yoga pioneer

You are the Light of the World: Taking your Pain into Promise

noreply@blogger.com (Kalavati) — Thu, 24 Dec 2009 16:11:00 +0000

It's been a while yogi/ni's life has intervened in my blogging efforts up to this point. I wanted to share the writings of wonderful writer/life coach who has lived her dream, Tama Kieves @ www.AwakeningArtistry.com she was a lawyer, Harvard Law grad, but unhappy. She left it behind to follow her true dreams. This is part one, part two I'll put up after Christmas. Namaste. Happy Holidays!

You are the Light of the World:
Taking your Pain into Promise
©Copyright 2009 Tama J. Kieves. All rights reserved.

The wisdom tradition of A Course in Miracles teaches us, "I am the light of the world. That is my only function. That is why I am here." When I first read that line part of me stood at attention as though its true name had been called through a fog and cobweb of centuries. The other part of me felt screwed.
At the time, I looked around at my life of half-written manifestos, unused yoga videos, and abrupt tectonic shifts of doubt and fear, and thought humanity could definitely benefit from a more reliable guide. But I have come to see that limitation is spirit calling my name. Limitation puts pins in my sofa and lumps in my pillow so that I do not fall asleep in my life. Limitation calls me to seek for strength, focus, achievement, and liberating powers I did not know I had. And, in the end, limitation gifts me with a one-of-a-kind credential in this world. It's because as I come to experience freedom in the midst of defeated circumstances, I become a hope and light to others.
We, who are questioning our lives and our abilities, are the light of the world. We will be a beacon of comfort, hope and direction to those who need us. We are in the soup, but it is healing broth. We are the ones who are learning to find joy and full expression in the midst of bruised conditions. Every spiritual tradition teaches us that freedom is not being liberated once the job comes through, the check comes in or the skinny jeans fit. Freedom is learning how to be at peace no matter what, no matter when.
Our world is changing. The old ways are falling apart. Some talk about being in a revolutionary evolution of consciousness. We are the ones. We are the ones who are discovering our sacred resources and responses and bringing them to the table. We are the ones who write poems or sing praises to the divine, even as the stock market crumbles. Our dark days and stumbles are our training grounds. We are learning how to recognize a magnitude that is never threatened or taken away. We are discovering the river of faith in the dryness of our desert. We are the ones. We may not get it right every single day or even for weeks on end, but we are the ones...(Part 2 After Christmas)

©Copyright 2009 Tama J. Kieves. All rights reserved.
www.AwakeningArtistry.com
Want to discuss this or any other aspect of living your dreams? Please visit our free discussion forum at: http://www.awakeningartistry.com/resources.discussion.html

Take rest; a field that has rested gives a bountiful crop. Ovid
Kalavati (Viv Williams) send e-mail
Shiatsu massage/yoga/transition mentoring

Open House Holistic Sampler

noreply@blogger.com (Kalavati) — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 01:00:00 +0000

OK what have I been up to I have not updated YP yet! Geesh: ok come to this event, treat yourself. Oh an the vegan chocolates are soooo good, they dont' taste vegan.

This Saturday Nov. 14^th 12:30-2:00 pm, myself and Bridget Kruzik will be hosting a

Holistic Open House

in Shelburne Falls

Experience mini-samplers of Angelic Reiki, Shiatsu…

Tea and raw vegan chocolate treats will be served!

Take rest; a field that has rested gives a bountiful crop. Ovid

Where: 12 Main Street. 2^nd Floor

(Behind Greenfield Savings Bank)

Reserve a space to get a mini treatment

by email to Kalavati @ yoginikalavati@gmail.com or

call Bridget @ 413.774.5280.

Or drop in to pick up a brochure and meet us!

Take rest; a field that has rested gives a bountiful crop. Ovid
Kalavati (Viv Williams) send e-mail
Shiatsu massage/yoga/transition mentoring

Media Mention of My Work-Transition Mentoring & Massage Therapy

noreply@blogger.com (Kalavati) — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 09:59:00 +0000

I'm psyched to be a part of an article in the Mt. Holyoke Alumnae Quarterly. It discusses various alums of the college and in my case talks about my Transition Mentoring and Massage Therapy practice. It's entitled, see below for article:

Take rest; a field that has rested gives a bountiful crop. Ovid
Kalavati (Viv Williams) send e-mail
Shiatsu massage/yoga/transition mentoring

My take on an article: THE HUMAN BODY IS BUILT FOR DISTANCE

noreply@blogger.com (Kalavati) — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 15:47:00 +0000

The Human Body Is Built for Distance

By TARA PARKER-POPE

Published: October 27, 2009

Does running a marathon push the body further than it is meant to go?

BASIC FOOTWEAR Arnulfo Quimare, a Tarahumara Indian who is a champion distance runner, laces up his sandals for a 50-mile race on canyon trails.

Ok this tag line is misleading really this is about what we have done to make something "natural," running into an "industry" with correct and incorrect way to do it. Much of that judgement hinging on $ spent! Check out the article then read my letter of comment below, in response sent to NY Times. This got me because the findings confirmed my own experience, so I was psyched. In fact as I state below, I've wanted to run more in my regular shoes but felt goofy like folks are gonna wonder about that girl!
Can this apply to our Yoga too? What judgement about "correct" yoga is hanging over you and perhaps keeping you from getting all you can from this wonderful practice-Yoga with a big Y?

Ok first I am not a “runner.” I tried running got the shoes and started having injuries, while in college. Recently at 46 I’ve been drawn to go for walks, wearing flat thin soled shoes. I then felt ok let’s run a bit and do. But frankly felt stupid running without “running shoes,” which I cannot afford. Yet it’s amazing! Intuitively I knew this- physically I felt better running in this flat “ordinary” shoes, I can feel the ground-what a concept!!! Rather like a whole grain bread vs. denatured white. Or a sunset vs. a video game. Or an olive oil vs…..on and on. And secondly also will just switch to a walk when I get tired (that made sense too) but also felt like “a real runner just runs!”
Again nature (what did our ancestors do successfully,) what are we built for vs. commerce and what we are told is “scientific and advanced” a lot of it is bull. I remember a comment from someone on Kenyan runners and sort of in awe “oh they train barefoot.” sort of like how primitive and yet they succeed. Well perhaps it’s us Westerners who have lost a lot of our good sense. The proof is all around us.

Take rest; a field that has rested gives a bountiful crop. Ovid
Kalavati (Viv Williams) send e-mail
Shiatsu massage/yoga/transition mentoring

YOGA for KIDS-Resources

noreply@blogger.com (Kalavati) — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 16:54:00 +0000

I've compiled a list of yoga books and resources for children and a few for teens. Enjoy, and thanks for shopping via my site. Namaste.

Take rest; a field that has rested gives a bountiful crop. Ovid
Kalavati (Viv Williams) send e-mail
Shiatsu massage/yoga/transition mentoring

The Speech Obama Needs to Give

noreply@blogger.com (Kalavati) — Sun, 18 Oct 2009 16:39:00 +0000

A friend of mine who is deeply worried about the world situation sent me this link. It is not about yoga asana, but about our yoga in relation to the world. How we "handle," deal with, process and adapt to reality, which is what our practice of Yoga, big Y, is about. It is always about adapting to our environment, which we cannot transcend--escape from, and even if we could, what about the rest of humanity? I believe we can adapt, some of us-it will be hard and require huge amounts of tenacity, compassion, cooperation and deep listening to ourselves, others and the Planet.

The Speech Obama Needs to Give

Note from the speech-writer: In one illuminating sense, the future is a probability distribution. Unfortunately, a host of not-so-nice futures are now more probable than others at this point. Every species we eliminate; every ton of fossil-carbon we release; every gallon we pull from fossil aquifers; every cubic meter of top soil washed to the sea lowers the probability of the more livable futures.
So trouble’s a-comin’ in what will likely be a many-act play headed downward over the next few decades -- it just remains to be seen what costume it’ll be wearing in each scene. At some point the general public may be told the truth about our predicament -- but maybe not. I suspect the revealing of the truth would be a sort of last-resort for those in power to try to keep things together. This speech is my take on “telling the truth.”

Setting for the speech: Several “bad” things have happened in the span of a year or two (ex: sharp economic downturns, petroleum shortages, extended blackouts, acts of terrorism, flare-ups of civil unrest, storms or other natural disasters, etc.). America is reeling, but the center is still holding -- for now. A slightly drawn Obama sits down at his desk in the Oval Office…microphones on…the cameras roll…

Our Predicament

As I’m sure all of you are painfully aware, the United States, along with the rest of the world, is in the midst of some of the most profound economic, environmental, and energy troubles ever experienced by modern civilization.
I understand the deep pain, anger, and confusion many of you are feeling at this moment, and I sympathize. My goal tonight is to try to clarify our situation a bit, and in doing so, perhaps channel some of those feelings towards more constructive ends.
The economic, environmental, and energy problems we are currently experiencing are not ultimately the fault of any one person, political group, ethnic group, religious group, country, or region. They go much deeper than that. They are, instead, manifestations of the ongoing conflict -- a war really -- between a finite planet and a human species with infinite aspirations.
In such a war -- a war we are waging against our very life-support systems -- we have no hope of winning. Our best hope is to, as quickly as possible, call off the war, regroup, and fundamentally restructure our society around the acceptance of our planet’s finite nature – around limits.
My words here are, no doubt, striking to you. These are not ideas commonly expressed in “polite” circles -- in the national print media, on television, in board rooms, in Congress, in addresses from the President. They are revolutionary. But they are true and they are necessary.
Let me use an analogy from my experience as a father. As children grow towards adulthood, one of the most painful experiences – for both the child and the parent – is the child’s slow realization and eventual acceptance of limits. Such an embrace of limits is, in fact, one of the hallmarks of “growing up.” My fellow Americans, we need to grow up.

CLICK LINK The Speech Obama Needs to Give for the rest....

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Take rest; a field that has rested gives a bountiful crop. Ovid
Kalavati (Viv Williams) send e-mail
Shiatsu massage/yoga/transition mentoring

OCTOBER YOGA WORKSHOP/EVENTS: Greenfield, Shelburne Falls & Environs

noreply@blogger.com (Kalavati) — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 23:14:00 +0000

Hello Yogi/ni's sorry this took so long, but I did give you some other stuff to pass the time on didn't I?

SHELBURNE FALLS
Remember for ongoing classes go to home page and upper left corner click that link. And always check with studio (click on their name) for very latest.
HART YOGA
1 Ashfield Street, Suite 8
Shelburne Falls, MA 01370

Free Zumba® Demo Classes
Sunday, October 18 -- 9:00 - 9:30 AM
Tuesday, October 20 at 6:00 - 6:30 PM

Join the cardio party you've been hearing about!
Hart Yoga is excited to announce the beginning of Zumba® classes in Shelburne Falls!
Zumba® fuses hypnotic Latin rhythms and easy-to-follow moves to create a dynamic fitness program that will blow you away! Zumba®'s cardio experience targets major muscle groups like abs, quads, hamstrings, and glutes to tone and sculpt your body while burning fat. Best of all, it's FUN!
Ditch the workout and join the party!
Regular 60-minute weekly classes begin:

Sunday, November 1, at 9:00 AM
Tuesday, November 3, at 6 PM

For more information contact instructor Mary Lovett at 413.522.8241 or malove71@msn.com.

Exploring the Inner Landscape through Yoga, Chanting and Meditation:
An Afternoon of Contemplative Practice
Sunday, October 25, 2009
3:00 - 6:00 PM

Join Lindel Hart and Rick Roberts for an afternoon of physical, spiritual and mental rejuvenation as we enter into the stillness that promotes self exploration through yoga postures, chanting and meditation. Come together in community with others for this mindful retreat from an overactive world to reconnect with your natural state of balance, harmony and peace.

The afternoon will include an asana practice guided by Lindel Hart and chanting with Rick Roberts and friends, as well as time for silent meditation together. There will be no specific instruction for meditation; we'll simply sit quietly together.

Like the quiet space between the in-breath and the out-breath, the stillness that arises out of yoga and chanting leads one easily and naturally into meditation. No vocal/musical, yoga or meditation experience is necessary to experience the joy of this afternoon of contemplative practice. All are welcome, regardless of the type of yoga, meditation or spiritual practice you may have.

This event is FREE. However, donations are appreciated.

For more information, contact Lindel Hart or Rick Roberts: lindel@hartyoga.com - 413.768.9291 rick@pioneervalleyyoga.com - 413.367.9777

SHELBURNE FALLS YOGA
#1 Deerfield Avenue, Shelburne Falls, MA 01370

No workshops found as of 10/9.   Shelburne Falls Yoga is under new ownership, Penfield Chester. Click link for new fall classes.

GREENFIELD
GREENRIVER YOGA and MOVEMENT ARTS

158 Main Street, 2nd Floor, Greenfield, MA 01301

Experience the Joy: Kirtan with Rick Roberts
Third Saturdays, 7:30 - 9:00 pm (Oct 17th)
By donation and open to all

Experience the Joy! Join us every 3rd Saturday for an evening of devotional chanting and meditation with live accompaniment on harmonium and drum. Chanting practice opens the heart, clears the mind and relaxes the body. When we chant in joyful communion with others, our boundaries soften allowing us to touch the joy, inner peace and bliss residing inside us all.
Chanting is said to be the easy path, the escalator next to the Yogic stairway to Heaven.
It requires no expertise, no membership, and no special equipment, just a willingness to open your heart and sing.
For more information, or to be added to the mailing list for this event, contact Rick Roberts (413-367-9777 or Rick@PioneerValleyYoga.com

Womancraft with Jeanie Erlbaum 
Tuesdays 6:30 - 8:30 pm, Oct 27 - Nov 17 
$100 includes home practice CD 
Pre-registration with $25 deposit required by Oct 20

Tap your own resources for self-healing by learning the easy and enjoyable skills of deep relaxation, visualization, and affirmation. Join us for this four-week series and take time for yourself, experience healthy transformation, create new positive possibilities for your life, and return to your daily life refreshed.
Pre-registration with a $25 deposit by Oct. 20 is required. For more information or to pre-register, contact Jeanie (413-773-9744 or je88@comcast.net).

Sacred Circle Dance with Linda Blake
First Fridays 7:00 - 9:00 pm (Nov 6, Dec 4, etc.) 
Open to all ($5-10 donation appreciated but not required)

Dance for joy, dance for fun, dance for peace, Dance to create community, Dance to remember our oneness with the Universe, With all people of this planet, with each other and within ourselves.
This is what Sacred Circle Dance is and more… Circle Dance includes traditional folk dances, dances from all spiritual traditions, dances to celebrate the seasons of the year and seasons of our lives. Circle Dances may be playful, meditative, lively or sweetly flowing. The dances are simple and all dances are taught. No partners are needed. For more information or to pre-register, contact Linda Blake (516-766-0008 or lindab333@gmail.com).

Take rest; a field that has rested gives a bountiful crop. Ovid
Kalavati (Viv Williams) send e-mail
Shiatsu massage/yoga/transition mentoring

FREE TALK: Yoga & Shamanism, Cool

noreply@blogger.com (Kalavati) — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 02:16:00 +0000

Hello yogi/ni's I just got this in my email actually as a reminder, as it's this Friday in Great Barrington. The teacher is Ray H. Crist. I just love the image so, wanted to share, it's an interesting cross of yoga and shamanism. Seems worth checking out!

THEJAGUARPATH.COM

Behind the Scenes at a Yoga Journal Photoshoot

noreply@blogger.com (Kalavati) — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 20:59:00 +0000

Ok I"m stalling. Still working updates for this month. Soooo ... here is a cute video that shows how hard Yoga Journal mag. works their models. And the great good humor the yoga teacher shows. I found the music annoying. And apparently this video generated lots of comments on yoga in America and whatnot! Enjoy.

Yoga From the Magazine - Behind the Scenes at a Yoga Journal Photoshoot

This photo is totally Yoga Journals property 110%, I just took a screen shot, hey I"m sending folks to your site. Please don't sue the yoga teacher.

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Namaste all,
Kalavati

OCTOBER: YOGA NORTHAMPTON, AMHERST, EASTHAMPTON

noreply@blogger.com (Kalavati) — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 01:22:00 +0000

KARUNA CENTER for YOGA & HEALING ARTS
Updated 10/6

Yoga Workshops:
Teacher Training Program with Eileen Muir, Director

I am very happy to offer a 200 hour teacher-training program.   The 200-hour course qualifies you to become a yoga teacher and is in compliance with the standards of the nationally recognized Yoga Alliance. It is also recommended for any serious yoga student who wishes to deepen his or her practice through this intensive and supportive study, or to explore yoga as a life-transforming path.  Please call me at 413-584-5054 to schedule an interview for the program or if you have any questions or want feedback as to your eligibility for the course.  Nov. 20-21st 

Karuna Five Element Shiatsu Program 
with Eileen Muir, Director This is a 500-hour AOBTA certification program designed to be completed in 18 months. Shiatsu originates from Japan and emphasizes a style of body work with roots in Traditional Chinese Medicine, theory and practice. The literal translation of Shiatsu is "finger pressure", however, one uses fingers, thumbs, knuckles, palms, elbows, knees and feet in the process of giving Shiatsu. In TCM, harmony of Qi within the human body is considered essential to health and is the aim of Shiatsu. ...   Dates TBA

The Bhagavad Gita
 with Edwin Bryant 
The Bhagavad Gita is the most representative, influential, and popular text from the numerous and varied spiritual traditions of Hindu India. Spoken by Lord Krishna to Arjuna, who is undergoing a moment of existential crisis; the text deals with the nature of the self, the world, ultimate reality, the purpose of human existence, and the spiritual paths that can be undertaken to accomplish this purpose. There are primarily four such paths / yoga systems, featured in the text, through which one can unite with the divine. They are: the path of self-knowledge—jnana yoga, the path of action in the world—karma yoga, the path of meditation—raja yoga and the path of theistic devotion—bhakti yoga.....For further info click link above for site.
  Sat. Nov. 21st 2-6pm;  Sun. Nov. 22nd 9-1pm $80

Shiatsu Clinic-Open to the Public
 with Shiatsu Students 

Are you tired? Stressed? Sore? Fatigued? Book yourself a one-hour shiatsu treatment to help you transition through the seasons. Spring and fall are times for renewal and a great time for cleansing and harmonizing treatments. Shiatsu originated in Japan and is a style of body work with roots in Traditional Chinese Medicine, theory and practice. Treatment focuses on releasing tension and blocked energy and restoring balance to the body as a whole. Clinics are bi-weekly and we recommend that you come to each one for a series of treatments to bring the most benefit. This supervised clinic is part of Karuna's 500-hour Five Element Shiatsu Program   Appointments can be made on the hour, every hour. Please arrive early to fill out the intake form.   Download the Client Guidelines,  Download the Client Intake Form  
Oct. 5-8th and Oct. 19-22nd, Nov. 2-5th and Nov. 16-19th,  9-3pm  $25 + donation

Untie the knots that bind you. A Yoga Ropes Workshop
 with Eileen Muir 
The system of wall rope allow the body to create dynamic heat, opening beyond what one might be able to achieve alone. We will go through a series of strengthening, opening, and cool down postures leaving the body and mind thoroughly open, warm, and peaceful. All levels welcome.   Sun. Oct. 31st, 1-4pm $35 in advance

EARLY NOVEMBER:
Sotai Workshop
 with Chris Belskis 

Sotai is a simple yet effective form of interactive therapy intended to restore physical and energetic health in the client through gentle structural realignments of the body. The techniques that will be presented in this introductory class are based on the research of Dr. Keizo Hashimoto who understood that basic human health is dependent on structural integrity and correct posture. Dr. Hashimoto discovered that correcting distortions in the client's basic physical structure could rectify many common ailments. The effectiveness of the exercises is dependent on the client coordinating the breath with gentle pain free movements that are met with light resistance from the therapist. These therapeutic exercises are used in acupuncture and shiatsu clinics throughout Japan. Although seemingly simple, Sotai has the potential to alleviate numerous physical ailments and energetic imbalances in a wide range of clients. This course gives the student a theoretical and practical understanding of the basic application of Sotai Therapy for self and clients. Students, upon completion of this course, should have the skills and knowledge to apply basic Sotai techniques in clinical situations to enhance the effectiveness of their treatments.  
Open to practitioners of ABT and healing arts.   Sat. Nov. 7th, 1-7pm $95
Chris Belskis, LMT, ABT  ...bio continues, click link of studio above.

Shiatsu Self-Massage workshop 
with Eileen Muir
 In Shiatsu self-massage the internal energy, or Qi, is redirected to strengthen and rejuvenate the sense organs Ð eyes, ears, nose, tongue, teeth and skin and all internal organs. You will receive a sequence which will require only 10 min. a day to complete and will be able to strengthen the senses and detoxify internal organs and glands while helping to comtrol negative emotions, stress and digestion and improve complexion, teeth gums, and overall stamina. Learn techniques inspired by Shiatsu master and Taoist master Jeffrey Yuen and Mantak Chia.   
Sun. Nov. 8th, 2-5pm $45

YOGA SANCTUARY
This workshops seems like it would be fabulous! I hope I can go....

Legacy of the Heart with Sianna Sherman 
Dates: October 9,10 & 11 Cost: $160 full weekend paid by september 10 $175 full weekend regular price $20/workshop hour for single classes $18/hour for 3 sessions of workshop
Friday: 6-8:30pm
• Rasa Mandalam - the Divine Circle Dance (All Levels) Let's initiate our weekend together as a living prayer wheel, dancing our lives into being through community vision and peace prayers. This will be a full spectrum experience of standing poses, basic backbends, hip openers and meditation to increase the overall harmony and well-being in our lives. 

Saturday: 10:30-1:00
• Gypsy Heart Yoga Flow - Backbends (All Levels) Come aboard the gypsy caravan and revel in the power of the heart through backbends. Bring your enthusiasm, willingness to move, sweat, play and laugh. 

3:00-5:30 • Listen to the Call - Hip Openers (All Levels) Following the rhythm of the day, this afternoon session will turn inside with a more introspective practice of hip openers, twists and forward folds. These poses help us to cultivate self-acceptance, appreciation and allowance for the flow of light to renew all parts of our experience. 

Sunday: 10:30-1:30 • Anusara Yoga Jam - Arm Balances and Deeper Backbends (Intermediate/Advanced)  Jump in and play the edge in this lively and up-tempo practice of arm balances and deeper backbends. Together as community we will raise the vibration of love and lift each other to new heights. Be ready to alchemize!
See bio and register on their site.

SHIVA SHAKTI POWER VINYASA YOGA
They have added new classes:

Check out our new classes!
Wednesday Hour of Power 7:30-8:30pm
Friday Hour of Power 12-1pm
Saturday Basics 11am-12:30pm

No special events/workshop listed for OCTOBER as of 10/6.

MAMA NIRVANA'S NEW YOGA
Looks like lots going on at this studio this month! So for further info if something looks good go to their site to register.

We are open Columbus Day, October 12th. All regular classes as scheduled

Listening to Dreams; Healing Our Lives

Oct 4, Oct 25, Nov 8, Nov 22, Dec 6

Sundays, 6-8pm

Easthampton Studio

$135 paid by Sept. 30; $150 after

With Tzivia Gover

Wouldn’t it be nice if you could improve your physical and emotional health while you sleep? When you learn to listen to and understand your dreams, you can! From ancient Greeks who made pilgrimages to dream temples to 21st century women and men who turn to psychotherapy, people have long looked to dreams for guidance and honored their healing potential.

In "Listening to Dreams; Healing our Lives," you will learn to recall, invite and interpret dreams and gain emotional and physical healing. Each session will include dream sharing and exploration. In addition you will learn a contemplative writing technique to deepen your dreamwork.

Each session will focus on a different technique and/or topic to help you to develop your own transformational dreamwork practice.

Tzivia Gover, author of Mindful Moments for Stressful Days (Storey Books, 2002) has been leading self-growth workshops for various institutions and retreat programs (including Esalen Institute, Big Sur, CA) for nearly a decade. A certified Proprioceptive Writing Teacher, she is also a member of the International Association for the Study of Dreams, and is the creator of 350 Dreamers, a worldwide

network of dreamers working for global healing.

Listening to Dreams; Healing Our Lives: $ 135
Sundays 6-8pm; 10/4, 10/25, 11/8, 11/22, 12/6

Chakra Yoga I
Earth, Water, Fire & Air:
Balancing Energy for Well-being
With Katherine Tancredi
In ancient yoga tradition, the chakras were identified as key energy centers in the body. Learn to activate your chakras and bring greater harmony and equilibrium to your yoga practice. We’ll discuss history &philosophy and practice a set of postures to open your energy, deepen your awareness and strengthen your inner
connection. Appropriate for new and experienced yoga students.

Sunday November 1st,
1-4pm, Easthampton Studio
$36 Paid by October 25th, $45 after.

Yoga Basics Weekend
Whether you’ve never done yoga before or you’ve been practicing for years, you’ll benefit from this concise survey course.

In one weekend, you’ll learn about yoga philosophy, different yoga branches and
practices, yoga breathwork, meditation, deep relaxation techniques, theories of mind and
consciousness, principles of postural alignment, and how to create a personalized home practice.
After finishing this course, you’ll have
knowledge of all important aspects of yoga, and you’ll feel confident going to a basic or open level class at any yoga studio.
No prior yoga experience is necessary.

Saturday October 17, 2-6pm
Sunday, October 18, 1-5pm
Easthampton Studio

$99 paid by October 10, $119 after
Includes Free Meditation Audio Download
Register online via PayPal for this workshop: Yoga Basics Weekend: $ 99 Saturday Oct 17, 2-6pm; Sunday Oct 18, 1-4pm

Can't make it to class? Download one!

In response to your requests, we are offering audio recordings of our classes. These full-length live recordings contain complete instructions for powerful meditations, breathing and postures....
full-length classes recorded live in mp3 format: $ 6.99

BIKRAM YOGA NORTHAMPTON 241 King Street . Suite 118 . Northampton MA 01060 . 413.586.0014. Follow link for ongoing class schedule. No special events/workshop listed for October as 10/6

AMHERST

YOGA CENTER AMHERST
17 kellogg ave | amherst, ma 01002 | 413.256.0604

NEW CLASS: CHECK OUR OUR 7:15 EVENING CLASSES
with Abigail Clark and Eric Love

--------------------------------------------------------

In this Embodiment Exploration with Alisa, we will explore the foundational movement elements to creating a strong and stable pelvis. Using the navel yielding principal as our primary support, we will explore moving the spine through flexion, extension, lateral flexion and rotation from the GROUND of strength and stablity of the neutral pelvis.
Embodyoga Therapeutics presents Pelvic Strength and Stability with Alisa Wright-Tanny
Sun. Nov 8th \| 10:00 - 1:00 \| $40
Register and Pay Now!

MAMA NIRVANA YOGA- AMHERST STUDIO:
South Towne Commons
479 West Street (rte 116)
Suite 80
Amherst, MA 01002
(413) 256-5444
SEE info above on other MNY Studio

Yogi's quench your thirst- Water Bottles on Sale

noreply@blogger.com (Kalavati) — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 02:36:00 +0000

Ok this is shameless. But I wouldn't blog about this if I didn't' love it-but yes, I do get like $1 if you buy a water bottle. Believe me, I need it. Support your local yogini so she can get a dental cleaning! They are stainless steel water bottles, on sale till Oct. 1st. So if you're gonna go to the two free classes I told you about-one in Florence and one in Shleburne Falls, you'll need one. Oh they are BPA free too. All I know is that the whole plastic thing threw me off. I knew before like years ago that plastic has got to be leaching something, especially if that something is hot in temp. And what's with the really soft water bottles you know they sink and crinkle in your hand as you suck a little liquid. Anyway, I bought a heavy plastic bottle that was supposed to be ok and now i don't even know. Ugggggggggggg.

CLICK to Receive FREE Shipping on orders over $49 at Gorgeous and Green OR ON IMAGE BELOW TO GO TO THE STORE:

Yogi's--Free Classes Take Advantage

noreply@blogger.com (Kalavati) — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 00:46:00 +0000

FREE Yoga Class and Kirtan 

Sunday, September 27, 2009

 Yoga Class, 3:00 – 4:30 PM 

Kirtan, 4:30 - 6:00 PM

The Department of Health and Human Services has designated September as National Yoga Month. This is a huge step forward in the recognition of yoga’s prominent role in the health and well-being of the nation. Hart Yoga is proud to be a part of this movement and to make available to our community a free yoga class and kirtan (call and response chanting).
The yoga class begins at 3:00, and while space is limited, we will attempt to accommodate all who show up.
Rick Roberts, who leads monthly kirtans in Greenfield and Amherst, will lead the kirtan immediately following the yoga class. Kirtan is a form of devotional chanting in call-and-response format, most often accompanied by harmonium, as well as other instruments. Chanting helps to quiet the mind, provides a way back to our center and can lead easily and naturally into meditation. Vocal/musical experience is not necessary to experience the joy of singing with others.
Contact Lindel Hart (lindel@hartyoga.com) for more information. Website Hart Yoga, Shelburne Fall

The studio will be hosting an Open House Friday, September 25 from 6:30-9:00 pm - join the teaching staff for some chai and healthy treats, view the newly updated space, and enjoy a traditional Indian dance performance by members of the Nataraj Dancers.
The following morning - Saturday September 26 - Florence Yoga will host a free All-levels Ashtanga Yoga class at 9:00 a.m. with a donation of check/cash or canned goods to the Northampton Survival Center. Please bring a mat if you have one. Parking is plentiful and free.
Regular classes begin on Monday, September 28th, cost just $12 ($10 for full time students), and will be held every day but Sunday. A 5-week Beginning Ashtanga Course (pre-registration required) starts Monday October 5 at 6:15 pm - see the website, www.florenceyoga.com for more info, or call Michelle Ryan, CYI at 413-250-9399.

NEW ASHTANGA YOGA STUDIO OPENING IN FLORENCE

noreply@blogger.com (Kalavati) — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 01:43:00 +0000

Hey yogis/yoginis, I just heard that there is a new studio opening. I had noticed the dearth of Ashtanga since I moved to the area just a year ago. And sort of being a recovering Ashtangi anyway, figured ok well, it's more laid back here, than NYC. THAT'S WHY I MOVED HERE. Plus I was just like ok maybe I'm too old for this. I even taught an Ashtanga class for awhile in Shelburne Falls...anyway. All that rumination, but I"m happy to say I'm very excited about this! More info soon...

Kalavati

NEW ASHTANGA YOGA STUDIO OPENING IN FLORENCE, MASS

FLORENCE YOGA

Michelle Ryan, founder Florence Yoga

Open House Friday September 25 6:30-9 pm

and Free Yoga Class

to Benefit the Northampton Survival Center

Saturday September 26, 9-10:30 am

Florence Yoga, located at the Florence Community Center, 140 Pine Street, Suite 12, is a new Ashtanga Yoga studio serving the Northampton and Hilltown areas. Ashtanga Yoga is a warm and flowing yoga experience that’s challenging and fun - and it’s taught at Florence Yoga with humor, compassion and the intent of developing strength and flexibility gradually, making classes accessible to students of all levels.
www.florenceyoga.com for more info, or call Michelle Ryan, CYI at 413-250-9399.

Say Namaste! Party by Night, Downward Dog by Day

noreply@blogger.com (Kalavati) — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 21:21:00 +0000

John Friend, center, a yoga instructor, leads a session at the Wanderlust festival at Lake Tahoe.

After subbing a class tonight at Hartyoga in Shelburne Falls, I'll be reading this article, check it out. Oh, this makes me not look forward to a New England winter. If you had the good fortune to attend, drop Yogapioneer a line, how was it? In your own words. Any photos would be great too.

Kalavati

Krishna Das in our Area

noreply@blogger.com (Kalavati) — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 00:14:00 +0000

Hey did anyone out there get to go to see KD on the 11th in Northmapton? If so write a short blurb on your experience and send it in. I'm really bummed I couldn't go, was to go with friend and we never got our acts together. He was also at another locale in area too....@www.zenpeacemakers.org/september_events Zen Peacemakers in Montague. Hard times, for me when I miss the spiritual uplift he provides.
Here is link to a sample of him chanting http://www.krishnadas.com/media/photos-featured-cd.cfm. I'm listening to it now, wishing I had gone. Or go to bottom of this page and see a YouTube video that I chose out of a bunch, so it's a good one! Be well. Be in touch. Let me know you are out there. Do you have a favorite chant by him? My favorite or close is Rama Bolo.

New: YogaBliss Dance

noreply@blogger.com (Kalavati) — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 03:24:00 +0000

Come join me for a new, fun class, a fusion yoga, world music and rhythmic movement. It promises to be a blast. High energy and spiritual. Click on poster above to blow it up for reading! Namaste.

Kalavati.

SEPTEMBER YOGA WORKSHOP/EVENTS: Greenfield, Shelburne Falls & Environs

noreply@blogger.com (Kalavati) — Tue, 01 Sep 2009 19:07:00 +0000

SHELBURNE FALLS
A new studio has opened in Shelburne Falls by Lindel Hart, formerly with Shelburne Falls Yoga, here's their new site. I also teach--- there so check it out.

HART YOGA
1 Ashfield Street, Suite 8
Shelburne Falls, MA 01370

Click link for new classes starting soon! Including mine YogaBlissDance-

September is National Yoga Month.
Stay tuned for details about our exciting National Yoga Month events.

Drawing Closer to Nature through Art and Yoga
Kripalu Center for Health and Yoga
Stockbridge, MA
September 13 – 18, 2009

Course Description:
Art and yoga are complementary practices that can help us recover our lost sense of unity with nature. As we draw closer to nature through these practices, we also draw closer to ourselves, tapping into the creative soul that exists in us all. This brings about a richer, more authentic, and graceful sense of artistic expression and our place in the world.

Artist Peter London employs simple art materials—such as charcoals, oil pastels, and tempera and watercolor paints—and uncomplicated techniques that require no previous training. Lindel Hart offers a hatha yoga practice that is accessible to all. Together they provide an integrated and holistic approach that enriches and extends the powers of art and yoga to explore, portray, and incorporate the endlessly rewarding ways of nature.

In a safe and supportive environment, all participants, regardless of prior experience with art or yoga, have the opportunity to relax and draw closer to their inner nature and to the natural world.

Cost of Workshop: $325 plus meals and accommodations.

For more information, check out Kripalu’s website:
http://www.kripalu.org/program/view/DCTN92.

SHELBURNE FALLS YOGA
#1 Deerfield Avenue, Shelburne Falls, MA 01370

Shelburne Falls Yoga is under new ownership, Penfield Chester. Click link for new classes starting soon!

GREENFIELD
Greenriveryoga.com
For much more info on this event go to link of GRY.

Global Mala: A Special Day-Long Event
of Yoga and Spiritual Activism
to benefit the Food Bank of Western Mass.
and Food for Life Vrindavan
Saturday, Sep 19, Northampton Center for the Arts
$54 or greater donation for afternoon & evening programs
$27 or greater donation for either afternoon (12 - 5 pm)
or evening (7 - 9 pm)

Join us and become part of a global mala as yoga communities around the world offer their collective practice uniting us all in service. All proceeds from this local event will be donated to the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts and Food for Life Vrindavan.

Experience the Joy: Kirtan with Rick Roberts
Third Saturdays, 7:30 - 9:00 pm (Aug 15, Sep 19, Oct 17, etc.)

By donation and open to all

Restorative Yoga with Lindel Hart
Last Wednesdays, 6:30 - 8:00 pm (Aug 26, Sep 30, Oct 28, etc.)
$14 drop in

Join us for this special monthly offering for some of the most relaxing, supported poses yoga has to offer.
Relax deeply, release tension, and restore balance to body, mind and spirit. No prior yoga experience required.
For more information, contact Lindel Hart (413-768-9291 or info@hartyoga.com).

Sacred Circle Dance with Linda Blake
First Fridays 7:00 - 9:00 pm (Sep 4, Oct 2, Nov 6, etc.)
Open to all ($5-10 donation appreciated but not required)

When Fear Falls Away:Evenings with Jan Frazier

Sundays, 7 - 8:30 pm (Sep 20, Nov 22)
$10-15 donation appreciated but not required
Visit Jan's website www.JanFrazierTeachings.com to confirm tentative dates.

If you would like to learn about decreasing suffering and increasing awareness of the enlightened consciousness within us all, join us for these occasional informal talks with local author Jan Frazier.

Until the summer of her fiftieth year, Jan Frazier lived a life typical for a well-educated, middle-class American woman. A divorced mother of two teenagers, she was making a modest living writing and teaching writing. Following a Catholic childhood in Miami in the 1960s, she had studied English in college and graduate school. In her late twenties, longing for hills and snow, she moved to New England, where she was active in the peace movement. But the inner peace she sought always eluded her.
Then, in August 2003, she experienced a radical transformation of consciousness. Fear fell away from her, and she was immersed in a state of causeless joy that has never left her....

SEPTEMBER: YOGA NORTHAMPTON, AMHERST, EASTHAMPTON

noreply@blogger.com (Kalavati) — Tue, 01 Sep 2009 18:44:00 +0000

The upcoming Kirtan with Krishna Das promises to be special! I've been to several of his kirtans and you leave feeling a spiritual high. The chanting is done call and response style so it's not just a concert, it's interactive. See my blog Embark for more or info on mindfulness, yoga and shiatsu massage with me, Kalavati.

NORTHAMPTON
KARUNA CENTER for YOGA & HEALING ARTS
Kirtan
with Krishna Das
Krishna Das is the most widely known kirtan wallah in the west today. Kirtan is a form of devotional which involves repeatedly chanting the names of God, using simple mantras and melodies shaped in India thousands of years ago. All are welcome.

Click link above for Paypal page via Karuna website
Friday, September 11th, 2009 at 7pm
Location: First Churches of Northampton
$25 in advance/$30 at the door

Karuna Five Element Shiatsu Program
with Eileen Muir, Director
This is a 500-hour AOBTA certification program designed to be completed in 18 months. Shiatsu originates from Japan and emphasizes a style of body work with roots in Traditional Chinese Medicine, theory and practice...
Dates TBA
The Bhagavad Gita
with Edwin Bryant
The workshop will undertake a detailed discussion of the four yoga systems, with contextual references to the background of the text and to some of the major streams of hindu thought in general. No prior knowledge of Hinduism is necessary.
Dates TBA

YOGA SANCTUARY

Fall 2009 Level 1 Anusara yoga Immersion
with Sara Rose
Dates: September 12/13, October 24/25, November 14/15

Save the dates in October:
Workshops with Sianna Sherman
and special guest Kenny Graham
October 9,10 & 11
Details to come!

SHIVA SHAKTI POWER VINYASA YOGA
Follow link for ongoing class schedule. No special events/workshop listed for SEPTEMBER as of 9/01

MAMA NIRVANA'S NEW YOGA

Follow link for ongoing class schedule. No special events/workshop listed for SEPTEMBER as of 9/01

Can't make it to class? Download one! In response to your requests, we are offering audio recordings of our classes.

These full-length live recordings contain complete instructions for powerful meditations, breathing and postures....

full-length classes recorded live in mp3 format: $ 6.99

BIKRAM YOGA NORTHAMPTON 241 King Street . Suite 118 . Northampton MA 01060 . 413.586.0014

Follow link for ongoing class schedule. No special events/workshop listed for SEPTEMBER as of 9/01

AMHERST

YOGA CENTER AMHERST
17 kellogg ave | amherst, ma 01002 | 413.256.0604

Embryological Development & Yoga Therapeutics Level 1 with Bonnie Bainbridge Cohen
	September 26–27, 2009 Saturday – 12-3 & 4:30-6:30 Sunday – 9-12 & 1:30-3:30
	Full Rate.............................................. $280

SPECIAL PRE-WORKSHOP CLASS — THE FLUID BODY AND YOGA with Patty Townsend
Friday, September 25, 2009 5-6:45 pm at yoga center amherst
cost: $20 Join us as we prepare to enter the deep inner world of embryology with Bonnie Bainbridge Cohen. Including an experiential guide into our Fluid Body, Patty will place our embryological origins into the context of Yoga and the Tantric embodiment of primal desire.

MAMA NIRVANA YOGA- AMHERST STUDIO:
South Towne Commons
479 West Street (rte 116)
Suite 80
Amherst, MA 01002
(413) 256-5444
SEE info above on other MNY Studio

AUGUST: YOGA NORTHAMPTON, AMHERST, EASTHAMPTON

noreply@blogger.com (Kalavati) — Tue, 11 Aug 2009 16:10:00 +0000

The upcoming Kirtan with Krishna Das promises to be special! I've been to several of his kirtans and you leave feeling a spiritual high. The chanting is done call and response style so it's not just a concert, it's interactive. See my blog Embark for more or info on mindfulness, yoga and shiatsu massage with me, Kalavati.

NORTHAMPTON
KARUNA CENTER for YOGA & HEALING ARTS

Karuna Five Element Shiatsu Program
with Eileen Muir, Director
This is a 500-hour AOBTA certification program designed to be completed in 18 months. Shiatsu originates from Japan and emphasizes a style of body work with roots in Traditional Chinese Medicine, theory and practice...

The Bhagavad Gita
with Edwin Bryant
The workshop will undertake a detailed discussion of the four yoga systems, with contextual references to the background of the text and to some of the major streams of hindu thought in general. No prior knowledge of Hinduism is necessary.

Kirtan
with Krishna Das
Krishna Das is the most widely known kirtan wallah in the west today. Kirtan is a form of devotional which involves repeatedly chanting the names of God, using simple mantras and melodies shaped in India thousands of years ago. All are welcome.

Friday, September 11th, 2009 at 7pm
Location: First Churches of Northampton
$25 in advance/$30 at the door

YOGA SANCTUARY

Save the dates in October:
Workshops with Sianna Sherman
and special guest Kenny Graham
October 9,10 & 11
Details to come!

Fall 2009 Level 1 Anusara yoga Immersion
with Sara Rose
Dates: September 12/13, October 24/25, November 14/15

SHIVA SHAKTI POWER VINYASA YOGA
Follow link for ongoing class schedule. No special events/workshop listed for AUGUST as of 8/11

MAMA NIRVANA'S NEW YOGA

Can't make it to class? Download one!

In response to your requests, we are offering audio recordings of our classes.

These full-length live recordings contain complete instructions for powerful meditations, breathing and postures....

full-length classes recorded live in mp3 format: $ 6.99

BIKRAM YOGA NORTHAMPTON 241 King Street . Suite 118 . Northampton MA 01060 . 413.586.0014

No special events/workshop listed for AUGUST as of 8/11

AMHERST

YOGA CENTER AMHERST
17 kellogg ave | amherst, ma 01002 | 413.256.0604

Embryological Development & Yoga Therapeutics Level 1 with Bonnie Bainbridge Cohen
	September 26–27, 2009 Saturday – 12-3 & 4:30-6:30 Sunday – 9-12 & 1:30-3:30
	Full Rate.............................................. $280

MAMA NIRVANA YOGA- AMHERST STUDIO:
South Towne Commons
479 West Street (rte 116)
Suite 80
Amherst, MA 01002
(413) 256-5444
SEE info above on other MNY Studio

AUGUST YOGA WORKSHOP/EVENTS: Greenfield, Shelburne Falls & Environs

noreply@blogger.com (Kalavati) — Tue, 11 Aug 2009 15:27:00 +0000

SHELBURNE FALLS

A new studio has opened this past month in Shelburne Falls by Lindel Hart, formerly with Shelburne Falls Yoga, here's there new site. I also teach--- there so check it out.

HART YOGA
1 Ashfield Street, Suite 8
Shelburne Falls, MA 01370

CLICK LINK FOR Ongoing class scedule. AS OF 8/10 NO WORKSHOPS FOR AUGUST.

SHELBURNE FALLS YOGA
#1 Deerfield Avenue, Shelburne Falls, MA 01370

CLICK LINK FOR Ongoing class scedule. AS OF 8/10 NO WORKSHOPS FOR AUGUST.

GREENFIELD

GREEN RIVER YOGAFor much more info on this event go to link of GRY.

Global Mala: A Special Day-Long Event
of Yoga and Spiritual Activism
to benefit the Food Bank of Western Mass.
and Food for Life Vrindavan
Saturday, Sep 19, Northampton Center for the Arts
$54 or greater donation for afternoon & evening programs
$27 or greater donation for either afternoon (12 - 5 pm)
or evening (7 - 9 pm)

Join us and become part of a global mala as yoga communities around the world offer their collective practice uniting us all in service. All proceeds from this local event will be donated to the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts and Food for Life Vrindavan.

Experience the Joy: Kirtan with Rick Roberts

Third Saturdays, 7:30 - 9:00 pm (Aug 15, Sep 19, Oct 17, etc.)
By donation and open to all

Restorative Yoga with Lindel Hart
Last Wednesdays, 6:30 - 8:00 pm (Aug 26, Sep 30, Oct 28, etc.)
$14 drop in

Join us for this special monthly offering for some of the most relaxing, supported poses yoga has to offer.

Relax deeply, release tension, and restore balance to body, mind and spirit. No prior yoga experience required.

For more information, contact Lindel Hart (413-768-9291 or info@hartyoga.com).

Top of page

Sacred Circle Dance with Linda Blake

First Fridays 7:00 - 9:00 pm (Sep 4, Oct 2, Nov 6, etc.)
Open to all ($5-10 donation appreciated but not required)

Dance for joy, dance for fun, dance for peace,
Dance to create community,
Dance to remember our oneness with the Universe,
With all people of this planet, with each other and within ourselves.

When Fear Falls Away:Evenings with Jan Frazier

Sundays, 7 - 8:30 pm (Aug 30-tentative, Sep 20, Nov 22)
$10-15 donation appreciated but not required
Visit Jan's website www.JanFrazierTeachings.com to confirm tentative dates.

If you would like to learn about decreasing suffering and increasing awareness of the enlightened consciousness within us all, join us for these occasional informal talks with local author Jan Frazier.

Until the summer of her fiftieth year, Jan Frazier lived a life typical for a well-educated, middle-class American woman. A divorced mother of two teenagers, she was making a modest living writing and teaching writing. Following a Catholic childhood in Miami in the 1960s, she had studied English in college and graduate school. In her late twenties, longing for hills and snow, she moved to New England, where she was active in the peace movement. But the inner peace she sought always eluded her.

Then, in August 2003, she experienced a radical transformation of consciousness. Fear fell away from her, and she was immersed in a state of causeless joy that has never left her....

Article on Meditation Retreat Experiences

noreply@blogger.com (Kalavati) — Sat, 01 Aug 2009 03:07:00 +0000

Hey, check out an article I wrote, that appears in the Shelburne Falls & West County Independent of July 24-Aug 6th. Its about my monthlong meditation retreat that I attended in June. The article examines my responses to the difficulties I encountered and my desire to share the benefits of meditation with youth, especially "at risk" youth. It's titled Looking Inside for Comfort & Peace in the Opinion & Commentary section. I'm still trying to figure out how to attach a copy to this blog-I'm tech challenged at the moment. But hey buy your local paper anyway!

101 Simple Salads for the Season

noreply@blogger.com (Kalavati) — Sun, 26 Jul 2009 17:31:00 +0000

Just found this wonderful NY Times article of "recipes," really ideas of salads of all varieties that one can put together. They give the ingredients but not amounts. As an adamant non-recipe follower, I love that approach. Use your senses to put together the amounts and proportions that are perfect for you and your guests/loved ones. I love reading cookbooks for ideas not for prescriptions that must be followed. They present ideas for the vegan to carnivore and all in between. Enjoy.

Hard Times Are Jamming the Ashrams

noreply@blogger.com (Kalavati) — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 14:10:00 +0000

Well I've certainly considered it even before "hard times." Anyone out there decide to pack it up and renounce? I did it for 30 days just recently and it's hard! See my blog Embark for the lead up entry "What do you do on a Retreat Anyway ?" and others. I'm still digesting that time at the Buddhist meditation center, and writing in out in a work tentatively called "Mr. Lee, the Buddha and the Bronx."
Namaste.

JULY YOGA WORKSHOP/EVENTS: Greenfield, Shelburne Falls & Environs

noreply@blogger.com (Kalavati) — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 01:18:00 +0000

SHELBURNE FALLS

A new studio has opened this past month in Shelburne Falls by Lindel Hart, formerly with Shelburne Falls Yoga, here's there new site. I also teach--- there so check it out.

HART YOGA
1 Ashfield Street, Suite 8
Shelburne Falls, MA 01370

SHELBURNE FALLS YOGA
#1 Deerfield Avenue, Shelburne Falls, MA 01370

As of that 7/2 no workshops/events planned.

GREENFIELD

GREEN RIVER YOGA

Sacred Circle Dance with Linda Blake

First Fridays 7:00 - 9:00 pm (Jul 3, Aug 7, Sep 4, etc.)
Open to all ($5-10 donation appreciated but not required)

Dance for joy, dance for fun, dance for peace,
Dance to create community,
Dance to remember our oneness with the Universe,
With all people of this planet, with each other and within ourselves.

This is what Sacred Circle Dance is and more… Circle Dance includes traditional folk dances, dances from all spiritual traditions, dances to celebrate the seasons of the year and seasons of our lives. Circle Dances may be playful, meditative, lively or sweetly flowing. The dances are simple and all dances are taught. No partners are needed. For more information or to pre-register, contact Linda Blake (516-766-0008 or lindab333@gmail.com

Karma Krew Yoga Benefit for the Food Bank of W. Mass.
with Certified Anusara Yoga Teacher Deb Neubauer and the Pioneer Valley Karma Krew
Sunday July 12, 9:30 - 11:00 am $5-15 suggested donation

Join us for this special Karma Krew event to raise money for The Food Bank of Western Massachusetts Summer Food Drive to assist area children who don't receive food assistance over the summer.

Karma Krew is a service-inspired, non-profit agency whose mission is to Do Good Things in the world. By uniting spiritual practice in selfless service, Karma Krew endeavors to unite and mobilize local yoga communities in expanding the vision of the practice to include selfless service as an avenue to awakening.

Make a difference in your community and at the same time enjoy a wonderful all-levels Anusara Yoga practice to relax deeply, release tension, restore balance to your body, mind and spirit. No prior yoga experience necessary.

Space is limited to 20 participants: pre-registration is required.

To pre-register or for more information, contact Deb Neubauer (413-367-0377 or debn@rcn.com), Jenny Chapin (413-522-3816 or jgchapin@crocker.com) or Lisa Berkovits (413-695-1469 or orb3lb@gmail.com).

To make a donation directly to the Food Bank, click here or visit www.FoodBankWMa.org and click on the Donate Now button in the upper right of the home page.

Experience the Joy: Kirtan with Rick Roberts
Third Saturdays, 7:30 - 9:00 pm (Jul 18, Aug 15, Sep 19, etc.)
By donation and open to all

Experience the Joy! Join us every 3rd Saturday for an evening of devotional chanting and meditation with live accompaniment on harmonium and drum. Chanting practice opens the heart, clears the mind and relaxes the body. When we chant in joyful communion with others, our boundaries soften allowing us to touch the joy, inner peace and bliss residing inside us all.

Chanting is said to be the easy path, the escalator next to the Yogic stairway to Heaven.

It requires no expertise, no membership, and no special equipment, just a willingness to open your heart and sing.

For more information, or to be added to the mailing list for this event, contact Rick Roberts (413-367-9777 or Rick@PioneerValleyYoga.com).

WhenFearFallsAway

When Fear Falls Away: Evenings with Jan Frazier

Sunday July 26, 7:00 - 8:30 pm (tentative) $10-15 donation appreciated but not required
Visit Jan's website www.JanFrazierTeachings.com to confirm tentative dates.

If you would like to learn about decreasing suffering and increasing awareness of the enlightened consciousness within us all, join us for these occasional informal talks with local author Jan Frazier.

Until the summer of her fiftieth year, Jan Frazier lived a life typical for a well-educated, middle-class American woman. A divorced mother of two teenagers, she was making a modest living writing and teaching writing. Following a Catholic childhood in Miami in the 1960s, she had studied English in college and graduate school. In her late twenties, longing for hills and snow, she moved to New England, where she was active in the peace movement. But the inner peace she sought always eluded her.

Then, in August 2003, she experienced a radical transformation of consciousness. Fear fell away from her, and she was immersed in a state of causeless joy that has never left her. While she has continued her life as writer, teacher, and mother, she has discovered it is possible to live a richly human life free of suffering. Her wish now is to communicate the truth that within every person is a pool of calm well-being that waits patiently to be stirred to life.

When Fear Falls Away: The Story of a Sudden Awakening (Weiser Books, 2007) is Jan's day-by-day account of the shift in consciousness and its alteration of her life. Her poetry and prose have appeared widely in literary journals and anthologies. Her poetry collection, Greatest Hits, was published by Pudding House, and she has been nominated for a Pushcart Prize. She has been inspired by Gurumayi, Krishnamurti, and Eckhart Tolle, but the joy she lives in belongs to no particular tradition, and is available to all.

For more information, contact Marilyn Hart (413-367-0054 or mhart@crocker.com) or visit Jan's website www.JanFrazierTeachings.com for future dates, times and locations.

FREE Introduction to Birthing from Within®:
Childbirth Preparation from the Inside Out
with Beth Fairservis
Fifth Wednesdays 5 - 6:15 pm (July 29, Sep 30, Dec 30, etc.)
FREE! But please preregister.

If you are looking for something different and meaningful as you prepare for parenthood, join us for this FREE introduction based on the groundbreaking book Birthing from Within by Pamela England.

Birthing from Within® classes offers a multi-sensory approach to childbirth preparation for you and your birth partner combining creative exercises with practical information about labor and delivery, handling surprises, welcoming your baby, and much more!

For more information or to pre-register, contact Beth Fairservis (413-268-3588 or bethbirth@crocker.com) or visit www.birthingfromwithin.com.

Restorative Yoga with Lindel Hart
Last Wednesdays, 6:30 - 8:00 pm (July 29, Aug 26, Sep 30, etc.) $14 drop in

Join us for this special monthly offering for some of the most relaxing, supported poses yoga has to offer.

Relax deeply, release tension, and restore balance to body, mind and spirit. No prior yoga experience required.

For more information, contact Lindel Hart (413-768-9291 or info@hartyoga.com)

JULY: YOGA NORTHAMPTON, AMHERST, EASTHAMPTON

noreply@blogger.com (Kalavati) — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 00:42:00 +0000

Hello all, I'm back, from my monthlong meditation training in California! See my blog Embark for more or info on mindfulness, yoga and shiatsu.

NORTHAMPTON
KARUNA CENTER for YOGA & HEALING ARTS
Teacher Training Program
with Eileen Muir, Director
I am very happy to offer a 200 hour teacher-training program.

The 200-hour course qualifies you to become a yoga teacher and is in compliance with the standards of the nationally recognized Yoga Alliance. It is also recommended for any serious yoga student who wishes to deepen his or her practice through this intensive and supportive study, or to explore yoga as a life-transforming path.

Please call me at 413-584-5054 to schedule an interview for the program or if you have any questions or want feedback as to your eligibility for the course.
Dates TBA
click here for more detals

Karuna Five Element Shiatsu Program
with Eileen Muir, Director
This is a 500-hour AOBTA certification program designed to be completed in 18 months. Shiatsu originates from Japan and emphasizes a style of body work with roots in Traditional Chinese Medicine, theory and practice. The literal translation of Shiatsu is "finger pressure", however, one uses fingers, thumbs, knuckles, palms, elbows, knees and feet in the process of giving Shiatsu. In TCM, harmony of Qi within the human body is considered essential to health and is the aim of Shiatsu.

The Oriental tradition describes the world in terms of energy. Shiatsu creates harmony of our inner energies with that of the universe. To stay healthy a person must continually adapt to the changes going on within and outside the body. If these adaptations do not take place, illness or disharmony can manifest. Shiatsu helps facilitate this process of adaptation for the giver and receiver. Everyone responds to touch and has healing power within them, but to heal others you must first begin with yourself. This Shiatsu training helps you develop the tools to do this.

Dates TBA
click here for more detals

The Bhagavad Gita
with Edwin Bryant
The workshop will undertake a detailed discussion of the four yoga systems, with contextual references to the background of the text and to some of the major streams of hindu thought in general. No prior knowledge of Hinduism is necessary.

Dates TBA
$80

YOGA SANCTUARY

Eye of the Tiger and Eye of the Kitten
with Andrew Rivin and Desiree Raumbaugh

Come prepared to meet the challenges you crave and see how far you can go with yoga - in this body - in this lifetime. We will each play up to our own personal edges within the safety of the Universal Principles of Alignment. Guaranteed fun for all who can kick up to Handstand at the wall and push up to Urdhva Danurasana with straight arms, unassisted.

July 5
Eye of the Kitten • 11:30am - 1:30pm • $25
Eye of the Tiger • 2:30 - 5:30pm • $35
$50 for both

Desirée Rumbaugh is one of Anusara's most creative and inspirational teachers. She practices and teaches yoga with a powerful intention to create and experience unlimited joy and enthusiasm. Her worldwide workshops and retreats aim at powerful personal transformation and self-expression, leading each student to celebrate his or her own creative power through the practice of yoga. www.desireerumbaugh.com

Andrew Rivin comes to yoga from an athletic background. His 20 years of yoga practice, masters in business from Yale and experiences initiating micro-enterprises in Africa, have given him an unusual and well-rounded life perspective. In 1985, Andrew co-founded Global Routes, an international educational non-profit. Today Andrew finds that sharing Anusara yoga's life-enhancing philosophy is yet another way for him to continue creating community connection and transformation.

SHIVA SHAKTI POWER VINYASA YOGA
No special events/workshop listed for JULY as of 7/2

MAMA NIRVANA'S NEW YOGA
Kirtans are Back!

Join JoJo and friends for Sanksrit Chanting:

Saturday July 18th at our Easthampton studio
384 Main Street (rte 10)
Near Southampton line
Suggested Dontation $10

7:30pm

To find out more about Kirtan and listen in, visit:

http://musicasprayer.com/Offering.html#Kirtan

BIKRAM YOGA NORTHAMPTON 241 King Street . Suite 118 . Northampton MA 01060 . 413.586.0014

No special events/workshop listed for JULY as of 7/2

AMHERST

YOGA CENTER AMHERST
17 kellogg ave | amherst, ma 01002 | 413.256.0604

Yoga Therapeutics
for scoliosis|Cultivating comfort and ease
with Marcia Monroe

July 11–12, 2009
Saturday 12:00 – 3:00 & 4:30 – 6:30
Sunday 10 – 1pm

October 25, 2009
Sunday 9 – 12 and 1:30 – 3:30

Early Registration (by June 1st) $230.

Full Rate.....................$245.

Learn to assist scoliosis with the integrated tools of Iyengar Yoga, Body-Mind Centering®, and Feldenkrais. Workshop includes:

* An introduction to scoliosis and the importance of stability and spinal support
* The lower limbs: supine, standing, sitting postures and appropriate use of props
* The upper limbs: finding support in back bends and twists
* Finding fluid support of the organ body
* Savasana: supporting active rest in an asymmetrical body

Marcia Monroe is a Certified Iyengar Yoga teacher, a Body Mind Centering® Teacher, and a Feldenkrais® Practicioner. She brings a profound understanding of scoliosis and a wealth of knowledge to this workshop. She is the author of Engaging The Child Through Yoga, and the DVD, Yoga and the Fluid Patterns. Her upcoming book and dvd, Searching For The Spine, will be released in 2009. For information visit the site: www.marciamonroe.com

MAMA NIRVANA YOGA- AMHERST STUDIO:
South Towne Commons
479 West Street (rte 116)
Suite 80
Amherst, MA 01002
(413) 256-5444
SEE info above on other MNY Studio