about our yoga

The classical teachings of yoga explain that a regular practice can open us to a true experience of ourselves in each moment.  Practically speaking, these teachings offer that such clarity allows us to take better care of ourselves and our relationships.  If we do, they offered, we are simply less likely to suffer physically, mentally, or emotionally!

The focus of our teaching is on helping each student find her or his personal blend of physical challenge and release into relaxation.  Our emphasis in pose-work is on both breath and movement with the intention of developing a relaxed and focused mind in a strong and functional body.  We teach with the intention of helping each student develop a personal practice with both meaning and purpose. 

Our instruction emphasizes the art of pose adaptation.  Each yoga pose has a name as well as a shape.  But more importantly, each pose has at least one intended benefit for the practitioner.  But since every body arrives for practice with widely differing dimensions and quite often with a unique set of tightnesses, weaknesses, and preferences; one shape simply does not fit all students of yoga.  Pose adaptation is based on an understanding of anatomy, anatomy in motion (kinesiology), along with an understanding of musculo-skeletal pathologies.  At its best, pose adaptation can offer each student the intended benefit(s) of each pose regardless of whether her or his unique body is able to find the classic form of the pose.  Too, as students develop pose adaptation skills they find a practice where they can find access to a variety of benefits in each pose.

Our goal is to help each student learn to use yoga's teachings intelligently as a tool for creating the comfort and well-being that comes from a life lived in balance.  Yoga has something to offer everyone, regardless of age, shape, goals or personality.  We invite all to come and experience the gift of the ancient wisdom of yoga.  

heartwood yoga - birmingham, alabama

instructors:   john lemunyon, ryt - kate tremblay, ryt

private and classroom yoga instruction in the classical tradition

  yoga therapy

therapeutic bodywork