WHAT IS IT, EXACTLY?
YOGA
Yoga is a physical, mental, and spiritual practice that originated in India thousands of years ago. In Vedic Sanskrit, the meaning of the word yoga is "to add", "to join", or "to unite." At the core of Coil's yoga philosophy, we strive to always encourage a balanced approach to your yoga practice. Holistic wellness is facilitated by a deep connection to and awareness of your physical, mental, and emotional state, and we strive to facilitate this union between all parts of the self through asana (yoga poses), pranayama (breath work) and dhyana (meditation.) Students will be led through each part of class by the instructor, and are encouraged to participate at their own level of comfort and ability, and to be open and mindful of other students and themselves at all times.
BELLYDANCE
Modern belly dance is a fusion of early and mid-century ballet and Hollywood influences on Middle Eastern, North African, and Asian folkloric dance, the result being a modern, stylized, feminine form of movement with a theatrical flair. Coil teaches American Tribal Style® belly dance, which was originated by Fat Chance Belly Dance of San Francisco, CA. American Tribal Style® is based on group improvisation rather than choreography. The ATS® system uses a standardized “vocabulary” of dance movements with built in cues and transitions that make it possible for dancers to improvise together in set formations. This vocabulary, and these formations, are what you will be introduced to in Level 1.
AERIAL
Aerial arts are a type of performance in which one or more artists perform aerial acrobatics while hanging from a special fabric (aerial silk) or apparatus, such as a lyra (aerial hoop). Performers climb the suspended fabric without the use of safety lines, and rely only on their training and skill to ensure safety. They use the fabric to wrap, suspend, fall, swing, and spiral their bodies into and out of various positions. Coil's aerial classes focus on safety, strength building, and learning climbing and trick techniques in order to have you dancing sans gravity as easily as possible!
WHAT TO WEAR AND BRING FOR CLASS
YOGA
Comfortable clothing that allows you to move freely with minimal restriction is recommended. Class is done barefoot; if necessary, no-slip toe socks can be worn (example here). Some community yoga mats are available to borrow for class. Bring a water bottle and a towel for sweat if necessary.
BELLYDANCE
Comfortable exercise or dance clothing that allows you to move freely with minimal restriction is recommended. Hip scarves or dance belts are welcome, and some will be available for purchase in studio. Class is done barefoot; if necessary, dance slippers or shoes may be worn (example here). For Bellydance Level 2, a set of zils (finger cymbals) are required (Saroyan Mastercraft zils are our recommended brand.) Bring a water bottle and a towel for sweat if necessary.
AERIAL
Long leggings or tights with shorts (NO ZIPPERS) are recommended on aerial silks. No loose pants or tops, and ensure that the belly and armpits are covered. Long hair should be tied back, and absolutely no jewelry should be worn on the hands, wrists, or feet during class; this is both for your safety and to prevent tears in our aerial silks. Bring a water bottle and a towel for sweat if necessary.