Anusara-InspiredTM Yoga

"The uplifting way we practice in the Anusara style resonates most closely with my own approach, which is light-hearted and devotional." -Debi

Debi Hawkins-McLendon, E-RYT®, is a Yoga Alliance Experienced-Registered Yoga Teacher and earned the Anusara-Inspired Yoga Teacher designation in 2006. To see Debi's current class schedule, visit the Schedule page. To schedule a private session, please contact Debi.

Anusara (a-nu-sar-a) is a sanskrit word meaning "flowing with Grace," "going with the flow," "following your heart."

Founded by John Friend in 1997, Anusara Yoga® is a powerful hatha yoga system that unifies a Tantric philosophy of intrinsic goodness with Universal Principles of AlignmentTM. The Anusara yoga method is designed to serve students of any level of experience or ability, from children to seniors, and students with special therapeutic needs to advanced practitioners.

Anusara yoga teachers are committed to helping build and empower each student's self-esteem, while inspiring light-heartedness, playfulness, and joyful creativity within the yoga practice.

Each class has a heart-oriented theme which has a meaningful connection to the grand spiritual purposes of the asana practice.

An elegant, concise set of alignment principles, called the "Universal Principles of Alignment", is applied to each asana.

Poses are modified or supported with props if necessary to help each student achieve the general form of pose.

Ultimately, we want each student to leave an Anusara yoga class feeling better about him or herself, empowered by the revelation of his or her Divine nature.

- From the Anusara Yoga Website®

Class Descriptions

Private Sessions


Private sessions can enhance the yoga student's practice, with one-on-one attention that is not always possible in a group class. Debi offers private sessions for beginners as well as more seasoned practicioners.


Yoga Basics


A slower-paced class, excellent for newcomers or for anyone who wishes to review the fundamentals. We introduce basic postures, breathing exercises and relaxation techniques, and the Anusara Yoga Universal Principles of Alignment. Yoga Basics provides a solid foundation, a starting point for further yogic exploration.


Beginner/Mixed or All Levels


This class is between a basic and mixed level class. We focus on a full range of postures with an emphasis on introducing and refining our understanding of the Universal Principles of Alignment. We accommodate beginners by offering modifications and through the use of props. Students who have an established practice are encouraged to explore more deeply.


Mixed Level Yoga


A more energetic, full spectrum class open to students at all levels (some previous yoga experience is recommended). In this class we introduce more advanced postures, breathing exercises and meditation techniques and deepen our understanding of yoga. All students are encouraged to move at their own pace and to honor their unique gifts.


Slow Flow


This faster-paced class combines a vinyasa practice with healthy alignment. We seek balance between the fludity of movement and the steadiness of holding poses, always maintaining mindful awareness of the breath. A foundational yoga practice is preferred, but not required, before beginning a vinyasa practice. This is not Ashtanga Vinyasa.


Specialty Classes

Therapeutic Sessions


If you have an injury or suffer from chronic pain, Debi will work with you to bring your body back to its optimal alignment. She has extensive training in the therapeutic application of Anusara-Inspired yoga and also incorporates restorative yoga, ball release therapy and Thai yoga therapy.


Restorative Yoga


Restorative yoga is a quiet, gentle practice utilizing yoga props (bolsters, blankets, straps and blocks) to fully support the body as we hold poses for longer periods. Our focus is on relaxing the body and quieting the mind in order to recharge the energy. Debi offers 2 hour restorative workshops periodically and can schedule a one-on-one session for a more personalized routine.


Yoga Nidra


This form of guided meditation, practiced in savasana, induces a deep state of relaxation while maintaining awareness. From this place of rest, we begin a journey of self-inquiry which ultimately leads to a more fulfilled life, living in harmony with what is. Debi's 2 - 3 hour workshops incorporate asana and pranayama followed by yoga nidra.


Prenatal Yoga


The journey into motherhood is a time of great change - physical, mental, emotional and spiritual. We come together in prenatal yoga to share knowledge and support and to have fun. We practice yoga postures, breathing exercises and deep relaxation techniques with a focus on the specific needs of the pregnant woman. Debi can assist you in making accommodatiions for your growing child in any of her classes.


Postnatal Yoga


This is a class where mothers take time for themselves. Our focus is to draw back in and strengthen over-stretched core muscles and to open up over-tight shoulders. We also take some time in each class to seek advice and share tips and tricks before an extended relaxation period.