Yoga at the Hive

The Hive is a hybrid studio. 
Classes are offered in-person and livestreamed. Hive Royal Members also have access to our on-demand library (each weekly class gets uploaded to the on-demand library and remains available indefinitely). 

What kind of yoga do you practice at The Hive?
We practice a mix of Hatha and Vinyasa, alignment based yoga. Hatha is a general term referring to the physical practice of yoga and involves a slower pace and holding postures for longer than a breath or two. Vinyasa is also a general term, but in reference to Hive Style, refers to a flowing sequence of postures, one leading to another without a break in between.

What does all this really mean to a new student?
Here’s what you can expect in a Hive Style Yoga class: 

• breath is boss —each class includes  a guided breath practice in addition to specific breath cues throughout class. It is a strong emphasis on and synchronization of the breath and movement that sets Yoga apart from typical physical exercise.
• detailed instruction on how to use the body 
• detailed attention to alignment —encourages strong body-mind connection. Hive Style Yoga strengthens communication between all parts of the Self, nurturing a sense of cohesion, resilience and strength.
• slow pace — A slow pace, paired with attention to detailed alignment provides students time to mindfully move in synchronicity with the breath. 
• pose variations— variations and modifications are always offered —students have many opportunities to create more or less intensity during the practice, with specific instructions offered for all modifications, without interrupting the class flow.
• questions are welcome during class—Melissa can’t read your mind and encourages students to ask questions when they have them, even if it’s in the middle of instruction. 

What do I need to practice?

Props really make a difference in your yoga practice. We’re no longer able to lend out equipment due to Covid-19.  Here are some recommendations for yoga equipment. Feel free to reach out if you need assistance.

• Yoga Mat—When you purchase a new mat, stay away from anything with cushion. A general exercise mat won’t provide the stability you need to keep your heels/ankles and wrists aligned. If your knees are tender and you want some padding, add a blanket for when you’re on your knees. You don’t need to spend a lot, but purchase a mat specifically for yoga!
• Yoga Props—in Hive Style yoga, we use props to help adapt the postures. Here’s a list of props that you’ll find beneficial and options to substitute with stuff you probably have on hand already (if you’re at home):
  • 2 Blocks.Typical yoga blocks are 4 inches tall, so if you don’t have yoga blocks, maybe stack up some books instead. If you’re using books, be sure to have two towers of the same height.
  • Strap. If you don’t have a strap, you can use a long tube sock, a pair of stretch leggings, exercise bands, a neck-tie, animal leash, belt.
  • Blankets/pillows. You want to use sturdy blankets if you can. Thick towels work well. If you sit on the blanket/pillow and it sinks down flat, try something sturdier.
• Barefoot is best. You will use your feet and toes throughout class.
• Comfy clothes that allow your body to move through its full range of motion.

A word about “All Levels Practices”

If a class includes “All Levels” in the description, this means that any level student (including beginners) will find the practice beneficial (except folks experiencing trouble getting up and down from the floor—if you’re having trouble getting up and down from the ground or dizziness/balance issues, try our Chair Yoga class). All Levels classes are offered on Wednesday and  Saturday.

Expect a strong emphasis on the breath, a thorough core/spine specific warm-up, and specific alignment cues. Variations of poses, modifications, and guidance are offered throughout class to increase or decrease the intensity of your experience. Melissa serves up a buffet of options, allowing each student the opportunity to create the exact practice they need, regardless of experience level.

Continue reading for more detailed information about the variety of yoga practices available to you and check our calendar for a detailed list of when classes are offered.