JCS RETREAT

Class Descriptions

Agni Sara
Instructors: Arati Lane & Dr. C

Agni Sara is a yogic technique involving rapid, controlled abdominal contractions that functionally "warm up" the digestive system. From a medical perspective, these actions provide an internal massage to the abdominal organs, which stimulates peristalsis (the wave-like muscle contractions that move food), increases circulation to the area, and can improve metabolic function. The practice also helps tone abdominal muscles and strengthen the pelvic floor.

Grounding - Hatha Therapeutic Yoga
Instructor: Arati Lane

Awareness of breath, body, mind, emotions, and environment. Basic standing poses, floor practice, happy back sequence. A guided experience in grounding and therapeutic healing.

Grounding Yoga
Instructor: Jake Ferree

Grounding & Awakening Flow — a gentle full-body practice designed to wake up the body through stretching, breath, tapping, and bouncing techniques. It's a wonderful way to invigorate the system, support circulation and immune function, and leave everyone feeling energized, balanced, and clear.

Gentle Yoga
Instructor: Dr. C, MD, CYT-500

Slow, focused on continuously breathing and moving, basic vinyasa, re-engaging the breath, stretching the entire body, with attention to the hips and shoulders. Hatha based. Hatha yoga is a foundational yoga style that uses physical postures (asanas) and breathing techniques (pranayama) to balance the body and mind. The name "Hatha" combines the Sanskrit words for "sun" (ha) and "moon" (tha), symbolizing the balance of opposites, and the practice is a comprehensive system designed to prepare the body and mind for meditation. Classes typically involve moving slowly and holding poses for several breaths to improve flexibility, strength, and relaxation.

Yoga Basics I - Standing, Sitting
Instructor: Nazli Takesh Boshell, E-RYT 500

When attending a class with Nazli you can expect unexpected transitions and a mindful cadence to challenge your body and mind. She's excited to share unique movements that are intentional and skillful and help you uncover a new way to journey through yoga…and maybe even crack a smile while you're at it.

Sound Bath
Instructor: Nazli Takesh Boshell

Published benefits of sound baths include reduced stress, anxiety, and blood pressure, along with improved mood and focus. The vibrations from instruments like singing bowls can calm the nervous system, leading to deep relaxation and a more restorative state of mind. Some research suggests potential long-term benefits such as improved sleep quality and emotional well-being.

Yoga Nidra
Instructors: Nazli Takesh Boshell & Dr. Lisa Shives, CYT-500

Yoga Nidra, or "yogic sleep," is a guided meditation technique that induces a state of deep relaxation while maintaining consciousness. It works by calming the nervous system, which can help reduce stress and anxiety, improve sleep, and manage chronic pain. Other benefits include improved mood, focus, and emotional control, as well as benefits for blood pressure and heart health.

Yoga Basics II - Pranayama (Breathwork)
Instructor: Lauren Bosworth

Alignment-based therapeutic yoga focusing on spinal health and overall wellness. Lauren's classes guide you in honoring and nourishing your body through breath and awareness, building the capacity to heal yourself on all levels at your own speed.

Slow Flow Vinyasa
Instructor: Christopher Marrazzo, BSN, RN, C-IAYT

Slow flow emphasizes a slower pace rather than just smaller movements.

Key characteristics:

Yoga Basics III - Sun Salutations
Instructor: Dr. Daniel Dominguez, PhD

A foundational practice exploring the traditional sun salutation sequence, building strength, flexibility, and breath coordination.

Restorative Yoga
Instructor: Missy DiDonato, E-RYT 500 + Reiki Master

Focus: Deep relaxation, stress reduction, and rejuvenation. It uses props like bolsters and blankets to fully support the body in gentle poses held for several minutes. Goal: To access the body's "rest and digest" state, a calming parasympathetic nervous system response, rather than a "fight or flight" mode. Environment: Typically, a quiet and cozy atmosphere designed to promote mindfulness and a sense of well-being.