which Yoga Class or Yoga Program to join, please confirm yourself or seek guidance on which components you should start with. In general, one should start with gentle classes and move on to more difficult levels in a stepped manner.

We strongly recommend starting your Yoga journey at SAVY with our Basic Yoga program as a first step. It introduces and clarifies basics of authentic Yoga to a beginner as well as an advanced student of Yoga. It lays down a solid foundation for your present and future Yoga practice. We explore basic Yoga postures, some basic breathing patterns, mudras, and  more in this program. You may join Foundation Yoga classes for a more in-depth learning of Yoga and Intermediate and Advanced Yoga classes may follow. According to the level of difficulty and expertise required, the Yoga Classes are divided into three broad categories : Level I, II and III.

We offer many different routines. Here, we’ll introduce routines being offered mainly under our Basic Yoga program.

Under our Base Yoga Program, we offer a variety of routines:

Hatha Yoga (Level I & II)

  • SAVY Hatha Yoga (Level I): The word “Hatha” may be broken down into “Ha,” meaning “sun,” and “Tha,” meaning “moon” in Sanskrit language. Chandra is considered to honour feminine energy, while Surya honours more masculine energy, with both necessary for the proper balance. Hatha simply refers to the practice of physical yoga postures and breathing practices, meaning your Ashtanga, vinyasa Yoga classes are all Hatha Yoga. Enjoy these beginner yoga classes. Hatha is ideal for people who enjoy a soft and gentle approach to their practice. All level of students are welcome.
  • Sukshma (Subtle) Yoga (Level I): Sukshma Yoga penetrates subtle levels at the physical, mental and spiritual levels. This consists of gentle stretching and coordinated breathing, and breathing exercises, that result in deep relaxation. It includes easy exercises for the eyes, tongue and jaws, neck, hands, feet, knees, ankles and hips. In Sukshma Yoga the whole body, from head to toe, is treated, relaxed and rejuvenated. These exercises also stimulate, balance and energise the Marma points and Chakras. External and internal body parts undergo deep transformation in this type of Yoga. These are scientific exercises that not only make us strong and supple, but also help remove impurities from the body and improve the memory, concentration and will-power.
  • SAVY Hatha Yoga (Level II): This is a beginners’ level class but a little more advanced than the Level I class. All level of students are welcome.
  • Restorative Yoga and Yoga Nidra (Level II): Take time to reconnect and feel grounded in this rejuvenating class. Soak in an array of gentle yoga asanas as well as a guided meditation called Yoga Nidra. Experience different creative movement that is connected with and inspired by restorative and deep stretch yoga. To complete this class, you will be guided through Yoga Nidra which induces complete physical, mental, and emotional relaxation. Students of all experience levels are welcome.
  • Deep Stretch/ Restorative Yoga/ Yin Yoga (Level I): Give your body the opportunity to fully rejuvenate and repair itself in this relaxing class with restorative poses. Known as the quiet practice, Deep Stretch Yoga targets the connective tissues. Holding poses for a longer period of time encourages the connective tissue to feel more elastic, providing you with an increase of range of motion and a feeling of space within. This is a practice which stretches and re-balances even the most stubborn tendons, ligaments and fascia in the body. There will be modifications made available to help guide you into the right posture for your body. This form of yoga is a great complement to more dynamic and active practices, and is a great aid for learning to sit in meditation. The practice works with our energy body, clearing blockages in nadis (meridians) and increasing the flow of prana or chi, improving the health of our organs as well as increasing our energy and promoting a general sense of well-being.
  • Gentle Yoga (Level I): Whether you are new to yoga or are familiar with the practice, Gentle yoga will help you develop balance, strength and flexibility without feeling overwhelmed or confused. In this class we will take our time to get into postures focusing on the basics. We will combine yoga postures and breathing exercises to strengthen the body, reduce stress and calm the mind. No yoga experience is required. Gentle yoga is perfect for people who want to try yoga for the first time or for those who are looking for a softer approach to their practice. No yoga experience is required.
  • Chair Yoga/ Yoga For the Absolute Beginner (Level I): Chair Yoga or Chairiot yoga offers benefits similar to the Gentle Yoga classes, but we may also use the chair to sit on and stand behind, enhancing safety and support. It is ideal for those who are unable to go down on a mat, or prefer not to. It will enhance your strength, balance, and movement, excellent for helping to prevent falls and maintain independence. Breathing exercises will be incorporated into the practice. It is best to bring a yoga mat to put the chair on. No experience needed. 
  • Yoga For 50+ (Level I): With age, in fact, after the age of 40 and sometimes even earlier, we start losing joint mobility and balance, as well as muscle and bone mass and stiffness sets in as the spine loses its mass and mobility. By age 45, we start paying for our sins. Neck and back problems, knee pain, hip joint problems, high blood pressure and tons of other problems start showing up by middle life. Aging is multifactorial and many other factors also play an important role. Consequently, almost all of those 45 and over have to learn to live with one or the other health issue. 50+ Yoga can make you relax within a few minutes. Its effect penetrates the physical, mental and spiritual levels. This consists of gentle stretching and coordinated breathing, and breathing exercises, that result in deep relaxation. It includes easy exercises for the eyes, tongue and jaws, neck, hands, feet, knees, ankles and hips. The whole body, from head to toe, is treated, relaxed and rejuvenated. These scientific exercises not only make us stronger and more supple, but also help remove impurities from the body and improve the memory, concentration and will-power.

Vinyasa Yoga (Level I & II)

  • Ashtanga Basics Yoga (Level I): In this class, you will learn and practice the fundamentals of Ashtanga Yoga, including the breath connected to movement (known as vinyasa) and many of SAVY’s primary series postures. All levels are welcome whether you are a new or existing practitioner looking to cultivate a deeper understanding of this practice or return to the basics. 
  • SAVY Flow (Level II): Drawing from the Ashtanga Yoga system, this class will focus on breath and movement creating a flow of postures that enhance flexibility and strength. No two classes will be exactly the same but will include sun salutations and the opportunity to try more complex poses.
  • Basic Ashtanga (Level I): Experience the flow of Ashtanga Yoga as you learn the building blocks of this dynamic practice.  A strong, flowing class appropriate for complete yoga beginners or for those who practice yoga wanting to try the Ashtanga method for the first time. 
  • SAVY Vinyasa (Level II): Must have a basic understanding of SAVY’s primary series. A fast, strong, flowing class building strength and flexibility. This class is recommended for ‘advanced’ beginners.
  • SAVY Slow Flow Yoga (Level I): Time to slow down! In this all-levels flow class you will experience calm and relaxation by engaging in opening and strengthening the body. By synchronizing your breath with fluid, focused yoga postures you will feel taller, stronger and more confident. Take time for yourself as you move your body and breathe with ease.
  • Surya Yoga (Level II): Start your day the right way – enjoy an early morning practice to get yourself ready for day. Surya Yoga wakes up the entire body. Surya, or the sun, is the ultimate source of energy and life on this planet. Surya Yoga classes include Surya Namaskaar or Sun Salutation. This is a graceful sequence of twelve postures performed as one continuous exercise. Each position is reverse of the one before, stretching the body in a different way and alternately expanding and contracting the chest to regulate the breathing.

Some of the other classes we offer under our other programs are:

Hip Opener Yoga

This class is designed especially for opening the hips! The hips are able to move in 6 different ways. Class will begin with the Hip Series – a simple yet powerful sequence of movements designed to open the hips in all 6 directions – bringing flexibility and balance to the hips. Following the Series, we will practice classical postures and creative movement with emphasis on the hips, as well as special stretches and unique prop work to improve flexibility even more. Come feel the joy of free and happy hips. All levels welcome.

Realignment Yoga

Pain in our shoulders, back, hips, knees and ankles is often due to misalignment in our body. The class uses exercises designed to reposition, stretch and strengthen our muscles to help correct our dysfunctions. This can then help to realign our body so that it can function normally and without pain. This class is suitable for all levels, no yoga experience required. 

Restore and Renew

Join us for a relaxing and nourishing class, for the body and mind. We will explore healing and supportive poses that will benefit your nervous system, ease muscular tension and release physical stress. We will also delve into very simple but effective stretching and strengthening  for often hidden areas in the body.  A perfect class for all your gardening and summer festival needs.

Yoga & Meditation

This class is perfect for those who enjoy the physical benefits of yoga and are interested in exploring what else it has to offer. We will use the chakra system as a tool for self discovery both physically and mentally. Each week introducing a chakra as the theme for the class. We start each session with a hatha class designed to develop and strengthen the mind/body connection followed by a guided imagery meditation for the corresponding chakra. This offers a platform to look inward, identify and release stress, anxiety, depression or whatever is not serving you to make space for growth and the cultivation of a more positive outlook. Each class will be closed with some meditation time. This class is accessible to all levels.

Meditation and Pranayama

This Yoga Class is very carefully structured in order to help one get into meditative state. This class would include the practice of mantras (mantras are special Sanskrit words which when pronounced generate special energies within the body and activates the chakras i.e. Eight Energy centers of the body) and important breathing exercises. The practice of breathing exercises helps to purify our body from the impurities and greatly affects the functioning of our endocrine system. This class is quite suitable for executives and for those who have more mental stress.

Pratyahara

Pratyahara is  withdrawal of senses from external stimuli. As your practice deepens and your focus increases, you can start practicing pratyahara, which, simply stated, means you start focusing inward. You learn to withdraw your senses and focus them inside one by one. You can feel enormous peace while doing this and this is one of the best ways to de-stress.

Yoga for Kids (6-12 years)

The kids love to do yoga postures. The practice of yoga helps children to build up strong foundation of their health and well being. It also makes them much stronger, flexible, disciplined and more focused in their studies and other activities of life. Yoga class for kids is very well structured keeping in view the tenderness of their joints and muscles. We do take utmost care in regard to their safety from bodily injury keeping in view that children have greater tendency to go beyond their limits.

Yoga for Teens

As the name suggests this Yoga Class is for those in the age group of 13-19 years. This class is packed with fast dynamic movements and some challenging postures. Teens would love to face the challenge and would soon develop lean, flexible, stronger body with the regular practice of special yogic postures for teens.

Ha Ha Yoga

Laughter is the best medicine! This Yoga Class combines laughter exercises with yogic exercises. This carries all the benefits of yoga , but is especially good as a stress buster and as a mood elevator.

Nada Yoga (including Indian Classical Music)

Nada means sound. According to scriptures, nada has played an important role in the formation of this universe. Indian classical music, based on various ragas, is capable of awakening various chakras. Classical music is taught in these classes.

Chandra Yoga

Chandra Yoga is believed to give many mystical and health benefits. Chandra Namsaker or Moon Salutation channelises lunar energy and induces relaxation and enhance creativity. The exercises are designed to open up the root chakra.

Swara Yoga

Swara Yoga is based on which swara or nostril is active at a particular time. A whole lot of benefits can be derived from controlling and modifying swara.

 

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