increased
flexibility
maintaining a
balanced metabolism
weight
reduction
cardio and
circulatory health
Embrace Yoga is a CONTEMPORARY studio offering traditional yoga
instruction to those seeking balance of mind and body. We offer traditional yoga at its best
A place to nurture minds, bodies & spirits.
Embrace Yoga has moved. We are now located at 1122 4th Street, upper level, in an urban setting in the heart of Central San Rafael in Marin. Our main entrance is at 1122 Julia Street between 4th & 5th Streets or you may enter through Aroma Cafe and go up the back staircase. We are located in a historic building that was originally the first movie theater in Marin (called the Lyric) above Aroma Cafe and directly next door to Rafael Theater. It is a beautiful space in an abundant area. We are excited to start with new beginnings in such an energetic, yet relaxing studio. A space for those who wish to reap the many benefits of yoga, without the cultural teachings commonly found in many yoga programs.
Our class capacity sizes increased so that you have more space to move around, spread out and feel safe. This gives us the chance to properly instruct students on an individual level. This personal service has become our hallmark and in-turn our classes are often booked well in advance. Our instructors come from a range of backgrounds and disciplines, making Embrace Yoga a diverse collective of expertise.
Check out January 2023 article we are featured in Marin Magazine ~ Here is the link to the article:
CHOOSE THE CLASS FOR YOU
hatha
Hatha is a general category that includes most yoga styles. It is an old system that includes the practice of asanas (yoga postures)…
Hatha is a general category that includes most yoga styles. It is an old system that includes the practice of asanas (yoga postures) and pranayama (breathing exercises), which help bring peace to the mind and body, preparing the body for deeper spiritual practices such as meditation. Hatha classes focus on correctly aligning the body to improve general posture, breathing and circulation. Hatha is ideal for beginners and those with physical limitations.
VINYASA FLOW
Vinyasa Yoga is a dynamic system of practicing asanas (poses). Yoga postures flow in a logical sequence…
Vinyasa Yoga is a dynamic system of practicing asanas (poses). Yoga postures flow in a logical sequence. Each position complements those that precede and follow. This practice focuses on the synchronization of breath & the continuous flow of movement. Vinyasa is a strong practice that builds heat, endurance, flexibility, strength and mental focus. This class can be strenuous; may be appropriate for beginners.
RESTORATIVE
A form of yoga that seeks to achieve physical, mental and emotional relaxation with the aid of props. The use of props makes it easier…
A form of yoga that seeks to achieve physical, mental and emotional relaxation with the aid of props. The use of props makes it easier for you to maintain balance while you are stimulating and relaxing your body.
IYENGAR
Named after and developed by B. K. S. Iyengar, is a form of Hatha Yoga that has an emphasis on detail, precision and alignment…
Named after and developed by B. K. S. Iyengar, is a form of Hatha Yoga that has an emphasis on detail, precision and alignment in the performance of posture (asana) and breath control (pranayama). The development of strength, mobility and stability is gained through the asanas. B.K.S.
YIN YOGA
Yin Yoga helps to increase flexibility by strengthening the joints, ligaments and fascia. We will be using breath to slow the mind down…
Yin Yoga helps to increase flexibility by strengthening the joints, ligaments and fascia. We will be using breath to slow the mind down and gentle movement to help the body surrender into longer held asanas. This is a relaxing slow paced class with all asanas taking place on the floor (no standing asanas). It is perfect for beginners as well as the intermediate or advanced yogi who wants to increase their flexibility or just let go of their week.
CORE BALANCE
This class will help you build core awareness, stability and strength. You will learn how to safely strengthen and engage the core…
This class will help you build core awareness, stability and strength. You will learn how to safely strengthen and engage the core abdominal complex, learn techniques to release body muscle tension. A stronger and stable core will better support the spine resulting in better posture alignment, balanced breath and may help reduce minor lower back and neck issues.
LIVESTREAM CLASSES
For our Livestream classes on Zoom, please check our class schedule.
It is very important that you sign up on our website for classes at least an hour in advance. For early morning 7 am class please sign up the evening before. I will send out a link for your class directly to your email if you have signed up. If you haven’t signed up then you will not receive this very important link
To have an Embrace membership at this time is beneficial as it allows access to all our new Zoom Live Stream classes. There is also the choice of a Mini-membership for $72/month to access 4 classes a month. I am prepared to bring the best wellness experience that we can provide.
I thank you all for your continued support and cannot wait to see you all again at the studio. Cardholders have access to all classes. We are also offering a 5 Class Card for Zoom classes at a discounted rate of $99. Please contact us if you are requesting changes to your account. Check our weekly newsletter or Facebook/Instagram feeds for current ongoing specials. Please don’t hesitate to E-MAIL US should you have any questions.
With our current Live Stream classes you now have more of an opportunity to try out new classes. You can still enjoy meeting with your community through Zoom on a regular basis. Keep yourself safe while continuing your practice in the comfort of your own house. Many classes will remain on our Zoom platform so that there are options for all.
CLASSES AT EMBRACE
All Level Hatha Yoga with Muriel Murphy
IN STUDIO & LIVESTREAM
Mondays & Wednesdays 9:15- 10:30 am
In this All-Level Hatha, students can expect to learn the fundamentals of yoga asana from a holistic perspective. Learning detailed alignment, breathwork, sequences, beginning meditation, mudras as well as simple mantras.
Students will experience the merging of these energetic qualities in a safe and supportive environment which is designed to promote a steady and consistent practice which builds and refines from these fundamentals. Each class is different, focused and appropriately challenging.
Muriel poetically lifts the heart with her humor and cultivates a safe space to remember that we are all just humans living a life here together. Her inspiring style of unique class sequences offers a combination of self awakening yoga and classic restorative postures. This will reprogram your body’s response to stress, anxiety and depression. It’s fun and innovatively unwinding effects are very relaxing and rejuvenating on the body and mind.
Gentle Yoga with Suraya Keating
IN STUDIO & LIVESTREAM
Thursdays 9:30 - 10:45 am
Enjoy this mindful, gentle yoga class anchored with a focus on the breath, body and heart. Great if you are just starting out or just feel like moving through practice at a slower mindful pace. You will be guided through series of poses that create a class that’s gentle, yet challenging. Modification options will be given to newer students, and simple concepts from Yoga philosophy will be interwoven in each practice.
Slow Flow Yoga and Meditation with Maya Rose
IN STUDIO & LIVESTREAM
Thursdays 6:30 - 7:45 pm
Come enjoy an all levels mindful flow yoga practice with ample time to move as well as rest, breathe, and enjoy stillness. The beginning of this class will be moderately active but at a slower pace. We’ll then taper down to gentle and introspective poses. After our classic Shavasana, or rest, we will practice seated Vipassana meditation. Instruction will be offered during the meditation so seasoned as well as beginning meditators are welcome.
CLASS UPDATES AND TIME CHANGES
Yin/Restorative Yoga with
Maya Rose
In Studio & LIvestream
Tuesdays from 6:15 - 7:15 pm.
Yin is a great addition to other styles of yoga
In this mix of Yin and Restorative Yoga, postures are slow-paced and mostly on the ground. The longer luxurious holds allow time to open the hips, spine and shoulders while helping to calm the mind and nervous system, enabling you to turn inward and focus on the breath. These classes are ideal for people with minor injuries and physical limitations and for anyone looking for self-care tools against stress and anxiety.
Teen Yoga with Beth Toomey
In Studio only
Tuesdays 5:00 – 6:00 pm
In Hatha Flow we do a combination of Hatha Level 1-2, where students can expect to learn the fundamentals of yoga poses. Learning detailed alignment, breathwork, sequences and beginning meditation
Ages 12 and up.
Iyengar Yoga on Tuesdays & Fridays & Iyengar Level 2 on Saturdays with Karen Kukula
IN STUDIO & LIVESTREAM
Tuesdays & Fridays 9 - 10:15 and Level 2 on Saturdays 9 - 10:30.
Iyengar Yoga, named after and developed by B. K. S. Iyengar, is a form of Hatha Yoga that has an emphasis on detail, precision and alignment in the performance of posture (asana) and breath control (pranayama).
Iyengar Level 2 Yoga on Saturdays will take you to the next step. Preparatory poses for inversions and working on shoulder stand.
Props to have handy for Livestream classes: Mat, 2 blocks, strap (belt or sarong will also work) a couple neatly folded beach towels or yoga blankets and bolster or cushion. For Level 2 a chair would be helpful.
Mindful Flow Yoga and Meditation with Susan Quigley
In Studio & Livestream
Sundays from 10:15 – 11:30
Vinyasa Yoga is a system of practicing asanas (poses). Yoga postures flow in a logical sequence. Each position complements those that precede and follow. Followed by a 10 minute meditation.
Mindful Flow Yoga is a system of practicing asanas (poses). Yoga postures flow in a logical sequence. Each position complements those that precede and follow. This practice focuses on the synchronization of breath & the continuous flow of movement. This Flow practice builds flexibility, strength and mental focus. The class will end with a 10 minute meditation.
Strengthening Hatha with
Clara Gray
IN STUDIO & LIVESTREAM
Saturdays 10:45 – Noon
Hatha is a general category that includes most yoga styles. It is an old system that includes the practice of asanas (yoga postures) and pranayama (breathing exercises), which help bring peace to the mind and body,
UPCOMING WORKSHOPS & EVENTS
Settle into Winter Special Restorative Practice
with Karen Kukula from 1 – 3 pm
Saturday, December 16, 2023
Calm your body, breath and mind.
It is the time of the year to settle in with shorter days and join in this Winter Solstice Special Restorative Practice. Restorative yoga postures are designed to support the body to encourage the nervous system to rebalance. When we push hard to get things done, to care for others (instead of ourselves!) overwork and worry our nervous system can get stuck in the stress response. These poses restore the body’s ability to let go of the stress and rebalance. This leads to better digestion, elimination and sleep just to name a few!
Give yourself the gift of a class of self nurturing yoga!
Early Bird $50 per person until 11/24 then $55/head
Thanksgiving Day Grateful Asana with Suraya Keating with special guest musician and sound healer Antonio Aversano
Special class listed under workshops ~ Thursday 11/23 9 -10:30 am
This special Thanksgiving Day practice is an invitation to embrace
the sweetness of our life and our loved ones, by showing up in Gratitude for all that we have in this life….
LOVE is ALL YOU NEED
Trust that the rest of our experiences unfold from the place of being sincerely grateful.
This practice integrates, aligns, relaxes and rejuvenates your unique body, mind and spirit, cultivating optimal health, vitality, peacefulness, relaxation and radiance! Come away from this life changing teaching equipped with the tools to nurture, cultivate, honor and celebrate your unique self. This is an invitation to reprogram your bodies response to stress and an embodied experience where individuals recognize this magnificent gift of life.
Come share practice with us, and reveal to yourself… What are you Grateful for?
$30/pp early birds get 10% off if you sign up by 11/19/23
