Yoga is an ancient spiritual practice that originated in India. Today, in the United States, yoga tends to refer to the physical practice of postures and breathing. Yoga classes at the RVC help to develop strength, flexibility, and balance. The benefits of practice also include a clearer, calmer mind. All yogic practices are intended to help us live our lives more fully.

Kripalu Yoga includes classical yoga postures practiced with an emphasis on breath and mindfulness. A Level A Kripalu class develops body and breath awareness through simple postures taught to accommodate the individual needs of students. A Level B Kripalu class includes more challenging postures and holding postures for a longer period of time with an emphasis on observing the more subtle experiences of body, mind, and heart.

Iyengar Yoga is a safe, accessible and classical Indian style of yoga that was created by yoga master BKS Iyengar. It use introductory to very advanced poses to develop strength, stamina, concentration and body alignment. Classes use props such as blankets, blocks, and straps to customize poses to each individual’s level of strength and flexibilty. The goal of Iyengar yoga is grounded in the yoga sutras: the to quiet the mind and free the body. Becoming a certified yoga teacher is a multi-year process that requires repeated assessments of a teacher’s knowledge of yoga poses, anatomy, philosophy and instruction. There are currently 4 certified Iyengar yoga teachers in Vermont and New Hampshire; RVC is pleased to offer classes with one of them.

Hot Yoga is a 75-minute class in a room heated to 105 degrees.  The heat helps you stretch deeper, focus more and build stamina.  Because you sweat, your body is cleansed and purified both inside and out.  It’s a multi-level class, suited for both the raw beginner and experienced yogi.  All you need to bring is your own mat, a bottle of water and readiness for fun!

Meet the Instructors

SUZANNE SPENCER – is one of 4 certified Iyengar Yoga teachers in Vermont and NH is registered with the national Yoga Alliance at the 500 training hour level. She enjoys helping students of all ages and ability levels find strength, flexibility and balance both on and off the mat.

EMILY STEIN ANDERSON – Emily has been teaching for nine years and has received certifications from ACE, STOTT Pilates and the national Yoga Alliance (YA).   She has a very energetic and biomechanical approach to her teaching, always encourgaging students to work their mind and their body during class.  Her classes keep a fast pace and challenge students.  She is also Master Trainer here at teh RiverValleyClub.

SUE KIRINCICH – has been teaching yoga since 1997 and practicing since 1988. Her teaching certification is from the Kripalu Center in Lenox,MA and her continued studies have been primarily in the Iyengar tradition. She loves integrating these two complimentary traditions in her classes, emphasizing yoga principles that enliven and uplift us.