Celebrating its 25th anniversary, The Exercise Studio Fitness & Yoga Center is having an Open House. Classes are free for new students! Please register at least 3 days before event

The Exercise Studio Fitness & Yoga Center Open House
in Brooklyn, 2073 86th Street
Saturday, September 13 and Sunday, September 14, 11:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Saturday ...

11:30 a.m.
New! Plus Size Fitness
Beginner Yoga

12:30 p.m.
Stretch & Tone
New! Kids & Teens Yoga

1:30 p.m.
New! Kids & Teens Fitness
Vinyasa Yoga

2:30p.m.
Total Body Workout
Beginner Iron Yoga

Sunday ...

11:30 a.m.
Beginner Tai Chi
Beginner Yoga

12:30 p.m.
Total Body Workout
Iyengar Yoga

1:30 p.m.
Belly Dance (Beginner)
New! Plus Size Yoga

2:30 p.m.
Meditation & Reiki Healing Circle

This studio also is planning to start regularly scheduled Plus Size Yoga classes! If you or someone you know might be interested, please contact the studio.

Labels: in town workshops, misc yoga

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This is a two-part workshop but it is possible to register for the separate parts.
Ayurveda: An Ancient Prescription For Healthy Living and Balancing Vata: Understanding Air Imbalance In The Body
7:00 - 9:00 p.m. Thursdays, September 18 and 25, respectively
at Tibet House
with Scott Gerson, M.D., Ph.D.

Here's the description ... "Emphasizing roga nidaan (signs and symptoms) of Vata vikriti (Vata imbalance), Dr. Gerson will engage participants as both the patient and the doctor to interactively understand the symptoms and conditions caused by imbalances of Vata, including various digestive problems, anxiety and mental states, nervous conditions, hormonal changes, skin conditions, auto-immune diseases and metabolic effects, and what we can do to rebalance our system as we enter Vata season (Fall and Winter). Books, Ayurvedic massage oils, aroma oils, Ayurvedic teas, and select herbs will be available."

Labels: in town workshops

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Native American Sound Healing
Saturday, November 1, 9:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. and Sunday, November, 2, 9:30 - 5:00 p.m.
at New York Open Center
with R. Carlos Nakai

Here's the description ... "Although we have come to understand the effectiveness of many Eastern healing modalities, we have only recently begun to recognize that some of the most important systems of traditional healing have emerged from Native American cultures, including a powerful form of Sound Healing. This weekend, R. Carlos Nakai, one of the world’s leading authorities and performers on the Native American flute, and one of the premier teachers of Native American Sound Healing, will focus on Amerindian sacred, secular and social music and its impact on the healing process. Using discussion, participatory exercises, deep listening, song, movement, ritual and commentary, we will explore highly effective sound self-healing methods as well as techniques we can use with patients or clients to support their healing process."

Labels: in town workshops

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The Healing Power of the Human Voice
Friday, November 21, 7:00 – 10:00 p.m.
at New York Open Center
with James D'Angelo

Here's the description ... "Sound healing expert James D’Angelo will introduce us to the ancient practice of using the human voice to promote health and self-development. He will delve into the healing attributes of the whole range of human vocal expressions, from vowels and consonants to mantras, both traditional and self-created, and natural sounds such as laughter, and demonstrate the power of group voicework. In the process, there is a purification of the chakra energy centers. We will leave this evening having learned practical and powerful vocalizing techniques that will promote inner harmony and sound health."

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Annual Open House
at The Breathing Project
Wednesday, September 24, 12:30 - 9:1 5 p.m.

This will be a day of free classes and mini-workshops for yoga teachers, future yoga teachers, and students (first-come, first-served).

12:30 - 1:30 p.m. Lunchtime Yoga Flow with Melissa Elstein
2:00 - 3:00 p.m. Yoga Anatomy Talk with Leslie Kaminoff
3:15 - 4:15 p.m. ABC's clinic with Leslie Kaminoff
4:30 - 5:30 p.m. Embodied Anatomy with Amy Matthews
5:45 - 6:15 p.m. MELT Foot Class with Edya Kalev
6:30 - 7:45 p.m. Vajra Yoga with Jill Satterfield
8:00 - 9:15 p.m. Embodied Yoga with Judy Feldman

Note that, as always, people with specific needs should read class descriptions and contact instructors to verify that they can be accommodated.

Labels: in town workshops, misc yoga

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Music Rx: Journey of Exploration and Explanation
Saturday, October 4, 9:30 -5:30 p.m. and Sunday, October 5, 9:30 - 5:00 p.m.
at New York Open Center
with Arthur Harvey

Participants will learn about and experience diverse approaches to the therapeutic use of music and sound, and discuss how they affect us physiologically and psychologically. Through lecture, discussion, audio resources and experiential exercises, participants will gain an understanding of the various uses of sound and music therapy in healthcare, elucidating what distinguishes sound therapy from music therapy and music for health from music medicine. This is an experiential workshop in which students participate in adaptive and traditional music making with instrumental and vocal processes. Special emphasis will be devoted to Stress Management approaches with music and the use of music and sound to accelerate learning.

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Do-In Self Massage
Friday, October 17, 7:00 – 10:00 p.m.
at New York Open Center
with Masahiro Ouchi

"Do-In is a self-rejuvenation, healing technique that has been practiced in Asia for thousands of years. In this workshop we will learn the basics of this massage system that uses touch, tapping and subtle energy to move chi (vital force) to clear blockages and harmonize the body. We will learn how to rejuvenate our sense organs, glands, tendons and joints, and how to accumulate chi in our body’s center." No experience required.

Labels: in town workshops

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Here's another one of several from the new New York Open Center schedule.

Ayurvedic Self-Massage
Friday, September 26, 7:00 –10:00 p.m.
at New York Open Center
with Naina Marballi and Amita Banerjee

In the Ayurvedic medical tradition, the art of nurturing one’s body and mind with massage, herbs and essential oils to enhance one’s life-force is called abhyanga. Participants will learn: how we can use abhyanga for daily healing and rejuvenation; how to customize it according to our constitutional type; how to work with the chakras (energy centers), nadis (akin to meridian lines) and marma points (similar to acupuncture points); and how to chose the right aromatherapeutic oils and herbs.

Labels: in town workshops

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This workshop probably is of interest to a lot of people.

Self-Healing with Acupressure: Balancing Body, Mind & Spirit
at New York Open Center
Free Intro class, Wednesday, September 10, 6:00 p.m.
Wednesdays September 17 – October 22 (except 10/8), 6:00 – 7:30 p.m.
with William J. Kaplanidis

Participants will first receive a theoretical overview of Chinese medicine and its use of these channels and acupoints, and then learn acupressure techniques for specific points located on the head, torso and limbs, as well as the function and potential benefits of each point. We will also learn how to apply essential oils and other topical formulations to certain points to boost healing. We will discover how the techniques we learn can be used to help address a wide range of symptoms and ailments, including pain, digestive problems, nasal congestion, eye strain, headaches, PMS, anxiety and depression. No previous experience necessary.

Labels: in town workshops

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As promised, here are some ideas for the main conference sessions at Omega Institute's Being Yoga NYC 2008 Conference. Although there are several sessions for people with an interest in specific needs yoga, non-instructors with specific needs might find it challenging to attend the full conference due to the scheduling of the sessions. These are just some of the obvious ideas. There are many other sessions that might be of interest!

Friday, October 10, 8:45 - 9:30 p.m.
Keynote Speech: Yoga & Social Action with Russell Simmons and Seane Corn

Saturday, October 11, 7:00 - 8:30 a.m. Session 1

Greeting the Day in a Sacred Way: Morning Meditation
with Lilias Folan, general level

From Body to Mind & Mind to Body (yoga therapy topics) with Kelly McGonigal, general level

9:00 - 11:00 a.m. Session 2

Challenging Yourself to Be of Service: Choosing Compassionate Action Over Charity with Mark Lilly and Katie Arrants, general level

12:30 - 2:30 p.m. Session 3

Meditation on Light & Vibration with Swami Lalitananda, general level

3:00 - 5:00 p.m. Session 4

Essential Poses for Women's Health with Bobby Clennell, general level

Yoga for Healing Upper Back, Neck & Shoulders with Gary Kraftsow, general level

7:30 - 9:00 p.m. Evening Panel Being Yoga: The Changing Face of Yoga

9:00 - 11:00 a.m. Session 6

Awakening Yoga in Midlife with Lilias Folan, general level

The Front of the Back with Tias Little, intermediate level

Bridging From Yoga to Yoga Therapy: From Concept to Sustainable Career with Matthew Taylor, advanced/teacher level

Meditation Arising with Mark Whitwell, general level

1:00 - 3:00 p.m. Session 7

Yoga for Emotional Health: Focus on Anxiety & Depression with Gary Kraftsow, general level

Shamatha: Calm Abiding (meditation) with Cyndi Lee, general level

Portable, Compact, Real & Immediate: How to Teach Yoga to Anyone, Anywhere with Mark Lilly, general level

Labels: in town workshops, misc yoga

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One of the Being Yoga Conference's Full-Day Post-Conference Intensives might be of interest:

Viniyoga for Emotional Health
Monday, October 13
with Gary Kraftsow

Participants will explore the complex interaction between thought, emotion, and physiology, and learn the yoga practices that can be used to nourish our emotional health and restore equilibrium, including asana, pranayama, chanting, and meditation. CE credit available.

Labels: in town workshops

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One of the Being Yoga Conference's Full-Day Pre-Conference Intensives might be of interest to specific needs yoga instructors:

From Body to Mind & Mind to Body: The Tools of Yoga Therapy
Friday, October 10
with Matthew Taylor and Kelly McGonigal

Through asana, pranayama, meditation, and mudra practices, as well as other yoga therapy skills whose healing properties are supported by both traditional yoga philosophy and modern scientific evidence, we learn how to create healing yoga practices for ourself and our students. Presented by the International Association of Yoga Therapists. CE credit available.

Labels: in town workshops

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Omega Institute's Being Yoga NYC 2008 Conference will take place October 10 - 13, with full-day pre- and post-conference intensive workshops the 10th and 13th. Many well-known names will be presenting/teaching. There's a discount for registration prior to August 15th, so I'll be posting some of the options in the next few blog posts.

Labels: in town workshops, misc yoga

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Anatomy Studies for Yoga Teachers offers courses in NYC. A&P I and II will be offered in intensive weekend format, Saturdays and Sundays 1:00 -6:30 p.m. (one weekend per month) , or afternoon format, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 2:30 - 5:00 p.m. Classes start in September.

Labels: in town workshops, misc yoga

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Self Massage for Relaxation (for Seniors)
at DOROT
Friday, August 15, 11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
with Alix Keast

This workshop will explore stress relief from a Chinese Medical perspective and will include self-massage on acupressure points to help improve the flow of energy. Alix will show you simple ways that you can help yourself relax, to feel better and improve your energy.

Labels: in town workshops

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Tai Chi Easy™ and Qigong Classes
6:15 - 7:45 p.m Mondays
at Elizabeth Seton Women's Center
with Melissa Elstein

Tai Chi Easy™ and Qigong is a simplified, yet healing and meditative, version of Tai Chi created by Roger Jahnke, OMD in order to make Tai Chi and Qigong accessible to everyone. The five flowing sequences can be practiced seated, standing, or walking, and aim to increase balance and coordination, as well as a peaceful state of mind in order to promote inner healing. Simple Qigong self-healing techniques, such as self-massage, breath work, gentle repetitive movement, laughing exercises, spontaneous Qigong, and meditation may also be employed in the class. (See www.taichieasy.org for more information.) Pre-registration is required. Note that a class for Gilda's Club members also is offered there, every other Tuesday.

Labels: in town workshops

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I had a suggestion to include more of the yoga workshops for creative types in the blog, so ...

The Journey from the Center to the Page: Yoga and Creative Writing Workshop
Saturday, September 6, 2:00 – 4:30 p.m.
at East West Yoga
with Jeff Davis

Jeff Davis' "Journey from the Center to the Page" was the first book to show how yoga can help create better writing. There will be a booksigning for the new,' revised and expanded edition the night before the workshop. The book discusses ways to: harness and more fully explore your creative faculties; immerse yourself in your writing process; hone your craft; develop discipline; write with an authentic voice; craft convincing stories, dialogue and characters; write with more imagery, detail, metaphor and rhythm; convert fear and anger into powerful stories and satire. The author's website, where a free (with postage) introductory CD is available, is www.centertopage.com.

Labels: in town workshops

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Here's another healing-related workshop.

Shamanic Techniques for Healing and Transformation
Saturday, September 27, 5:30 – 8:30 p.m.
at East West Yoga
with Mary Anne Flanagan

The world of the shaman is one of connection to all things - oneself, spirit, nature and each other. Participants will learn basic shamanic techniques to access personal power and receive insight and spirit guidance on life experiences and transitions. Participants will: work with the elements and the shamanic breath; discuss the three worlds of the shaman; explore our deep sensual energy and power; learn to perform a power animal retrieval ceremony; explore the healing aspects of shamanism; explore the directions of the medicine wheel for personal healing, and drum, rattle, whistle and celebrate.

Labels: in town workshops

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Here's another healing-related workshop that might be of interest ...

The Healing Power of Breath
Tuesdays for 4 weeks, July 29–August 19, 6:00 – 7:30 p.m.
at New York Open Center
with David Alkalay

The workshop is described, "... learn about the physiology of breath and the benefits of breathing practices ... learn time-tested, powerful techniques from yogic, Chinese and Kabbalistic traditions that use breath to reduce stress, enhance immune function, manage mood and pain, and harmonize the body, mind and spirit."

Labels: in town workshops

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This is an interesting healing-related event coming up locally in September.

Sacred Sound and Inspirational Sound Healing Circle
Friday, September 12, 7:30 – 9:30 p.m.
at East West Yoga
with Barry Goldstein (BarryGoldsteinMusic.com)

They describe it as, "Take a beautiful musical journey with Barry as he assists you in clearing blocks using sacred sound, guided visualization and inspirational songs. Experience the healing aspects of music and sound and embrace your own healing gifts in a safe and heart opening space. Music is a universal language that is created and received in our hearts. It goes beyond explanation and has the power to assist in reactivating a remembrance of whom we truly are! It's time to remember!"

Labels: in town workshops

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Yoga For The Special Child Training is a comprehensive, seven-day training course for a program of Yoga therapy for children with special needs (e.g. children with Down Syndrome, cerebral palsy, ADD/ADHD or other learning disabilities). It is designed for parents, educators, health professionals, and Yoga teachers. Using hands-on and video instruction, participants will be guided through each stage of the special child's development. Participants will learn how to evaluate infants and children, how to create the optimum home environment and how to work with specific syndromes and disorders.

Yoga For The Special Child - Basic
with Sonia Sumar
NY Integral Yoga Institute
July 13 - 19
(Wait list only.)

Yoga For The Special Child - Basic
with Sonia Sumar
NY Integral Yoga Institute
July 20 - 26
(Wait list only.)

Yoga For The Special Child - Advanced 1
with Sonia Sumar
NY Integral Yoga Institute
August 18 - 23

Several other workshops in U.S. and international locations are scheduled. Visit the Yoga for the Special Child web site for more information.

Labels: in town workshops, out of town workshops

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Following on the heels of the previously blogged SCOJO Foundation fundraiser, East West Yoga is hosting Discovering Ganesh Thursday, June 26 from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. This is a fundraiser for SCOJO Foundation, which not only provides glasses to the poor who need them to thrive, but trains and empowers Indians to become eye care providers to their countrymen and women. Come to the party for free, donate what you can, and make a difference. The event is described as "a night of prizes, music, food, giving, and art ... a reverent party where every dollar you give goes to the cause." There will be great raffle prizes, music by Falu, h'ors d'ouevres by Amma Indian Restaurant, and more. An R.S.V.P. is requested.

Labels: for a good cause, in town workshops

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just so you can't say I didn't tell you about a newsworthy event ...

Solstice In Times Square will be a free yoga event in Times Square Saturday, June 21. Admission is free but pre-registration is expected and a waiver must be agreed to. Click here for more information.

Note: The Times Square yoga events will not be geared toward students with specific needs or adaptive other than by personal adjustment. Please make sure the event's activities are suited to your needs.

Labels: in town workshops, misc yoga

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A few breath-related workshops ....

The Yoga of Breath: Pranayama for Beginners
with Jyothi K. Wanatabe
2:00 - 4:00 p.m. Saturday, June 14
or 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. Thursday, August 7

Learn the fundamentals of common yogic breathing (pranayama ) techniques. "You'll find the practices comfortable and joyful, and you'll learn to use the prana (vital energy) for healing, cleansing, and strengthening."

~~~

The Path of the Breath: Enhance Your Asana Practice and Your Life
with Carla Dharani Ardito
6:30 - 9:00 p.m. Thursday, July 17

Learn about respiration and the anatomy underlying yogic breathing, including how the positioning and movement of the spine affect the breathing apparatus. Explore the breath in various asanas as well as in deep relaxation.

~~~

How the Body Breathes
with Roger Cole, Ph.D.
a Yoga Spirit telecast
9:00 p.m. Wednesday, July 9

Learn the anatomical mechanics of breathing. Manually locate many of the relevant muscles, bones, cartilages, etc. on your body, feel how they work, and use them to modify your breath. The class will not advocate a breathing method, but it will include instructions on how to keep your practice safe and comfortable, how to deepen your practice, and how to explore breath-based techniques.

Labels: in town workshops, misc yoga

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Is falling asleep and staying asleep a challenge?

Mindfulness Techniques for Better Sleep
Thursday, June 26, 7:00 - 9:00 p.m.
with Bernice Todres
at The JCC in Manhattan

Learn mindfulness techniques to help you find restful nights.

Labels: in town workshops

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NOTE: since this post originated, additional offerings were located! Therefore, it has been re-posted with new information!

At least four different schools offer training in Thai Yoga massage / therapy / bodywork in NYC. Classes vary from introductions for individual knowledge and practice through to extended certification training for individuals desiring to start or augment careers. Two of the schools have selected the same summer weekend to offer workshops in NYC! It seems the best approach for those desiring to learn more is to explore what the three schools practice and offer. The schools and upcoming workshops are introduced briefly below. Note that, although Thai Yoga might be beneficial to people with specific needs, these classes and trainings are not necessarily adaptive; please verify that the experience will be appropriate for you.

~~~~~

The Manhattan-based Thai-Sustenance Traditional Thai Yoga Massage Training Program offers a level-1 program suitable for beginners and those with previous bodywork experience in 10-week and 2-weekend formats with Antoinette Maclachlan. On completion, students will be able to give a 1-1/2 hour full body Thai Yoga Massage. Similar level-2 training and advanced training are available. A portion of the course fee will go to a good cause.

Visit the site for more information.

~~~~~

The Lotus Palm School of Thai Yoga Massage regularly offers workshops with local instructor Jyothi K. Wanatabe.

Upcoming NYC-area workshops include:

• Thai Yoga Massage Three Day Intensive, June 6 - 8, 2008 at OM Yoga Center with Jyothi K. Wanatabe. Participants will learn the theory and practice of a basic full body, 60-minute, Thai Yoga massage with a practical and hands on approach.
• Introduction to Thai Yoga Massage at Integral Yoga Institute 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m Saturday, June 14 or 2:00 - 5:00 p.m. Saturday, August 9 with Jyothi K. Wanatabe. Participants will learn to give a 20-minute massage.
• Certification requires level 1 and level 2 training, which will be offered at both locations later in the summer and fall.
• Click here for the Lotus Palm School's international class schedule.

~~~~~

deonThai Yoga Therapy is offering workshops at Exhale Spa. Bring a partner or come alone to pair up with a new friend. There are no pre-requisites and no prior Yoga or Massage experience is necessary. The weekend workshop often is the first step towards becoming a professional practitioner.

Upcoming NYC-area workshops include:

• Thai Yoga Therapy – Guided Partner Class at Exhale Spa Upper East Side 7:00 -9:00 p.m. Friday June 6, 2008 with Deon De Wet. Workshop participants will learn the essentials of giving and receiving a basic sequence of Thai Yoga Therapy.
• Thai Yoga Therapy – Guided Partner Class & Immersion Training, June 6 - 8, 2008 at Exhale Spa Upper East Side with Deon De Wet. The weekend workshop starts with the Friday evening class and continues with more instruction and practice. Participants will learn to practice the basic treatment session at home (at first with the aid of a guidebook).
• deaonThai also offers certification training. Click here for the full deonThai training calendar.

~~~~~

Shantaya Yoga & Bodywork School founder Jonas Westring recently offered a full-day workshop as well as level 1 training at the NY Open Center; level 2 training will occur later this summer. He will return to NYC in 2009 for more workshops. Click here for the international schedule.

Labels: in town workshops

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Please join Dr. Karen Moody, a pediatric hematology/oncology doctor at Montefiore Hospital for a discussion on the clinical effects of cancer (how it presents in people) and other medical issues. Dr. Moody will also touch on side effects of treatment and palliative care issues. The goal of this discussion is to give the yogi a better medical understanding. In this talk we will not be touching on yoga techniques but we certainly encourage that discussion and if there is an interest we can facilitate another forum where those caring for people living with cancer and giving palliative care can come together to share ideas etc.

Dr. Moody, also an acupuncturist and yogi, recently opened a program at the Children's Hospital called IMPACT (Integrative Medicine and Palliative Care Team). IMPACT offers yoga, massage, acupuncture and nutrition/holistic health counseling for patients and their families. Services are also available to hospital staff for a nominal fee.

We are asking that anyone who is registering, email Bess Abrahams, the IMPACT Yoga teacher, at beabraha@montefiore.org or call 917 716 5077 and let her know what type of cancer is involved, the age of the student and any other particulars that might be important (location of tumor, age, stage, etc...), so that Dr. Moody can make sure to discuss that particular type of cancer. Obviously, we will keep all student/patient information on a first name basis only. There will be a $20.00 fee for this workshop although no one will be turned away for inability to pay.

This talk will be hosted at a yoga center devoted to yoga therapy run by Alison West and Deborah Wolk.

WHERE: The Yoga Union Center for Backcare & Scoliosis
32 West 28th Street
(between 6th Avenue and Broadway)
4th floor
WHEN: May 20th
TIME: 12:00-1:30pm
RSVP: beabraha@montefiore.org or 917 716 5077

Labels: in town workshops

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Sankalpah Yoga holds community classes to benefit a different charity each month! For May, 2008, in an effort to raise money for a local Habitat for Humanity project, they will be holding:

• $8 Community Classes 2:00-3:15 p.m. 16, 17, 18. The classes will be taught by all of the teachers of Sankalpah Yoga as an offering of their teaching skills to the community.
• A workshop with Jude & Isaac 2:00 - 4:00 p.m. Saturday, May 31, minimum donation $25.

Jude, Isaac, and the Sankalpah Yoga Teachers are happy to volunteer their teaching & time to support a worthy cause. If you cannot attend the community classes or workshop, feel free to give a donation to the front desk. Please visit the Sankalpah Yoga web site or contact them for more information.

Note for specific needs students: These classes are in this studio's tradition. If you would like to attend, please visit the site and contact them to make sure you can be accommodated.

Labels: for a good cause, in town workshops

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Any experience level is welcome to this monthly class, with different theme each time. Learn to use your digital camera to dynamically express your experiences. Discuss your favorite photos in class as you discover how to create art, uniquely from your soul. Learn about a variety of styles and techniques.

At the end of 6 months, whether you've attended once or every class, your best photo will be shown at an auction-soiree, with proceeds going to benefit inner city art programs!

Classes are limited to twenty participants. Your photo mission for the month will be emailed to you when you register by calling 212.243.5995 or online.

Labels: for a good cause, in town workshops

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A Yoga Introduction to the Chakras
at East West Yoga with Julia Hough
Saturday, May 10, 2008, 2:00 - 4:00 p.m.

Attuning the seven chakras—or energy centers within the body—brings a sense of calm and wellbeing. Each chakra correlates with a section of the body, and each has emotional and physical connotations. For example, the first chakra has to do with survival and a sense of safety.

Workshop participants will do gentle yoga postures to stimulate the chakras and become acquainted with the sounds and colors associated with them. The class will end with a guided visualization through the chakras, leaving you in a relaxed and vibrant state.

Labels: in town workshops

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