In May, we witness the full crescendo of Springtime as the energy of the natural world builds through sounds, colors, warmer temperatures, increased activity and movement, birth, and growth.  Although our “modern” world of convenience and technology has created an ever-growing separation from the natural world, we still remain greatly affected by the stirrings of spring.

Ayurveda, the sister science of yoga, is a system designed to align ourselves with the dynamic rhythms of the natural world we are a part of. As organisms, we are constantly seeking balance. The predominance of water in the springtime is what makes spring have much in common with the Kapha type, or dosha. That type contributes to a decrease in energy and possibly a heavy, lethargic feeling in the body and mind.  Allergies are prevalent now, as well, and may be given as the reason for this heaviness and impulse to slow down. To balance the Kapha influence of the season, you may consider incorporating a more vigorous asana practice as well as a lighter, detoxifying diet. 

May updates and events:

• Debbie Berry offers two classes.  Many of you already know Debbie Berry from practicing yoga together over the years.  Debbie recently completed her 200-hour Hatha Yoga teacher training at Be Happy Yoga, and we are delighted that she will be offering two classes at 4yoga in May: on Tues., 5/14, at 4 p.m. and Fri., 5/17, at 9:30 a.m. Debbie is excited to begin teaching and sharing her passion for yoga with others, and she notes that yoga provides a great opportunity for sharing community with others in a welcoming environment. 
• Drop-in meditation classes continue.  Alice Simpson will continue to offer Mindfulness Meditation classes on the second Saturday and second Tuesday of May.  Just as with our yoga classes, these sessions are available on a drop-in basis and for our usual $5 class fee.  Whether you are new to meditation or an experienced meditator, please join Alice on Sat., May 11, at 2 p.m. (in the studio) and Tues., 5/14, at 5:30 p.m. (in the lounge). Read more on this earlier post on our website.
• Yoga@the Museum on Sat., 5/11, 10:30 a.m.  This 70-minute Basics-level class, offered on the second Saturday of each month, meets at The Downing Museum, and Leslie Weigel teaches it in May.  Find out more here and register here.
  
• Yin@the Museum on Sat., 5/18, 4:30 p.m.  For an afternoon practice at The Downing Museum, join Angie Jones for our fourth Yin@the Museum class.  Read more here and register here.
• Meditation@the Museum on Sat., 5/25, 10:30 a.m.  Join Alice Simpson for the monthly meditation class held at The Downing Museum.  No prior meditation experience is required—beginners are always welcome.  Learn more here and register here.
• Memorial Day class on Mon., 5/27, 9 a.m.  Join Beshka Moore for a mixed-level class for Memorial Day.  All are welcome for this class, which will be our only one for the holiday.

For a full list of May classes, please see the calendar page or pick up a hard copy at The Pots Place.  We also post the day’s classes each morning on our Facebook page, should you find it convenient to keep up with us there.  

Studio reminders:  

• Leaving belongings outside of studio space.  To allow yourself and your classmates to focus on your practice, please leave all personal items—including phones, shoes, and purses/bags—in the kitchen or the hallway.
• Accessing studio if front door is locked.  If the front door is locked when you arrive, you can still join us for class: come around to the back door of The Pots Place (look for the blue building and bright blue door) and ring the buzzer.  The teacher will unlock the door remotely for you to enter through the pottery studio.