The team of Balance Yoga & Wellness is devoted to promoting natural healing methods though the ancient sciences and philosophies of Yoga and Ayurveda, in a method that is authentic and true, and based primarily on the teachings of the classical texts of yoga and ayurveda. We follow the Ashanga Yoga approach as detailed by Patanjali in the Yoga Sutras. When this method of yoga is practiced regularly with an attitude of sincerity, it becomes a path to personal fulfillment, allowing a full and deep understanding of the self and all levels of consciousness and a complete integration of the personality.

Although the goal of yoga is to find a deep inner connection and acceptance of the self, because our society is externally focused, the starting point for yoga in our studio is the physical body. We use the approach to asanas in the tradition of Sri K. Pattabhi Jois of the KPJ Yoga Institute in Mysore India. This system of yoga is characterized by an emphasis on the integration of the breath and the muscles of the core (bandhas), with the performance of each yoga posture. The postures are strung together like notes in a symphony which have less effect when performed individually, yet become powerful and transformational when done in a sequence. While performing the yoga postures a particular focus point or gaze (distil) is used, which helps to keep concentration and to direct the energy of the asana. Through the use of specific muscles of the pelvis and abdomen, there is an effect on the flow of energy on the body, helping to open up the body and increase flexibility while cleansing the internal organs deeply, and liberating areas of blocked energy. Through this physical practice, students gradually develop inner awareness, and a greater understanding of their environment, leading them to understand and practice the first two limbs of yoga, the Yamas and Niyamas.

For information on on the ongoing yoga schedule -->> Current Yoga Schedule

Pranayama, which is the control and extension of the breath and the fourth limb on the path of Ashtanga Yoga, is taught in the studio as described in the Hathayogapradpika and taught by Sri O.P. Tiwari, director of the of the Kaivalyadham Research Institute in Lonavla, India. Sri O.P. Tiwari. We offer periodic course in Pranayama, which as one practices, becomes equally if not more imporant the asana practice. Through the use of Pranayama we can reduce stress, control and balance the mental states, learn to relax the mind and body, and generally become a calmer person. For information on upcoming courses email jessica.

While practicng yoga it is important to keep the physical body healthy. Ayurveda, the sister science to Yoga, is a detailed, complete and scientific system whiich looks at each individual holistically and uses this holistic vision to determine a diet, lifestyle, yoga practice, sleeping habits, home and job environment that are appropriate for that person. We offer one-on-one consultations in Ayurveda as well as periodic workshops.

For more information on Ayurveda at Balance Yoga & Wellness -->> Details

After spending the last five years studying directly with great masters of healing modalities, and teaching in yoga in Thailand, Jessica Blanchard, the founder of Balance Yoga & Wellness, decided to return to New Orleans in October 2007. Balance Yoga & Wellness is located at 1138 S. Carrollton in a beautiful octagonal shaped studio, built specifically for the practice of yoga. All classes are taught at this location, as well as Ayurvedic Nutrition consultations with Jessica. She is the only Ayurvedic Practitioner as recognized by, the National Ayurvedic Medical Association, the organization which protects the Ayurvedic profession in the USA. Classes are available for all levels of practitioner. Contact Jessica at (504) 234 - 9165 with any questions or email jessica@balanceyogawellness.com