Forrest Yoga

Forrest Yoga was developed by Ana Forrest, who created the practice from her own healing journey through physical and emotional trauma. The style is known for its intensity, deep abdominal work, emotional focus, and therapeutic intention.

Core Pillars

Forrest Yoga is built on four pillars:

1. Breath: Long, deep, full breaths used as both physical tool and emotional release mechanism
2. Strength: Development of deep core strength (particularly the abdominals) as the foundation for all movement
3. Integrity: Honest attention to what the body needs, not forcing past its limits
4. Spirit: Addressing the spirit and healing emotional wounds through practice

What Makes It Distinctive

Forrest classes are immediately distinguishable:

• Long holds: Poses are held for extended periods (5-20 breaths) to work deeply into muscles and connective tissue
• Intense abdominal work: Most classes include demanding core sequences
• Emotional emphasis: Teachers actively acknowledge and hold space for emotional responses that arise during practice
• Therapeutic focus: Many sequences target specific physical problem areas (shoulders, hips, lower back)

Who It Serves

Forrest Yoga attracts practitioners dealing with physical injury, chronic pain, emotional trauma, or those seeking more depth than a standard vinyasa class provides. The practice's therapeutic emphasis makes it appealing for those using yoga as part of a healing journey.

A supportive, cushioned mat (5-6mm) helps with the extended floor holds and deep abdominal work central to the practice.