YOGASHINE
Vitalah Simon
Vitalah
Simon, M.Ed., RYT-500, BC-DMT, LCAT
Westchester
County, NY
Est.
1989
914-769-8745
• YogaShine.com
How would you describe your studio or practice (what’s the vibe)? We are a warm and welcoming community. Since 1989, I have been offering small, multi-level classes, tailored to each person’s concerns and limitations. My specialty is offering yoga to people with special needs, such as normal wear and tear, post-surgery/injury recovery, structural problems, autism and ADHD. In addition, I offer Yoga/Movement Psychotherapy, which allows people to experience their life challenges in an embodied way. I have been gifted with the ability to attune to people and to facilitate the creation of new possibilities for balance and care.
What types of yoga classes do you offer? Our classes are based in the Kripalu Yoga tradition with a strong influence of Viniyoga and Mettler work. The word Kripalu means “compassion”, treating ourselves and others with gentleness and respect. Viniyoga emphasizes a clear, conscious use of the breath with simple movements, deepening the connection to one’s core. Mettler work heightens and integrates the felt sense of the whole body. There are mat and chair classes, for all ages and abilities.
How has the practice of yoga changed your life, personally? Practicing yoga since 1968, yoga has and continues to carry me on a deep healing journey. I share it with others so we can all have personal tools for self-care, healing and increasing freedom.
What inspired you to open a yoga studio? After living in the Kripalu ashram from1988-1989, I received spiritual guidance to start teaching yoga. The next day, I met someone who was in need of a yoga teacher in the Kripalu tradition, and the next week, I started teaching in her home.
How have things changed over the years? Our classes have gotten simpler over the years and more focused on the depth of one’s experience rather than the intricacies of complex physical challenges.
Do you offer online/virtual classes? Yes, and teaching this way has been successfully meeting the needs of my students for the past few years. Students receive ample attention and specific adjustments, and people are attending from all over the world! I offer a free 10-minute introductory Zoom session to help new students set up their virtual yoga space, too. In-person classes are established as the need arises.
What is new and exciting happening/coming up at the studio this year? I will be expanding my availability for sessions with private adults and with individual kids and their parent or caregiver. We will explore how yoga/movement therapy can enhance people’s lives and relationships.
