keeping busy this holiday season
for some reason, i seem to have earned the reputation of being the busiest non-teaching yogini in town. it's probably because i've been compiling these lists of must-do yoga events... and find myself wanting to do all of them :)
so here's what i've found so far for the month of december. besides the growing number of kirtans now held on a regular basis, there seem to be a slew of partner yoga classes, winter solstice observances, and of course, new year's eve celebrations. it's looking like i'm going to be even busier than usual this month!
keep checking back; i'll continue to add events as i find them...
~~~ this month's deals ~~~
One FREE class with each of December's featured teachers at Black Dog Yoga in Sherman Oaks: Tiffany Fraser and Heidi Kaufman!
Tiffany's classes are:
Tuesday 11:00a-12:30p - Intermediate Anusara
Thursday 11:00a-12:30p - Intermediate Anusara
Thursday 3:30p-5:00p - Anusara Yoga for Beginners
Saturday 10:30a-12:00p - Intermediate Anusara
Heidi's classes are:
Monday 11:00a-12:30p - Deep Stretch, All levels
Wednesday 11:00a-12:30p - Deep Stretch, All levels
Friday 6:00p-7:30p - Deep Stretch, All levels
Click here for coupons
One FREE class during the month of December for any of the featured classes at Rising Lotus Yoga in Sherman Oaks (coupon required; email me for coupon):
~ Candle Lit Flow: 8:00-9:30pm - Tues, Thurs
~ Relax Deeply: 5:30-7:00pm - Sundays
~ Mixed Level: 6:45-8:00am - Mon, Wed, Fri
Come to yoga at Truyoga in Santa Monica and get a FREE appetizer at the Daily Grill:
Beginning Monday, December 14th, TruYoga will be running a lunch and dinner promotion with the Daily Grill Santa Monica (located in the same building).
Attend the following classes and receive a voucher for a free appetizer from the Daily Grill.
*M/W - Gentle Yoga with Therapeutics at 10:30 a.m.
*M/W - Vinyasa Flow at 5:45 p.m.
*M/W - Vinyasa Flow at 5:45 p.m.
Dinner & a Stretch: Maha Yoga + Kreation = Harmony
Just $30 for any yoga class and dinner (BYOB)!
Purchase vouchers at either location:
Maha Yoga, 13050 San Vicente Blvd, Brentwood
Kreation Kafe, 1023B Montana Ave, Santa Monica
Expires Dec 15th.
~~~ ongoing events ~~~
Community classes, courtesy of lululemon athletica
Cost: FREE
lululemon Beverly Hills, 334 N Beverly Dr ~
Sundays at 9:30am: AcroYoga! Dec 6 - Yogi Hendlin and Huck Hirsch, Dec 13 - Lara Catone and Yogi Hendlin, Dec 20 - Huck Hirsch and Sarah Vosen, Dec 27 - Lara Catone and Sarah Vosen. Plus: Every Monday 6:15pm Run Club and Runner's Yoga, Dec 10 7:30pm - Hip Hop Dance DVD Release Party with Sarita Lou
lululemon Brentwood, 11920 San Vicente Blvd ~
Sundays at 9:30am, Yoga with The Hub: Dec 6 - Sarah Ezrin, Dec 13 - Barbie Baylis, Dec 20 - James MacDonald, Dec 27 - Lauri Ashworth. Plus: Every Monday 6:15pm Jingle Jog (thru Dec 17 only; resumes in January on Thursdays!)
lululemon Calabasas, at The Commons, 4719 Commons Way ~
Sundays at 9:30am: Dec 6 - Pilates with Leah, Dec 13 - Anti-Gravity Yoga with Lori Robbins, Dec 20 - Yoga with Sri Hari Moss. Plus: Every Monday 6pm - Running Club
lululemon Glendale, at The Americana, 233 S Brand ~
Sundays at 9:30am: Yoga with Shakti Box: Dec 6 - Heather Funston, Dec 13 - Tiffany Russo and Clio Manuelian, Dec 20 - Nicole Ghastin and Beau King, Dec 27 - Kasey Luber and Trinity Stuart. Plus: Every Wednesday 11am - Kids Yoga with Abbie Rose, Dec 10 9pm - Kundalicious Yoga with Masha Sapron and Amber Rothwell
lululemon Pasadena, 110 W Colorado ~
Sundays at 10am, CATZ Fitness Workout: Dec 6, Dec 13, Dec 20, Dec 27. Plus: Every Wednesday 6pm - Fun Run Club, Dec 10 7:30pm - Meditation with John Sovec, Dec 13 5:30pm - AcroYoga Demo with Mod Amaya and Alex Plank, Dec 16 7:30pm - Kickboxing with Mauricio and David
lululemon Santa Monica, 331 Santa Monica Blvd ~
Sundays at 9:30am: Yoga! Dec 6 - Laurie Searle, Dec 13 - Marlize Joubert with YogaEarth special event, Dec 20 - Leslie Kazadi, Dec 27 - Michelle Goldstein. Plus Dec 12 9:30am - Hip Hop Cardio with Sarita Lou
lululemon South Bay, at Plaza El Segundo, 2008A E Park Pl ~
Sundays at 9:30am: Yoga with The Green Yogi! Dec 6 - Yin/Yang Yoga Flow with Mary Fanto and Matt Rothert, Dec 13 - Power Vinyasa with Mary Strong, Dec 20 - Power Vinyasa with Anne Spinner, Dec 27 - Power Vinyasa with Heather Archer. Plus: Every Thursday 6:15pm - Run Club at Manhattan Beach Pier
Yogi Lunch with Atma Ananda Das
Govinda's Vegetarian Restaurant, 3764 Watseka Ave, Los Angeles
Fridays, Dec 4th, 11th, 18th 1:00-2:15pm (Every Friday)
Cost: BYOL (Buy your own lunch)
I do this because the yoga teachers, the healers and the guides for others need to get together in person. Yoga is all about relationships... so we meet up and love, that's yoga!
Friday Night Movies and Potluck
Inner Harmony Yoga, San Pedro
Friday, Dec 4th 6:30-9:00pm (1st Friday of month)
Cost: A vegetarian (ovo-lacto OK) dish to share. Please bring a serving utensil. Donations of paper/plastic plates and utensils would be most welcome!
We'll break bread together and enjoy an uplifting movie, all in the comfort of your local yoga studio.
Palisades Outdoor Yoga Hike with Hilary Kimblin
Michael Lane and Trailer Canyon Fire Road, Pacific Palisades
Saturday, Dec 5th 9:00-11:30am (Once a month)
Cost: $15 in advance, $20 day of hike. Please click here to reserve your spot
A Saturday morning hike and an outdoor yoga class for those seeking solace from the week.
Please bring a yoga mat and/or a towel, dress in layers and wear good hiking shoes/boots. Sun block, sunglasses and a hat also recommended. Water is required!
Be prepared to hike for some 45 minutes uphill, to our outdoor outdoor walls-free "classroom". The yoga class will last around an hour (no previous experience necessary), then we will pack up and hike downhill for around 30 minutes. We will be out by 11:30am. This is a lot of fun and a great way to meet new people!
Kirtan with BhaktiMa
Lyfe Yoga Center, Hermosa Beach
Saturday, Dec 5th 7:00pm (1st Saturday of the month)
Cost: $10 Suggested Donation
In the spirit of building community, join BhaktiMa for a wonderful evening of music.
ART OF LIVING KIRTAN
Yoga Desa, Topanga
Saturday, Dec 5th 7:00pm (1st Saturday of the month)
Cost: By Donation
Ecstatic chanting in Topanga Canyon hosted by Art of Living Foundation teachers Andrew Behla & Michèle Krolik at Yoga Desa. Singing traditional sanskrit mantras have a profound effect on the environment and consciousness, helping to quiet the mind and open the heart. No experience is necessary, just a willingness to participate with a beginner's mind.
OPEN TO ALL!
For more information visit artoflivingla.org
Yogi Brunch with Zat Baraka and Atma Ananda Das
Euphoria Loves Rawvolution Cafe, 2301 Main Street, Santa Monica
Sunday, Dec 6th 10:00am-noon (Once a month)
Cost: BYOB (Buy your own brunch)
Yoga is about relationships.
This includes our relationships with the body/mind, the earth, other souls, and the source... Yogi brunch is a space for instigating, preserving, and celebrating all these relationships. In other words, members of the yoga and healing communities will come together to eat, laugh, and love.
Come enjoy a special raw vegan earth friendly meal for your delight.
Euphoria Loves Rawvolution Cafe is a central meeting point for the progressive conscious community of Los Angeles.
Yoga Potluck with Psalm Isadora
Aanand Saagar, Venice
Sunday, Dec 6th 6:00pm (Once a month, location varies)
Cost: Bring a potluck dish to share
Please bring your favorite dish to share as a community offering, remember, all we ask is for your participation, grub and love! Yoga Potluck is a community event to share and celebrate the simplest things, good food, good company and good yoga.
If you have a mat, please bring it, otherwise I have a few extras.
All are welcome, it is an all levels class. Invite your friends and family, celebration loves company.
FREE COMMUNITY NIGHT: HUMILITY with Chutney Berry
City Yoga, West Hollywood
Tuesday, Dec 8th 7:30pm (2nd Tuesday of the month)
Cost: FREE
Yoga riddle:
It's bigger than us and yet small enough to see.
It's attractive in others and what we strive to be.
It's the antidote for arrogance, low self esteem, and competitiveness
Perfectionism, know it all "ism", pride and close mindedness.
We could all use more of it
What is it?
Humility
On and Off our mats. In our practice and our lives. Come tap into the power that transforms.
No Yoga Experience necessary.
Kirtan at Randall's
Private residence, 2235 Linnington Ave, Los Angeles
Wednesdays, Dec 9th and 23rd 7:30pm (Every other Wednesday)
Cost: By Donation
Dec 9th - Joey Lugassy, Govindas, Cooper Madison, and others
With excellent ayurvedic Indian food by Kailas and Mike Baker.
Dec 23rd - TBA
An Evening of Kirtan with Daniel & Friends
Rising Lotus Yoga, Sherman Oaks
Friday, Dec 11th 8:30pm (2nd Friday of the month)
Cost: By Donation
Daniel's kirtan is a unique blend of western soul and jazz style improvisation with authentic Sanskrit mantras. The joy he feels singing is evident in the energy that grows in the room and the heart opening often experienced by participants.
Musicians: Sarah, Arielle Silver and Emily Kern on vocals, Jeff Harris on guitar, Angela Devita on flute, and Cooper Madison and Greg Klimuck on drums.
No singing experience needed, only a willingness to open your heart to the joy.
Bizarre Sundays: Yoga + Brunch with Evolve Lifewear
Sunday, Dec 13th (2nd Sunday of the month)
Yoga at 10:30am with Jesse Lombardi at Be Love Yoga followed by Brunch at Royal Claytons English Pub
1855 Industrial Ave, Los Angeles
Cost: $10 yoga, $10 brunch (alcohol not included)
SUNDAY NIGHT YOGA & DINNER with Jennifer Kelly
The Yogi Tree, Toluca Lake
Sunday, Dec 13th 5:00-7:00pm (2nd Sunday of the month)
Cost: $20, children 12 and under are FREE!
From its very inception, The Yogi Tree set the clear intention: this studio belongs to everyone. You, me, him, her, all of us - a unified body of individuals. To honor that intention, that "circle of love" of which Rumi writes, The Yogi Tree is very proud to offer an all-ages, community-oriented Kundalini Yoga class, followed by a yogi-style dinner. Join Yogi Tree owner Jennifer Kelly for an uplifting, deeply connective yoga class - one that will offer physical and spiritual alignment for you, while also activating a dynamic group energy. A homemade, yogi-style dinner, enjoyed casually in a warm group setting, will follow.
Come on your own. Bring a friend. Bring a child. Bring everyone you know.
Kirtan with BhaktiMa
Harmony Yoga, Redondo Beach
Saturday, Dec 19th 7:00pm (3rd Saturday of the month)
Cost: $10 Suggested Donation
Please come listen, chant and enjoy!
"Our goal is create a journey of sound, where the line between performer and audience melts into a single current."
Ecstatic Chanting with Steve Ross
Maha Yoga, Brentwood
Saturday, Dec 19th 8:00pm
Cost: By donation
We invite you to join us for a blissful evening of chanting.
The evening will open your heart, still your mind and lead you to a state of profound euphoria.
Wear comfortable clothing, bring a cushion to sit on and enjoy.
Weekly Kirtan at Bhakti Yoga Shala
Bhakti Yoga Shala, Santa Monica
Cost: Suggested donation $10-$15
Friday, Dec 4th 8:30pm (1st Friday of month) - Andres Salcedo
Saturday, Dec 5th 8:00pm (1st Saturday of month) - Govindas and Radha
Friday, Dec 11th 9:00pm (2nd Friday of month) - Joey Lugassy
Saturday, Dec 12th 8:00pm (2nd Saturday of month) - Michael Thomas
Friday, Dec 18th 9:00pm (3rd Friday of month) - Terra Gold
Saturday, Dec 19th 8:00pm (3rd Saturday of month) - Zat Baraka
Friday, Dec 25th 8:30pm (4th Friday of month) - Kalidas
Saturday, Dec 26th 8:00pm (4th Saturday of month) - Travis Eliot
~~~ this month's highlights ~~~
A MantRa TaNtra EaSt wEst FuSion ExpErieNce with Jai Uttal, Larisa Stow and the Shakti Tribe, and Naked Rhythm
A BENEFIT FOR CHARITY:WATER.ORG - HELP BUILD A WELL IN INDIA
Kali Klub, 3229 Casitas Avenue, Atwater Village
Friday, Dec 4th 7:00pm-midnight
Cost: $25 in advance, $30 at door
Jai Uttal, Larisa Stow and Shakti Tribe, Naked Rhythm, DJ Avi in a totally new and innovative environment for Kirtan and world music - KALI KLUB - A conscious nightclub and total sensory environment with Massive Projections, Lasers, Light Shows, Huge Sound, Visionary Art and Artists, Astrology, Tarot, Amazing Raw food from Sahadev of the Rose Temple, fun vendors, Coffe, Tea, Juice Bar... AND YOU!!!
TONS OF FREE PARKING AND PLENTY OF ROOM TO DANCE!!!
108 Sun Salutations with Psalm Isadora - A Fundraiser for Women's Empowerment School in India
With Live Kirtan with Zat Baraka, Ena Vie, Cryrus Pirasteh and Momo Loudiyi
Modern Om, 13452 Washington Blvd (just east of Lincoln), Venice
Saturday, Dec 5th 10:00am-1:00pm
Cost: By Donation
This is the 2nd annual Yoga Mala for the Tree of Life Yoga School. Last year, we raised $2,000. This year my goal is to raise $3,000. Please come and join us, if you want to participate in the mala or just to come show your support and give your energy. Our good friends Cyrus, Zat and Momo will be doing kirtan to keep the energy up. So even if you just come to support, you can join in the chanting.
Proceeds go towards "Healing the Mother". A women's education project. Helping the women in the city of Vizag to achieve their dreams through education, yoga and job skills, allowing them to create a foundation for self fulfillment and self reliance and to become empowered members of their community. By helping empower the women, we empower the children and families they help support. Tree of Life Yoga School and Community is a 501(c)3 corp.
Passion + Grace ~ Kirtan with Jai Uttal + Daniel Paul
Exhale Center for Sacred Movement, Venice
Saturday, Dec 5th 7:30-10:00pm
Cost: $25; $32 day of
"Kirtan is food for the spirit, a life raft of song...."
Embark on a journey into the multi-colored, many roomed mansions of the heart through the practice of Kirtan; or chanting the ecstatic songs of ancient India. Using call-and-response singing and storytelling, recording artist Jai Uttal will invoke a space of prayer and heartfelt expression, joined by his good friend, tabla maestro and vocalist Daniel Paul.
No previous experience is needed. This is an exploration of the heart, independent of vocal or musical technique.
Kirtan with Sheela Bringi
Aanand Saagar, Venice
Saturday, Dec 5th 8:00pm
Cost: $15 Suggested Donation
Kirtan is collective call-and-response chanting that opens the heart and leads the mind to stillness. Sheela Bringi skillfully weaves the ancient chants of India with world rhythms and creative instrumentation. She sings kirtan and plays the harp, harmonium and bansuri (bamboo) flute, and has been trained in Indian classical, devotional and jazz music. Sheela's music has been greatly influenced by her Indian family heritage, her teachers, and Amma, the "hugging saint" from South India.
Passion and Grace - The art of devotional singing with Jai Uttal
Exhale Center for Sacred Movement, Venice
Sunday, Dec 6th 1:00-4:00pm
Cost: $40
In the practice of Kirtan we are able to come into contact with the wide palette of feelings inside of us and to begin to freely express them and share them with others. Rather than being obstacles in our path, these emotions become the fuel to connect us to the Spirit, to our eternal beloved. This deep river of passionate surrender and prayer is known as Bhakti Yoga, the Yoga of devotion or personal relationship with the divine.
In this workshop Jai will explore how we can approach the path of Bhakti Yoga in our own lives, with our own personalities and identities. We will begin to understand a new meaning of aesthetics, an internal aesthetics, wherein we create our most beautiful prayers to spirit without the slightest concern for other's opinions or criticisms. We will touch on the vast beauty of the Indian Raga and Tala systems and direct participants to further study in those areas. Jai will open the floor to all kinds of questions, and, with a very flexible and lighthearted approach, will answer from his personal experiences and ideas and the stories of ancient India.
No previous experience is needed for these workshops. This is an exploration of the heart, independent of vocal or musical technique.
Mother-Daughter Partner Yoga Workshop
Lyfe Yoga Center, Hermosa Beach
Sunday, Dec 6th 3:30-5:30pm
Cost: $40
Looking for another way to connect with your daughter and feel closer in one of the strongest relationships you will experience in your life? Honor your bond through this Mother Daughter Partner Yoga Class. Proceeds will go towards the Hermosa Beach Education Foundation.
The Kundalini Yoga Experience with Krishna Kaur
Yogaglo, Santa Monica
Thursday, Dec 10th 6:00-7:30pm
Cost: FREE
Come join internationally renowned teacher, Krishna Kaur, for a 90-minute Kundalini Yoga Experience that will leave you transformed. A true master, Krishna has been teaching Kundalini Yoga for over 35 years. Her classes are high-energy, uplifting and very powerful. For those who are interested in profound personal transformation, this is the class for you.
Yoga Side of the Moon with Andres Salcedo
Exhale Center for Sacred Movement, Venice
Friday, Dec 11th 8:00-10:00pm
Cost: $20
After many successful "Yoga Sides of the Moon" workshops around the planet, Andres is excited to bring this event back to Exhale. Creating a dynamic flow based on simple asanas, you will embark into a yogic exploration through the sound of Pink Floyd's album "Dark side of the Moon" surrounded by atmospheric soundscapes and carefully placed sound effects that will help you achieved a natural psychedelic emotional state.
The workshop will start with a simple warm up series, follow by a flow inspired on the sound of the album and created on the spot based on the energy of the group, ultimately leading to tranquil and peaceful relaxation of the body, mind and spirit. Bring your yoga mat, open heart and be prepare to sweat, flow and fly high.
A Special Holiday Charity Class for Yoga Gives Back
Yogaworks Center for Yoga, Larchmont
Saturday, Dec 12th 2:00-5:00pm
Cost: $20 Suggested donation
Come join us in a universal spirit of union to help women in India break out of the chains of poverty. An amazing team of Yoga Works teachers will gather at Center For Yoga to teach this special class; Clay Kyle, David Lynch, James Morrison, Joan Hyman, Whitney Allen, Kia Miller, Mia Togo, Malachi Melville and Jeanne Heileman. Live soulful music by Rich Ferguson, Kalani and Friends. Special Carols by Andrew Abaria and his singers, and James Morrison's live song! Lots of amazing raffle items to support YGB!! Thank you everyone and see you all there.
Yoga 4 Creativity with Brenda Strong, a Fundraiser for Yo San University
Yogaglo, Santa Monica
Saturday, Dec 12th 4:00-6:00pm
Cost: $20 in advance, $25 at the door. To purchase tickets please visit: healthcarecomedy.blogspot.com
Intention+Attention=Transformation; Come explore the 2nd Chakra and learn how to receive all you dreamed of with this Yoga Practice with Brenda Strong. Laughter is an expression of Joy and Joy is the by-product of being aligned with Divine Source. Learn to release all the patterns of emotional and physical blocks to your creative power and awaken the Divine Feminine art of receiving. We will open the hips, unlocking the energy center buried there and explore our potential for aligning our intention with our attention through the breath. Healing from the Inside-Out and awakening the source of unending creativity and joy.
All proceeds from this special event will benefit Yo San University’s Outreach Programs, providing acupuncture and Chinese Medicine to Children’s Hospital, Premiere Oncology Foundation, low income families and people living with HIV and AIDS.
Laughter is the Best Medicine - A Party and Health Care Comedy Fundraiser for Yo San University
Yogaglo, Santa Monica
Saturday, Dec 12th 7:00-11:00pm
Cost: $20 in advance, $25 at the door. To purchase tickets please visit healthcarecomedy.blogspot.com
A Party and Comedy Program benefiting Yo San University with Eddie Pepitone, Andrea Shreeman, Masood Ali Khan, Joe McGovern, Sebastien Gendry, Shani Tennyson and more.
Doors open at 7pm, Comedy begins at 8pm.
Complimentary organic food and wine, plus a raffle with amazing health conscious gifts from high vibration companies like: Parducci Wines, Earthbar, Coconut Bliss, Transition Nutrition, Guayaki, Beyond O2, Innerwear Clothing, Leaf Organics, Robert Sturman Studio, Steam Salon, Vital Hemptations, RawVolution, Amazon Herb Co., Lucy Activewear, Yogitoes, Yogaglo, Buddha Nose, African Cowboy, New Chapter, Lilla Bello Studio and Arbonne International.
Through its outreach programs, Yo San University provides acupuncture and pain management to Children's Hospital, Premiere Oncology Foundation, Venice Family Clinic and WeHo's Being Alive program for people living with HIV and AIDS.
Zen Dancing End of the Year Partay with Micheline Berry
Exhale Center for Sacred Movement, Venice
Saturday, Dec 12th 8:00-10:00pm
Cost: $20
DJ Drez spinning funky world beats
Te'Amir on percussion
Domonic Dean Breaux, winds and
Micheline Berry, dance
Come unwind and celebrate the approaching Winter Solstice with a spontaneous feast of Funky World Beats sure to get your holiday groove on...
Come prepared to dance your heart out!
yoga + hiking + picnic = awesome with Dan Ward
Yogaco, Santa Monica
Sunday, Dec 13th 10:15am-3:15pm
Cost: By donation
Starting with a 10:15am yoga class taught by Dan Ward at YOGAco. The yoga class features a special treat: Samadhi singing and Vyas on guitar!
Then we carpool up to a top secret nearby hiking location where we'll roam theez hillz for a 3-6 mile hike.
After the hike, there'll be a vegan picnic catered by The Homecooked Vegan, Lesley Ward.
There will also be a wonderful Christmas ornament craft table and probably a sick frisbee session, too!
Families welcome! the entire event is by donation only!
Meditate and Celebrate the True Birth of a New Year: Winter Solstice at Yoga West
Yoga West, Los Angeles
Sunday, Dec 13th 1:00-4:00pm
Cost: $50
Invigorate your life for the Advantage of 2010 with a course taught by Guru Singh
The power of appreciation (Gratitude)
Leads to mental clarity (Aptitude)
Providing a vital projection (Attitude)
Bring a piece of fruit, paper and pen.
Partner Thai Yoga Workshop with Deon DeWet
Urth Yoga, Silverlake
Sunday, Dec 13th 1:00-4:00pm
Cost: $30 in advance, $40 at the door
Experience the joys of giving and receiving a unique method of Interactive Yogic Bodywork, within the peace and safety of Urth Yoga Studio.
Learn how to combine assisted Yoga stretches and Traditional Thai Massage - harmonizing the flows of energy throughout the body. Enjoy a profound sense of release and contentment as you and your partner help each other to deeply integrate body, mind and soul. This class is recommended for all people – as long as they can maintain a kneeling or lunging position for a few minutes at a time.
No prior Yoga or massage experience is required. We will work on a comfortable combination of mats and blankets on the floor. Bring a friend or let us know to pair you up with a compatible partner.
Guided Partner Massage Workshop with Christi Anne Franck and Katrina Webster
Yoga Blend, Burbank
Sunday, Dec 13th 1:30-4:00pm
Cost: $60 per couple before December 6th, $70 after
Touch is so important to our being. Partner Massage and Yoga are beneficial ways to incorporate a different kind of touch and healing energy into your life.
During the course of the workshop, you and your partner will be guided through a basic sequence that includes many of the essentials of Partner Yoga poses weaved in with Relaxing Massage Techniques. It's a class that builds trust, opens energy and allows both parties to go deeper in their practice. These techniques are easy to do and will have you and your partner feeling great.
This workshop is open to all partners, come with a friends, parent, husband, wife, neighbor, etc.
No experience in yoga or massage is needed.
PARTNER YOGA WORKSHOP with SARAH COLEMAN and SHAUN GRANATO
Bhakti Yoga Shala, Santa Monica
Sunday, Dec 13th 1:45-3:45pm
Cost: Suggested Donation $20
Join Sarah Coleman and Shaun Granato for an exploration of Partner Yoga. In Partner Yoga you will learn to breath and flow together as well as assist each other through traditional yoga asana This will not only deepen the body's experience but enhance communication and connection on a more subtle level. Yoga means to join- body, mind and spirit. The intention of the partner yoga practice is to explore your yoga with another embracing joined expression and trust as well as find new depths in your physical practice. This workshop is taught with a sense of curiosity, joy and even some laughter!
To honor the 91st birthday of B.K.S. Iyengar
Iyengar Yoga Institute, Los Angeles
Sunday, Dec 13th 2:00-4:00pm
Cost: Suggested donation $20
We hope you will join us on December 13 to honor the man who has touched millions around the world. Reflect in the beauty of others in our community as we reflect in the beauty of the Self.Garth McLean will teach an all-levels asana class in honor of this auspicious occasion.
Refreshments will follow.
Proceeds to benefit IYILA and Bellur Trust (Guruji’s charity).
Kirtan Cookie Party with The Temple Bhajan Band
Yoga Bindu, San Pedro
Sunday, Dec 13th 6:00pm
Cost: $5 and cookies!
Bring 2 dozen cookies (to exchange) and $5 for the band. Enjoy an evening of dinner and kirtan, and take home an assortment of holiday cookies and good cheer.
Anusara®: Inner Symmetry with Elena Brower
Yogaglo, Santa Monica
Thursday, Dec 17th 6:30-8:00pm
Cost: FREE
You are invited to experience your inner symmetry through asymmetrical poses; this practice intends to be an exploration of your capacity for balance and ease in any interaction in your life.
Elena Brower, Certified Anusara® Yoga Teacher, is the founder and co-owner of Virayoga in New York City. Teaching 12+ years, she is a faculty member at Kripalu, and in collaboration with Flavorpill, Elena teaches large-scale yoga classes, most recently at the Museum of Modern Art, YouTube video and Times Square, with plans to reach cultural institutions in cities nationwide and worldwide in the next 2 years.
OmDance and Chant
Inner Power Yoga, Woodland Hills
Thursday, Dec 17th 7:45-9:45pm
Cost: Love Donation
Dance wild, sing free and celebrate the essence of your true nature in a safe and sacred space with and Chant. Supported by awesome world music and live chanting we will flow from movement to meditation, sound to stillness, honoring the bliss of being... Led by Narthana Nithyananda and Stella Davies.
Winter Solstice 108 Sun Salutations to Live Music with Lonne Dickerson
Free Spirit Yoga, Long Beach
Friday, Dec 18th 7:15-9:00pm
Cost: $25 pre-registration, $30 at the door
Joel Long will play the Sitar and Drums to guide you on your transformative journey while Lonne will lead you through various forms of sun salutations. By doing 108, you are sparking each one of your 108 nadis (energy centers, chakras) in your body, cleansing and purifying for the new season. Begin to think of an intention you'd like to set for this class and time of year. You will need a small towel, yoga mat & some water. Space is limited. Following class will be light refreshments.
Yogasonic at Rising Lotus Yoga
Rising Lotus Yoga, Sherman Oaks
Friday, Dec 18th 7:30pm
Cost: Suggested Donation $15
YogaSonic is an exciting and new approach to the practice of Vinyasa Flow Yoga, it melds freestyle Vinyasa Flow Yoga and real time live ambient music to bring a fresh, vibe filled experience to group yoga practice. Incredible live ambient tunes created and mixed in the studio by John Tague offers a deep and unique experience to the practice. Freestyle yoga offers yogis the opportunity to practice on their own in a spontaneous, energetic group setting; embodying yoga in their own authentic way.
Group warm up, cool down and meditation guided by yoga instructor Michelle Goldstein.
Off The Mat, Into the World 2010 Launch and Kirtan Dance Party
Yogaglo, Santa Monica
Friday, Dec 18th 7:30-11:00pm
Cost: $15
Join Suzanne Sterling, Seane Corn, and Hala Khouri for a Solstice celebration and Kirtronica dance party to launch our Off The Mat, Into The Word 2010 Initiatives.
Celebrate with us as we sing, dance and chant for change! This evening, co-hosted by YogaGlo and OTM, will include Kirtan and dancing with Suzanne and her rockin' kirtronica band, Solstice ritual and prayer with Suzanne, Seane and Hala, and guest performances from local street youth; raffle, yummy vendors and Yoga Play Lounge (fun yoga toys) and more! We will be launching our 2010 Seva Challenge South Africa and Seva Challenge Los Angeles Initiatives, our Seva Challenge documentary film, and celebrating the release of Suzanne's new album called "Blue Fire Soul."
Winter Solstice Celebration with Sara Ivanhoe
Yogaworks Main Street, Santa Monica
Friday, Dec 18th 7:45-9:45pm
Cost: $25
Now is the time to clear out the past and get ready for the year to come. Celebrating the solstice is a powerful way to plant seeds for the future and taking some time for yourself to nurture and prepare for the winter months is equivalent to animals preparing for hibernation. The winter solstice is the longest night of the year, the time to go inward and honor the power of darkness--it is by honoring the darkness that we are brought back to the Light. Come join us for the Ritusamhara or "Garland of the Seasons", our seasonal ritual which will include asana pranayama mantra, arati and live music by Travis Eliot.
108 Sun Salutes Celebrating the Winter Solstice
Yummy Yoga, Los Feliz
Saturday, Dec 19th 1:00-3:00pm
Cost: Canned soup donations!
Skip the crowded shopping malls and come breathe, move, and sweat, and celebrate the season while you GIVE to families in need!
Join Larry and Amy for this donation-based traditional yogic offering in honor of the first day of Winter. Please bring donations of canned soup to help keep bellies warm for local families in need this winter!
Winter Solstice Sacred Groove Yoga/Dance Party
Be Love Yoga, Downtown Los Angeles
Saturday, Dec 19th 2:00-8:00pm
Cost: $10
Calling in the Light ~ Ritual of Renewal with Yoga + Kirtan With Shiva Rea, Dave Stringer and Steve Gold
Exhale Center for Sacred Movement, Venice
Saturday and Sunday, Dec 19th and 20th; see below for times and individual pricing
Cost: $108 Early Bird by Dec 7th, $145 after ~ includes Three Yoga Sadhanas and Evening Kirtan Celebration
Inside the fertile darkness the light emerges...
The Winter Solstice is one of the oldest and most potent rituals of renewal. As the northern hemisphere of the earth reaches its darkest point of the year, the Winter Solstice is the turning point of increasing light from December 21st onward.
For many world cultures, the Solstice is the true new year as the ritual marker to truly let go, honor and bring closure to the past year and ignite our deepest visions and intentions for the coming year as the light is emerging. Our bodies as nature are intimately connected with this macro solar rhythm giving us a powerful opportunity to align and be in harmony with the greater flow.
While the outer world moves in a holiday flurry, this ritual yoga, kirtan, meditation and vision intensive will dive into the deeper rhythm of inner renewal.
- Saturday, Dec 19th 3:00-6:00pm
Calling in the Light: Deep Listening, Cleansing and Renewal with Shiva Rea and Steve Gold
Cost: $60
Experience a chakra-based yoga sadhana as a ritual invocation and intention process that provides a full-spectrum map for cleansing and activating one’s life flow from the root chakra to our vision of the coming year. Through deep listening and surrender, we will create offerings for ritual containers for dissolving, completion and activating to be offered into the fire at the moment of the solstice to transform the peak of darkness into the light of transformation.
- Saturday, Dec 19th 8:00-10:00pm
Calling in the Light: Kirtan with Shiva Rea and Dave Stringer
Cost: $25 in advance; $35 day of
- Sunday, Dec 20th 10:30am-12:15pm
Embodying the Light: Meditative Prana Flow with Steve Gold
Cost: $20
- Sunday, Dec 20th 2:00-5:30pm
Embodying the Light: Winter Solstice Yoga Mala, Mantra and Sunset Ocean Puja with Shiva, Dave Stringer and Steve Gold
Cost: $60
Forming a mandala of light, we will ground our intentions through a yoga mala of 108 Namaskars to the mantra and kirtan of Dave Stringer and then head in a procession to the ocean (weather permitting) to complete the Solstice ritual at sunset.
**Bring warm clothes and your heartfire. Family and friends are welcome to join the procession at 4:15 in front of Exhale.
Solstice OM Chant with Allison McCready
Santa Monica Yoga, Santa Monica
Saturday, Dec 19th 6:00-7:15pm
Cost: $10 suggested donation
OM has been described as the primordial sound; a sacred mantra representing the absolute oneness of the Universe. By chanting OM we use this sacred mantra to enter into a dialogue with the divine. Chanting helps us clear illusion from our mind and tune our inner being to the frequency of Love. The sweetness of chanting stills the mind, dissolves worries, and opens the heart. In addition to profoundly affecting the individual, chanting OM reverberates through the body of mankind, helping to heal a violent world. In this class we will set intentions for the new season, chant OM and immerse ourselves in the loving vibration of this simple and powerful prayer.
Helpful notes:
**No yoga experience is required – all are welcome.
**Arrive a few minutes early.
**Avoid eating at least 1 hour before chanting.
**Leave your cell phone in your car.
108 Sun Salutes
Santa Monica Yoga, Santa Monica
Sunday, Dec 20th 7:00am
Cost: FREE!
Join teachers Nancy Goodstein, Kyra Haglund, Luke Ketterhagen, and Allison McCready in this celebration of the solstice. It is traditionally auspicious to repeat a prayer or mantra 108 times. Repeating 108 sun salutes is a unique and fun way to welcome the returning sun at the solstice.
Winter Solstice Workshop with Bekah Finch
Yoga Blend, Burbank
Sunday, Dec 20th 2:00-4:00pm
Cost: $15
"Winter solstice - the longest night of the year - profoundly challenges our psychological tolerance for darkness. It is a visionary time. Like the dark of the moon each month, Winter Solstice represents not only the pitch black of night, but also a seed of something that will unfold in the coming year. We pray for a future we can only imagine."
Join Bekah for a blend of yoga, meditation and creation to honor the winter, celebrate the darkness and to plant powerful seed intentions for the coming year.
Christmas Yoga with Santokh Claus
Awareness Center, Pasadena
Sunday, Dec 20th 2:00-3:30pm
Cost: By donation
A class for children of all ages!
An Awareness Center tradition!
A Christmas treat for the entire family!
Santa (aka Dr. Santokh Singh Khalsa) will share a special yoga class, followed by guitar music and caroling!
This class is by donation which will benefit Five Acres Children's Foundation.
Kirtan with Ryan Brewer
Bhakti Yoga Shala, Santa Monica
Sunday, Dec 20th 8:00pm
Cost: By Donation
Solstice Celebration with Gurmukh, Tej & Gurushabd
Golden Bridge Yoga, Hollywood
Monday, Dec 21st 6:00-8:30pm
Cost: $25
We are entering a new era where intellectual knowledge is not what will sustain us in life. We are entering an era where our own blessings will bring us the most power. Your blessing power can make you pure, elevated and believe it or not, more efficient! When you develop the habit to bless – your environments, the people in your life, and even those you think don’t deserve it -- you surround yourself in blessings. Join us as we develop the mind set to bless, to uplift, and heal the world at the time of the Winter Solstice, when the sun energy is smallest and our depth is most accessible. We will end with a fruit meditation where we’ll “Inject Healing Sounds into Fruit.” Please bring an orange and one to share with a friend!
Becoming like Angels: A Christmas Eve Celebration with Tej
Golden Bridge Yoga, Hollywood
Thursday, Dec 24th 9:00am
Cost: $16 or Keytags
Out of the Mind Comes the Lotus – Experiencing the Kindness in You
Life is both plus & minus, but for some 2 + 2 = 5. They add smiles, warmth, love and kindness which equals the most powerful healing on the planet. We become like angels by celebrating our inner strength, allowing us to be secure, to give to all, and to live in the service of our Destiny.
This class will challenge your ego and give you the health and inner energy to live from your angelic nature. Come for powerful Kundalini Yoga & Meditation and great company.
Christmas Eve with Ananda Los Angeles
Heaven on Earth Holistic Center, 7122 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles (Second Floor, above Starbucks and Susina Bakery. Entrance on Detroit St)
Thursday, Dec 24th 7:30-9:00pm
Cost: Free
Join us for this all-ages Christmas Eve program that includes a special version of the Festival of Light, an inspiring Christmas Eve talk, a Christmas Message from Paramhansa Yogananda, music, sacred stories, a candle ceremony...and more. Children of all ages are welcome.
Plenty of FREE PARKING is available. To see the location of the parking structure, as well as directions and more information about this location, CLICK HERE.
Kirtan with Kalidas
Aanand Saagar, Venice
Saturday, Dec 26th 8:00pm
Cost: $15 Suggested Donation
New Year's Eve with Ananda Los Angeles
Heaven on Earth Holistic Center, 7122 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles (Second Floor, above Starbucks and Susina Bakery. Entrance on Detroit St)
Thursday, Dec 31st 9:00pm-Midnight
Cost: Donation Basis
Join us for this spiritual approach to bringing in the New Year the right way--with a fun and uplifting focus to helping 2010 be the best year of your life!
This evening will include chanting, writing exercises, a brief inspiring talk, affirmations, a centering meditation, a fire ceremony to sweep out the old and bring in the new, healing prayers, a New Year's message from Paramhansa Yogananda, and more.
For Everyone -- All Ages Welcome
Plenty of FREE PARKING is available. To see the location of the parking structure, as well as directions and more information about this location, CLICK HERE.
Blue Moon Meditation and New Year's Eve Party with Yoga Bindu
Angel's Gate Cultural Center, 3601 South Gaffey St, Bldg "H", San Pedro
Thursday, Dec 31st 7:00pm-past midnight
Cost: $25 plus potluck. Payment must be made by December 10 for us to secure Angel's Gate "H"
The second full moon in one month is called a "blue moon" and is considered an auspicious occasion. This December 31, 2009 is a Full Long Night Moon, the night when this midwinter moon is above the horizon for the longest time of the year, making this night the longest and darkest.
When the moon is full, our emotional nature and deep intuition are much more active. This particular moon is related to growth and stability, supporting the emotional tides within us as we celebrate a new month, a new year, and a new decade!
We will release the old while setting new intentions for a healthy, stable, prosperous 2010!
Join us for a night of outside moon meditation, intention and celebration.
Rumi and Sacred Music for the New Year
Rising Lotus Yoga, Sherman Oaks
Thursday, Dec 31st 7:00pm
Cost: $15 in advance, $18 at the door
An intimate evening of Rumi's poetry read by Claire Hartley and devotional Sufi music by Yuval Ron.
Please join us for meditative and introspective sacred music from the Sufi Turkish Mevlave tradition as performed on the Oud (Middle eastern Lute) and the Ney flute weaved with mystical wisdom of Rumi’s poetry. Uplifting, enchanting and inspiring experience as the New Year is about to begin!
Rocking Intentional New Years Eve Flow Class with Sarah Bergman and Daniel Stewart
Rising Lotus Yoga, Sherman Oaks
Thursday, Dec 31st 8:30pm
Cost: Regular class price
Come set the tone for your New Year with sweat, yogi tears and Rock n' Roll. We will bid 2009 adieu with a bang of community practice lead by Sarah to live music by Daniel and friends. We'll align ourselves as one in joyous flow and welcome 2010 in with grounding rituals that cultivate clarity for envisioning the path ahead, collectively and individually. This New Years celebration class will close with a short kirtan and an opportunity to sit and melt into meditation. Jai 2010!
ONE Night: 12th Annual Golden Bridge New Year's Celebration with Gurmukh Khalsa
Golden Bridge Yoga, Hollywood
Thursday, Dec 31st 9:00pm-1:00am
Cost: Cost: $60 in advance, $68 day of
Full Blue Moon Night
Golden Bridge doors open for all in celebration, prayer and community on New Year’s Eve night! It will be a night of individual reflection, ecstatic kirtan and dance, yoga, deep meditation, chanting, the gong, and great company! The Nite Moon Café will serve warm delicious Indian cuisine along with assorted sweets and yogi tea chai.
Whoosh! Out goes the physical, mental and emotional debris of 2009, giving space for new opportunities and relationships to be found in the highly charged energy field of 2010.
This is a very exciting and energized year affording us a renewed sense of spirit with which to sail the seas of life’s grand adventure! On New Year’s Eve, let us use the power of group consciousness to draw infinite sums of energy and prana into us.
Join us on this magical evening as we link our prayers with all the seekers of light on the planet and blend the clear light of compassion into every aspect of our lives.
Please note also that there is NO CHILDCARE at this event. Parents are responsible for their kids at all times!
New Year's Eve Awakening: A Tantra Puja with Charu Morgan
The Hub, West Los Angeles
Thursday, Dec 31st 9:00pm-1:00am
Cost: $75 per person, $50 early registration. Preregistration is required to hold your space: eveningofawakening.blogspot.com
Where have you held back this year? What were the greatest moments of experiencing the depths of your loving, the agony of your hate? What are you longing for as you enter into this new year? Allow yourself to awaken your body, fully embrace and lovingly release the experiences of the year gone by, be blessed and nourished in your visions for the year to come and celebrate by discovering yourself alive on a whole new level as you ring in the new year.
This Evening of Awakening is inspired by the Tantric Puja ritual. A Puja is a prayer. In Tantra, our prayer is recognizing the divine in every human being, our temple is the body. In a Puja ritual each man will have the opportunity to partner with each woman for a simple exercise or meditation. The Tantric meditations use breath, movement, sound, and guided meditation to enrich each meeting throughout the ceremony. Attending Couples may choose to work solely with each other. There is no nudity or sexual contact in the class.
New Year's Eve Practice and CELEBRATION with Christine Burke
Liberation Yoga, Los Angeles
Thursday, Dec 31st 9:45pm-Midnight
Cost: $45
Ring in the new year with that yoga glow! This practice is an all levels vinyasa class with chanting, meditation and new year's treats. Start 2010 with a healthy smile on your face and a peaceful heart. This event sells out so don't wait until the last minute! Call (323)964-5222 to reserve your spot. We must receive payment for your spot to be confirmed.
so here's what i've found so far for the month of december. besides the growing number of kirtans now held on a regular basis, there seem to be a slew of partner yoga classes, winter solstice observances, and of course, new year's eve celebrations. it's looking like i'm going to be even busier than usual this month!
keep checking back; i'll continue to add events as i find them...
~~~ this month's deals ~~~
One FREE class with each of December's featured teachers at Black Dog Yoga in Sherman Oaks: Tiffany Fraser and Heidi Kaufman!
Tiffany's classes are:
Tuesday 11:00a-12:30p - Intermediate Anusara
Thursday 11:00a-12:30p - Intermediate Anusara
Thursday 3:30p-5:00p - Anusara Yoga for Beginners
Saturday 10:30a-12:00p - Intermediate Anusara
Heidi's classes are:
Monday 11:00a-12:30p - Deep Stretch, All levels
Wednesday 11:00a-12:30p - Deep Stretch, All levels
Friday 6:00p-7:30p - Deep Stretch, All levels
Click here for coupons
One FREE class during the month of December for any of the featured classes at Rising Lotus Yoga in Sherman Oaks (coupon required; email me for coupon):
~ Candle Lit Flow: 8:00-9:30pm - Tues, Thurs
~ Relax Deeply: 5:30-7:00pm - Sundays
~ Mixed Level: 6:45-8:00am - Mon, Wed, Fri
Come to yoga at Truyoga in Santa Monica and get a FREE appetizer at the Daily Grill:
Beginning Monday, December 14th, TruYoga will be running a lunch and dinner promotion with the Daily Grill Santa Monica (located in the same building).
Attend the following classes and receive a voucher for a free appetizer from the Daily Grill.
*M/W - Gentle Yoga with Therapeutics at 10:30 a.m.
*M/W - Vinyasa Flow at 5:45 p.m.
*M/W - Vinyasa Flow at 5:45 p.m.
Dinner & a Stretch: Maha Yoga + Kreation = Harmony
Just $30 for any yoga class and dinner (BYOB)!
Purchase vouchers at either location:
Maha Yoga, 13050 San Vicente Blvd, Brentwood
Kreation Kafe, 1023B Montana Ave, Santa Monica
Expires Dec 15th.
~~~ ongoing events ~~~
Community classes, courtesy of lululemon athletica
Cost: FREE
lululemon Beverly Hills, 334 N Beverly Dr ~
Sundays at 9:30am: AcroYoga! Dec 6 - Yogi Hendlin and Huck Hirsch, Dec 13 - Lara Catone and Yogi Hendlin, Dec 20 - Huck Hirsch and Sarah Vosen, Dec 27 - Lara Catone and Sarah Vosen. Plus: Every Monday 6:15pm Run Club and Runner's Yoga, Dec 10 7:30pm - Hip Hop Dance DVD Release Party with Sarita Lou
lululemon Brentwood, 11920 San Vicente Blvd ~
Sundays at 9:30am, Yoga with The Hub: Dec 6 - Sarah Ezrin, Dec 13 - Barbie Baylis, Dec 20 - James MacDonald, Dec 27 - Lauri Ashworth. Plus: Every Monday 6:15pm Jingle Jog (thru Dec 17 only; resumes in January on Thursdays!)
lululemon Calabasas, at The Commons, 4719 Commons Way ~
Sundays at 9:30am: Dec 6 - Pilates with Leah, Dec 13 - Anti-Gravity Yoga with Lori Robbins, Dec 20 - Yoga with Sri Hari Moss. Plus: Every Monday 6pm - Running Club
lululemon Glendale, at The Americana, 233 S Brand ~
Sundays at 9:30am: Yoga with Shakti Box: Dec 6 - Heather Funston, Dec 13 - Tiffany Russo and Clio Manuelian, Dec 20 - Nicole Ghastin and Beau King, Dec 27 - Kasey Luber and Trinity Stuart. Plus: Every Wednesday 11am - Kids Yoga with Abbie Rose, Dec 10 9pm - Kundalicious Yoga with Masha Sapron and Amber Rothwell
lululemon Pasadena, 110 W Colorado ~
Sundays at 10am, CATZ Fitness Workout: Dec 6, Dec 13, Dec 20, Dec 27. Plus: Every Wednesday 6pm - Fun Run Club, Dec 10 7:30pm - Meditation with John Sovec, Dec 13 5:30pm - AcroYoga Demo with Mod Amaya and Alex Plank, Dec 16 7:30pm - Kickboxing with Mauricio and David
lululemon Santa Monica, 331 Santa Monica Blvd ~
Sundays at 9:30am: Yoga! Dec 6 - Laurie Searle, Dec 13 - Marlize Joubert with YogaEarth special event, Dec 20 - Leslie Kazadi, Dec 27 - Michelle Goldstein. Plus Dec 12 9:30am - Hip Hop Cardio with Sarita Lou
lululemon South Bay, at Plaza El Segundo, 2008A E Park Pl ~
Sundays at 9:30am: Yoga with The Green Yogi! Dec 6 - Yin/Yang Yoga Flow with Mary Fanto and Matt Rothert, Dec 13 - Power Vinyasa with Mary Strong, Dec 20 - Power Vinyasa with Anne Spinner, Dec 27 - Power Vinyasa with Heather Archer. Plus: Every Thursday 6:15pm - Run Club at Manhattan Beach Pier
Yogi Lunch with Atma Ananda Das
Govinda's Vegetarian Restaurant, 3764 Watseka Ave, Los Angeles
Fridays, Dec 4th, 11th, 18th 1:00-2:15pm (Every Friday)
Cost: BYOL (Buy your own lunch)
I do this because the yoga teachers, the healers and the guides for others need to get together in person. Yoga is all about relationships... so we meet up and love, that's yoga!
Friday Night Movies and Potluck
Inner Harmony Yoga, San Pedro
Friday, Dec 4th 6:30-9:00pm (1st Friday of month)
Cost: A vegetarian (ovo-lacto OK) dish to share. Please bring a serving utensil. Donations of paper/plastic plates and utensils would be most welcome!
We'll break bread together and enjoy an uplifting movie, all in the comfort of your local yoga studio.
Palisades Outdoor Yoga Hike with Hilary Kimblin
Michael Lane and Trailer Canyon Fire Road, Pacific Palisades
Saturday, Dec 5th 9:00-11:30am (Once a month)
Cost: $15 in advance, $20 day of hike. Please click here to reserve your spot
A Saturday morning hike and an outdoor yoga class for those seeking solace from the week.
Please bring a yoga mat and/or a towel, dress in layers and wear good hiking shoes/boots. Sun block, sunglasses and a hat also recommended. Water is required!
Be prepared to hike for some 45 minutes uphill, to our outdoor outdoor walls-free "classroom". The yoga class will last around an hour (no previous experience necessary), then we will pack up and hike downhill for around 30 minutes. We will be out by 11:30am. This is a lot of fun and a great way to meet new people!
Kirtan with BhaktiMa
Lyfe Yoga Center, Hermosa Beach
Saturday, Dec 5th 7:00pm (1st Saturday of the month)
Cost: $10 Suggested Donation
In the spirit of building community, join BhaktiMa for a wonderful evening of music.
ART OF LIVING KIRTAN
Yoga Desa, Topanga
Saturday, Dec 5th 7:00pm (1st Saturday of the month)
Cost: By Donation
Ecstatic chanting in Topanga Canyon hosted by Art of Living Foundation teachers Andrew Behla & Michèle Krolik at Yoga Desa. Singing traditional sanskrit mantras have a profound effect on the environment and consciousness, helping to quiet the mind and open the heart. No experience is necessary, just a willingness to participate with a beginner's mind.
OPEN TO ALL!
For more information visit artoflivingla.org
Yogi Brunch with Zat Baraka and Atma Ananda Das
Euphoria Loves Rawvolution Cafe, 2301 Main Street, Santa Monica
Sunday, Dec 6th 10:00am-noon (Once a month)
Cost: BYOB (Buy your own brunch)
Yoga is about relationships.
This includes our relationships with the body/mind, the earth, other souls, and the source... Yogi brunch is a space for instigating, preserving, and celebrating all these relationships. In other words, members of the yoga and healing communities will come together to eat, laugh, and love.
Come enjoy a special raw vegan earth friendly meal for your delight.
Euphoria Loves Rawvolution Cafe is a central meeting point for the progressive conscious community of Los Angeles.
Yoga Potluck with Psalm Isadora
Aanand Saagar, Venice
Sunday, Dec 6th 6:00pm (Once a month, location varies)
Cost: Bring a potluck dish to share
Please bring your favorite dish to share as a community offering, remember, all we ask is for your participation, grub and love! Yoga Potluck is a community event to share and celebrate the simplest things, good food, good company and good yoga.
If you have a mat, please bring it, otherwise I have a few extras.
All are welcome, it is an all levels class. Invite your friends and family, celebration loves company.
FREE COMMUNITY NIGHT: HUMILITY with Chutney Berry
City Yoga, West Hollywood
Tuesday, Dec 8th 7:30pm (2nd Tuesday of the month)
Cost: FREE
Yoga riddle:
It's bigger than us and yet small enough to see.
It's attractive in others and what we strive to be.
It's the antidote for arrogance, low self esteem, and competitiveness
Perfectionism, know it all "ism", pride and close mindedness.
We could all use more of it
What is it?
Humility
On and Off our mats. In our practice and our lives. Come tap into the power that transforms.
No Yoga Experience necessary.
Kirtan at Randall's
Private residence, 2235 Linnington Ave, Los Angeles
Wednesdays, Dec 9th and 23rd 7:30pm (Every other Wednesday)
Cost: By Donation
Dec 9th - Joey Lugassy, Govindas, Cooper Madison, and others
With excellent ayurvedic Indian food by Kailas and Mike Baker.
Dec 23rd - TBA
An Evening of Kirtan with Daniel & Friends
Rising Lotus Yoga, Sherman Oaks
Friday, Dec 11th 8:30pm (2nd Friday of the month)
Cost: By Donation
Daniel's kirtan is a unique blend of western soul and jazz style improvisation with authentic Sanskrit mantras. The joy he feels singing is evident in the energy that grows in the room and the heart opening often experienced by participants.
Musicians: Sarah, Arielle Silver and Emily Kern on vocals, Jeff Harris on guitar, Angela Devita on flute, and Cooper Madison and Greg Klimuck on drums.
No singing experience needed, only a willingness to open your heart to the joy.
Bizarre Sundays: Yoga + Brunch with Evolve Lifewear
Sunday, Dec 13th (2nd Sunday of the month)
Yoga at 10:30am with Jesse Lombardi at Be Love Yoga followed by Brunch at Royal Claytons English Pub
1855 Industrial Ave, Los Angeles
Cost: $10 yoga, $10 brunch (alcohol not included)
SUNDAY NIGHT YOGA & DINNER with Jennifer Kelly
The Yogi Tree, Toluca Lake
Sunday, Dec 13th 5:00-7:00pm (2nd Sunday of the month)
Cost: $20, children 12 and under are FREE!
From its very inception, The Yogi Tree set the clear intention: this studio belongs to everyone. You, me, him, her, all of us - a unified body of individuals. To honor that intention, that "circle of love" of which Rumi writes, The Yogi Tree is very proud to offer an all-ages, community-oriented Kundalini Yoga class, followed by a yogi-style dinner. Join Yogi Tree owner Jennifer Kelly for an uplifting, deeply connective yoga class - one that will offer physical and spiritual alignment for you, while also activating a dynamic group energy. A homemade, yogi-style dinner, enjoyed casually in a warm group setting, will follow.
Come on your own. Bring a friend. Bring a child. Bring everyone you know.
Kirtan with BhaktiMa
Harmony Yoga, Redondo Beach
Saturday, Dec 19th 7:00pm (3rd Saturday of the month)
Cost: $10 Suggested Donation
Please come listen, chant and enjoy!
"Our goal is create a journey of sound, where the line between performer and audience melts into a single current."
Ecstatic Chanting with Steve Ross
Maha Yoga, Brentwood
Saturday, Dec 19th 8:00pm
Cost: By donation
We invite you to join us for a blissful evening of chanting.
The evening will open your heart, still your mind and lead you to a state of profound euphoria.
Wear comfortable clothing, bring a cushion to sit on and enjoy.
Weekly Kirtan at Bhakti Yoga Shala
Bhakti Yoga Shala, Santa Monica
Cost: Suggested donation $10-$15
Friday, Dec 4th 8:30pm (1st Friday of month) - Andres Salcedo
Saturday, Dec 5th 8:00pm (1st Saturday of month) - Govindas and Radha
Friday, Dec 11th 9:00pm (2nd Friday of month) - Joey Lugassy
Saturday, Dec 12th 8:00pm (2nd Saturday of month) - Michael Thomas
Friday, Dec 18th 9:00pm (3rd Friday of month) - Terra Gold
Saturday, Dec 19th 8:00pm (3rd Saturday of month) - Zat Baraka
Friday, Dec 25th 8:30pm (4th Friday of month) - Kalidas
Saturday, Dec 26th 8:00pm (4th Saturday of month) - Travis Eliot
~~~ this month's highlights ~~~
A MantRa TaNtra EaSt wEst FuSion ExpErieNce with Jai Uttal, Larisa Stow and the Shakti Tribe, and Naked Rhythm
A BENEFIT FOR CHARITY:WATER.ORG - HELP BUILD A WELL IN INDIA
Kali Klub, 3229 Casitas Avenue, Atwater Village
Friday, Dec 4th 7:00pm-midnight
Cost: $25 in advance, $30 at door
Jai Uttal, Larisa Stow and Shakti Tribe, Naked Rhythm, DJ Avi in a totally new and innovative environment for Kirtan and world music - KALI KLUB - A conscious nightclub and total sensory environment with Massive Projections, Lasers, Light Shows, Huge Sound, Visionary Art and Artists, Astrology, Tarot, Amazing Raw food from Sahadev of the Rose Temple, fun vendors, Coffe, Tea, Juice Bar... AND YOU!!!
TONS OF FREE PARKING AND PLENTY OF ROOM TO DANCE!!!
108 Sun Salutations with Psalm Isadora - A Fundraiser for Women's Empowerment School in India
With Live Kirtan with Zat Baraka, Ena Vie, Cryrus Pirasteh and Momo Loudiyi
Modern Om, 13452 Washington Blvd (just east of Lincoln), Venice
Saturday, Dec 5th 10:00am-1:00pm
Cost: By Donation
This is the 2nd annual Yoga Mala for the Tree of Life Yoga School. Last year, we raised $2,000. This year my goal is to raise $3,000. Please come and join us, if you want to participate in the mala or just to come show your support and give your energy. Our good friends Cyrus, Zat and Momo will be doing kirtan to keep the energy up. So even if you just come to support, you can join in the chanting.
Proceeds go towards "Healing the Mother". A women's education project. Helping the women in the city of Vizag to achieve their dreams through education, yoga and job skills, allowing them to create a foundation for self fulfillment and self reliance and to become empowered members of their community. By helping empower the women, we empower the children and families they help support. Tree of Life Yoga School and Community is a 501(c)3 corp.
Passion + Grace ~ Kirtan with Jai Uttal + Daniel Paul
Exhale Center for Sacred Movement, Venice
Saturday, Dec 5th 7:30-10:00pm
Cost: $25; $32 day of
"Kirtan is food for the spirit, a life raft of song...."
Embark on a journey into the multi-colored, many roomed mansions of the heart through the practice of Kirtan; or chanting the ecstatic songs of ancient India. Using call-and-response singing and storytelling, recording artist Jai Uttal will invoke a space of prayer and heartfelt expression, joined by his good friend, tabla maestro and vocalist Daniel Paul.
No previous experience is needed. This is an exploration of the heart, independent of vocal or musical technique.
Kirtan with Sheela Bringi
Aanand Saagar, Venice
Saturday, Dec 5th 8:00pm
Cost: $15 Suggested Donation
Kirtan is collective call-and-response chanting that opens the heart and leads the mind to stillness. Sheela Bringi skillfully weaves the ancient chants of India with world rhythms and creative instrumentation. She sings kirtan and plays the harp, harmonium and bansuri (bamboo) flute, and has been trained in Indian classical, devotional and jazz music. Sheela's music has been greatly influenced by her Indian family heritage, her teachers, and Amma, the "hugging saint" from South India.
Passion and Grace - The art of devotional singing with Jai Uttal
Exhale Center for Sacred Movement, Venice
Sunday, Dec 6th 1:00-4:00pm
Cost: $40
In the practice of Kirtan we are able to come into contact with the wide palette of feelings inside of us and to begin to freely express them and share them with others. Rather than being obstacles in our path, these emotions become the fuel to connect us to the Spirit, to our eternal beloved. This deep river of passionate surrender and prayer is known as Bhakti Yoga, the Yoga of devotion or personal relationship with the divine.
In this workshop Jai will explore how we can approach the path of Bhakti Yoga in our own lives, with our own personalities and identities. We will begin to understand a new meaning of aesthetics, an internal aesthetics, wherein we create our most beautiful prayers to spirit without the slightest concern for other's opinions or criticisms. We will touch on the vast beauty of the Indian Raga and Tala systems and direct participants to further study in those areas. Jai will open the floor to all kinds of questions, and, with a very flexible and lighthearted approach, will answer from his personal experiences and ideas and the stories of ancient India.
No previous experience is needed for these workshops. This is an exploration of the heart, independent of vocal or musical technique.
Mother-Daughter Partner Yoga Workshop
Lyfe Yoga Center, Hermosa Beach
Sunday, Dec 6th 3:30-5:30pm
Cost: $40
Looking for another way to connect with your daughter and feel closer in one of the strongest relationships you will experience in your life? Honor your bond through this Mother Daughter Partner Yoga Class. Proceeds will go towards the Hermosa Beach Education Foundation.
The Kundalini Yoga Experience with Krishna Kaur
Yogaglo, Santa Monica
Thursday, Dec 10th 6:00-7:30pm
Cost: FREE
Come join internationally renowned teacher, Krishna Kaur, for a 90-minute Kundalini Yoga Experience that will leave you transformed. A true master, Krishna has been teaching Kundalini Yoga for over 35 years. Her classes are high-energy, uplifting and very powerful. For those who are interested in profound personal transformation, this is the class for you.
Yoga Side of the Moon with Andres Salcedo
Exhale Center for Sacred Movement, Venice
Friday, Dec 11th 8:00-10:00pm
Cost: $20
After many successful "Yoga Sides of the Moon" workshops around the planet, Andres is excited to bring this event back to Exhale. Creating a dynamic flow based on simple asanas, you will embark into a yogic exploration through the sound of Pink Floyd's album "Dark side of the Moon" surrounded by atmospheric soundscapes and carefully placed sound effects that will help you achieved a natural psychedelic emotional state.
The workshop will start with a simple warm up series, follow by a flow inspired on the sound of the album and created on the spot based on the energy of the group, ultimately leading to tranquil and peaceful relaxation of the body, mind and spirit. Bring your yoga mat, open heart and be prepare to sweat, flow and fly high.
A Special Holiday Charity Class for Yoga Gives Back
Yogaworks Center for Yoga, Larchmont
Saturday, Dec 12th 2:00-5:00pm
Cost: $20 Suggested donation
Come join us in a universal spirit of union to help women in India break out of the chains of poverty. An amazing team of Yoga Works teachers will gather at Center For Yoga to teach this special class; Clay Kyle, David Lynch, James Morrison, Joan Hyman, Whitney Allen, Kia Miller, Mia Togo, Malachi Melville and Jeanne Heileman. Live soulful music by Rich Ferguson, Kalani and Friends. Special Carols by Andrew Abaria and his singers, and James Morrison's live song! Lots of amazing raffle items to support YGB!! Thank you everyone and see you all there.
Yoga 4 Creativity with Brenda Strong, a Fundraiser for Yo San University
Yogaglo, Santa Monica
Saturday, Dec 12th 4:00-6:00pm
Cost: $20 in advance, $25 at the door. To purchase tickets please visit: healthcarecomedy.blogspot.com
Intention+Attention=Transformation; Come explore the 2nd Chakra and learn how to receive all you dreamed of with this Yoga Practice with Brenda Strong. Laughter is an expression of Joy and Joy is the by-product of being aligned with Divine Source. Learn to release all the patterns of emotional and physical blocks to your creative power and awaken the Divine Feminine art of receiving. We will open the hips, unlocking the energy center buried there and explore our potential for aligning our intention with our attention through the breath. Healing from the Inside-Out and awakening the source of unending creativity and joy.
All proceeds from this special event will benefit Yo San University’s Outreach Programs, providing acupuncture and Chinese Medicine to Children’s Hospital, Premiere Oncology Foundation, low income families and people living with HIV and AIDS.
Laughter is the Best Medicine - A Party and Health Care Comedy Fundraiser for Yo San University
Yogaglo, Santa Monica
Saturday, Dec 12th 7:00-11:00pm
Cost: $20 in advance, $25 at the door. To purchase tickets please visit healthcarecomedy.blogspot.com
A Party and Comedy Program benefiting Yo San University with Eddie Pepitone, Andrea Shreeman, Masood Ali Khan, Joe McGovern, Sebastien Gendry, Shani Tennyson and more.
Doors open at 7pm, Comedy begins at 8pm.
Complimentary organic food and wine, plus a raffle with amazing health conscious gifts from high vibration companies like: Parducci Wines, Earthbar, Coconut Bliss, Transition Nutrition, Guayaki, Beyond O2, Innerwear Clothing, Leaf Organics, Robert Sturman Studio, Steam Salon, Vital Hemptations, RawVolution, Amazon Herb Co., Lucy Activewear, Yogitoes, Yogaglo, Buddha Nose, African Cowboy, New Chapter, Lilla Bello Studio and Arbonne International.
Through its outreach programs, Yo San University provides acupuncture and pain management to Children's Hospital, Premiere Oncology Foundation, Venice Family Clinic and WeHo's Being Alive program for people living with HIV and AIDS.
Zen Dancing End of the Year Partay with Micheline Berry
Exhale Center for Sacred Movement, Venice
Saturday, Dec 12th 8:00-10:00pm
Cost: $20
DJ Drez spinning funky world beats
Te'Amir on percussion
Domonic Dean Breaux, winds and
Micheline Berry, dance
Come unwind and celebrate the approaching Winter Solstice with a spontaneous feast of Funky World Beats sure to get your holiday groove on...
Come prepared to dance your heart out!
yoga + hiking + picnic = awesome with Dan Ward
Yogaco, Santa Monica
Sunday, Dec 13th 10:15am-3:15pm
Cost: By donation
Starting with a 10:15am yoga class taught by Dan Ward at YOGAco. The yoga class features a special treat: Samadhi singing and Vyas on guitar!
Then we carpool up to a top secret nearby hiking location where we'll roam theez hillz for a 3-6 mile hike.
After the hike, there'll be a vegan picnic catered by The Homecooked Vegan, Lesley Ward.
There will also be a wonderful Christmas ornament craft table and probably a sick frisbee session, too!
Families welcome! the entire event is by donation only!
Meditate and Celebrate the True Birth of a New Year: Winter Solstice at Yoga West
Yoga West, Los Angeles
Sunday, Dec 13th 1:00-4:00pm
Cost: $50
Invigorate your life for the Advantage of 2010 with a course taught by Guru Singh
The power of appreciation (Gratitude)
Leads to mental clarity (Aptitude)
Providing a vital projection (Attitude)
Bring a piece of fruit, paper and pen.
Partner Thai Yoga Workshop with Deon DeWet
Urth Yoga, Silverlake
Sunday, Dec 13th 1:00-4:00pm
Cost: $30 in advance, $40 at the door
Experience the joys of giving and receiving a unique method of Interactive Yogic Bodywork, within the peace and safety of Urth Yoga Studio.
Learn how to combine assisted Yoga stretches and Traditional Thai Massage - harmonizing the flows of energy throughout the body. Enjoy a profound sense of release and contentment as you and your partner help each other to deeply integrate body, mind and soul. This class is recommended for all people – as long as they can maintain a kneeling or lunging position for a few minutes at a time.
No prior Yoga or massage experience is required. We will work on a comfortable combination of mats and blankets on the floor. Bring a friend or let us know to pair you up with a compatible partner.
Guided Partner Massage Workshop with Christi Anne Franck and Katrina Webster
Yoga Blend, Burbank
Sunday, Dec 13th 1:30-4:00pm
Cost: $60 per couple before December 6th, $70 after
Touch is so important to our being. Partner Massage and Yoga are beneficial ways to incorporate a different kind of touch and healing energy into your life.
During the course of the workshop, you and your partner will be guided through a basic sequence that includes many of the essentials of Partner Yoga poses weaved in with Relaxing Massage Techniques. It's a class that builds trust, opens energy and allows both parties to go deeper in their practice. These techniques are easy to do and will have you and your partner feeling great.
This workshop is open to all partners, come with a friends, parent, husband, wife, neighbor, etc.
No experience in yoga or massage is needed.
PARTNER YOGA WORKSHOP with SARAH COLEMAN and SHAUN GRANATO
Bhakti Yoga Shala, Santa Monica
Sunday, Dec 13th 1:45-3:45pm
Cost: Suggested Donation $20
Join Sarah Coleman and Shaun Granato for an exploration of Partner Yoga. In Partner Yoga you will learn to breath and flow together as well as assist each other through traditional yoga asana This will not only deepen the body's experience but enhance communication and connection on a more subtle level. Yoga means to join- body, mind and spirit. The intention of the partner yoga practice is to explore your yoga with another embracing joined expression and trust as well as find new depths in your physical practice. This workshop is taught with a sense of curiosity, joy and even some laughter!
To honor the 91st birthday of B.K.S. Iyengar
Iyengar Yoga Institute, Los Angeles
Sunday, Dec 13th 2:00-4:00pm
Cost: Suggested donation $20
We hope you will join us on December 13 to honor the man who has touched millions around the world. Reflect in the beauty of others in our community as we reflect in the beauty of the Self.Garth McLean will teach an all-levels asana class in honor of this auspicious occasion.
Refreshments will follow.
Proceeds to benefit IYILA and Bellur Trust (Guruji’s charity).
Kirtan Cookie Party with The Temple Bhajan Band
Yoga Bindu, San Pedro
Sunday, Dec 13th 6:00pm
Cost: $5 and cookies!
Bring 2 dozen cookies (to exchange) and $5 for the band. Enjoy an evening of dinner and kirtan, and take home an assortment of holiday cookies and good cheer.
Anusara®: Inner Symmetry with Elena Brower
Yogaglo, Santa Monica
Thursday, Dec 17th 6:30-8:00pm
Cost: FREE
You are invited to experience your inner symmetry through asymmetrical poses; this practice intends to be an exploration of your capacity for balance and ease in any interaction in your life.
Elena Brower, Certified Anusara® Yoga Teacher, is the founder and co-owner of Virayoga in New York City. Teaching 12+ years, she is a faculty member at Kripalu, and in collaboration with Flavorpill, Elena teaches large-scale yoga classes, most recently at the Museum of Modern Art, YouTube video and Times Square, with plans to reach cultural institutions in cities nationwide and worldwide in the next 2 years.
OmDance and Chant
Inner Power Yoga, Woodland Hills
Thursday, Dec 17th 7:45-9:45pm
Cost: Love Donation
Dance wild, sing free and celebrate the essence of your true nature in a safe and sacred space with and Chant. Supported by awesome world music and live chanting we will flow from movement to meditation, sound to stillness, honoring the bliss of being... Led by Narthana Nithyananda and Stella Davies.
Winter Solstice 108 Sun Salutations to Live Music with Lonne Dickerson
Free Spirit Yoga, Long Beach
Friday, Dec 18th 7:15-9:00pm
Cost: $25 pre-registration, $30 at the door
Joel Long will play the Sitar and Drums to guide you on your transformative journey while Lonne will lead you through various forms of sun salutations. By doing 108, you are sparking each one of your 108 nadis (energy centers, chakras) in your body, cleansing and purifying for the new season. Begin to think of an intention you'd like to set for this class and time of year. You will need a small towel, yoga mat & some water. Space is limited. Following class will be light refreshments.
Yogasonic at Rising Lotus Yoga
Rising Lotus Yoga, Sherman Oaks
Friday, Dec 18th 7:30pm
Cost: Suggested Donation $15
YogaSonic is an exciting and new approach to the practice of Vinyasa Flow Yoga, it melds freestyle Vinyasa Flow Yoga and real time live ambient music to bring a fresh, vibe filled experience to group yoga practice. Incredible live ambient tunes created and mixed in the studio by John Tague offers a deep and unique experience to the practice. Freestyle yoga offers yogis the opportunity to practice on their own in a spontaneous, energetic group setting; embodying yoga in their own authentic way.
Group warm up, cool down and meditation guided by yoga instructor Michelle Goldstein.
Off The Mat, Into the World 2010 Launch and Kirtan Dance Party
Yogaglo, Santa Monica
Friday, Dec 18th 7:30-11:00pm
Cost: $15
Join Suzanne Sterling, Seane Corn, and Hala Khouri for a Solstice celebration and Kirtronica dance party to launch our Off The Mat, Into The Word 2010 Initiatives.
Celebrate with us as we sing, dance and chant for change! This evening, co-hosted by YogaGlo and OTM, will include Kirtan and dancing with Suzanne and her rockin' kirtronica band, Solstice ritual and prayer with Suzanne, Seane and Hala, and guest performances from local street youth; raffle, yummy vendors and Yoga Play Lounge (fun yoga toys) and more! We will be launching our 2010 Seva Challenge South Africa and Seva Challenge Los Angeles Initiatives, our Seva Challenge documentary film, and celebrating the release of Suzanne's new album called "Blue Fire Soul."
Winter Solstice Celebration with Sara Ivanhoe
Yogaworks Main Street, Santa Monica
Friday, Dec 18th 7:45-9:45pm
Cost: $25
Now is the time to clear out the past and get ready for the year to come. Celebrating the solstice is a powerful way to plant seeds for the future and taking some time for yourself to nurture and prepare for the winter months is equivalent to animals preparing for hibernation. The winter solstice is the longest night of the year, the time to go inward and honor the power of darkness--it is by honoring the darkness that we are brought back to the Light. Come join us for the Ritusamhara or "Garland of the Seasons", our seasonal ritual which will include asana pranayama mantra, arati and live music by Travis Eliot.
108 Sun Salutes Celebrating the Winter Solstice
Yummy Yoga, Los Feliz
Saturday, Dec 19th 1:00-3:00pm
Cost: Canned soup donations!
Skip the crowded shopping malls and come breathe, move, and sweat, and celebrate the season while you GIVE to families in need!
Join Larry and Amy for this donation-based traditional yogic offering in honor of the first day of Winter. Please bring donations of canned soup to help keep bellies warm for local families in need this winter!
Winter Solstice Sacred Groove Yoga/Dance Party
Be Love Yoga, Downtown Los Angeles
Saturday, Dec 19th 2:00-8:00pm
Cost: $10
Calling in the Light ~ Ritual of Renewal with Yoga + Kirtan With Shiva Rea, Dave Stringer and Steve Gold
Exhale Center for Sacred Movement, Venice
Saturday and Sunday, Dec 19th and 20th; see below for times and individual pricing
Cost: $108 Early Bird by Dec 7th, $145 after ~ includes Three Yoga Sadhanas and Evening Kirtan Celebration
Inside the fertile darkness the light emerges...
The Winter Solstice is one of the oldest and most potent rituals of renewal. As the northern hemisphere of the earth reaches its darkest point of the year, the Winter Solstice is the turning point of increasing light from December 21st onward.
For many world cultures, the Solstice is the true new year as the ritual marker to truly let go, honor and bring closure to the past year and ignite our deepest visions and intentions for the coming year as the light is emerging. Our bodies as nature are intimately connected with this macro solar rhythm giving us a powerful opportunity to align and be in harmony with the greater flow.
While the outer world moves in a holiday flurry, this ritual yoga, kirtan, meditation and vision intensive will dive into the deeper rhythm of inner renewal.
- Saturday, Dec 19th 3:00-6:00pm
Calling in the Light: Deep Listening, Cleansing and Renewal with Shiva Rea and Steve Gold
Cost: $60
Experience a chakra-based yoga sadhana as a ritual invocation and intention process that provides a full-spectrum map for cleansing and activating one’s life flow from the root chakra to our vision of the coming year. Through deep listening and surrender, we will create offerings for ritual containers for dissolving, completion and activating to be offered into the fire at the moment of the solstice to transform the peak of darkness into the light of transformation.
- Saturday, Dec 19th 8:00-10:00pm
Calling in the Light: Kirtan with Shiva Rea and Dave Stringer
Cost: $25 in advance; $35 day of
- Sunday, Dec 20th 10:30am-12:15pm
Embodying the Light: Meditative Prana Flow with Steve Gold
Cost: $20
- Sunday, Dec 20th 2:00-5:30pm
Embodying the Light: Winter Solstice Yoga Mala, Mantra and Sunset Ocean Puja with Shiva, Dave Stringer and Steve Gold
Cost: $60
Forming a mandala of light, we will ground our intentions through a yoga mala of 108 Namaskars to the mantra and kirtan of Dave Stringer and then head in a procession to the ocean (weather permitting) to complete the Solstice ritual at sunset.
**Bring warm clothes and your heartfire. Family and friends are welcome to join the procession at 4:15 in front of Exhale.
Solstice OM Chant with Allison McCready
Santa Monica Yoga, Santa Monica
Saturday, Dec 19th 6:00-7:15pm
Cost: $10 suggested donation
OM has been described as the primordial sound; a sacred mantra representing the absolute oneness of the Universe. By chanting OM we use this sacred mantra to enter into a dialogue with the divine. Chanting helps us clear illusion from our mind and tune our inner being to the frequency of Love. The sweetness of chanting stills the mind, dissolves worries, and opens the heart. In addition to profoundly affecting the individual, chanting OM reverberates through the body of mankind, helping to heal a violent world. In this class we will set intentions for the new season, chant OM and immerse ourselves in the loving vibration of this simple and powerful prayer.
Helpful notes:
**No yoga experience is required – all are welcome.
**Arrive a few minutes early.
**Avoid eating at least 1 hour before chanting.
**Leave your cell phone in your car.
108 Sun Salutes
Santa Monica Yoga, Santa Monica
Sunday, Dec 20th 7:00am
Cost: FREE!
Join teachers Nancy Goodstein, Kyra Haglund, Luke Ketterhagen, and Allison McCready in this celebration of the solstice. It is traditionally auspicious to repeat a prayer or mantra 108 times. Repeating 108 sun salutes is a unique and fun way to welcome the returning sun at the solstice.
Winter Solstice Workshop with Bekah Finch
Yoga Blend, Burbank
Sunday, Dec 20th 2:00-4:00pm
Cost: $15
"Winter solstice - the longest night of the year - profoundly challenges our psychological tolerance for darkness. It is a visionary time. Like the dark of the moon each month, Winter Solstice represents not only the pitch black of night, but also a seed of something that will unfold in the coming year. We pray for a future we can only imagine."
Join Bekah for a blend of yoga, meditation and creation to honor the winter, celebrate the darkness and to plant powerful seed intentions for the coming year.
Christmas Yoga with Santokh Claus
Awareness Center, Pasadena
Sunday, Dec 20th 2:00-3:30pm
Cost: By donation
A class for children of all ages!
An Awareness Center tradition!
A Christmas treat for the entire family!
Santa (aka Dr. Santokh Singh Khalsa) will share a special yoga class, followed by guitar music and caroling!
This class is by donation which will benefit Five Acres Children's Foundation.
Kirtan with Ryan Brewer
Bhakti Yoga Shala, Santa Monica
Sunday, Dec 20th 8:00pm
Cost: By Donation
Solstice Celebration with Gurmukh, Tej & Gurushabd
Golden Bridge Yoga, Hollywood
Monday, Dec 21st 6:00-8:30pm
Cost: $25
We are entering a new era where intellectual knowledge is not what will sustain us in life. We are entering an era where our own blessings will bring us the most power. Your blessing power can make you pure, elevated and believe it or not, more efficient! When you develop the habit to bless – your environments, the people in your life, and even those you think don’t deserve it -- you surround yourself in blessings. Join us as we develop the mind set to bless, to uplift, and heal the world at the time of the Winter Solstice, when the sun energy is smallest and our depth is most accessible. We will end with a fruit meditation where we’ll “Inject Healing Sounds into Fruit.” Please bring an orange and one to share with a friend!
Becoming like Angels: A Christmas Eve Celebration with Tej
Golden Bridge Yoga, Hollywood
Thursday, Dec 24th 9:00am
Cost: $16 or Keytags
Out of the Mind Comes the Lotus – Experiencing the Kindness in You
Life is both plus & minus, but for some 2 + 2 = 5. They add smiles, warmth, love and kindness which equals the most powerful healing on the planet. We become like angels by celebrating our inner strength, allowing us to be secure, to give to all, and to live in the service of our Destiny.
This class will challenge your ego and give you the health and inner energy to live from your angelic nature. Come for powerful Kundalini Yoga & Meditation and great company.
Christmas Eve with Ananda Los Angeles
Heaven on Earth Holistic Center, 7122 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles (Second Floor, above Starbucks and Susina Bakery. Entrance on Detroit St)
Thursday, Dec 24th 7:30-9:00pm
Cost: Free
Join us for this all-ages Christmas Eve program that includes a special version of the Festival of Light, an inspiring Christmas Eve talk, a Christmas Message from Paramhansa Yogananda, music, sacred stories, a candle ceremony...and more. Children of all ages are welcome.
Plenty of FREE PARKING is available. To see the location of the parking structure, as well as directions and more information about this location, CLICK HERE.
Kirtan with Kalidas
Aanand Saagar, Venice
Saturday, Dec 26th 8:00pm
Cost: $15 Suggested Donation
New Year's Eve with Ananda Los Angeles
Heaven on Earth Holistic Center, 7122 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles (Second Floor, above Starbucks and Susina Bakery. Entrance on Detroit St)
Thursday, Dec 31st 9:00pm-Midnight
Cost: Donation Basis
Join us for this spiritual approach to bringing in the New Year the right way--with a fun and uplifting focus to helping 2010 be the best year of your life!
This evening will include chanting, writing exercises, a brief inspiring talk, affirmations, a centering meditation, a fire ceremony to sweep out the old and bring in the new, healing prayers, a New Year's message from Paramhansa Yogananda, and more.
For Everyone -- All Ages Welcome
Plenty of FREE PARKING is available. To see the location of the parking structure, as well as directions and more information about this location, CLICK HERE.
Blue Moon Meditation and New Year's Eve Party with Yoga Bindu
Angel's Gate Cultural Center, 3601 South Gaffey St, Bldg "H", San Pedro
Thursday, Dec 31st 7:00pm-past midnight
Cost: $25 plus potluck. Payment must be made by December 10 for us to secure Angel's Gate "H"
The second full moon in one month is called a "blue moon" and is considered an auspicious occasion. This December 31, 2009 is a Full Long Night Moon, the night when this midwinter moon is above the horizon for the longest time of the year, making this night the longest and darkest.
When the moon is full, our emotional nature and deep intuition are much more active. This particular moon is related to growth and stability, supporting the emotional tides within us as we celebrate a new month, a new year, and a new decade!
We will release the old while setting new intentions for a healthy, stable, prosperous 2010!
Join us for a night of outside moon meditation, intention and celebration.
Rumi and Sacred Music for the New Year
Rising Lotus Yoga, Sherman Oaks
Thursday, Dec 31st 7:00pm
Cost: $15 in advance, $18 at the door
An intimate evening of Rumi's poetry read by Claire Hartley and devotional Sufi music by Yuval Ron.
Please join us for meditative and introspective sacred music from the Sufi Turkish Mevlave tradition as performed on the Oud (Middle eastern Lute) and the Ney flute weaved with mystical wisdom of Rumi’s poetry. Uplifting, enchanting and inspiring experience as the New Year is about to begin!
Rocking Intentional New Years Eve Flow Class with Sarah Bergman and Daniel Stewart
Rising Lotus Yoga, Sherman Oaks
Thursday, Dec 31st 8:30pm
Cost: Regular class price
Come set the tone for your New Year with sweat, yogi tears and Rock n' Roll. We will bid 2009 adieu with a bang of community practice lead by Sarah to live music by Daniel and friends. We'll align ourselves as one in joyous flow and welcome 2010 in with grounding rituals that cultivate clarity for envisioning the path ahead, collectively and individually. This New Years celebration class will close with a short kirtan and an opportunity to sit and melt into meditation. Jai 2010!
ONE Night: 12th Annual Golden Bridge New Year's Celebration with Gurmukh Khalsa
Golden Bridge Yoga, Hollywood
Thursday, Dec 31st 9:00pm-1:00am
Cost: Cost: $60 in advance, $68 day of
Full Blue Moon Night
Golden Bridge doors open for all in celebration, prayer and community on New Year’s Eve night! It will be a night of individual reflection, ecstatic kirtan and dance, yoga, deep meditation, chanting, the gong, and great company! The Nite Moon Café will serve warm delicious Indian cuisine along with assorted sweets and yogi tea chai.
Whoosh! Out goes the physical, mental and emotional debris of 2009, giving space for new opportunities and relationships to be found in the highly charged energy field of 2010.
This is a very exciting and energized year affording us a renewed sense of spirit with which to sail the seas of life’s grand adventure! On New Year’s Eve, let us use the power of group consciousness to draw infinite sums of energy and prana into us.
Join us on this magical evening as we link our prayers with all the seekers of light on the planet and blend the clear light of compassion into every aspect of our lives.
Please note also that there is NO CHILDCARE at this event. Parents are responsible for their kids at all times!
New Year's Eve Awakening: A Tantra Puja with Charu Morgan
The Hub, West Los Angeles
Thursday, Dec 31st 9:00pm-1:00am
Cost: $75 per person, $50 early registration. Preregistration is required to hold your space: eveningofawakening.blogspot.com
Where have you held back this year? What were the greatest moments of experiencing the depths of your loving, the agony of your hate? What are you longing for as you enter into this new year? Allow yourself to awaken your body, fully embrace and lovingly release the experiences of the year gone by, be blessed and nourished in your visions for the year to come and celebrate by discovering yourself alive on a whole new level as you ring in the new year.
This Evening of Awakening is inspired by the Tantric Puja ritual. A Puja is a prayer. In Tantra, our prayer is recognizing the divine in every human being, our temple is the body. In a Puja ritual each man will have the opportunity to partner with each woman for a simple exercise or meditation. The Tantric meditations use breath, movement, sound, and guided meditation to enrich each meeting throughout the ceremony. Attending Couples may choose to work solely with each other. There is no nudity or sexual contact in the class.
New Year's Eve Practice and CELEBRATION with Christine Burke
Liberation Yoga, Los Angeles
Thursday, Dec 31st 9:45pm-Midnight
Cost: $45
Ring in the new year with that yoga glow! This practice is an all levels vinyasa class with chanting, meditation and new year's treats. Start 2010 with a healthy smile on your face and a peaceful heart. This event sells out so don't wait until the last minute! Call (323)964-5222 to reserve your spot. We must receive payment for your spot to be confirmed.
posted by joni at 10:45 PM
0 comments
links to this post
