Integral Yoga Institute New York

Class Descriptions

Free Introductory Class

For first-time Hatha Yoga students. The pace of this class is very gentle. It includes asana demonstration, the opportunity to stop and ask questions, and extra individual attention.

Morning Hatha

A 60-minute rejuvenating "maintenance" session with less instruction and some variation on the 90-minute class. Not for new beginners.

Hatha I

For students interested in the traditional Hatha Yoga class. A comprehensive, balanced class with a steady flow, relaxation between asanas, and guided instruction throughout. First-time students are welcome.

Lunchtime Hatha

A 45-minute rejuvenating "maintenance" session with less instruction and some variation on the 90-minute class. Not for new beginners.

Evening Hatha

A 45-minute rejuvenating "maintenance" session with less instruction and some variation on the 90-minute class. Not for new beginners.

Hatha I/II

For students interested in exploring a transition from Hatha I to Hatha II. New asanas will be introduced, and others will be held longer to deepen the experience. Students attending this class should be comfortable with Integral Yoga Hatha I and have some knowledge of asana names in Sanskrit. Not for new beginners.

Hatha II

For students who are experienced with the Integral Yoga Hatha class format and are ready to move at a faster pace. New asanas, including mayurasana (peacock) and shirshasana (headstand), and kriya (purification) techniques will be introduced. This class has less instruction and less relaxation between asanas; asanas are held longer for an experience at a deeper level.

Hatha II/III

For students who are comfortable with the Hatha I and II formats and are ready to explore a transition from Hatha II to Hatha III. New asanas will be introduced and held longer, with pranayama incorporated. Not for those new to Hatha II.

Hatha III

For more advanced students who have a solid understanding of the Hatha II and II/III formats and experience with the physical part of Yoga and are able to maintain a rigorous practice. New and more difficult asanas will be introduced, including regular inversions and more advanced pranayama and kriya techniques.

Prenatal Hatha

For women who have entered their second trimester of pregnancy. Movements and asanas strengthen and tone the muscles and organs. An emphasis is placed on soothing practices. Visualization and relaxation practices with the baby are included.

Postpartum Hatha

For mothers and newborns, one month to 18 months after birth. An hour of gentle stretching, chanting, and breathing and a half-hour sharing and discussion are included. Prenatal Yoga experience is not a prerequisite. Preregistration is required.

Gentle Hatha

For students who have special needs and/or limitations. A variation on the basic Hatha I format that moves more slowly and includes attention on the part of the teacher to the special needs of the individual. ‡Please note: The 10:15 a.m. Gentle class on Tuesday is not a traditional IYI class. It focuses on structural integrity and alignment using props.

Restorative Hatha

A nurturing and gentle practice, using pillows and props, it is beneficial to students with special health needs, to those in caretaking positions, and to anyone seeking a calming and renewing adaptation of classic Hatha Yoga poses.

Spanish Hatha

For students interested in the traditional Hatha Yoga class in Spanish. A comprehensive, balanced class with a steady flow, relaxation between asanas, and guided instruction throughout.

H.I.V. Hatha

For men and women of all ages concerned with H.I.V. and AIDS, this special Hatha Yoga class focuses even more on benefits for the entire being. Poses are adapted where necessary. These classes offer a safe space for sharing and finding community.

Free Deep Relaxation Class

Free every Friday, 5:30 p.m. A 45-minute experience in bliss, beginning with gentle stretching, featuring a long period of Yoga Nidra (deep relaxation), and concluding with breathing practices and a brief meditation.

Free Open Meditation

For students experienced in meditating, join us for open meditation. For students unfamiliar with our meditation practice, you may want to attend one of our Meditation I Workshops before joining an open meditation. Meditations include chanting, kapalabhati, nadi suddhi, 15-20 minutes of silence and closing chants. If you wish to attend evening meditation, please enter through the bookstore by 8:20 p.m. We ask that you be on time and remain until the end. Download Welcome to Meditation (pdf format, 6.58mb)