Class Info

Are you looking for a yoga practice that draws on the whole yogic tradition, more than just the physical postures?

These classes have been a staple of the Evanston yoga community since 2005. Each class is thoughtfully planned around a central theme.

What to expect

  • Each class begins with a breathing and warm-up series that gives the body and mind time to transition into the practice.
  • The postures serve to release chronic tension, stretch and strengthen the body, calm the mind and increase self-awareness.
  • We explore the postures using both flowing movement and sustained holding. The pace is slower than the typical Vinyasa style.
  • Our style is based in the Kripalu tradition, which encourages you to choose the level of intensity that feels right and modify the poses to make them work for your body.
  • After relaxation, the last 5-10 minutes of class are reserved for seated or walking meditation with instruction.

Class Levels

  • Basics: This class welcomes students of all ages and abilities. Expect an approachable yet invigorating challenge in this class that explores the foundations of yoga. No prior experience is necessary.
  • All-Levels: A blend of Basics and Intermediate. Newer students will gain a fundamental understanding of the poses, while more experience yogis will be encouraged to go deeper. Explore the Sun Salutation and flowing posture sequences. Lela can provide prenatal and postnatal students with appropriate adaptations.
  • Intermediate: New meditators are very welcome, but some previous yoga experience is recommended. More advanced balancing postures and longer holds.
  • Mellow: This class includes more deep stretching and breathing practices than our Hatha Yoga classes (though we'll still do standing poses). You will have time to feel deeply, relax and restore your vital energies. It is suitable for all levels.

Practicalities

Please refrain from eating 1-2 hours before class, wear comfortable clothing, and bring a mat if you have one. Blocks, cushions and straps are provided. Both locations have bathrooms where you may change your clothes. The Heartwood Center has a water cooler and tea station.

SNOW/CATACLYSM POLICY: If it's snowing like crazy and the roads are terrible around class time, or there's a tornado, we may cancel. We will post cancellation notice on the home page of this site - check before coming to class if you have any doubts.

If you have any questions about these classes, please call, email or use this form.