Studio Cirq specialises in Ashtanga Yoga and a variation called Dynamic Yoga which is suited shorter one-hour classes. We also offer weekly classes in Iyengar Yoga and Dao In Yoga.

Ashtanga Yoga

Ashtanga synchronises breath and movement to develop a calm, focused mind while performing a flowing sequence of postures to cleanse, detoxify and realign the body. The energetic practice increases strength, stamina and flexibility, releasing restrictions and blockages to reveal the inner grace, wellbeing and happiness within us all. To try this traditional method of yoga, join one of the Mysore-style classes. Here, students work through the sequence at their own pace according to their strength, stamina and flexibility.
Teachers: Karyn Grenfell (Authorised by Sri K. Pattabhi Jois), Amanda Harzler, Monica Danobeitia.

Ashtanga Yoga for Beginners

Students start with a two-hour introductory class on a Saturday afternoon from 2 - 4pm.  Following this, students attend 8 classes of Ashtanga yoga, choosing between either early morning Mysore Style classes (see description below) or the Guided Ashtanga classes on Monday and Thursday evenings.   Students must complete their 8 classes in 8 weeks.
Part theory, part practice, the introdutory class is a perfect foundation for the new student, or for anyone wanting to refresh their practice with inspiration and deeper understanding.
In the 2 hour intro class, we will look a the tradition of the Ashtanga yoga, its origins and place in contemporary life. Breath, bandhas, drishti and vinyasa are all terms often heard but rarely understood. They are what makes the Ashtanga practice yoga. They are the givers of health, vibrancy, ease and contentment. We will discuss and relate them directly to how they can bring depth and focus to the practice. The beauty and benefit of Ashtanga yoga practice becomes evident when a student commits to an ongoing practice and connect with a deeper understanding of themselves.
As Pattabhi Jois often says "1% theory, 99% practice", so we begin with the 1% theory, so that commitment to ongoing practice comes easier through knowing.

These classes are also highly recommeded for current students of Ashtanga yoga.
Please see COURSES for dates and times.

Ashtanga Yoga Guided Practice

This is a guided class of the first or primary series which realigns the spine, detoxifies the body, and builds strength, flexibility and stamina. The series of 75 poses begins with sun salutations and moves on to standing and seated poses, inversions and backbends before relaxation.    Our classes create a supportive and nurturing environment in which to learn and cultivate a traditional Ashtanga yoga practice. Students are gently guided into self-awareness and familiarity with the method. Slowly, as confidence increases, students are supported in learning to practice Mysore-style: independently, with adjustments and input from the teacher.

Ashtanga Yoga Mysore-style

The Mysore style is the traditional method of learning Ashtanga Yoga. Classes are open, self-practice classes. The teacher is present between 6am–9am weekdays. Students may arrive anytime and leave once they have completed their practice. Each student practises the Ashtanga sequence individually, under the guidance of the teacher who moves about the class giving hands-on adjustments, teaching new poses and giving guidance.  Please note that we do not hold Mysore classes on moon-days.  Please refer to Karyn Grenfell's website for the dates.

Dynamic Yoga

Like a moving meditation, this class has a focus on energy, alignment and breath. Each week, different sequences of posture combinations are explored. All levels are welcome.
Teachers: Katie de Araujo, Nina Davine, Patrick Glennnan, Jasmin Johnston,  Jamie Powers,  Zoe Stark,  Dale Sandwith,  Sol Thomas.

Iyengar Yoga

Iyengar Yoga is based on the teachings of India’s living legend, BKS. Iyengar. His method introduced props into the modern practice of yoga to allow everyone to enjoy the benefits of the postures, regardless of physical condition, age or experience. Props help the student receive the deep benefits of postures held over significant time periods. The method develops strength, endurance and optimal body alignment. 
In the Iyengar Yoga Led Practice class (mornings starting in October), students follow the asana names as they are called by the teacher.  There is no instruction or adjustment from the teacher.  This class is suitable only for students with a regular Iyengar practice who wish to develop their home practice.   
Teacher: Georgia King, Level 1 Iyengar teacher

Dao-In Yoga

Dao Yin practise is a very old Chinese yoga practise that emphasises a relaxed and open approach to moving the body. Through gentle stretching, breathing, massage, relaxation and different meditation practices the body’s vital energy is restored, the organs re-balanced and the mind refreshed. The ancients recognised the need for movement in order to prevent the internal body from stagnating. This practise is medicine in movement.

This class will begin with a gentle warm up that usually involves some massage, stretching and breathing. Basically we work by warming and opening the body so that vital energy called “qi” can flow freely. The class will draw attention to how you use your body so that a greater understanding of yourself can be gained.

Based on the principles of yin and yang, it seeks to rebalance and restore the body, and harmonise the body in relation to the seasons and environment.

This simple body practise forms the basis of all internal arts and can be used as a support practice to tai chi, chi gong or just as a practise on its own to invigorate you.
Teacher: Sol Thomas