Y O G A
Y O G A
☼ energy focus calm strength harmony self-actualization ☼
relaxed health timeless compassionate subtle
Jennifer Falbo-Negron, LCPC/LMHC, ERYT-500, SEP
Experienced Registered Yoga Teacher 500-hr level (CE provider at 500-hr level)
Yoga is defined as a systematic science involving an overall mindfulness in poses (asanas), breath awareness and exercises, relaxation, and meditation. Every person is balanced and whole, and yoga is a method for increased awareness of such a state.
Information on our yoga teacher, the basics and benefits of yoga, and general guidelines follow the class information and free guided relaxation.
For Current Classes, such as one-on-one and group yoga classes and mindfulness classes, please click Classes/Workshops for more information. Jennifer can come to your office for corporate-based yoga or yoga parties for bridal showers and more.
☼ Listen to our Free Full Body Relaxation when you want to ☼
rejuvenate! Let us know what you think by contacting us.
Full Body Relaxation
Guided relaxation, approx. 15 min.
You need Flash Player in order to view this.
Education and Practice
Jennifer's training is in the Himalayan tradition of hatha yoga through the Himalayan Yoga and Meditation Center in Palatine, Illinois; this center is connected to the Himalayan Institutes in Pennsylvania and The Meditation Center (Himalayan) in Minnesota. Through Yoga Alliance, which certifies schools of yoga and ensures continuing education requirements are maintained, Jennifer has achieved experienced registered yoga teacher status at the 500 hour level (ERYT-500) with advanced training in hatha yoga. and well over 2,000 hours of teaching yoga to students and counseling clients over the years. With the experienced
designation, she applied for and is considered a Yoga Alliance Continuing Education Provider up to the 500-hour teaching training level. She is happy to continue to provide educational opportunities to all students of yoga and now with the addition of certified hours to students in a training program and for continuing education credits. Jennifer has also been trained in Embodied Lab's applied polyvagal theory in therapeutic yoga (trauma-informed), basic Ayurveda, yoga nidra, and restorative yoga to broaden her techniques that she offers her students and counseling clients.
☼
Basics of Yoga:
Hatha yoga focuses on asanas (forms/poses) and being mindful of our body, alignment, and breath in the present moment. When breathing, the breath is done through the nose and focused into the abdominal region/diaphragm to facilitate the brain and body's parasympathetic nervous system response (e.g., rest and digest system, calming hormones). The practice of yoga also continues beyond the physical asanas into the spiritual or energetic with breath training and meditation. Yoga is not a religious practice and does not prescribe to any sort of religious beliefs. (Note: some may prefer to say an internal prayer before, during, and/or after yoga to support their practice and are encouraged to do so for their individual benefit.). Practicing yoga from my perspective is intended for health benefits with mindful movement and breathing and to be more in the here and now. Yoga is great for self-care, especially when people are too busy to do yoga--that's when people need it the most or another mind-body exercise (tai chi, pilates, qi gong, etc.). It is also beneficial for clients who have had traumatic experiences or have psychological concerns so that they can become more present and embodied in their lives. Having a counseling and psychological background that is trauma-informed, Jennifer can really help clients on a one-on-one basis to examine their minds and bodies and forge a connection between the two, allowing for the release of what no longer serves you to bring in what you need.
• increasing flexibility and lubrication of joints, ligaments, and tendons
General Guidelines
Yoga is intended to be non-harming; therefore, those with disabilities or severe, acute, or chronic medical or emotional conditions should consult both with their medical practitioner and their yoga teacher to assess if the practice of certain poses are appropriate and beneficial.
Practice in a clean and quiet place to maximize concentration and awareness of yoga practice. Practicing in the outdoors is okay to do but not after sun-bathing or in direct sunlight, in windy conditions, or where there may be lots of insects or animals.
Yoga is non-competitive; so focusing on your self-awareness will help you to progress in yoga without comparing yourself to others in or out of class.
Breathing is done through the nose for both inhaling and exhaling. Some specific types of breathing exercises may incorporate inhaling or exhaling through the mouth.
Yoga does not require fancy or expensive equipment to enjoy it! Obtaining a yoga mat can help you feel grounded and prevent slipping while holding poses. A mat offers a comfortable place to lie on for relaxation or sit up during meditation. It can also help cushion certain parts of the body when rolled up and placed under the sit bones (sitting poses), knees, or shoulders (inversions). Although blocks and straps are some basic pieces of equipment that can help assist students with their asanas, they are not necessary; some student will use chairs, the wall, books, scarves, and other hacks from home instead. You can also use your body to support you in side bends and when coming into triangle pose.
When practicing yoga, participants should wear comfortable clothing to prevent restriction around the limbs. Be assured that you do not have to put yourself into pretzel-like positions. Yoga is for everybody and all body shapes and sizes. Modifications are given during each session for the beginner and the more advanced student.
The most important thing to remember is that yoga is fun! It is a time to play and enjoy life away from the stress and hectic schedules that many of us have. Come to a class to enjoy yoga's benefits and see for yourself the increased energy, strength, and flexibility you will gain.
Like to Know More? Please visit our Classes/Workshop or Contact Us pages to inquire about our programs.
