Perfect Balance

About This Class

This expansive flow class with Michelle Goldstein opens in child's pose and builds methodically through sun-salutation-style vinyasas, runners' lunges, crescent pose, Warrior One, Warrior Two, Warrior Three, triangle, side angle, half moon, and eagle pose — returning repeatedly to downward dog and plank as a home base. Core integration is a central theme: cross-knee-to-elbow movements in plank, leg-lift variations on the back with eagle legs, and bridge/wheel all serve to strengthen the center while lengthening the spine. Balance poses (tree, half moon, eagle) are introduced progressively and framed as opportunities for equanimity and self-compassion rather than performance. The floor sequence includes supine core work, bridge and optional wheel, happy baby, wide-straddle forward fold (Upavistha Konasana), Baddha Konasana, pigeon or reclined figure-four, seated forward fold, shoulder stand/plow with a fish-pose counter stretch, and Savasana. Throughout, Michelle weaves philosophy around breath as meditation, the interdependence of strength and softness, caring for the body as one's home, and cultivating inner peace. Props and modifications are regularly offered. The pace is vigorous but interrupted by longer philosophical holds and floor recovery, making it both physically demanding and deeply introspective.