Posts Tagged ‘Flow Yoga Center’

Weekend Warrior: January 21-23

No Comments
Posted 20 Jan 2011 — by WelcomeOmDC
Category Weekend Warrior, Yoga

…And we’re back! Sorry about the, um, Holiday hiatus folks.

Its (been) a New Year (for a while now) and it’s (about) time for weekend warrior!

Friday, January 21
7:00 – 8:30 p.m. India Night Benefit (Tranquil Space, Dupont Studio,1632 17th Street, NW). Don a sari, sip specialty chai tea, and join Tranquil Space for a celebration of all things India. TS yogis have recently returned from a 10-day adventure in Rishikesh and are excited to share tales of the trip. This special evening will include photos and videos of their journey, henna painting, yummy Indian cuisine, a trunk show featuring Indian-made malas, clothing, and accessories, and more. Investment: $10 suggested donation. All sales go to charity.

9:45 – 11:55 p.m. Midnight Prana Flow (Flow Yoga Center, 1450 P Street, NW). The first of two liberating and soulful workshops combining vinyasayoga, live drumming, and spoken word with Shawn Parell and special guest poet and percussionist John de Kadt. Bring your body, your breath, and your spirit, and invite this practice in to deepen and awaken your connection to the source within and inspire your daily living. Investment: $25, or attend *Saturday’s workshop too and get the two for $55.

Saturday, January 22
10:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Breaking it Down: Explore/Re-explore Yoga Basics (Yoga District, 1910 14th Street, NW Unit 1). Ease into your yoga practice in 2011 with a workshop that breaks down yoga poses, meditation, and yogic philosophy. Led by teachers Jasmine C. & Aqeel. Investment: $20 w/ proceeds benefit Yoga Activist.

10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. The Pursuit of Happy Hips: Theory and Vinyasa (The Studio DC, 1710 Connecticut Avenue, NW). Join visiting yoga teacher Eoin Finn for this workshop that will explore pelvic anatomy and the psychology of the hips. You’ll find out what rules we need to follow to help keep the yoga practice safe and beneficial to your physiology, while also learning how many rules actually restrict you. Then participate in Eoin’s flowing series of poses that will leave you feeling blissful and ecstatic. Investment: $40,

3:30 – 5:30 p.m. Extended Ecstasy Hour (Flow Yoga Center, 1450 P Street, NW). Move towards the embodied essence of yoga and awaken the heart in this week’s special extended Yoga Ecstasy Exploratorium. In this expansive yet grounded vinyasa flow workshop with poetry and drumming, you’ll journey deep into the pulse of the drum, the rhythm of the body and the creative juice that flows from accessing prana. No experience necessary. Drums will be provided! Investment: $40 or $55 for *both workshops (see above).

Sunday, January 23
DC Yoga Challenge Launch12:00 p.m. Yoga Book Club (sponsored by Yoga Outdoors, meet at Kogod Courtyard of The Smithsonian American Art Museum, 8th & F Streets, NW). Yoga Outdoors members will be discussing Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras, Pada (chapter) 1, at this informal gathering. A great way to meet some other yogis, learn more about Yoga Outdoors, and get your weekly philosophy discussion in. More information is available on their Meet-up page. Investment: FREE!!

(warning: shameless self promotion!)
4:30 – 5:30 p.m. NEW Pre-Natal Yoga Class (STROGA, 1808 Adams Mill Road, NW). Mama’s-to-be: join Jamie Boese (hey , that’s me!) for pre-natal yoga as part of STROGA’s new, expanded schedule of class offerings. Through asana, pranayama, and toning work, you’ll connect with your little babe to be and strengthen your changing body while working toward the adventure of labor and delivery! Investment: $15 for walk-ins.

Posted by: Jamie

Tags: , , , , , , , ,

Weekend Warrior: December 3-5

1 Comment
Posted 03 Dec 2010 — by WelcomeOmDC
Category Weekend Warrior, Yoga

Brrrr… its cold out there, time to do some yoga in the atmosphere (and warm things up warriors)!


Friday, December 3
Cuddle up for warmth, celebrate the third night of Hanukkah, or hit the Midnight Flow Class with Rob Hess (Flow Yoga Center, 1450 P Street, NW). This invigorating practice will get you ready for the weekend. Class is from 9:45 – 11:55 p.m. Investment: $16.50

Saturday, December 4
1:30 – 3:30 p.m. Yin Yoga: A Donation Workshop with Megan Davis (Yoga Chai, 1744 Columbia Road, NW, 2nd Floor). Yin yoga provides the perfect balance to your active (yang) yoga practice. Yin utilizes long-held floor poses, meditation and breath work to target the connective tissues of the body—the ligaments, tendons and cartilage. Working on these connective tissues can help to increase flexibility and decrease stagnant energy in the body. This deep practice is gentle, yet intense, helping students not only to open the body, but also to cultivate the ability to observe the body and the mind and stay with sensation. Sounds like a perfect way to welcome the stressful Holiday season! Investment: Recommended donation $20, proceeds will go towards Megan’s project to develop an adaptive yoga manual and teacher training for Anahata Grace teachers on the ground in Rwanda.

2:30 – 3:45 p.m. Budukon Master Class with Founder Cameron Shayne (Vida Fitness Verizon Center, 601 F Street, NW). As if meeting Cameron Shayne isn’t enough of a draw for you to participate in this amazing opportunity, you can also be inspired by our post about local Budukon teacher Mimi Rieger and take her word for it! Investment: Free for members, $25 for nonmembers

3:15 – 7:15 p.m. (Training takes place Saturday AND Sunday) Yoga Activist Training (Yoga District14th Street Studio, 1910 14th Street, NW). Learn how to share yoga and other helpful mindfulness practices with communities in need! Join YogaActivist.org founder and experienced yoga outreach teacher Jasmine Chehrazi along with social worker Kate Baasch of Miriam’s Kitchen for this training. You do not need to be a yoga teacher to benefit; enthusiastic yogis can pair up with a certified teacher to serve as understudies in homeless shelters, soup kitchens, and other facilities serving these communities.  More Information available on their website. Investment: Donation-based registration spots are left!

Sunday, December 5
2:00 – 4:30 p.m. Couples Yoga Workshop for Labor and Delivery (Capitol Hill Yoga, 641 Pennsylvania Avenue, SE). This workshop is an opportunity for pregnant women and their partners or doulas to practice yoga poses and breathing techniques that many women have found helpful during labor and delivery. In addition, partners will learn how to guide mothers in their relaxation between contractions, as well as some massage and acupressure techniques. Recommended for women in the third trimester of pregnancy. Investment: $80 per couple

And if the cold isn’t enough of an inspiration to practice this weekend, maybe the potential life-saving skills it teaches you are.

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Weekend Warrior: November 12-14

No Comments
Posted 12 Nov 2010 — by WelcomeOmDC
Category Community, Yoga, Yoga Teachers

What’s going on this weekend warriors? With yoga stars in town (both international and homegrown), and the tweed ride, you have so much to choose from! Enjoy our suggestions below or share your plans in the comments.   

*****  

Friday, November 12
6:30 – 9:00 p.m. Handstands and Hip Hop (Boundless Yoga, 1522 U Street, NW). Anyone at any level is welcome to this class. You will learn how every single part of your body is a part of your handstand and experience as you approach the newness of each moment in yoga poses, with breath that is uniquely your own. Listening to the beat in hip hop music can help liven things up as you watch your perspective change. Come turn your Tadasana upside down by learning how to stand on your own two hands! Investment: $30

Saturday, November 13
4:00 – 6:00 p.m. Rejuvenate and Recharge: 2 Hour Restorative Class (lil omm, 4830 V Street, NW). Re-charge and center yourself with this class as you head into winter and the Holiday season. Investment: Donation-based, benefiting Anahata Grace. 

Sunday, November 14
DC Yoga Week LaunchShiva Rea is in town on her Fall Mandala tour and she’s teaching three different workshops on this day at St. Francis Hall, 1400 Quincy Street, NE. Details at Flow Yoga Center’s website. Need one more boost of inspiration to register for this rare event? Read Jessica Lazar’s guest post from last week.

11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Yoga Becomes Eclectic (lululemon georgetown, 3265 M Street, NW). Did you ever go to Inspired Yoga Studio in DC? If not, you missed out and THIS is your chance to make up for it. Former DC resident and Inspired Yoga studio owner Kyra Sudofsky returns to the District this weekend for TWO different AMAZING classes this Sunday. This two-hour fun and invigorating practice will celebrate innovation and all levels are welcome. Investment: $20 in advance, via paypal (payment goes to info@inspiredyoga.com) or $25 at the door.

12:30 – 6:00 p.m. 2nd Annual Tweed Ride (location for ride starting point disclosed to registrants). Brush off that vintage tweed jacket or those fancy lace gloves, hop on your bike, and enjoy this bike trip down memory line. The dapper folk over at Dandies & Quaintralles host this now annual event followed by a cleverly named post-ride party, “Betweed You and Me.” What a jolly good way to spend a Sunday afternoon. Invesment: Tweed Ride, FREE ($5 donation requested); post-ride party $25.  

Kyra Anastasia Sudofsky

7:00 – 8:30 p.m. Candlelight Yoga with Kyra Sudofsky(Josephine Butler Parks Center, 2437 15th Street NW). Join Kyra for a soft Inspired Flow class practiced in a room lit by candles. Candlelight Yoga has a strong emphasis on breathing and meditation to help you feel recharged and even help you sleep better. All students are welcome. Investment: $20 in advance, via paypal (payment goes to info@inspiredyoga.com) or $15 if you attend the morning practice at lululemon in g-town.   

*Yes, we know, David Kyle is in town this weekend too. BUT… most of his workshops are SOLD OUT. You can still show up to his Wednesday night class at lululemon georgetown at 7 p.m. $15 gets you an intro to “The Rocket” and a chance to see David fly. Enjoy!

Tags: , , , , , , ,

Halloween Weekend Warrior: October 29-31

1 Comment
Posted 29 Oct 2010 — by WelcomeOmDC
Category Community, Deals and Discounts, Events and Workshops, Weekend Warrior, Yoga

Whether you like your Halloween to be fun, funny, or spooky, there are tons of options for enjoying this festive holiday. So put on your favorite yoga “costume,” lace up your scary running shoes, or hop on your witch-mobile (aka bike) and enjoy the weekend!

*****

Friday, October 29
7:00 – 9:00 p.m. Thriller on H Street. (Joy of Motion, 1333 H St., NE ). This will be a combo dance workshop to learn the iconic choreography from Michael Jackson’s Thriller followed by the Thriller on H Street Party. Investment: $25 in advance/$30 at the door

7:30 – 9:00 p.m. A Very Scary Friday Night Yoga (Costume) Party (MINT Club Spa Retreat, 1724 California Street, NW). Join Meredith McCullough and Naomi Gottlieb-Millerto kick-off Halloween weekend with a full-spectrum class dedicated to celebrating your true self. Wipe the dust off the mirror to your heart and unleash that angel, devil, fuzzy monster, or super star lurking beneath the surface. Get creative…yoga-capable costumes not required (but recommended!). Investment: $10 members, $20 guests

8:00 – 10:30 p.m. Halloween Party to Support One Common Unity (Flow Yoga Center,1450 P St., NW ). Join Live Green, Java Green, Flow Yoga Center, and the One Common Unity communities for an evening of dancing and festivities. The evening will include DJ Jeffrey Platts, Vanessa King and the DC Acro Yogis, plus Afro Brazilian Dance and Belly Dance Lessons. This evening is a fundraiser for One Common Unity, a local DC non profit dedicated to bringing peace education and conflict resolution curriculum into the DC Schools. Light treats will be available and Thai Massage therapists will be on hand to sooth any aches (for small donation!). Come in costume and be ready to shake your chakras. Investment: $15

Saturday, October 30
9:00 – 10:00 a.m. Yoga for Truthiness in the Classrooms(lululemon athletica logan circle, 1461 P St., NW). In the spirit of (and as a kick off!) for the Jon Stewart and Stephen Colbert Rallies, Debra Mishalove and Vanessa King will lead a donation-based yoga class. Proceeds from the yoga class will directly support classrooms and students across America including local schools in Washington D.C. Investment: Suggested donation $15, make checks out to DonorsChoose.org

Then, take a long walk or quick bike ride down to the Mall for the Rally to Restore Sanity. We heard that the port-o-potties have been delivered!

Sunday, October 31
8:00 a.m. Marine Corps Marathon Pep Rally Cheer Station (lululemon athletica georgetown, 3265 M St., NW). lululemon athletica Georgetown is putting on the ultimate Pep Rally Cheer Station for the Marine Corps Marathon on Sunday, October 31st at 8am. Come join the huge street party and cheer on the runners at mile 8 on M Street. It is an old school pep rally theme with the Georgetown marching band, DJ Jeff, crepes by Crepe Amor, gourmet coffee, pom poms and other tricks and treats. Mimosas and Bloody Marys will also be available to keep the crowd fueled to cheer on those marathoners! Investment: FREE, just bring your good cheer!

4:00 p.m. Family Halloween Yoga (lil omm, 4830 V St., NW). No tricks, but lots of treats! Bring children ages 3+ and come down from the sugar high and reconnect through yoga. Halloween-themed poses, music, and much-needed relaxation will be provided. Investment: FREE

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

It’s Yoga Rocks DC!!!

4 Comments
Posted 14 Oct 2010 — by WelcomeOmDC
Category Events and Workshops, Yoga

Today’s guest post comes from internationally-known yoga teacher David Kyle. We hope his post gets you excited about his upcoming workshops and classes in the DC area. Its time to fly with David, enjoy!

*****

Rocket Man David Kyle

Possibly you have heard about a yoga class that has been floating around (literally like levitation) in your area lately? The name of this yoga class is called “Rocket” and it encourages a sense of freedom within the Ashtanga Yoga lineage. Freedom to honor your changing bodies and stimulate this amazing body we have to transcend the normal and to surpass any boundaries that you have set for yourself or allowed others to create. It’s charged the practice of many of your favorite teachers and soon will be a must class at your local yoga studios around the world. Why called the “Rocket”? According to Bob Weir of the Grateful Dead who coined the name, “It gets you there faster.” Faster to the sweet taste of comfort and control that yoga asana provides.

The Rocket series is the foundation of the California based It’s Yoga Institute that is home base to over 15 yoga studios around the world. The It’s Yoga system teaches a lifestyle based yoga practice that is designed to be molded to anyone that is looking for an asana and philosophy practice to complement their existing practices. “1 million yoga teachers working together will cure the world!” This is the words of the fountainhead of the It’s Yoga philosophy Larry Schultz. Larry has been living the life of a modern day remover of darkness and confusion for almost 40 years now. Encouraging people to do simple things in their lives to keep themselves happy. “Relax, Breath, and Go with the Flow” is one of the fundamental rules of the It’s Yoga mind set. It’s one of the lifestyle practices that grabbed me and one sun salutation at a time pulled me deeper in the lifestyle of a modern yogi. Following through with Larry’s dream I joined the It’s Yoga Kula and now works to bring more yoga into the world one person at a time with his own It’s Yoga studio in Puerto Rico. As one of the head teachers of the It’s Yoga system I now visit the DC area to feed a growing community of yogis who are starving for their weekly Rocket class!

I have been visiting the DC area now for a few years, having first been introduced by DC area teacher Mike Graglia; who led me to the amazing Flow Yoga Center with Deb and Ian to teach introductory workshops and master classes. The DC kula was intrigued with the west coast style philosophy that was carried in the teachings of the It’s Yoga system. “West coast philosophy meets the east coast discipline.” I feel this part of the equation that makes the students love the asana series so much. The Rocket is designed for all levels. This is also because in the It’s Yoga system we do not consider postures like handstands to be advanced. In fact I like to say, “There is no such thing as an advanced yoga posture. It is what it is. The practitioner may do the pose in a beginner’s way or an advanced way, but that describes the student not the pose. We can all do any yoga posture in our own way. Perfection is found when the pose is steady and with ease.” This type of teaching is vital in all asana classes with teachings that come directly from the scriptures and can be experienced in any of the classes that I lead. Truth cannot be argued.

Peg Mulqueen decided to check out a class one day while she was visiting Puerto Rico. After meeting, our shared love for the DC area and the Rocket series sparked a mutual vision of bringing more of this “yoga elixir” up north. In collaboration with Stair from Little River Yoga, I’ve been able to spend more time with students practicing the details of the sequences and philosophies, getting to share the love of the practice with others who wish to do the same. Recently the details and tricks of the It’s Yoga system have grown in intensity in the DC area and have started to catch the eyes of more local teachers and teachers in training.

The fuel needed for the first northeast Rocket Teacher Training to take place this November 17th -21st is now set in motion. With over 20 teachers who are either fully trained or specialized in the It’s Yoga system or the Progressive Ashtanga Yoga system that I created in the DC area we can “TAKE OFF”. This is it! It’s Yoga! It’s a full on certified training for 50 hours in Yoga asana, philosophy and science of sequencing. Students will learn over 6 different asana routines and cover the basics of more advanced yoga techniques like floating and flying, inversions, and pranayama. This training is considered to be an intensive by the students who participate. By the time you finish the training, you will know it is simply a way of life. All 50 hours can be use for continuing education with Yoga Alliance. This training will include the right to represent It’s Yoga via the Rocket 1,2, and 3 series with their appropriate variations. Materials are included in the price. Some extra books maybe encouraged if you do not already have them. It is an $850.00 investment for this training. It’s Yoga graduates receive alumni discounts☺

In addition to the 5 Day Rocket Teacher Training, there will be several master class and a few workshops being held at Flow Yoga Center, STROGA, lululemon athletica Georgetown in DC, and Little River Yoga in Virginia. These classes are great introductions to the style and a way to meet me and the other local teachers who you may already know that are training in the It’s Yoga system to complement their existing yoga certifications.

You can contact me directly at info@itsyogapuertorico.com (check out the website!!! It rocks!!!) or you may contact any of the locations directly for information on all the events! Pre-registration is advised. Details on payment cost and pre registration are given to all who are interested!

Tags: , , , , ,

Fall into Relaxation

No Comments
Posted 05 Oct 2010 — by WelcomeOmDC
Category Healthy Living, Insights, Inspiration

Autumn tends to be the time when I start reflect, draw inward, and even get a little nostalgic as I prepare for the long winter that lies ahead. I personally love this season, and take comfort in its glorious perks: cozy sweaters, knee-high boots, cinnamon-infused teas, apple cider, butternut squash soup, Pumpkin Spice Lattes, and cool, sweat-free, morning strolls to work.

So I really, really love this note from Flow Yoga Center owner Deb Perlson-Mishalove, where she shares her recent discovery of the art of relaxation this autumn and encourages her students to use the season to learn to relax. I am pasting the note in its entirety below, and encourage you to share it with your friends, co-workers, family… or anyone who needs to be reminded that it’s okay to relax. Really.

Deb’s Note:

Our culture invariably supposes that action and accomplishment is better than rest, that doing something–anything–is better than doing nothing. Because of our desire to succeed, to meet these ever-growing expectations, we do not rest. Because we do not rest, we lose our way. We miss the compass points that would show us where to go, we bypass the nourishment that would give us succor. We miss the quiet that would give us wisdom. We miss the joy and love born of effortless delight. Poisoned by this hypnotic belief that good things come only through unceasing determination and tireless effort, we can never truly rest. And for want of rest, our lives are in danger.” -Wayne Muller – Sabbath: Finding Rest, Renewal, and Delight in Our Busy Lives

Right before summer, an insightful friend sent me this life-changing book – “Sabbath: Finding Rest, Renewal, and Delight in Our Busy Lives”. She was prompted to give it to me after she realized every time she asked me how I was doing – I would say -”I am so busy”.

The book is such a treasure and has motivated me to take a deeper look at the struggle I often feel in balancing my energy around the various roles I play in my life and the frenzy of activity that fills my days.

I decided to experiment with the idea of taking a day of Sabbath each week with my family.   A full twenty-four hours in which I commit to resting and relaxing.  This means no electronics (including computer, alarm clock, cell phone, tv), no cooking meals that take more then 10 minutes (take-out and preparing the day before works wonders!), no work-related activities, and no organized plans.

Deb Perlson-Mishalove, Flow Yoga Center

The first day we did it, my husband eased into it effortlessly, but I felt restless because I am so used to having “something” to do and my mind feels constantly pulled in different directions. But as the day rolled on and I chilled out in hammock and actually fell asleep (I never did that before!) I realized I needed this unstructured time more than I thought. I read fiction, played with my son without worrying about running to a play date or appointment, took a bike ride and went for a long walk in the woods. The stress of being disconnected and out of touch dissolved and I reconnected with myself in a way I hadn’t in a while.

The tradition of Sabbath for many cultures is ancient and integral. I totally get it now. The biggest surprise for me is that I don’t come out of the day feeling like a zillion to-dos have piled up and I am now behind. Instead, I feel re-energized, more creative and ready to manage what’s in front of me.  I guess you can say it is similar to how I feel after a taking a yoga class, but a full twenty-four hour cycle illuminates it even more!

As Fall rolls around, and my schedule begins to fill up even more I am going to continue to keep this tradition sacred for myself and my family. I hope my experience encourages you to try out your own version of Sabbath.   Let me know how it goes!

Warm oms,

Debra

Posted by: Kelly

Tags: , , ,

Weekend Warrior: September 17-19

No Comments
Posted 16 Sep 2010 — by WelcomeOmDC
Category Weekend Warrior

Weekend Warrior Returns! Enjoy some of these great activities taking place in the area this weekend or share what you’ll be up to in the comments.

*****

Friday, September 17
7:30 – 9:00 p.m. Tranquil Space Arlington Studio Opening Soiree (3528 Wilson Boulevard, Arlington). Take Metro to Virginia Square and enjoy the new Arlington space that Tranquil Space has opened up, complete with cupcakes, a DJ, henna painting and yoga demos. Plus, the first 50 people in the door receive a free class! Investment: FREE

8:00 – 10:00 p.m. YO!DRUM (Liz Lerman Dance Exchange, 7117 Maple Ave, Takoma Park). Red line it out to Takoma Park for this unique experience that combines drumming and yoga. Science has proven that drumming produces cancer-fighting cells in the body and relieves anxiety and depression. Yoga improves circulation, deepens sleep, and relieves stress. Together, Yoga and Drumming make a great team and create an energized, healing space for growth, reflection, laughter and renewal. Join One Common Unity as they creatively integrate yoga and drumming for a fun community event! Bring a yoga mat and hand drum ($3 rentals available). YO!DRUM is for people of all ages and levels. Investment: $20

Saturday, September 18
10:00 a.m. Free Yoga at the 7th Street Landing (7th & Water Street, SW). Check out the newly opened waterfront park with a free hour long yoga class EVERY Saturday for the next five weeks. This weekend’s class is sponsored by Flow Yoga Center and taught by Jessica Howard. With a beautiful forecast on the weekend horizon, this is the perfect way to start your Saturday! Investment: FREE

1:00 – 5:00 p.m. Preparation for Childbirth: Partner Workshop (lil omm studio, 4830 V Street, NW). This workshop provides an opportunity for expectant mothers, their partners and other members of their birth team to prepare for the childbirth experience with Kristin Maresca, yoga teacher and doula. Through discussion, pregnancy-adapted yoga postures, breathwork, visualization, vocal toning and massage, partners will cultivate greater relaxation, understanding, and enjoyment of childbearing. No previous yoga experience necessary. Investment: $75 per couple

Sunday, September 19
11:30 a.m. - 12:45 p.m. Family Yoga Workshop and Benefit (Yoga Chai, 1755 Columbia Road, NW). This is a light-hearted, fun practice meant to help the whole family move their bodies and connect to their spirits. Participants will sing, laugh, and move as you discover the many benefits yoga can provide to children and their caregivers, including improved communication, reduced stress, and greater calm. Families of all varieties and sizes with children crawling through age 5 welcome! 100% of proceeds will be donated to Capitol Partners for Education, which aims to improve the futures of low-income youth by helping them receive a quality education, graduate from high school, and attend college. Investment: $25 per family suggested donation

2:30 – 4:00 p.m. Yoga Nidra with Pamela Wilson (St. Mark’s Yoga Center, 301 A Street, SE in the dance studio). In Yoga Nidra you relax and open the deeper parts of your mind. The practice releases physical, mental and emotional tensions and harmonizes mind, body and spirit. Yoga Nidra is one of the deepest of all meditations; leading awareness through many levels a state of supreme stillness and insight. No experience in yoga or meditation is necessary. Investment: $15 preregistered/$20 at the door

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , ,

The Importance of Retreating

No Comments
Posted 18 Aug 2010 — by WelcomeOmDC
Category Inspiration, Outdoor Activities, Yoga, Yoga Off the Mat

I am constantly in motion. My mind, my body, my fingers on the keyboard… something is always always moving, turning, clickety-clacking.

The concept of constantly moving forward has been instilled in me since a young age. As a society, we are inundated with messages, commercials, and pressure discouraging idleness and inspiring action.

Even in difficult times, we’re always told the best way to get over something is to keep going. As kids, we heard, “If you fall down, get back up.” As adults we advise, “If you’re going through hell, keep going” (I especially like the Quotables card version in which the text is written in a downward spiral, like Alice falling down the rabbit hole).

Most of the time, I appreciate this consistent nudge from the universe to keep moving forward. Even as I try, in my most yogic way, to cherish the moment or the day that I’m living in, I’m a planner by nature, and start to get restless if I don’t have a couple of trips or activities planned out to look forward to. When I’ve experienced grief and loss, I have found that continuing to move ahead was really the best way to get over a big hurdle.

But its summer, and that gives us all a reason (as if we really need one) to take a step back from the craziness of life and relax. To retreat. Retreat from constant plans followed by plans, retreat from technology, retreat from our jobs (if possible), and maybe even retreat a little bit from ourselves.

DSC_0055DSC_0084DSC_0150DSC_0178

In July, I had the good fortune to attend the Rejuvenation Retreat, sponsored by Flow Yoga Center and One Common Unity. The Retreat took place at Abram’s Creek Campground in West Virginia, which is beautiful, remote, and exactly what this city girl needed.

DSC_0053The weekend was packed with (optional) activities including yoga for all levels, hiking, life coaching, drumming, raw food demos, sitting by the tranquil river reading a book, enjoying homemade food, etc. It was truly a retreat from the world, and rejuvenating at that. There were fun camp-like activities built in to create community building (like a water balloon toss and fire circle), and the people who organized, ran, and attended were all amazing.

But for me, perhaps one of the most interesting outcomes from the retreat was the fact that I just kept on retreating after I got home. Mentally, that is. When I came back to reality, I started to pull away from responsibility, self-imposed or otherwise. I stopped responding to emails, I stopped blogging (sorry!), I didn’t want to go out with friends, and I ignored some of my regularly schedule activities. I just wanted to keep retreating into that quiet space I had created in my mind for the weekend and sit there for a while. I wanted to have the room to notice my wants and desires, to listen to my heart, to wrestle with my confusion, without being overwhelmed by external forces.

At first, I felt guilty. I kept reminding myself of the things I should be doing, or the people I should be calling, or the jam-packed summer of fun plans I should be having. But then I decided that I was allowed to retreat for a little bit longer. A well-timed vacation helped provide an excuse for ignoring the responsibilities that were piling up, but still, what I really needed was that permission from myself to sit in a quiet room, read a book, not turn on my computer or TV, and breath.

It was glorious, and refreshing, and just what I needed to truly celebrate my summer.

DSC_0089Thank you Rejuvenation Retreat for the chance to get away, be a part of a great community, and most importantly, for giving me permission to mentally retreat for a few weeks from the world.

How have you retreated this summer?

If you haven’t, try it for a weekend. Don’t make plans, don’t turn on your computer. Just sit, breath, and notice what comes up.

 

A full set of photos from the Rejuvenation Retreat can be found on our Flickr page. Enjoy!

Posted by: Jamie

Tags: , ,

Weekend Warrior: July 23-25

No Comments
Posted 22 Jul 2010 — by WelcomeOmDC
Category Outdoor Activities, Running, Seva: Selfless Service, Weekend Warrior, Yoga

If you haven’t yet melted into a pool of sweat formerly known as human, get out this weekend and try a few fun things (indoors and out (but by the water!)) to cool off.

 

Friday, July 23
6:30 p.m. Barre Basics (b.fit, 1339 14th Street, NW, Suite 3). b.fit blends strength training, pilates, and ballet-barre techniques into a core strengthening workout that isolates muscle groups and garners results. If you haven’t tried b.fit before, go sweat out your week at one of their barre basics classes for new students. Seriously, you want a tight bum for summer? b.fit is your answer. Investment: $22 (first time students get their second class free!)

Kayak fan

Photo by steveritchie

Saturday, July 24
10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Yoga and Kayaking (a workshop by Past Tense,starting at Jack’s Boat House, 3500 K St. NW). Awaken your mind and body with a yoga and kayaking adventure with Kelly Tobin. Amidst the natural beauty of the Potomac River, prepare for the physical aspects of kayaking with a yoga practice that will include balancing poses, core engagement, and a gentle warm up for the arms, shoulders and legs. After a peaceful hour of paddling, conclude with yoga to stretch arms, shoulders and the other parts of the body worked and enjoy a sense of rejuvenation. You must pre-register for this event on the Past Tense website. Investment: $35 for members, $40 for non-members (includes the kayak rental)

11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Yoga for Runners and Athletes Pranayama (Breathing) Workshop (Shakti MindBody Studio, 1302 9th Street, NW). Athletes of all levels and sporting disciplines are invited to join “Yoga for Runners” specialist Angelyn Shapiro for workshops that use the tools of yoga to take your game to the next level. In this Saturday’s session, practice techniques that will maximize and expand your lung capacity for optimum athletic performance. Investment: $25

Sunday, July 25
1:00 – 3:00 p.m. Summer Reading & Seva Series (lil omm, 4830 V Street, NW). Join Carolyn Butcher to discuss The Happiness Project and explore your own journey to simply BE HAPPY.  After the discussion,  take part in experiential exercises designed to deepen the learning and application of the principles and practices in the book and – best of all – to enlighten and simplify your daily life.  Investment: $10, all proceeds go to Citizen Effect

 

Also, its not too late to register for Flow Yoga Center’s Rejuvenation Retreat, taking place this weekend at Abram’s Creek Campgrounds in West Virginia. If you don’t have any plans, register online now (only camping space is available). Did you ever go to summer camp as a kid? This is going to be like summer camp for adult yogi’s! Yoga, hiking, swimming, meditation, sweat lodge, relaxation, homemade vegan meals, and more. Double bonus - all of the proceeds from the Retreat go to a great local non-profit, One Common Unity. WelcomeOmDC will be there to photograph the event and will post about it next week.

See you in West Virginia…

Posted by: Jamie

Tags: , , , , , , ,

Weekend Warrior: July 16-18

No Comments
Posted 15 Jul 2010 — by WelcomeOmDC
Category Outdoor Activities, Running, Weekend Warrior, Yoga

Studio Preview: Stroga

Friday, July 16
5:00 – 8:00 p.m. Open House at STROGA (1808 Adams Mill Road).
If you haven’t checked out the beauty that is STROGA, this Friday is your chance. Meet teachers and trainers, enjoy a DJ, live demos, and more! Investment: FREE

Saturday, July 17
8:00 a.m. Beat the Deadline 5K (National Press Club, 14th & F Streets). If you’re a media junkie, consider signing up for this race. A lot of local journalist celebs will be there as well as Race Marshal Tony Horton, creator of P90X extreme fitness. This 5K benefits the ongoing work of the Eric Friedheim National Journalism Library which is committed to helping working journalists improve their skills through ongoing training and programming of future journalists through scholarships that promote diversity within the profession. Investment: $35 in advance (fax only by tomorrow night) or $40 on site.

9:00 – 10:00 a.m. Hoopnotica Hula Hoop Workout. This hooping class is every Saturday through September 4, 9am – 10am at Gateway Park in Rosslyn at the foot of the Key Bridge (Rosslyn Metro stop). It’s a free community offering provided by the Rosslyn BID. For more information, visit Gateway to Fitness.

9:30 – 11:00 a.m. All Levels Class with Master Teacher Claire Este-McDonald (Down Dog Yoga Georgetown, 1046 Potomac Street). Claire Este-McDonald is known for teaching an intensely physical and dynamic practice, infused with intelligence, compassion and joy.  She believes that understanding well-being and vitality allows each person to tap into the heart of life and bring that energy into everything they do. Investment: $18 drop in rate, but sign up online in advance for sure.

4:40 – 5:45 p.m. Punk Rock Yoga (Flow Yoga Center, 1450 P Street).
Join Rob Hess for this unique opportunity. Punk Rock Yoga is not just yoga to punk music, its a punk rock approach to yoga. Yoga in the raw. People of all degrees of joint flexibility and waist measurement are welcome to this awesome energetic punk-rock music/yoga experience.  Investment: $16.50 for drop-ins, but we recommend signing up online in advance!

Sunday, July 18
2:00 – 4:00 p.m. Embody Your Intention: An Anusara Yoga Practice with Katie Lane (Capitol Hill Yoga, 641 Pennsylvania Avenue, SE). Dive into the soulful artistry of Anusara Yoga with this playful, full spectrum workshop. Grow your postures from the inside out. Saturate your movement with feeling. Come prepared to move your body in a way that is skillful, creative, and joyful! Investment: $35

If none of these WW picks work for you, get out and sweat it out with a bike ride, swim, run, or walk. No matter what you do, enjoy the weekend!

Tags: , , , , , , , , ,
← Previous Entries