What is Forrest Yoga and how is it like/different from vinyasa yoga?

Forrest Yoga is vinyasa yoga – movement linked by breath in a mindful way – with a little something extra. All Forrest Yoga classes are guided by an intent, which is a spiritual, emotional, or physical focus sustained throughout the entire class. It’s a layer of psycho-spiritual work being done while also doing yoga!

All Forrest Yoga classes rely on breath to help unearth stuck patterns, energy, and information in the body. Most yoga classes do, but with Forrest Yoga, attention to breath is brought to the forefront and sustained there. Forrest Yoga classes are generally slower than typical vinyasa classes and the poses are held for longer. This builds intensity and helps break through blockages.

Some of the poses in Forrest Yoga may be performed differently or look slightly different than the versions you’ve experienced in vinyasa classes. I invite you to try doing these familiar poses in a different way and seeing what new information arises.

Forrest Yoga classes typically focus on one pose category – like backbends or hip opening – rather than try to do a little bit of everything in one class. This may feel different or “incomplete” if you don’t experience poses you’re used to experiencing at the end of classes. I invite you to stay open to new sequences and ways of practicing yoga.