discover yoga at the ayurvedic wellness center: gentle yoga

At the Ayurvedic Wellness Center, we are passionate about the sciences of “capital Y” Yoga and Ayurveda and how the two can be combined to create a holistic approach to well-being. Located in the heart of Kalamazoo, MI, our center offers a sanctuary where you can reconnect with your inner balance, find peace, and cultivate physical and mental well-being. Our holistic approach focuses on Ayurveda's time-honored wisdom, offering personalized therapies and wellness consultations that address the whole person—mind, body, and spirit.

One of the gems of our offerings is our Yoga asana classes, designed to align with the Ayurvedic principles of balance, healing, and integration. We invite you to experience our Gentle Yoga classes, led by the wonderful Judah Gesmundo, a seasoned instructor who brings decades of experience in movement, meditation, and mindful living.

meet our teacher: Judah Gesmundo

Judah Gesmundo is a life-long learner with a passion for sharing her love of Yoga, movement, and meditation with others. Her journey with Yoga began in her early childhood when her mother followed "Lilias! Yoga and You" on PBS. Her dedication to movement continued as she became a professional modern dancer, performing and teaching in New York City from 1975 to 1980, including her work at Erick Hawkins' studio and her own school, The Dance Place.

Judah’s deep connection with Yoga flourished in 1979, leading her to complete her Hatha Yoga teacher training in Ganeshpuri, India, in 1990. Since then, Judah has been dedicated to sharing her knowledge and guiding students in building flexibility, strength, calmness, and inner awareness through Yoga.

what is gentle yoga?

Gentle Yoga offers a nurturing practice designed to help you cultivate flexibility, balance, strength, and mental tranquility. This style of Yoga is accessible to all levels and incorporates:

Gentle opening postures: These movements help lubricate your joints, from your toes to your head.
Active sequences: Designed to build strength, balance, and Prana (life force energy).
Inwardly directed awareness: Techniques that cultivate mindfulness and attunement between the body and mind.

Breathing techniques are integral to Gentle Yoga, helping calm the nervous system, strengthen focus, and develop meditative awareness. Judah’s Gentle Yoga classes emphasize the breath-body connection, guiding you through sequences that leave you feeling peaceful and grounded.

who is gentle yoga for?

Gentle Yoga is perfect for anyone looking to:

Increase flexibility, strength, and balance
Receive individualized teaching and attention
Foster a greater connection between the mind and body
Experience a more peaceful start to their day
Explore Yoga beyond just the poses

Whether you're a beginner or have an established practice, Gentle Yoga offers a personalized approach, meeting each student where they are.

what to expect in class

Judah’s Gentle Yoga sessions are thoughtfully curated to integrate physical movement with mindful awareness. Each class typically begins with an inspiring reflection—be it a quote, sutra, or planetary transit reference—that sets an energetic theme for the session.

The class gradually builds from slow, lubricating movements designed to warm and release tension in the hips, spine, and joints. As you progress through gentle floor postures and standing sequences, you'll find a beautiful blend of balance, rhythm, and breath-led movement. Whether it's variations of Surya Namaskar (Sun Salutation) or strength-building Warrior poses, each sequence is taught with care and consideration for individual body structures and abilities.

To conclude, Judah leads her students through a quieting and centering sequence, ending with a deep, restful Shavasana and guided sitting meditation.

benefits of gentle yoga

Deepen your connection to your body, mind, and spirit
Incorporate meditative awareness into your Yoga practice
Build sequences you can apply to your at-home practice
Increase awareness of your breath and its intricate connection to movement
Develop a deeper understanding of individual poses and build on your unique strengths
Cultivate focus, balance, and stillness both on and off the mat

join us at the āyurvedic wellness center

Judah’s Gentle Yoga classes offer a welcoming space to nurture your body and mind. Whether you're seeking to start your Yoga journey or deepen your existing practice, these sessions will leave you feeling rejuvenated and empowered. View Judah’s class schedule and sign up. Your first class with us is free!

Come experience the holistic approach of the Ayurvedic Wellness Center, where every class and treatment is a step towards greater harmony, health, and well-being. We look forward to welcoming you to our community!