Founders Evan and Kelly Harris have practiced yoga since 2002. Having studied under some of today’s best teachers, they instruct every class at tapas yoga shala. Their instruction stays true to the vision of a yoga studio dedicated to truly deep, yet powerfully modern yoga instruction, accessing the contemplative nature of the yoga tradition through the physical practice.
New to Yoga
We welcome new students at any time, whether new to the area, new to this style of yoga, or new to yoga altogether. Wear comfortable clothes that allow freedom of movement. If you have a yoga mat, please bring it, otherwise we have mats available for use (no charge). Plan to show up at least ten minutes before class time. View payment options and class times on our schedule page. We offer new students two weeks of unlimited classes for $20. New students may attend any drop-in class; view more specific class recommendations below.
Yoga is naturally therapeutic and generates excellent health. No flexibility or skill is required to access these benefits. If you have a particular injury or medical condition, please let us know before class. Many common conditions, such as backache, stress, or anxiety, to name but a few, respond very well to general classes. Other conditions may be more appropriate for private instruction.
Our classes derive from a system or style of yoga called Ashtanga. This system generates
more strength, especially upper body and core, than most other styles of yoga. It also promotes flexibility in equal measure. By synchronizing movement with breath, concentration, calm and poise naturally develop. View the embedded videos for demonstrations of the most common elements of this style of yoga. (Note that demonstrations show intermediate/advanced level, but these skills are easily adapted for beginners.)
All classes follow the same basic framework, beginning with a warm-up exercise called “Sun Salutations” and ending with relaxation. New students should expect that after only two or three classes they will begin to become familiar with the basic class structure. Instructors will lead you through the movements, and you are also encouraged to mimic the student next to you. We encourage you not to take it too seriously; we surely don’t.
While we are not overly serious about yoga practice, we are unmistakably genuine. Husband and wife Evan and Kelly Harris have studied yoga intensively since 2002, logging thousands of practice, training, and teaching hours. Advanced practitioners and passionate teachers, we have journeyed as far as India to see our chosen teachers and we wholeheartedly bring all of our expertise to this studio. In short, whether novice or expert, you are in good hands.
We recommend that new students attend either Vinyasa I classes or complete the Intro to Ashtanga six week course. Vinyasa (“movement”) I classes are beginners’ level drop-in classes. The Intro to Ashtanga course is an opportunity to learn about this system of yoga with other beginners, gradually mastering the breathing, movements and other elements over six sessions. This course segues seamlessly into a regular practice in Mysore-style classes.
Contact us for questions, consultations, or comments. We hope to see you in class.
