Schedule: Amherst Studio
Class Descriptions | Teachers | Tuition & Fees | Class Card Extension Policies | FAQ
Updated March 25, 2008. Children under age 14 are not allowed in classes. New students and drop-ins are always welcome. Just show up for any appropriate level class. Space is limited to 20; arrive early to ensure a space. New students should arrive 5 minutes early to sign in. All students should do their best to arrive on time; if you must be a few minutes late, please be sensitive to others by entering quietly and choosing a mat close to the door. Studio is on 2nd floor of building; enter through center door.
Visit our Special Offers page for money-saving coupons.
Mondays: | ||
4-5:15pm |
w/ Katherine |
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5:30 -7:00pm |
CoreFlow (AB/INT) Challenging! Must be experienced and free from injury. (no class 5/26) |
w/ Ruth Anne |
7:15 - 8:30pm |
Yoga/Pilates Fusion (B/AB) Beginners welcome (no class 5/26) |
w/ Ruth Anne |
Tuesdays: | ||
9:00 - 10:15am |
w/ Ruth Anne |
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5:30 - 6:45pm |
w/ Josh |
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7:00 - 8:30pm |
Yoga (INT) Challenging! Must be flexible, experienced and free from injury. |
w/ Josh |
Wednesdays: | ||
9:00-10:15am |
w/ Katherine |
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5:30 - 6:45pm |
w/ Ruth Anne |
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7-8:15pm |
w/ Emily |
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Thursdays: | ||
9:00 - 10:15am |
w/ Josh |
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5:30 - 6:45pm |
w/ Claudia |
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7:00 - 8:15pm |
Flow (AB) advanced beginner and up (Mary Westervelt teaches 5/8) |
w/ Anne |
Fridays: | ||
4-5:15pm |
w/ Julia |
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Saturdays: | ||
9:00 - 10:00am |
w/ Josh |
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10:15 - 11:30am |
w/ Josh |
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Sundays: | ||
4-5:15pm |
Yoga (B/AB) Beginners welcome( Anne teaches 5/11; Carolyn teaches 5/18; Katherine teaches 5/25) |
w/ Emily |
Our Cell Phone Policy
Mama Nirvana's is a ringtone-free zone! No phone should ring inside the studio or office.
If a student is on call and must be available to pick up their phone during class:
- They must set the phone to vibrate and keep it next to them.
- They must take a mat next to the door.
- They must walk out into the hallway before answering a call. No one is allowed to answer a phone inside the office or studio.
We are committed to protecting everyone's right to a quiet and undisturbed class. Your cooperation is appreciated.
Class Levels
Beginners (B): This level consists of fundamental yoga techniques to stretch, tone and relax each part of the body. Students learn basic warm-ups, postures, and exercises. Correct breathing and relaxation techniques are also introduced. Beginners and individuals with injuries and physical limitations should start at beginner level.
Advanced Beginners (AB): In addition to the material offered in Beginner's level, this class offers increased challenges to those who have become comfortable with beginner's level material. Students practice holding postures longer to build greater strength and stamina. Alignment and form are studied in more depth at this level.
Intermediate (INT): Includes highly challenging postures including inversions, backward bends and arm balances. Study of alignment is subtle and refined. Students should attend Advanced Beginner classes regularly for several months minimum before attending Intermediate level. This level is appropriate for yoga teachers, teacher trainees and long-term yoga students who are both strong and flexible.
(B/AB): Beginners are welcome; modifications are provided for all.
(AB/INT): Advanced beginners are welcome; modifications are provided.
Class Descriptions
All classes end with deep relaxation.
In all our classes, students are strongly encouraged to work with their own comfort level and renounce competition with self and others.
Yoga: Traditional style Hatha yoga. Includes yoga breathing, meditation, relaxation and postures.
Use of props: Moderate to high
Technical instruction offered: Moderate to high
Sweat Factor: Low to moderate
Flexibility benefit: High
Relaxation: High
Strength benefit: Moderate to high
Pacing: Slow and deliberate to moderate
(Beginner level yoga is appropriate for individuals who have health problems, have minor injuries or who are very stiff.)
Flow: (Or "Vinyasa") Postures linked in a choreographed sequence. Breath is coordinated with movement to a high degree. Relaxation is included. Meditation may be offered as well.
Use of props: Low to Moderate
Technical Instruction offered: Moderate
Sweat Factor: High
Flexibility benefit: High
Relaxation: Moderate
Strength benefit: High
Pacing: Moderate to fast.
(This class is not appropriate for individuals with serious health problems, who have painful injuries or who are extremely stiff.)
Pilates: Pilates mat class, including exercises to maximize strength of the abdomen, back and pelvis. Special breathing is performed during the exercises.
Use of Props: Low
Technical instruction offered: Moderate
Sweat factor: High
Flexibility benefit: Low to moderate
Relaxation: Low
Strength benefit: High
Pacing: Fast
(This class is appropriate for individuals with most types of injuries. Contact the studio via phone or email if you have serious injuries.)
Yoga/Pilates Fusion: Yoga postures alternate with pilates exercises. Yoga breathing and pilates breathing are both taught. Focus is always on form and alignment. This class builds strength and stability of the spine, abdomen and pelvis. Short meditation and relaxation periods punctuate the session. Anatomical and philosophical background information provide insight into these two systems.
Use of Props: High
Technical instruction offered: High
Sweat factor: Low
Flexibility benefit: Low to moderate
Relaxation: Moderate to high
Strength benefit: High
Pacing: Slow and deliberate
(This class is appropriate for those recovering from illness or injury. If the case is serious, call or email the studio to find out if you should attend.)
CoreFlow Yoga: Strong Vinyasa (Flow) yoga accompanied by deep Hatha. Special emphasis is on stability and mobility of the core. Yoga breathing, deep relaxation and meditation are included. Bolster work may also be taught. For experienced yoga practitioners who are strong and flexible.
Use of Props: Low to high
Technical instruction offered: Moderate to high
Sweat Factor: Low to high
Flexibility benefit: High
Strength benefit: High
Relaxation: Moderate
Pacing: Slow and deliberate to fast
(This class is not appropriate for individuals who are inexperienced with yoga or have injuries.)
Yoga and Meditation: This class focuses on calming the nervous system, training the mind in concentration techniques, and dramatically reducing stress. With regular participation, students will learn how to lift their mood, tap into their unconscious power, easily shed negative habits, and develop the high level of concentration described in the yoga sutras.
Approximately half of our time will be spent doing moderately challenging postures. The sequence is specially ordered and timed to produce maximum stress release. The posture portion will be adaptable to all levels of ability.
The remaining time will include instruction on yoga pranayama (breathwork for cleansing and energy increase) and various meditation techniques. These will also be suitable for beginners. This class is a training path for spiritual seekers who want to tap into the hidden potentials of their mind as well as create a healthier body.
"Use of Props" refers to how often the instruction calls for the use of a block, strap, cushion, bolster, blanket, or theraband in performing postures. All props are provided by the studio. Terms such as "Low," "Moderate," "High," "Fast," and "Slow" are generalized and for comparison only. The best way to find out if a class is right for you is to take it. Call or email us with any questions.
Teachers
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Ruth Anne Lundeberg, E-RYT500, is blessed to have studied with the topmost teachers of yoga, dance, Buddhism and meditation since 1983. She holds a Bachelors of Fine Arts Degree from New York University, where she studied voice, movement and performance intensively with the top experimental performers/directors in NYC. In 1984 at age 19 discovered traditional Hatha yoga at the Himalayan Institute on Fifth Avenue and at Satchidananda's ashram, Integral Yoga, on 13th street. Later, she studied directly with yoga master Sri Dharma Mittra (whose poster of himself performing 908 yoga poses hangs in studios all over the world.) Ruth Anne has also studied directly with Beryl Bender Birch (author of the "Power Yoga" and "Beyond Power Yoga," Beryl was largely responsible for introducing Ashtanga Yoga to the East Coast) and Jivamukti Yoga founders Sharon Gannon and David Life at their original East Village loft studio. In addition, Ruth Anne is a long-time dedicated student of Theravadin Buddhism and meditation. She has sat numerous retreats since 1989 with a variety of international teachers including Jack Kornfield, Christopher Titmuss, Larry Rosenberg, Christina Feldman, Sharda Rogell, and Leigh Brasington. Ruth Anne is a committed daily meditator with over 20 years of experience. Ruth Anne brings a unique and powerful spiritual flavor to teaching and practicing yoga. Her teaching is defined by her years of study with masters of yoga, Buddhism and experimental movement forms. In a time when yoga has been re-defined as an exercise modality, Ruth Anne offers her students and trainees a rare chance to learn traditional yoga as a method of spiritual awakening. |
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In the summer of 2000, Josh Schumer, RYT200, joined Mama Nirvana's faculty and helped open the current studio in Easthampton. Josh holds a Bachelors of Science degree in Physical Education from the University of Massachusetts, where he specialized in health and fitness. Josh has worked as a conditioning coach and trainer in the fitness industry. Josh studied Martial Arts for 23 years and taught both swimming and martial arts before becoming a certified yoga instructor. His keen understanding of exercise physiology is evident in his yoga teaching. Josh offers a lifetime of experience in functional strength, health, and inner development. Josh and Ruth Anne were married at the Easthampton studio in August, 2002. Together they run Mama Nirvana’s two studios, teach classes daily, direct Mama Nirvana's professional teacher trainings and lead international retreats. |
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Julia Fournier, RYT200, has been practicing yoga for over six years and recently graduated from Mama Nirvana's Teacher Training. Julia teaches high school science and often uses her biology background to enrich her yoga classes. Her classes are relaxing, gentle, and fun. In addition to teaching and practicing yoga, Julia enjoys dance, reading, and tennis. |
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Anne Fuller, RYT200, holds a BS in Forestry and Biology, and an AS in Math and Science with a concentration in Biology. As a graduate of Mama Nirvana's 2007 Teacher Training, Anne encourages students to be open to new experiences. By fusing playfulness, compassion and confidence, Anne guides her students through postures, meditation and pranayama (yoga breathing). Her detailed instructions and "can do" attitude empower students to do their best! |
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Claudia Johnsen, RYT200, is a recent graduate of Mama Nirvana's Teacher Training, certified hatha yoga instructor, and devoted yoga student. Claudia's energetic spirit and passion for yoga are revealed in her detailed instructions and joyful, focused approach to classes. A lifelong passion for sewing lead Claudia to design clothing, quilts and costumes for theatrical productions. Claudia has an MS in Microbiology, with interests in microbial physiology and bioremediation. |
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Rebekah Madera, RYT200, MEd, is a graduate of Mama Nirvana's Teacher Training. She has a decade of yoga experience. When teaching hatha yoga she showcases excellent music, and emphasizes ahimsa (non-violence), compassion, and positive thinking. Rebekah is an enthusiastic ESL Teacher (English for Speakers of Other Languages) at Easthampton High School and White Brook Middle School. In 2007, she received the Pioneer Valley Excellence in Teaching Award. She has traveled to Spain and Morocco, which inspired her study of Middle Eastern Dance with Rose Champagne. |
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Margaret Nunnelly, RYT200, enjoys hatha yoga for its ability to focus attention on the body. Her classes increase concentration, clarity and patience both in yoga and every day life. She directs students to tune into physical sensations and explore how subtle changes in movement can resonate in a wide variety of positive changes. She is certified as a yoga teacher by Mama Nirvana's New Yoga. Margaret has a BS in Business, enjoys gardening, and is a keeper of chickens, bees and children. |
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Karen Orlando holds a Master's Degree in Education and is a graduate of Mama Nirvana's Teacher Training. Her classes help students let go of competitiveness and simply enjoy the experience of yoga. When not teaching or practicing yoga, Karen is an Autism Specialist and mother of two. |
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Carolyn Ruszala, RYT200, is a certified Hatha yoga teacher and a graduate of the Mama Nirvana's Teacher Training Program. She also holds a women's studies degree and Master's Degree in Education. She is an elementary teacher. Carolyn loves teaching yoga to adults and coaches her students to breathe, relax and enjoy the yoga practice. |
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Emily Silverman, RYT200, is a certified Hatha yoga teacher and a 2007 graduate of the Mama Nirvana's Teacher Training Program. She is especially interested in exploring meditation and yoga with beginning students. Her dog, Mickey, is a certified therapy dog. Emily loves her work at the UMass Amherst Library, travel, and spending time outdoors. |
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Katherine Tancredi, RYT200, is a certified Hatha yoga teacher and graduate of Mama Nirvana's Teacher Training. Her classes create support for students to cultivate ease of movement. Her approach emphasizes mind-body awareness, proper breathing technique and muscular release. Her background includes degrees in art and film studies. She is committed to sharing her love for the grace, strength and relief from stress available to everyone through the practice of yoga. |
Tuition & Fees
Visa and MasterCard are accepted. Checks can be made out to Mama Nirvana.
Gift certificates available (purchase online).
- Drop-ins: $14 (no card needed).
- One-on-One Yoga, Weight training or Nutritional Counseling: $55 for 75 min.
Numbered Class Cards:
| Type | total | per class | renewal* | per class |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 classes (Good for 2 months) | $72 | $12 | $67 | $11.16 |
| 12 classes (Good for 3 months) | $132 | $11 | $122 | $10.16 |
| 24 classes (Good for 3 months) | $240 | $10 | $225 | $9.3 |
Unlimited Passes:
| Type | total | per month | renewal* | per month | good at both studios |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 month unlimited pass | $95 | $95 | $85 | $85 | no |
| monthly subscription unlimited | $85 | $85 | n/a | n/a | yes |
| 3 month unlimited | $255 | $85 | $240 | $80 | yes |
| 6 month unlimited | $480 | $80 | $460 | $76.6 | yes |
| 12 month unlimited | $900 | $75 | $875 | $72.9 | yes |
* renewal rate on current cards subject to restrictions
Class Card Extension Policies
- If you are unable to complete your class card due to traveling overnight outside the region the extension is free for exact number of days of travel.
- If you are unable to your complete class card due to illness or injury the extension is free for the exact number of days affected.
- If you are unable to complete your class card due to any other reason there is a $2 fee per unused class to extend the expiration date for one month. All unused classes must be extended in one payment. Extension must be paid for before the card expires.
- Class cards are non-transferable.
- You must notify us promptly of any illness or travel in order to get a free extension. You can do so by phone, email or in person at the studio.
- We cannot re-instate a card that has passed its expiration date.
- Our class cards are among the most economical of any local studio and our policies are among the most lenient. We hope you will take advantage of our offerings and purchase a class card.
Questions? (413) 527-7705 or info@mamanirvana.com.
FAQ
What do I wear?
Comfortable stretchy clothes. T-shirt, sweatshirt, leggings with shorts or sweatpants.
What do you provide?
We provide sticky mats, all the necessary props, bottled water, and a place to change and hang clothes.