September 2014 class schedule and focus

It is hard to imagine that, while still enduring the sweltering days of August, we are heading for the Autumn Equinox in September.  On this day there is perfect balance between lightness and darkness of days before we tip into the dark phase of the year.  In some ancient traditions such as Judaism, the holiday of Rosh Hashanah, which is in September, signifies the New Year and provides a time to reflect on the past year, to take actions that compensate for what we regret, and to set intentions so as not to repeat or stay trapped in habits that are not helpful to us.

From the broad view of the Vedic texts (origin of the yoga sutras), our whole lives exist to move out of our Karma (any action, usually associated with the past, that results in further bondage or freedom) and into our Dharma (one’s duty or destiny).  By approaching your asana practice on the mat with presence and awareness of body, mind, and emotions, you are able to know yourself more fully and embrace the opportunity for change, rather than resist it out of fear.  Moving into our dharma takes courage and support.  Receive the feeling of gratitude for your practice and for being a part of this yoga community!      

For September, we are delighted to announce three special events and one ongoing addition to the 4yoga schedule:
  • Labor Day class:  Join us on Monday, Sept. 1, at 9 a.m. for a mixed-level holiday class with Kim.  All levels of students are welcome, and options will be provided to allow everyone to practice at his or her own level.
  • Chair class:  Tuesdays at noon.  Join Kathie for traditional yoga postures adapted for sitting on or supported by a chair.  This class is ideal for employees who do not have an opportunity to change clothes but want a lunchtime relaxation break and people who prefer not to move to the floor for traditional yoga.  It will focus on flexibility, strength, and relaxation using movement and breathing exercises.  All levels welcome.  Please note:  although the yoga studio is upstairs, the staircase does have hand rails on both sides.  
  • Talk/meditation session:  For the monthly discussion and meditation, join Juanita on Friday, Sept. 19 immediately after the Yin class.  There is no charge for this session, and everyone is welcome.
  • Props workshop:  By student request, on Sunday, Sept. 21, at 3 p.m., we will offer our first props workshop.  If you have ever wondered how you could use props like blankets, blocks, bolsters, and straps more effectively in class or in your home practice, please join us for this 70-minute workshop.  Taught by a team of teachers, the session will introduce, demonstrate, and allow you to experiment with the use of props in seated, standing, and reclining poses.
For a full list of September classes, please see the attached schedule, the calendar section of our website, or a hard copy available at The Pots Place.  
 
Remember that even if you are running late when the gallery downstairs is closed, you can still join us for class.  If the front door is locked, come to the back door of The Pots Place (look for the blue building) and ring the buzzer.  The teacher will then unlock the door remotely for you to enter through the pottery studio.
 
Special note:  since sending this message in its email form, we have received several compliments on its introduction.  Therefore, we want to be sure to credit Erica (or, as we call her, 4yoga West!) for her ongoing contributions to our community yoga adventure.  She contributes these pieces for each month’s email.  To keep up with Erica’s Colorado activities, see her website.
 
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