OMinneapolis

Burma Benefit

2008-05-28T03:06:00.003+05:30

BURMA BENEFIT

HELP VICTIMS OF CYCLONE NARGIS IN MYANMAR

Saturday May 31 5-9pm

$10 Yoga Classes 5pm 6pm 7pm and 8pm

1/2 price massage & acupuncture (please make appointment in advance)

Group meditation & chanting Yoga Center of Minneapolis

Contact Brett Reierson 612-968-0143 or burmabenefit@yahoo.com

Yeah for the Minneapolis Public Schools!!!

2008-05-06T23:25:00.001+05:30

From KSTP.com:

Metro schools add 'Yoga Calm' to curriculum

There is a new sense of calm at more than 30 schools in Minneapolis, after local teachers have added yoga into their curriculum.

Stretching and breathing is woven between reading and writing at schools like Jefferson Elementary.

Fourth grade teacher Susan Saly leads her students through relaxing exercises every day at 10 a.m., right after the Pledge of Allegiance.

"It really gets them centered and ready to learn, ready to listen to each other and listen to me," Saly said.

She is one of more than 400 educators in the district using Yoga Calm in her classroom. She said her teaching pace has picked up because students are paying closer attention.

"The children have a way to become still. It’s instantaneous and simple and with that breathing and being able to come to stillness, they're able to sit and listen," Saly explained.

Yoga instructors Julie Hurtubise and Katy Flaminio worked for the Minneapolis School District and both have taken a year sabbatical to research the benefits of Yoga Calm and have found great things.

"Off-task behavior has decreased greatly, children are more calm and able to listen and handle stress better," said Hurtubise.

Students told 5 EYEWITNESS NEWS they love it.

"It's relaxing and it helps me when I’m mad," said fourth grader, Khadija Mohamed. "Sometimes I’m a little too energized and yoga helps calm me down."

Hurtubise and Flaminio said their goal is to incorporate Yoga Calm into every classroom in Minneapolis.

Click here to see the video of students doing their downward facing dogs. Yeah for Minneapolis. This is great!!

Yoga Pant Round-Up

2008-05-06T22:48:00.001+05:30

A selection of oh-so-fab yoga pants. Most of these can be found at local studios, but more colors and sizes are available online. Happy shopping.(1) Classic Be Present Mobility Pant (my personal fav!), (2) Be Present Versatility Pant (the side vents snap closed), (3) Stonewear Designs Meridian Pant, (4) Foat Slit-Back Pant (great local company), (5) Prana Gaucho Capri, (6) Karma Base Pant, (7) Lucy Grace Crop, (8) Athleta Chaturanga Pant (I am buying these)

Hint: the cage is not locked

2008-05-06T22:43:00.000+05:30

I was recently thumbing through a great yoga book, Meditations from the Mat by Rolf Gates, when I came across a quote that really resonated for me. This quote reminded me that so much of what we want in our lives is attainable... we just stop ourselves from claiming it. We put up boundaries, we forget to dream, we operate out of fear and a sense of lack. But as the quote says:

"Hint: the cage is not locked."
In other words, no one is stopping us but ourselves.

Let the energy flow....

2008-04-30T21:32:00.000+05:30

Various goings-on

2008-04-28T21:24:00.003+05:30

A few announcements about upcoming new/free/fun yoga classes that have graced my email box recently:

Ted Roseen (see the previous entry about his photography) will begin teaching at Vitality in St. Paul tomorrow (Tuesday, 4/29) at 4:15pm. Ted's class is a mix of Iyengar biomechanics, Ashtanga sequencing, and the flow of Vinyasa. The class tomorrow is free, so be sure to check it out.
TaraNa's famous yoga happy hour is this Friday. This month's theme is Gin-and-Tonicasana. Remember to arrive early!
Amy Patee is leading a really interesting workshop at the Yoga Center this Saturday focused on harnessing your prana (lifeforce.) Amy will lead the class through meditation, breath work, visualization, and asana to "elicit your personal power and strength."
My good friend Catherine Johnson Justice is starting a new Family Yoga Class at TaraNa on Saturday, May 10. More details will follow, but mark your kids' calendars now.
The Dharma Mittra workshop at the Yoga Center of Minneapolis is fast approaching (May 31 - June 1). Everyone I know who has studied with him raves about the experience. Who wouldn't want to learn "the best and most effective methods of Yoga"?!
Yoga Center of Minneapolis is having an open house at their St. Louis Park studio on May 2. There will be yoga mini-classes, free henna tattoos and tarot card readings, as well as consultations to help you or your friend find the right yoga class.
The new Edina CorePower, complete with 6,200 sq feet of studio, spa, and retail space is scheduled to open on May 16.

Photos from India

2008-04-25T20:10:00.006+05:30

Ted Roseen is a local yoga teacher and artist/photographer. But really he is special soul that has a lot to teach us all about the beauty of the human spirit and really following your bliss. This fall Ted traveled to India to continue his annual tradition of visiting the remote corners of the globe (Nicaragua, Guatemala, Mexico, Costa Rica, Spain, Laos, Peru) to capture in his viewfinder the beauty of people and the lives they lead. His trip to India was extra special in that he combined his photography pursuits with an intense two months practicing the Primary Series with the creators of modern Ashtanga yoga, the Jois family. (Apparently a lot of Advil was required to cope with the pain!)

Ted is displaying his India photos this weekend as a part of the St. Paul Art Crawl. I saw the photos last night and they are beautiful and moving. I strongly encourage you to check out Ted’s amazing work, buy one for your wall, and meet this extra-special yogi. Namaste.

Ted Roseen - One Among Many: Photos From India
300 Broadway Street #403, St. Paul
Friday: 6-10pm, Saturday: 2-10pm, Sunday: 12-5pm

And the winner is...

2008-04-24T20:02:00.002+05:30

City Pages annual BEST OF issue came out yesterday, and the St. Paul Yoga Center was named "best yoga." It isn't technically in Minneapolis or 612, but I have to give props where props are due. I like that City Pages gave the studio kudos for being a welcoming environment for all types to genuinely deepen their yoga practice. The St. Paul Yoga Center offers a variety of class types (Iyengar, pre-natal, Vinyasa, yoga philosophy, pranayama, etc.) and hosts many interesting workshops. I encourage you to check it out... the first class is free.

Yoga happy hours

2008-04-23T22:05:00.004+05:30

There is nothing like a great Friday afternoon yoga class to end the work week and ease into your weekend. Mark your calendars - here are a few options around town:

1st Friday of every month

TaraNa: 6:00pm (but arrive by 5:30 to get a mat spot) - 90-minute Vinyasa class followed by socializing and libations. These classes are taught by Jessie and Jeffery, both great teachers and fun people.

2nd Friday of every month

Yoga Studio of Plymouth: 5:30-7:30pm - each month is focused on a theme. May is about partner stretching and June has a chakra focus.

Every Friday

Yoga Center of Minneapolis - downtown studio: 5:45-6:45pm- a fun Vinyasa class for all levels. "Celebration Yoga" features upbeat music and tasty treats and beverages after class.
Yoga Center of Minneapolis - Saint Louis Park studio: 6:30-7:45pm- an all levels yoga class taught by one of my favorite teachers in town, Ryan Kelly. The class features soft lighting and music to slip you into a deep sense of peace and relaxation.
Yoga House: 4:30-6:00pm- Sydney Holly (another fav teacher of mine) leads the class through a vigorous 90 minutes of Vinyasa practice. This class will make you sweat but you'll feel great by the end.
One Yoga: 5:30-6:50pm - in this class you will stretch you spine and unwind your mind with friends, tunes, and flow. This Vinyasa class is deeply rooted in the traditions of Ashtanga Yoga.
CorePower - 8:00-9:00pm - Uptown studio: move through a gentler, all levels Vinyasa flow class with great music and the glow of candlelight.

Remember to register: Amy Ippoliti (Anusara)

2008-04-23T07:16:00.002+05:30

REMINDER: April 25-27- Begin with Intention Yoga / Clouds in Water Zen Center
Amy Ippoliti: is a certified Anusara Yoga teacher who has traveled extensively with Anusara founder, John Friend, apprenticing with him on his national tours. She has also studied closely with Tantric scholar, Dr. Douglas Brooks. She leads Anusara Yoga retreats, immersions, workshops, and teacher trainings internationally. According to the website, she is known for her radically affirming teaching style and dynamism, offering her life experience with the potent Universal Principles of Alignment, elegant tantric yoga philosophy, and therapeutics that embody Anusara Yoga.

Yoga playlists

2008-04-23T07:02:00.001+05:30

Every month Yoga Journal asks a prominent yoga teacher to share their favorite music for practicing yoga and publishes it in the back of the magazine. I just discovered that these playlists are also posted on the web, making it oh so easy to link right into ITunes or OMstream to purchase the recommended tunes. Here are a few playlists that looked really good:

Shiva Rea (Yoga Trance Dance)
David Life (Jivamukti Yoga)
Gurmukh Kaur Khalsa (some serious Kundalini action)

Meditation is hard work

2008-04-22T21:51:00.002+05:30

The power of meditation

2008-04-21T23:10:00.005+05:30

Last week a friend and I attended a wonderful lecture at the University of Minnesota by Matthieu Ricard, a French born Buddhist monk, scientist, author, and the Dali Lama’s French translator. Ricard’s talk focused on his latest research and book about achieving genuine happiness. It is Ricard’s contention that happiness is not related to external circumstances; rather it is a product of our minds and perceptions. Therefore, to cultivate and improve our state of happiness we can utilize deliberate mind training techniques such as mindfulness meditation. And he has the brain scans and scientific research to prove it works!

According to Ricard, scientific studies have shown that human beings each have a baseline of happiness that they come back to throughout their lives, despite the external circumstances. One example is the fact that for people above the poverty line, studies have shown that more money actually does NOT buy more happiness. In another study, this time of paraplegics, levels of happiness one year after their accidents were actually the same as pre-injury levels even through right after their accidents many had suicidal thoughts. The pursuit of genuine happiness is therefore achieved not by changing external circumstances (bigger house, nicer car, better job, better spouse), but by training the mind to perceive those circumstances differently and ultimately raising the happiness baseline that we all come back to. Ricard shared a number of scientific studies that show that utilization of mindfulness meditation techniques (as practiced by Buddhist monks in Tibet) can actually shift our happiness baseline. This focused type of meditation can alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety, promote body healing, and ultimately raise our overall happiness levels. The trick is that you must “practice” these mind training techniques in a sustained fashion --- like learning to play the piano.

After hearing this powerful message and the seeing all the fancy graphs and MRI scans Ricard brought to prove it, I am recommending that we all read his book Happiness: A Guide to Developing Life's Most Important Skill, and we start a serious meditation practice. There are a wealth of resources in Twin Cities to get you started. I listed a few below but I am not endorsing any, just giving us all a place to start. Let me know where you learned to meditate. I would love to include it here.

Common Ground Meditation Center (3400 East 26th Street, Minneapolis): an independent center founded on the teachings of the Buddha and dedicated to the practice of mindfulness. This center follows in the spirit of the Insight Meditation Society (IMS) in Massachusetts and Spirit Rock Meditation Center in Northern California. The center is hosting an introduction to mindfulness meditation on May 4 as well as many other ongoing programs.

Shambhala Center of Minneapolis (2931 Grand Street NE, Minneapolis): part of an international community of 165 meditation centers founded by Chogyam Trungpa Rinpoche, a Tibetan Buddhist meditation master. Shambhala Buddhism incorporates the teachings of the Kagyu and Nyingma traditions of Tibetan Buddhism, with the Shambhala vision of living an uplifted life, fully engaged with the world. The center welcomes newcomers every Monday night in addition to their regular services and programming.

Yoga Center of Minnesota (Saint Louis Park and DT Minneapolis): Tara Cindy Sherman and Tanya Boigenzahn each offer meditation classes through the Yoga Center. These classes will touch on the benefits of meditation, a variety of techniques to help calm the mind, instruction on how to breathe properly and help relax the nervous system, and discussion of how to integrate a meditation practice into your life.

And here are some other resources I found online:

Rivers' Way
University of Minnesota - Center for Spirituality and Healing
Seeds of Mindfulness
Compassionate Ocean Sangha (at Three Smooth Stones)

Back to it

2008-04-18T20:41:00.007+05:30

The past few weeks for me have been really stressful (job issues, house drama, etc.) and I have lost my yoga way. I know that these are the times that yoga can be most helpful, but instead I have retreated to repeats of Law and Order, avoided my yoga mat, and totally disengaged from my spirit. (And that by the way, is why I have not been blogging – felt a bit disingenuous.) So I am using this blog entry as a public declaration that I will return to my path…because it sure feels crappy when I leave. Included below is a little anti-anxiety / heart opening asana sequence I’ve designed for myself in order to reconnect with my spirit and get me back into the world. Join me.

(1) Easy pose / meditation with index and thumb touching (Jnana Mudra) and palms facing down to calm the mind – 5 minutes

(2) Cat / cow pose (Marjaryasana / Bitilasana)

(3) Extended puppy pose (Uttana Shishosana)

(4) Staff pose (Dandasana)

(5) Head to knee forward bend (Janu Sirsasana) - right and left side

(6) Bridge pose (Setu Bandha Sarvangasana)

(7) Happy baby pose (Ananda Balasana)

(8) Camel pose (Ustrasana)

(9) Child’s pose with arms extended forward (Balasana)

(10) Bound angle pose (Baddha Konasana)

(11) Half pigeon pose (Ardha Kapotasana) – right and left side

(12) Supine twists – right and left side

(13) Corpse pose (Savasana) – restorative version with bolster, blankets, and eye pillow – 20 minutes

(14) Easy pose with salutation seal / hands at heart center (Anjali Mudra)

Namaste.

Yoga Happy Hour at TaraNa

2008-04-03T23:00:00.003+05:30

Want to start your weekend off right? Join 40+ other yogi(ni)s this Friday at 6pm at local studio TaraNa in Minneapolis' Kingfield neighborhood for Yoga Happy Hour. This monthly event is the owners' way to create community and give something back to their students. Plus, it sounds like a blast! You hit your mat for a 90 minute vinyasa practice and then wine is opened and you can mingle with your fellow yogi(ni)s. I haven't been yet, but apparently it is "the" place to be. Back in January, the Southwest Journal did an article about this event, so you have to arrive early to secure a mat spot. This is just another reason I think that TaraNa is a really cool place.

Neti those allergies away

2008-04-01T22:28:00.000+05:30

Around my workplace cold season is still in full swing. And if this ridiculous April snow ever melts, allergies are about to make an appearance. That means lot of stuffy noses and sinus headaches. The science of Ayurveda has an answer…the neti pot!

Old school yogis used a neti pot for daily general hygiene and to balance their kapha dosha. Western medicine has begun to see the wisdom in this practice and now ENT docs and allergists recommend them to their patients. A neti pot even made an appearance on the Oprah show!

Neti pots literally clean out your sinuses. It is a mechanical solution that in many cases is more effective than medication. By pouring water through your nasal passages, you clean out allergens and mucus. Here's how they work:

Once you've filled your pot with slightly salted water, you tip your head to the side, remember to breath through your mouth, and pour the neti pot into your nostril. Repeat on the other side and then blow your nose. At first it feels like you just jumped into a pool without holding your breath, but after a while it is as easy as brushing your teeth. Neti pots are available online, at many yoga studios, and carried by many local co-ops and natural food stores.

Some more (belated) yoga humor

2008-03-31T18:38:00.002+05:30

Namaste Peeps

honoring the peep in all things

(thanks Catherine)

Spring schedules

2008-03-28T17:39:00.001+05:30

A number of studios in town have posted new schedules for Spring on their websites. Here they are in one place. Happy yogaing:

Yoga Center of Minneapolis - Downtown
Yoga Center of Minneapolis - St. Louis Park
Yoga House
One Yoga
Art of Yoga (Catherine Johnson Justice)
CorePower Yoga - new Edina location

Holy S%#t!!!

2008-03-27T22:28:00.002+05:30

I have wanted to do a headstand for soooo long. I just haven't been able to get up. I've taken private yoga lessons to learn. I've studied the instructions in numerous yoga manuals. I've gone to the chiropractor several times after trying at home. I've listed my desire to stand on my head as my status on Facebook for goodness sake. But is just wasn't happening for me. Until last night!
The time was approximately 7pm. I was in Ryan Kelly's vinyasa class at the Yoga Center. She had us go to the wall and try an inversion of our choice. I asked for her help kicking up into handstand. I made one pathetic attempt at it and then told her, "nevermind... I am too scared." She asked me to set up headstand instead: forearms on the mat, hips high, walk in. And then somehow it all just clicked. Without her help, my legs went up and I was on my head. And it was easy. I exclaimed: "HOLY SH-T!" Everyone laughed. It was a joyous moment. I am so happy. It is a huge deal. Yeah for me.

Kickin it old school

2008-03-26T08:46:00.002+05:30

Sri Tirumala Krishnamacharya (1888-1989) is considered the grandfather of modern yoga. His students include many of today’s most influential teachers: Sri BKS Iyengar, Sri K. Pattabhi Jois, the late Indra Devi and Krishnamacharya’s own sons T.K.V. Desikachar and T.K. Sribhashyam. Krishnamacharya “believed Yoga to be India’s greatest gift to the world.” It is said that his greatest strength was the ability to take “the ancient teaching of Yoga and Indian philosophy” and combine them within a modern day framework. By doing this he was able to revive the practice of yoga in a manner that is as “accurate and powerful” as it is “practical and relevant”.

Thanks to the wonders of YouTube, we are now able to see Krishnamacharya in action. It really is amazing to see all the accoutrements of modern day yoga stripped away (no fancy mats, no aesthetically pleasing studio, no cute outfits unless you are into loin cloths). You can see the asanas and pranayama techniques in their purest form. Watching this video really says something about how far we’ve come. We either need to give some serious props to the marketing skills of guys like Iyengar and Jois who brought Yoga to the West, or acknowledge that there really is a growing consciousness in the world. I like to think it is the latter! Take a few minutes today to check out where all this Yoga stuff came from. Namaste.

Remember to sign up: Judith Lasater

2008-03-25T23:31:00.003+05:30

REMINDER: April 5-6, 2008 - Yoga Center of Minneapolis
Judith Hanson Lasater: teaches yoga and trains yoga teachers in kinesiology, yoga therapeutics, and the Yoga Sutra in the San Francisco Bay Area. She holds a doctorate in East-West psychology and is a physical therapist. She was originally trained by B.K.S Iyengar (meaning she has a super technical practice) and is THE source for Restorative Yoga. On April 5 she will be conducting a teacher training focused on the Sacroiliac Joint (bottom of the spine) and on April 6 she will hold a Living Your Yoga Workshop which will include some of her restorative work. This is not to be missed!

Open House this Friday

2008-03-25T22:20:00.002+05:30

The Yoga Center of Minneapolis is hosting an open house this Friday at its downtown Minneapolis location. The evening will include free sample classes, consultations to help you find the right class, Thai Yoga Bodywork mini-sessions, and a raffle to win class passes, yoga mats, private lessons, and more. This is a great way to learn about all that the Yoga Center has to offer. It is also a wonderful opportunity to introduce family and friends to the world of yoga.

Detox

2008-03-21T11:36:00.003+05:30

Spring is a great time to detoxify and start anew. Here are some resources to get you started:

The Yoga Journal recently published a great article on Ayurvedic prescriptions for springtime health. The article will guide you through appropriate herbs, asanas, pranayama (breath work), and diet choices to help you cleanse all the toxins that were built up over the winter.

On April 19, local yoga instructor Amy Patee is offering a workshop on yoga breath and cleansing. Join Amy at the Yoga Center of Minneapolis to learn the most potent ways to cleanse the body and maintain optimal health. Amy is extremely knowledgeable about the technical and spiritual aspects of yoga, so this promises to be a great session.
Acupuncturist Jennifer Johnson and yoga instructor Jennifer Gray are hosting a 5 day spring detox program, March 31 - April 4, at the Yoga Center of Minneapolis (SLP studio). Participants will reap the benefits of yoga, Chinese medicine, herbs, and whole foods to to help cleanse the body, mind and soul.
On May 10, Betsy Ricker will be offering a class at the Minneapolis Yoga Workshop focused on yoga and Ayruveda for spring detoxification. Using the principles of Ayruveda, the workshop will explore various springtime rejuvenation practices, yoga postures, and herbs and food as medicine.

It is Spring!!!!

2008-03-20T21:34:00.003+05:30

Words cannot describe how happy I am to say that it is Spring. Sure, it is supposed to snow again this weekend, but this particular Spring has been a long time coming. I am already starting to dream about my garden, flip flops, and Be Present yoga pants as my daily uniform. Yippee! Welcome to you Spring. We're glad to have you.

Spring is when you feel like whistling even with a shoe full of slush.

- Doug Larson

Great props - Hugger Mugger

2008-03-19T23:08:00.001+05:30

I'm not afraid to say it: local yoga studio, TarNa, has great props. They are all made by Hugger Mugger and are by far the nicest props I've encountered. All are available online.

Use these sandbags on your thighs or across your shoulders to deepen Supta Baddha Konasana.

Hugger Mugger bolsters are a really nice shape. They are rounded on the sides, but flat on the top and bottom. And they are perfectly firm. These are great for a variety of restorative poses or under your knees during corpse pose.

These cork blocks are awesome. They are really sturdy, but not too heavy. And the cork texture feels really nice in your hands. You will definitely master half moon with the help of these blocks.

Awesome! The Universe!

2008-03-19T21:14:00.004+05:30

A friend recently turned me on to an awesome new Google application - Google Sky. Just like with Google Earth, you get an aerial view... but this time of the UNIVERSE! You can see all kinds of star formations from the Hubble telescope, check out where people have walked on the moon, look at the surface of Mars, and get a feel for the "bigger scheme of things". It is pretty freakin' amazing. Wow!

What it's all about...

2008-03-19T00:45:00.004+05:30

I wrote the following post about a year ago on my MySpace page and found it interesting to revisit today. Matthew Sanford is a Minnesota resident who founded the yoga studio and nonprofit, Mind-Body Solutions. Hearing him speak last spring was truly the moment that all of this yoga stuff came together for me. He helped me "get it."
----------------------------------------
May 31, 2007

As I grow older and more cynical, it gets harder and harder to impress me. Despite this attitude I've developed, I have to say that I was recently blown away by a certain individual: Matthew Sanford. Mr. Sanford was the keynote speaker at the yoga conference I recently attended. I went to his session just to fill some time during a three hour lull in the programming. I left with goose bumps a new appreciation for life, yoga, and the power of the human spirit.

Mr. Sanford, who happens to be from Minnesota, was thirteen when he was in a tragic car accident in Iowa. His sister and father were killed in the crash and he woke to find himself paralyzed from the chest down. He spent the next dozen years learning to cope with his disability and to essentially forget the rest of his body. The traditional medical establishment told him that his body was dead --- the only reason he should keep his body intact (and not amputate his now "useless" legs) was to provide balance when he sat in a wheel chair. Quite a load to bear, wouldn't you say?

At some point in his early twenties, Mr. Sanford attended a yoga class. Seems silly right? How can someone do yoga postures (asanas) with just their head, neck, and arms? It doesn't work that way. But his partnership with an open-minded and dedicated yoga teacher allowed him to develop a powerful practice. He is now a yoga teacher himself at the Courage Center.

What do we learn from his story? For one, we learn to challenge the status quo. We learn to recreate what is possible. We learn tenacity. We learn hope.

But even bigger than all of that, we learn about the power of the life force that is in all of us and binds us all together. All of our bodies are limited in some way. We practice yoga postures (and the rest of what yoga means) to open up and align our bodies, minds, and spirits so that the energy can flow and we can be present. Sure, Mr. Sanford got a raw deal when it comes to his earthly body. But his life force is still there and yoga opened up the possibility for it to flow again. That is powerful. Mr. Sanford's story finally brought together for me what this journey I'm on is all about.

You ought to check out his book, Waking: A Memoir of Trauma and Transcendence. It is definitely on my summer reading list. Peace.

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Ropes

2008-03-17T22:53:00.003+05:30

In the Iyengar yoga tradition, props, including wall ropes, are used to enhance and intensify asana practice. It is said that the use of wall ropes opens up the body and helps balance one’s energy. I have not personally tried wall ropes before, but admit to being curious. The Minneapolis Yoga Workshop, an Iyengar studio in southeast Minneapolis, is offering a workshop on May 17 to teach us how these mysterious ropes work. The workshop will explore a variety of techniques in the use of wall ropes. They ask that you have at least six months experience in Iyengar yoga, but I am sure that anyone with a somewhat developed yoga practice could give it shot. I may just see you there.

Morcheeba is coming!

2008-03-17T22:32:00.005+05:30

Morcheeba is a total go-to band for me. Their down tempo yet funky music is perfect for a dinner party soundtrack and they can always be counted on for a chill vibe when practicing yoga at home. I don't have their new album yet, but am excited to see them on April 2 at First Avenue . Check it out.

Unique Opportunity (annual Ruth Stricker Lecture)

2008-03-11T19:48:00.004+05:30

The Center for Spirituality and Healing is an exciting part of the University of Minnesota’s Academic Health Center (med school, nursing, physical therapy, etc.). It is their mission to draw on the diverse expertise of University faculty and community practitioners to integrate complementary and alternative healing practices into traditional health care. They conduct academic research, train individuals in alternative healing modalities like Reiki, yoga, and Chinese medicine, and advocate for integrative services in the health care industry. Each year they host a major lecture on the mind-body connection that is open to the public. This year’s lecture is really exciting.

Matthieu Ricard, a French born Tibetan Buddhist monk, scientist, and author who happens to be the Dali Lama’s French translator is coming to the Mayo Auditorium at the U to talk about happiness. According to the promotional materials, Ricard will draw on fiction and poetry, contemporary western philosophy, Buddhist thought, current psychological and scientific research, as well as personal experience, to weave an inspirational and forward looking account of how we can begin to rethink our realities in a fast-moving modern world. Call now to reserve your spot.

Annual Ruth Stricker Lecture April 18, 3:00 pm
Train Your Mind, Change Your Brain: Cultivating Inner Conditions for Genuine Happiness with Matthieu Ricard
Call 612-624-9459 to register

Necklaces (they're pretty)

2008-03-11T08:03:00.002+05:30

I am a sucker for a cute necklace. Here's a roundup of some pretty yoga-inspired ones for you to check out. All are made by independent designers and available on Etsy.

(1) Mama Om hand-hammered pendant by panicmama

(2) Makamoe - Oxidized Thai Karen silver lotus charm necklace by KahiliCreations

(3) Namaste by plainvanilla

(4) Yoga Karma Lotus Necklace 18K Vermeil and 14K GFchain by kiskastyle

(5) Gold Ohm by murmur

(6) Yoga Charm by amieking

Come On Spring!

2008-03-10T22:27:00.005+05:30

Vernal Equinox is March 20! The days are lengthening! The sun is getting warmer! The snow will finally melt! Here’s some ways to celebrate:

Equinox Chant, Drum, & Dance
March 15, 6:00 – 8:00 pm, ONE Yoga, $20
Two hours of chanting, drumming and dancing to celebrate the Equinox. All ages and levels of experience welcome. Handouts provided.

March Towards Equinox
March 15, 1:00 - 4:00 pm, $45, Good Life Yoga
Enjoy this windy, wild time of year at a workshop offering balance poses, hip openers, and twists.

Spring Equinox Restorative
March 22, 3:30 – 5:30 pm, Yoga Center of Minneapolis – Downtown, $30
Transition from winter into the freshness and new budding of springtime. The practice will be a combination of yin poses (deep stretches focused on releasing the connective tissue and joints), restorative poses supported with props, and pranayama (breath exercise).

Equinox Celebration: 108 Sun Salutations (yoga mala)
March 22, 1:00 – 2:15 pm, ONE Yoga, $17
The group will complete 108 sun salutations to honor the sacred cycles of the seasons. It is said that 108 salutes creates a deeply meditative state of being and a connection to the peace of the present moment. Be sure to pre-register.

Good times - roller derby!

2008-03-07T08:53:00.002+05:30

So it's not "yoga", but every yogi(ni) needs to have a rip roaring good time every once in a while. I give a big stamp of approval to the Minnesota Rollergirls. Just be warned... you may violate a couple of yamas/niyamas somewhere along the way...
Every month or so, thousands of people (hipsters, kids, average Minnesotans), gather together at Roy Wilkins Auditorium to cheer on some bad-ass ladies in fishnet stockings, glitter helmets, and rollerskates. These ladies are true athletes. And there is a full bar and polka during half time. What else do you want from your Saturday night?! We are totally sitting track-side! See you there.

Saturday, March 8
6:30pm doors, 7:30pm bout
Atomic Bombshells vs. Dagger Dolls & Garda Belts vs. Rockits
Featuring half-time entertainment by Dance Band. Pre-show by the Irish dance group Rince Na Chroi.

Chakras

2008-03-06T22:07:00.006+05:30

The chakras are energy centers in our bodies aligned in an ascending column from the base of the spine to the top of the head. They are thought integrate our physical, emotional and mental nature. In many traditions they are visualized as lotuses of differing colors with a different number of petals on each chakra. If you ever wanted to know more about your chakras, take advantage of this exciting series at the Yoga Center of Minneapolis where Tanya Boigenzahn will explore one chakra a month. You will learn about yoga asana, pranayama, meditation, mudra, kriya and more to help get these energy centers balanced and feeling great. You do not need to take the workshops in order. Each workshop is $30.

2008:
March 9: Root Chakra - Get Grounded
TBD: Sacral Chakra - The Pleasure Center
September: Solar Plexus Chakra - Inner Power, Outer Strength
TBD: Heart Chakra - Spread the Love
TBD: Throat Chakra - Speak Your Truth
2009:
January: Brow Chakra - Spark Your Intuition
February: Crown Chakra - Get Connected

Fighting the “Shepna Syndrome”

2008-03-06T21:32:00.005+05:30

Walking down the road towards enlightenment / contentedness / Oneness with the Divine is an ever evolving experience. Sometimes it is a breeze and fits like a glove. A lot of the time it feels hard and unpleasant and the last thing in the world you want to do. Sometimes you conveniently forget you are even on the path. But at the end of the day, once you start, you just can’t stop. Once you’ve glimpsed the light that really does exist in and among us, you can’t turn back.

As I walk this path, I struggle daily with the negative chatter in my head telling me I’m not good enough or that those around me aren’t either. But these negative thoughts and words are my way of blocking myself from reaching something deeper. They are what Pema Chodron, an ordained Buddhist nun in the Tibetan vajrayana tradition, calls my “shepnas.” They are my bad habits, my addictions that I do to over and over again for some type of short term relief. It is Chodron’s contention that first and foremost we must recognize our own shepnas. It is only when we SEE these attachments and feel how they are limiting out potential that we can choose to refrain from going there, relax into our true selves again, and resolve to keep working at it. I think there are some great lessons here about the practice of asana, meditation, and life in general. Take 15 minutes today to read Chodron's talk on this topic: The Shepna Syndrome - Learning to Stay ( Berkeley Shambhala Center, September 2002). Namaste.

Yoga Mats

2008-03-05T00:16:00.004+05:30

A yoga mat is like your home away from home. It is YOUR space - a sanctuary that you can bring with you wherever you go. There are many different options when it comes to a good mat. It’s more than just choosing a cute color. You need to think about your desired weight, length, stickiness, and if you want it to be kind to the earth. It’s a big decision! So here’s a round-up of some mat options. Let me know your favorites:

Manduka Black Mat: the ultimate yoga mat. It gives you a firm foundation and provides all the cushioning you need for your practice. It is super heavy so you might want to consider this for your home practice. Also, it is a little pricey, but deals can be found on Amazon.

Manduka Eko Mat: from the makers of the famous Black Mat, an eco-friendly alternative.

Prana E.C.O Stickey M at: an eco-friendly mat with a textured surface and natural anti-slip properties.

Barefoot Yoga S ticky Mat: a classic non-slip surface for your practice. It is lightweight and durable and can be rolled or folded for use in poses.

Pla nk Yoga Mats: a truly a unique (and eco-friendly) mat option. Choose from Snake in the Grass, Pills Broken on a Bathroom Floor, Plank (like a piece of wood), or Hand Prints in Shag Rug.

Leopard-Print Yoga Mat: really. Leopard print!. An ode to Catherine. For that unique someone special in your life.

G aiam Earth Meets Sky Yoga Mat: it's just cute. I am a big fan of baby blue and chocolate brown!

Hugger Mugger Earth Elements Mat: one of the first earth friendly mats on the market. They are not made with yucky chemicals and they have the same anti-slip properties as the original Hugger Mugger mats.

Hugger Mugger Cotton Yoga Mat: a great choice for restorative yoga.

Eco Yoga Mats: made of jute and natural rubber, both renewable resources. Plus, the materials are fairly traded.

Yoga and weight loss

2008-03-04T22:48:00.002+05:30

We can all relate. It has been a cold dark winter and it is just oh so tempting to get home from work, put on your PJ’s (yes- cute yoga sweatpants are really just pajamas), pop in a pizza, and spend the night in front of the television. The result is that one ends up feeling a little… shall we say… husky …this time of year. So with spring around the corner, and dare I say it, swimsuit season around the bend, the time has come to get motivated again. And apparently yoga really can help! So get off that couch, roll out your mat, and get your Om on.

Required reading: JOY

2008-02-29T18:05:00.002+05:30

Please take a minute today to read this beautiful article written by Sally Kempton about finding one's true joy. Kempton, also known as Durgananda, is a meditation guide and spiritual teacher. In the article she talks about the journey to recognize that "Joy Is Inside You". She uses the yogic concepts of Sukha (fleeting pleasure), Santosha (contentment), Mudita (spiritual happiness), and Ananda (the bliss that passeth understanding) to teach us that happiness is always available to us, no matter what our circumstances. The point is to move away from grasping at fleeting pleasures and really tap into what is inside. She urges us to make the practice of attracting and cultivating joy our life's work. What else is there?

Leg warmers ... and they're local!

2008-02-29T17:37:00.002+05:30

It's a little late in the year to make this recommendation, but one of the best yoga clothing products around are Foat leg-warmers. These are a must have for traveling to and from class on a cold winter night. They keep your legs toasty and look cute too. Plus, the company is local, woman owned, and earth friendly! You can buy the leg-warmers on their website or at many of the bigger studios around town. I've worn mine for two winters now and would not know what to do without them.

A little yoga laugh

2008-02-29T00:52:00.007+05:30

"It's amazing - I hear some of them can endure the same boring, pointless, positions for years on end."

A little OM at work

2008-02-29T00:25:00.002+05:30

Okay... so this is totally a random fact, but it was recently brought to my attention that if you use the Wingding font in Word and type a backslash (\), an OM appears! So you can get yourself in touch with the universe while you are typing that report at work. Kinda cool.

OM: "is a mantra, or vibration, that is traditionally chanted at the beginning and end of yoga sessions. It is said to be the sound of the universe." (source: Yoga Journal)

Yoga Nidra / 61 Points of Light

2008-02-27T22:45:00.002+05:30

Yoga Nidra is translated into English as “sleep of the yogis.” It is a form of yogic relaxation and guided visualization that is practiced in various Yoga, Buddhist, and Hindu traditions. While there are many techniques of Yoga Nidra, the ultimate goal is to bring the yogi in direct communion with the Divine / GOD / something greater. It is a guided way to “rest in true presence.” Some even claim that thirty minutes of Yoga Nidra equals three hours of traditional sleep!

Here in Minneapolis we are lucky to have a Yoga Nidra guide in Tara Cindy Sherman. Tara is a special soul! At one of her recent classes, she guided us through a Yoga Nidra called 61 Points of Light. She had us lie on our backs, close our eyes, and imagine a series of glowing stars being added to each corner of our bodies. By the end I literally felt like I was glowing all over. In fact, I felt so light I was sure that I was levitating!

Tara primarily teaches out of the Yoga Center of Minneapolis. She runs a Sunday night meditation class where she uses the Yoga Nidra technique and she even has a CD available at the Center that includes the 61 Points of Light Yoga Nidra. Get yourself some Nidra .... it will do you good. Namaste.

Inappropriate Yoga Guy

2008-02-27T22:19:00.002+05:30

An oldie but goodie.... someone forgot to eat their goji berries....

Visiting Teacher Opportunities

2008-02-27T21:01:00.009+05:30

This spring there are some major yoga names coming to the Twin Cities. Don't miss the amazing opportunity to study with one or more of these masters:

April 5-6, 2008 - Yoga Center of Minneapolis
Judith Hanson Lasater: teaches yoga and trains yoga teachers in kinesiology, yoga therapeutics, and the Yoga Sutra in the San Francisco Bay Area. She holds a doctorate in East-West psychology and is a physical therapist. She was originally trained by B.K.S Iyengar (meaning she has a super technical practice) and is THE source for Restorative Yoga. On April 5 she will be conducting a teacher training focused on the Sacroiliac Joint (bottom of the spine) and on April 6 she will hold a Living Your Yoga Workshop which will include some of her restorative work. I am signed up for the whole weekend!

April 25-27, 2008- Begin with Intention Yoga / Clouds in Water Zen Center
Amy Ippoliti: is a certified Anusara Yoga teacher who has traveled extensively with Anusara founder, John Friend, apprenticing with him on his national tours. She has also studied closely with Tantric scholar, Dr. Douglas Brooks. She leads Anusara Yoga retreats, immersions, workshops, and teacher trainings internationally. According to the website, she is known for her radically affirming teaching style and dynamism, offering her life experience with the potent Universal Principles of Alignment, elegant tantric yoga philosophy, and therapeutics that embody Anusara Yoga.

May 23–25, 2008 – Michelle’s Yoga House
Michael Stone: is a psychotherapist, author and yoga teacher who teaches internationally in studio, academic and medical settings. He is a long-time student in the various traditions of Krishnamacharya and has written extensively on yoga psychology, most recently presenting his work to H.H. The Dalai Lama. He is offering a lecture on Yoga philosophy in daily life along with sessions that combine asana practice, pranayama, philosophy and discussion. According to the website, “studying with Michael Stone is like being in a Yoga class, a meditation center and a university classroom all at the same time!”

May 31-June 1, 2008 – Yoga Center of Minneapolis
Dharma Mittra: is a master Yoga teacher and founder of the Dharma Yoga Center in New York City. He started teaching in 1967 after 11 years as a full time yogi and "Bramacharia" (a celibate religious student who lives with his teacher and devotes himself to the practice of spiritual disciplines). He is most known for his amazing Master Yoga Chart of 908 postures used world wide. I have not studied with him, but everyone who has RAVES about the experience. This is a really special opportunity.

Just remember...

2008-02-23T08:10:00.002+05:30

"No matter how long the winter, spring is sure to follow. "

~Proverb

Yoga Music

2008-02-19T23:54:00.005+05:30

Music is a really important part of my yoga practice. Just hearing some sitar in the background instantly brings me to a centered, calm place where I want to roll out my mat and dive into some sun salutations. I have struggled over the past couple of years to find high quality music that is appropriate for yoga and meditation. Some of the stuff out there can be pretty cheesy. I’ve created some playlists of my own from random stuff I’ve found on ITunes, but have never been able to find a focused source for the sounds and vibrations I crave. Until today…

OmStream.com is the source I’ve been looking for. They feature music for yoga, meditation, lounging, and more. They have all the good Kundalini music, kirtan stuff, Tibertian singing bowls, and even music for different styles or pacing of an asana practice. I’ll be dropping some serious ka-ching on this site! Check it out. And let me know what kind of yoga music you are into and where you get it. I’m always looking for recommendations.

Home Practice

2008-02-19T20:43:00.002+05:30

Do you have one? I’ll admit it… I don’t either. But I know it is SO important. It is the only way to really find your own practice, your own voice, your own peace. I am currently taking a great class at the Yoga Center of Minneapolis called Personal Practice Development (PPD) with Monique Maxwell. It has already been extremely helpful in getting me think about my practice – what it means to me, what it looks like when my ego gets in the way, and how the lessons learned through cultivating my own practice apply to all parts of my life. This week I am trying to comply with Monique’s assignment to do five sun A’s, three sun B’s, big toe pose, handstand, and three minutes in a seated forward fold every day. Two days down, four more to go. Wish me luck!

So for you, gentle reader, I recommend checking out the PPD classes at the Yoga Center and following this advice I ran across in the Yoga Journal. Happy practicing!

Home Practice:

1. Set aside a place and a time to practice every day. Start with a short amount of time, such as 15 to 30 minutes.

2. Identify an activity that is no longer valuable in your life and remove it, so that your home practice doesn't just add another task and make your life more complicated and full.

3. Commit yourself to being consistent in your practice for six months.

4. Find an occasional practice partner.

5. Have several planned sequences in the back of your mind as a backup.

6. Continue to go to class weekly for inspiration and ideas on how to change your home practice or what to focus on at home.

7. Recognize how much yoga has already helped you, and trust that your daily life will be better with a daily practice.

Ode to winter...

2008-02-19T00:21:00.006+05:30

It is 1 degree right now. O-N-E. This weather is no longer charming. It is doing a number on me. Seeing as there are no sunny vacations in my future and the summer is a distant dream, I am desperate for some relief. Here’s some ideas to mitigate the pain:

Take a vinyasa class at CorePower. That hot room feels so good this time of year.
Visit a conservatory. Pick a sunny day, find some sunshiny music for your IPod, make your way to the conservatory at the Walker Art Cente r or Como Park, soak in the humidity, and pretend you are in Costa Rica. We went to the tropical rainforest exhibit at the Como Zoo a few weekends ago and saw a sloth hanging from a tree. Have you seen a sloth lately?

Go tanning?? I know… horrible idea. But I did try it last weekend. I felt like I stepped into an episode of a reality show on E --- it was not my usual environment. I spent the entire three minutes in the light bulb coffin freaking out that I was giving myself wrinkles and cancer. But I do have a subtle glow.

Get a pedicure. At least your toes can be pretty in yoga class. I highly recommend splurging on the paraffin wax treatment.

Try some Ayruvedic skin care. According to a great article on the subject, winter is the season when Vata (one of three “psychophysiological energies” governing our mind and bodies) gets out of wack. It is during these months that we get dry skin, chapped lips, and sluggish. The article suggests using lots of oils to moisturize from the outside and inside as well as eating lots of high water content foods. I am printing this article out and bringing it with me to Whole Foods. I have a date with some almond oil.

Go for a walk. I know it is shocking to walk outside this time of year due to the Arctic breezes, but a little air always does your soul good.

Wisdom for this cold winter weekend

2008-02-16T18:23:00.002+05:30

Drink your tea slowly and reverently,

as if it is the axis on which the world earth revolves - slowly, evenly, without rushing toward the future;
Live the actual moment.
Only this moment is life.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Thich Nhat Hanh(expatriate Vietnamese Zen Buddhist monk, teacher, author, and peace activist)

Yoga retreats

2008-02-15T22:18:00.006+05:30

If you are anything like me, you are desperate for an escape from this FROZEN reality we’ve all been living in for the past three months. This is a perfect time to start dreaming about a fabulous yoga retreat. Here are some great options:

Kripalu Center – located in western Massachusetts, this center was formed in 1966 to “promote yoga and uplift the physical, mental, and spiritual well-being of individuals.” It is THE place to go to learn from master yogis and spiritual teachers. You can learn yoga trace dance from Shiva Rea, restorative yoga from Judith Hanson Lassiter, or even improve your golf game using yoga. There is a session this weekend on yoga and chocolate – how great is that?! Plus, they have all the massage, Ayurvedic treatments, and organic food a modern yogi could ask for. If nothing else, get on their mailing list so that you can lust over their catalogs every quarter.

The Raj – close to home, but oh so different than what you might expect from a small Iowa town. The Raj is associated with the Maharishi University of Management in Fairfield Iowa. This is the American home of Transcendental Meditation (TM). You go to the Raj for Ayurveda, the ancient whole-body Indian health-care philosophy and practice. It is super expensive, but this place is the real deal. Your health and wellness will be evaluated, you'll receive prescribed treatments (ranging from special Ayurvedic massage to herbal enemas ;-)), do some gentle yoga, eat a specially chosen diet to address your imbalances, and hear from experts in the field. From what I’ve heard about this place, it is a once in a life-time experience.

Himalayan Institute – founded by Swami Rama of the Himalayas, the mission of the Institute is to “discover and embrace the sacred link—the spirit of human heritage that unites East and West, spirituality and science, and ancient wisdom and modern technology.” Located in Pennsylvania’s Pocono Mountains, the Institute offers ten-day “lifestyle experiences” to affect a personal transformation. The program includes meditation intensives, daily yoga, guru talks, and daily karma yoga (selfless service).

Yoga North – a yoga studio in Duluth that offers yoga workshops and retreats a little closer to home. This September they are doing a North Shore hiking and yoga retreat called, Lodge to Lodge. Call 888-722-YOGA for more information

Big Sky Yoga Retreats – run out of a luxurious lodge just outside of Yellowstone National Park, these retreats combine yoga and skiing, hiking, or horseback riding. The philosophy of these retreats is that ”yoga helps you do anything better.” My friend Beth just signed up for one of their retreats this spring. I can’t wait to hear what it is like. Ahhhhhh……

More information - this list is obviously just the tip of the iceberg. For more ideas, Yoga Journal has a great articles about seven destination ashrams and fancy-pants international yoga retreats.

Back to reality - for those of us who can’t afford the time or money it takes to make one of these fabulous retreats happen this year, local yoga teacher, Tanya Boigenzahn recently wrote an article for Metro Magazine about wellness services in our neck of the woods. (If not a personal transformation, at least get an amazing massage!!) Also, it is always a great idea to try some of the yoga workshops at the Yoga Center of Minneapolis. There is some amazing expertise and transformation to be found in our fair city.

Happy Valentine's Day! (romantic watering holes)

2008-02-14T21:08:00.005+05:30

Today is Valentine's Day. It would be great if we all followed Yoga Journal's advice and did a heart opening sequence to get in the mood, but sometimes the best course of action is a glass of wine with our sweetie or commiserating companion. If you don't already have plans, here's a list of some great wine-centered activities in Minneapolis:

Riverview Wine Bar - located in the Longfellow neighborhood, this cozy neighborhood spot is the prefect location for a romantic glass of wine. Get a seat by the fireplace and try one of their many wine flights. You might just learn a thing or two.

Crema Café – located on Lyndale Avenue right across from Balance, you might think Crema is just an ice cream place. While they do serve Sonny’s tasty handmade ice cream, this place is super romantic AND they have a great wine list. Check the board outside for specials and make sure to admire their beautiful outdoor garden space. After a couple of glasses, you may even want to sit out there for a while!

Town Talk Diner – while not exactly romantic, this place is the definition of solid. The food is local, organic, and great (try the frickles), the wait staff are super knowledgeable, and they have an amazing drink list. Try one of the adult milkshakes or the fabulous hot mulled wine that reminds me of a winter sangria.

If you prefer an evening in (it is projected to be minus 8 degrees), stop by South Lyndale Liquor or the Twin Cities' premier wine store, Surdyks, for a nice bottle. I am personally enjoying Zins, Grenache blends, and Petite Syrahs these days.

Happy V-Day everybody!

(Cartoon courtesy of Natalie Dee)

Great yoga spaces (in the Twin Cities)

2008-02-13T22:32:00.007+05:30

TaraNa
Located at 37th Street and Grand in Minneapolis, TaraNa is a gem. It is clear that this space was thoughtfully put together. You are greeted by the door with matching wave posters from the Walker Art Center. At the front of the room is a beautiful wood alter, Shiva statue, and fountain with fresh flowers floating in it! Throughout the space, antique Thai furniture and accessories are thoughtfully placed against boldly painted walls to create a modern feel with ancient charm. And all of their yoga props are the best of the best- no cheapie, worn bolsters here. I think TaraNa is the crème de la crème of yoga spaces in town.

YogaCenter of Minneapolis – Downtown Minneapolis Big Studio
In many ways, this studio currently serves as the heart of Minneapolis’ yoga community. Ask anyone who has done yoga in Minneapolis and they know about this space. Set in Minneapolis’ warehouse district, this space boasts exposed brick walls (painted white), clean wood floors, and a wall of windows overlooking the festive Monte Carlo Restaurant sign and the skyline of Minneapolis. My favorite part of this space is the huge, half wheel windows on the lime green wall. Many a sun salutation has paid homage to that window.

CorePower Yoga – Downtown Minneapolis Studios
Yes, it’s a little corporate. But remember, corporations do their research about what people like. And this time they got it right. From the exposed brick wall behind the front desk, to the earthy yet energizing color palette, revolving art work from local artists, ladies’ locker room stocked with all the necessities, slightly bouncy bamboo studio floors, and unparalleled boutique offerings, CorePower got it very right in this space. It is easy to breeze in after work for a class and pleasant enough to linger in after. They really have created a yoga community center at the downtown studio.

(sorry... couldn't figure out how to get an image out of a flash presentation)

Cute yoga clothes!

2008-02-13T22:22:00.002+05:30

Here's a list of the yoga clothes I like best. I do consider myself a bit of a connoisseur!

Be Present pants - these are the only option when you are doing hot yoga. They are thin, cute, amazingly bendable, and can take a seriously sweaty workout. They get my seal of approval. Now if they would only offer them again in kelly green so I can stop being jealous of Catherine's! They sell these pants at the Yoga Center, Yoga House, CorePower, and online.

Stonewear Designs tops - these tops are made of a stretchy cotton so they don't feel all polyester-nasty like a lot of exercise-wear out there today. Also, they are a little wider at the bottom so they don't roll up when you are in reverse warrior. I buy these tops online.

Yoga Tribe and Culture tanks - these are super duper cute. They have witty, yet wise sayings like: "Change Your Karma." They are a little spendy, but you will get your money's worth because they will become your absolute fav! You can get these tops at CorePower or Yoga Center.

Lounge / active wear from Lucy - while not the most technical of yoga clothes on the planet, Lucy is a great source for basics like slouchy sweats or hoodies. They have a store in the Galleria and are opening another at Rosedale. Apparently there are great discounts to be had if you get on their mailing list.

YogiToes - these are not "clothes" exactly, but I could not do my yoga without them. YogiToes are super absorbent towels, cut to the size of a standard yoga mat, with sticky dots on the bottom. They are must when practicing hot yoga (placed over your regular mat) and they are great for traveling - used alone or over a rented mat. You can buy these at CorePower, sporting goods stores, or online.

Local events of interest

2008-02-13T01:58:00.005+05:30

Chanting Event w/ Margie, Tara, and Coleen
Saturday, February 16
One Yoga
Come and explore the ancient yogic art of chanting sacred mantras. Use the sound and silence of the voice, the breath, and the heart to create a joyful, meditative, expansive state of consciousness. Let go into the healing energy and peace of living fully in the present moment. Sit, close your eyes, still the mind, relax and enjoy--sing along, just listen, or even get up and dance as we allow ourselves to be graced by the healing vibrations of this heart-opening practice. All ages are welcome. No experience is needed. We provide handouts and information about each chant. Most events are $10.

Harmony Restorative
Saturday, February 23 | 3:30 - 5:30pm
Mary Sage | MPLS Studio | $30
Restorative yoga is practiced to reduce stress, restore health, and move the body in the direction of balance. February is a month of partnership, love and quickening into spring. It's a time to make peace with our selves (and those around us) and our bodies. This restorative workshop will focus on honoring the good by practicing poses the work around the heart center and releasing 'feuding' or negative patterns with twists and inversions. The restorative postures will nurture balance, encourage letting go and bring the body/mind into harmony for the future. We will do a short writing exercise so please bring a journal or notebook. All levels of experience are welcome.

Upper Neck & Shoulder Tension Workshop
Saturday, March 1 | 3:00 - 5:00pm
Mary Sage Syverson | MPLS Studio | $30
Release the weight of the world from your shoulders in this workshop. We’ll unwind neck and should tension and free up the space that connects the head to your heart. By ungluing bound shoulders we improve access to the channels of the heart and lungs. Not only can we free up more space, we’ll improve the circuitry for the blood to oxygenate the brain---thus boosting brain function! Postures will include back-bends, twists, and inversions. Modifications will be given to accommodate all levels of practice.

Root Chakra Workshop - Get Grounded
Sunday, March 9 | 5:00 - 7:00pm
Tanya Boigenzahn | MPLS Studio | $30
The Root Chakra is the center for grounding, survival, physical health, prosperity, & centeredness, as well as the bones, adrenals, elimination system, and the earth element. Each month focuses on a specific chakra. Learn yoga asana, pranayama, meditation, mudra, kriya and more to help get your energy centers balanced and feeling great.
NOTE: Part of a workshop series on the 7 chakras. You do not need to attend all workshops to get benefits, nor do you have to attend them in order.