polar bear yoga?

if you live here in southern california, you know that the past week has been unusually cold. with highs in the 50's and overnight temps barely grazing freezing, that's damn cold!

yeah, i know, everyone else in the northern and eastern states are probably shaking their heads, saying "cold? you don't know cold!"... but i admit, i'm a weather wimp just like all my neighbors. after all, this is LA, where UGGS are the de rigueur footwear for yoginis in wintertime because, honestly, when else are they going to be able to wear them? definitely not in the summer, when they're busy sunning themselves at the beach...

speaking of the beach and the cold temps, i've been receiving email updates from teachers who continue to lead yoga classes on the sand through the winter. and the only class cancellations i've heard about are due to the holidays, not the weather. talk about hardcore!

since these classes are subject to change, it's probably best if you add yourself to each teacher's class update list...

from brad keimach at bradkeimach@gmail.com:

Saturdays in December 10:30-12 (with Sunday, 12/28 instead of Saturday, 12/27)
There will be other dates as well, including some Sundays. I'll keep you posted.
Beach Yoga is down Rose Avenue, all the way to the water's edge. Wear sun screen, even in the winter! Also, since there might be some chilly mornings, dress in layers, which can easily come off and go back on as you need in a progressive yoga class. These are donation classes, and I thank you for your generosity! If you have any questions about it, please feel free to write or call (310-826-6958).

from howard davis at http://www.tenthgateyoga.com/:

First and third Sunday of the month @ 9 AM
YOGA ON THE SAND FOR ALL LEVELS - Will Rogers State Beach - don't eat breakfast, park on Temescal Canyon, and wear layers of clothing - cost $20.

and no, i haven't had a chance to try any of them out. at least not yet. it's been so cold that i've had a hard time dragging myself out from under my warm bed covers to do anything early in the morning, must less to plant my hands and feet into freezing sand to hold a downward dog!

by the way, if the coney island polar bear club can do an annual plunge into the atlantic on new years day, frigid water temps and all, how about a yoga class on the sand to ring in the new year? it's been posted by claudia on the south bay yoga meetup site; i might be willing to give it a shot, all in the name of yogic bonding :)

here are details:

NEW YEARS SPECIAL YOGA ON THE BEACH IN REDONDO BEACH with Claudia Bumuller
SUNDAY, 4 January 2009 from 10.00 - 12.00 pm
Riviera Village at Esplanade Ave/Ave I, Lifeguard Tower Ave H, close to the water
$15 Love Donation or more is gratefully appreciated for 2 hours incl. 1/2 hour self healing workshop. Bring a piece of paper & pen.

We start the new year with some powerful tools, clearing some old energy, pattern, emotions, thoughts, anger, clearing your 7 main chakras and renewing our body is opening your chakras in form of Yoga poses(asanas) and prana (breathing). And renew, recharge, rejuvenate, relax, reenergize our Body, Mind and Spirit.
Be ready to a beautiful new year 2009. You can make anything happen, only if you want to. Make a weekly commitment to your yoga practice.

For more details, call me. Dress warm in case it’s a little bit fresh.
Maybe go for some tea or coffee afterwards.
http://www.feelthebliss.wordpress.com/

a yogi's guide to the chrismukkah holiday

you know you're addicted.

just because december 25th, christmas day, has been designated a federal holiday, it doesn't mean you won't be able to get your yoga fix on that day. or any other day, for that matter, during the holiday season (from hanukkah on the 21st thru new year's day on the 1st).

thanks to the nice people who work behind the desk at the yoga studios around town, you should be able to find the perfect class at the perfect time. and if you're really lucky, it'll be at a location near you.

here's what's been posted so far (for all others, check their websites). and don't forget to check december's special event list for other holiday-related festivities!

ananda los angeles, santa monica

Please note that Ananda LA office will be closed from December 26th - January 2nd except for the New Years Celebration.

Christmas Eve Candlelight Ceremony: Wednesday, December 24th, 7:30-9pm.
Prepare your heart for the birth of the Christ Consciousness within. Beautiful music, devotional singing and a candlelight ceremony will bring you and your family deep and lasting blessings. This is a truly enchanting evening where we will all experience our oneness in Spirit and share the love that is the essence of Christ Consciousness.
Led by: Krishnadas and Mantradevi
Cost: Free

New Years Celebration: December 31, Wednesday 9:00pm-Midnight.
Seize the moment. Begin the year at a point of highest inspiration. Celebrate your accomplishments. Burn up and release whatever holds you back. Declare to yourself and to the universe your intention to make the coming year one of ever-deepening joy and fulfillment in God. We’ll chant, meditate, do extended affirmations, and burn up old energy with a Vedic fire ceremony. A powerful way in which to start the upcoming year.
Led by: Sean and Brook
Cost: Free

back for yoga, el segundo

Back for Yoga will be closed on Wednesday, December 24th, Christmas Day and Friday, December 26th. We will also close on Wednesday, December 31st, January 1st and January 2nd.

black dog yoga, sherman oaks

Christmas Eve, Wed Dec 24th:
7:00a Hatha Flow II Shawn
9:00a Hatha Flow I-II Hanna
9:30a Hatha 1 Lauri
10:30a Anusara-inspired II-III Jenny
11:00a Deep Stretch, All Levels Melissa
12:00p Anusara-inspired II Joy
3:00p Anusara-inspired I-II Comm Shari
4:30p Studio Closes
Christmas Day, Thurs Dec 25th:
9:30a Anusara Mixed Level Tiffany
10:30a Hatha I Lauri
12:00p Studio Closes

(Construction begins Upstairs – All classes Downstairs except where noted):
Fri Dec 26th:
9:00a Hatha Flow 1 Margaret
10:30a Anusara-inspired II-III Jenny
12:00p Anusara-inspired II
3:00p Anusara-inspired I-II Comm Shari
5:00p Hatha Flow I-II Shawn (subbing)
Sat Dec 27th:
9:00a Gentle Yoga Lauri
10:30a Hatha Flow I-II John
12:00p Hatha Flow I Hanna
2:00p Anusara II Tiffany
4:30 Hatha Flow II Dice
Sun Dec 28th:
9:00a Hatha I Lauri
10:30a Anusara-inspired II-III Jenny
2:00p Yoga 101 Lauri
3:30p Hatha Flow I Hanna
4:00p Hatha II Georgina
5:00p Restorative Yoga Melissa
Mon Dec 29th:
9:00a Hatha I Sigrid
10:30a Anusara-inspired II-III Jenny
11:00a Deep Stretch, All Levels Heidi
12:00p Anusara-inspired II Joy
3:00p Anusara-inspired I-II Comm Shari
5:00p Hatha Flow I-II Margaret
6:30p Hatha I Lauri
7:30p Hatha Flow I-II John
8:00p Hatha Flow II Dice
Tues Dec 30th:
8:30a Core Yoga II Tracy
9:00a Hatha Flow I-II Sigrid
10:30a Hatha I Georgina
11:00a Anusara II Tiffany
12:00p Anusara-inspired I-II Comm Rachel
3:00p Anusara-inspired I-II Comm Hagar
5:30p Hatha I Lauri
7:00p Hatha Flow II Peter
7:30p Hatha I Cindi
New Year's Eve, Wed Dec 31:
9:00a Hatha I Lauri
10:30a Anusara-inspired II-III Jenny
11:00a Deep Stretch, All Levels Heidi
12:00p Anusara-inspired II Joy
3:00p Anusara-inspired I-II Comm Shari
8:00p YOGA MALA

GRAND OPENING UPSTAIRS!!
New Year's Day, Thurs Jan 1:
9:30a Hatha Flow II Peter
10:00a Hatha Flow I-II Sigrid
11:00a Hatha I Lauri
11:30a Anusara-inspired II-III Jenny
1:00p Studio Closes

city yoga, west hollywood

COME OUT & CELEBRATE CHRISTMAS DAY WITH US!
10:30am-12:00pm mixed with Hillary Rubin

earth's power yoga, west hollywood

We will be open this Holiday season. Steve is back to teaching classes.
Thursday 12/18 - 10:30am JoLynn 5:45pm JoLynn
Friday 12/19 - 10:30am JoLynn 5:45pm JoLynn
Saturday 12/20 - 8:15am JoLynn 10:30am Steven
Sun 12/21 - 10:30am Steven 5:45pm Liz
Mon 12/22 - 10:30am Liz 5:45pm Lyndsey
Tues 12/23 - 10:30am Liz
Wed 12/24 - 10:30am JoLynn
12/25 - CLOSED
Fri 12/26 - 10:30am JoLynn 5:45pm Liz
Sat 12/27 - 8:15am JoLynn 10:30am Liz
Sun 12/28 - 10:30am JoLynn
Mon 12/29 - 10:30am JoLynn 5:45pm Liz
Tues 12/30 - 10:30am Liz 5:45pm Jolynn
Wed 12/31 - 10:30am JoLynn
Thurs the 1st - 5:45pm JoLynn

exhale center for sacred movement, venice

Thursday, December 25: CLOSED - MERRY CHRISTMAS
Friday, December 26: CLOSED
New Year’s Day - Thursday, January 1, 2009:
10:30-12:15 Level 2/3 w/Saul David Raye
10:45-12:10 Level 1/2 w/Ashley Turner
12:30-2:00 Level 2/3 w/Matthew Cohen
12:45-2:15 Level 2 w/Brad Keimach
2:30-3:55 Level 2 w/Sherry Brourman
6:30-8:30 New Years Celebration - Puja + Kirtan w/Saul David Raye
Please visit exhalespa.com for schedule updates

free spirit yoga, long beach

Christmas Eve:
9:30am All Levels with Sally
11:30am Level 1 with Sally
3:00 All Levels with Dharma
Christmas Day:
10:30am All Levels with Dharma
New Year's Eve:
9:30am All Levels with Sally
11:30am Level 1 with Sally
3:00pm All Levels with Dharma
6:00pm Flow Yoga with Cindy
New Year's Day:
9:30am Flow into 2009 with Cindy

garden of yoga, woodland hills

We will be CLOSED December 24th, 25th, 26th and 27th.
We will be OPEN and have classes on Sunday, December 28th at 10 AM
and 11:45 AM.
We will also be CLOSED on December 31st and January 1st.

golden bridge yoga, hollywood

Wednesday, December 24th: 9:00 am Kundalini Yoga with Sat Siri / 10:30am Women's class with Gurmukh / All other classes cancelled
Thursday, December 25th: 10:00-12:00 Special class with Gurmukh / All other classes cancelled
Friday, December 26th: Open/Regular schedule
Wednesday, December 31st: 9:00 am Kundalini Yoga with Gurmukh / All other classes cancelled for the day / We will reopen at 9:00 pm for the New Year's Eve Celebration!
Thursday, January 1st: Closed
Friday, January 2nd: Open/Regular schedule

guerilla yoga, hollywood

As a reminder, the last class of the year will be this Sunday, December 21 (come out and play!) and the first class of 2009 will be Sunday, January 4.

harmony yoga, redondo beach

Dec. 24th/Christmas Eve:
7:30 a.m. Beginner Flow with Simone
9:15 a.m. Level 2-3 Music Flow with Chappy
CLOSED ◦ Christmas Day
Dec. 31st/New Years Eve:
7:30 a.m. Beginner Flow with Simone
9:15 a.m. All Levels with Najla
CLOSED ◦ New Years Day

iyengar yoga institute of los angeles, los angeles

December 24th (Wednesday):
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM All Levels - Aida
December 25th (Thursday):
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM All Levels - Chris
December 26th (Friday):
9:30 AM - 11:00 AM All Levels - Chris
6:30 PM - 8:00 PM All Levels - Chris
December 27th (Saturday):
10:30 AM - 12:00 PM All Levels - Chris
4:30 PM - 6:00 PM All Levels - Monica
December 28th (Sunday):
10:30 AM - 12:00 PM Level 1 - Vladimir
12:30 PM - 2:00 PM Level 2 - Chris
4:30 PM - 6:00 PM All Levels - Monica
December 29th (Monday):
9:30 AM - 11:00 AM All Levels - Monica
6:30 PM - 8:00 PM All Levels - Monica
December 30th (Tuesday):
9:30 AM - 11:00 AM All Levels - Audrey
6:30 PM - 8:00 PM All Levels - Kirk
December 31st (Wednesday):
10:30 AM - 12:00 PMAll Levels - Aida
6:00 PM - 7:30 PMAll Levels - Chris
January 1st (Thursday):
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM All Levels - Chris

karuna yoga, los feliz

Morning Classes only 12/24
Closed 12/25
Morning Classes only 12/31
Closed 1/01

liberation yoga, los angeles

We will be open for the following classes on Christmas Eve, Dec. 24th:
8:00-10:00am - Ashtanga - Joel Bender / 10:30am-12:00pm - All levels - Regina Peluso / 12:00-1:30pm - Restorative - Jeanne Korn / 2:00-3:30pm - Flow - Ashley Albrand
We will be closed Christmas Day and will resume our regular schedule on the 26th of December.
New Year's Eve Day:
8:00-10:00am - Ashtanga - Joel Bender / 10:00am-12:00pm-Flow - Ashley Albrand / 12:00-1:30pm - Level 1 - Regina Peluso
New Year's Day:
11:00am-12:30pm - Level 1 - Teacher To Be Announced / 1:00-2:30pm - Flow - Ashley Albrand

lyfe yoga center, hermosa beach

Dec 24 6:45am-7:45am Power Hour Hatha Flow Becky / 8:35am-10:00am Gentle Yoga Lisa L
Dec 25 Closed
Dec 26 8:35am-10:00 All Levels Michael / 6:00pm-7:30 Restorative and Energize Lisa L
Dec 27 8:00am-8:55am Power Hour Hatha Flow Jamie / 9:00am-10:25am Yoga For Beginners Michele / 10:35am-12:00pm All Levels Michael
Dec 28 9:30am-10:45am Sunday Funday Flow Jeri / 11:00am-12:30pm Yoga For Beginners Kari / 6:00pm-7:30pm Restorative Michael
Dec 29-30 Regular Schedule Classes
Dec 31 6:45am-7:45am Power Hour Hatha Flow Jamie / 8:35am-10:00am Gentle Yoga Lisa L
Jan 1 9:00am-10:30am All Levels New Year Day Practice Michael
New Schedule Begins January 2, 2009

maha yoga, los angeles

Closed Thursday, December 25th and Thursday, January 1st

power yoga east, santa monica

Shana Meyerson is teaching at 1045AM Christmas Day, 'cause that's the kind of Jew I am. (522 Santa Monica Blvd, above Radio Shack) Join me, won't you? (via facebook)

rising lotus yoga, sherman oaks

Regular Schedule except for the days listed below
Christmas Eve, 12/24:
9:00 - 10:30 AM Mixed Level Flow Claire Hartley
10:35 - 12:05 PM Level 1 Sarah Bergman
12:15 - 1:15 PM Core Flow Shannon Branham
Christmas Day, 12/25:
10:30 - 12:00 PM Mixed Level · Lara Catone
12:15 -1:45 Level 1 with Elinore Cohen
Day after Christmas, 12/26:
9:00 - 10:30 AM Mixed Level Flow Claire Hartley
10:35 - 12:05 PM Level 1 Sarah Bergman
12:15 - 1:15 PM Lunch Flow (Mixed Level) Sarah Bergman
1:30 - 3:00 PM Pre-Natal Cancelled Today
4:30 - 5:55 PM All Level Iyengar (beginners welcome) Jay Averell
New Years Eve, 12/31:
9:00 - 10:30 AM Mixed Level Flow Claire Hartley
10:35 - 12:05 PM Level 1 Sarah Bergman
12:15 - 1:15 PM Core Flow Shannon Branham
6:00 - 7:30 PM Candle lit Flow Lara Catone
New Years Day, 1/1:
10:35 - 12:05 PM Level 1 Elinore Cohen
12:15 - 1:45 PM Mixed Level Flow Daniel Stewart (with special musical guests)

santa monica yoga, santa monica

Sunday December 21:
7:00-8:45 am – Yoga Mala (108 Sun Salutations) – Free!
(all other classes as normal on this day)
Regular Schedule through Tuesday December 23
Wednesday December 24 – Closed
Thursday December 25 – Closed
Click here for December 26th through 30th
Wednesday December 31 – Closed
Thursday January 1:
12:00 noon – Mixed Level Flow with Dana Marcoux – Free!
(closed the rest of the day)
Friday January 2 – Regular schedule resumes

silver lake yoga, silverlake

December 22 - January 4: No 7 am classes
Wednesday, December 24: All classes canceled EXCEPT the 9:15 am Beginner's II
Thursday, December 25: No classes
Friday, December 26: The only classes will be
9:15 am Beginner's
10:45 am Pilates class
12:30 pm Flow class
Wednesday, December 31: The only classes will be
9:15 am Beginner's II
10:45 am Flow

space studio, manhattan beach

Yoga:
Christmas week: Morning classes only on Tuesday, Friday and Saturday
New Year's week: No evening classes on Wednesday or Thursday. No Power Yoga on Friday AM

tenth gate yoga, los angeles

12/23: 8:15 PM - YOGA FOR SENIORS
12/25: 8:30 AM - YOGA FOR ALL LEVELS
12/26: 8:30 AM - YOGA FOR ALL LEVELS, 6 PM - YOGA FOR ALL LEVELS
12/28: 9 AM - YOGA ON THE SAND FOR ALL LEVELS ($20), 5 PM - PRANAYAMA GONG MEDITATION ($20)
12/30: 8:15 PM - YOGA FOR SENIORS
12/31: 8:30 AM - YOGA FOR ALL LEVELS
1/2/09: 8:30 AM - YOGA FOR ALL LEVELS, 6 PM - YOGA FOR ALL LEVELS

truyoga, santa monica

Monday December 22, 2008 - Ben's 7am Cancelled
Tuesday December 23, 2008 - Rainbeau's 10:30am Cancelled / Aras' 7:15pm Cancelled
Wednesday December 24, 2008 - CLOSED CHRISTMAS EVE
Thursday December 25, 2008 - CLOSED CHRISTMAS DAY
Friday December 26, 2008 - Jacki's 7am Cancelled / Chani's 1pm Subbed by Jennifer / Erica's 5pm Cancelled
Monday December 29, 2008 - Ben's 7am Cancelled
Tuesday December 30, 2008 - Rainbeau's 10:30am Cancelled / Aras' 7:15pm Cancelled
Wednesday December 31, 2008 - Ben's 7am Cancelled / 1pm FREE NEW YEARS EVE CLASS / Toni's 5:45pm Cancelled / Travis' 7:15pm Cancelled
Thursday January 1, 2009 - CLOSED NEW YEARS DAY

u studio, los angeles

Saturday Dec 20th - 10:30am Andrea
Sunday Dec 21st - 10:30am Andrea
Monday Dec 22nd - 5:30pm Andrea
Tuesday Dec 23rd - 10:15am Andrea
Wednesday Dec 24th - CLOSED
Thursday Dec 25th - CLOSED
Friday Dec 26th - 5:30pm Ursula
Saturday Dec 27th - CLOSED
Sunday Dec 28th - CLOSED
Monday Dec 29th - 5:30pm Andrea
Tuesday Dec 30th - 10:15am Andrea / 5:30pm Andrea
Wednesday Dec 31st - 10:30am Andrea
Thursday Jan 1st - 10:30am Andrea
Friday Jan 2nd - 5:30pm Andrea
Saturday Jan 3rd - 9am Andrea / 10:30am Andrea
Sunday Jan 4th - 10:30am Andrea / 4pm Andrea
(we will return to our regular schedule Jan 5 with new classes added!)

yoga blend, burbank

Wednesday, December 24th - Studio closes at 2pm / All classes before 2pm will be in session
SPECIAL CLASS: Christmas Eve Flow w/ David 4pm-5:30pm Level 1-2
Thursday, December 25th - Studio Closed
Friday, December 26th - 6:45am class cancelled
Our full schedule will resume with the 9:30am class on Friday, December 26th!
Wednesday, December 31st - Studio closes at 2pm / All classes before 2pm will be in session
SPECIAL CLASS: New Year's Eve Flow w/Christy 4pm-5:30pm Level 1-2
Thursday, January 1st - Restorative w/ Bekah Finch 10:30am-12:30pm ($20 before Dec 25th/$25 after) / We will be closed the rest of New Year's Day
Friday, January 2nd - 6:45am class cancelled
Our full schedule will resume with the 9:30am class on Friday, January 2nd!

yoga darsana, alhambra

Studio closed on: New Year's Day, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day

yoga desa, topanga

Unless otherwise posted, Yoga Desa will be CLOSED on: New Years Day and Christmas Day.

from annmarie solo:
I'm doing a special New Years Day Yoga class at 10:30am at Yoga Desa in Topanga Cyn.
In this class we will use Young living Oils to support us, stabilize and draw in the new energies.
There are some spots still available for this class. You can sign up directly through me: www.annmariesolo.com

yogahop, santa monica

Dec. 24th Christmas Eve:
8:15-9:45 AM Level 2/3+ Matthew Reyes
...all other classes cancelled
Dec. 25th Christmas - Closed
Dec. 31st New Year's Eve:
8:00-9:00 AM Level 2/3 Kourtney Kaas
9:15-10:45 AM Level 2/3 Jennifer Moore
...all other classes cancelled
Jan. 1, 2009 New Year's Day:
9:15-10:45 AM Level 2/3 Matthew Reyes
...all other classes cancelled
SPACE IS LIMITED, SO PLEASE RESERVE YOUR SPACE NOW!

yoga kingdom, pasadena

Please note that we will be open for Holidays operating in this manner, starting Monday 22nd through December 31st: Classes are at 8:00 AM, 9:30 AM, and 6:00 PM except on Wednesday 24th and 31st only half day (AM classes).

yoga loft, manhattan beach

Tue 12/23:
6:45am Level 2 Linda Dam
8:40am Level 1 Jennifer Whitmer
10:15am Level 2/3 Ryan Daniel Smith
4:15pm Level 2/3 Jamie Horgan
6:00pm Level 2 Terri Dunn
7:30pm Level 1 Elena Piety
Wed 12/24:
8:40am Level 2/3 Jamie Horgan
10:15am Level 1/2 Jamie Horgan
Thu 12/25:
Studio Closed-Merry Christmas!
Fri 12/26:
8:40am Level 2/3 Najla Coury
10:15am Level 1/2 Margo Lang
5:00pm Level 2/3 Chris Armas
Sat 12/27:
8:00am Level 1/2 Chris Armas
9:30am Level 2/3 Terri Dunn
11:00am Level 1 Ryan Daniel Smith
4:00pm Level 2 Julie Rader
Sun 12/28:
8:30am Level 2/3 Chris Armas
10:00am Level 1/2 Jennifer Whitmer
5:00pm Level 2 Kyra Haglund
Mon 12/29:
7:00am Level 2/3 Najla Coury
10:15am Level 1/2 Julie Rader
4:15pm Level 2/3 Tanya Coert
Tue 12/30:
6:45am Level 2/3 Genevieve Fischer
10:15am Level 1/2 Jennifer Whitmer
4:15pm Level 2/3 Julie Rader
Wed 12/31:
8:40am Level 2/3 Genevieve Fischer
10:15am Level 1/2 Jamie Horgan
Thu 1/1:
Studio Closed-Happy New Year!
Fri 1/2:
8:40am Level 2/3 Najla Coury
10:15am Level 1/2 Julie Rader
5:00pm Level 2/3 Tanya Coert
Sat 1/3:
Regular Saturday Schedule-No Subs!
Sun 1/4:
Regular Sunday Schedule-No Subs!

yoga loft, woodland hills

THE STUDIO WILL BE CLOSED ON 12/24, 12/25 and 12/31, 1/1/09. TO CHECK CLASS SCHEDULE DURING THE HOLIDAYS CALL 818/710-9057 UPDATES WILL BE POSTED ON OUTGOING MESSAGE.

yoga madre, arcadia

Christmas Eve - Wednesday, December 24:
9:00 am All Levels with Carolyn
10:30 am Beginning Level with Tana
Closed Christmas Day
New Year's Eve - Wednesday, December 31st
One class only, 9:00 am to 11:00 am All levels with Carolyn and Tana.
Closed New Year's Day

yoga works, all locations

All studios will be closed the day of Christmas, Thursday, December 25th.
Click here for Christmas Eve schedules
Click here for New Year's holiday schedules

yoga world, long beach

We will be closed on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve. We will be offering an All Levels New Year’s Day Class at the Downtown Studio @ 11:30 am only. Both studios will be back with regularly scheduled classes on January 2, 2009.

your neighborhood studio, culver city

Closed Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year's Eve, New Year's Day

yummy yoga, los feliz

Sunday, December 21:
5:30 PM ~ Level 2/3 - LeTania Kirkland subbing for Jeff Bass
7:15 PM ~ Resorative Yoga - Ali Laventhol subbing for Ashley Rideaux
Monday, December 22:
9:00 AM ~ All Levels - Ali Laventhol subbing for Emilie Chan
6:00 PM ~ Core Class - Caroline Cardino subbing for Nicole Clark
Tuesday, December 23:
6:00 PM ~ Level 2/3 - Class CANCELLED
7:45 PM ~ Candlelight Flow - Ali Laventhol subbing for Jeff Bass
Wednesday, December 24:
9:00 AM ~ All Levels - Caroline Cardino subbing for Emilie Chan
All other classes ~ CANCELLED
Thursday, December 25:
All classes ~ CANCELLED
Friday, December 26:
4:30 PM class ~ CANCELLED
6:00 PM ~ All Levels with Caroline
Saturday, December 27:
10:30 AM ~ All Levels - Ducky Punch subbing for Ali Laventhol
Sunday, December 28
5:30 PM ~ Level 2/3 - LeTania Kirkland subbing for Jeff Bass
7:15 PM Restorative Class ~ CANCELLED
Monday, December 29
9:00 AM ~ All Levels - Leah Miller subbing for Emilie Chan
4:30 PM ~ Level 1/2 - Nicole Clark subbing for Caroline Cardino
Tuesday, December 30
7:45 PM ~ Candlelight Flow - Caroline Cardino subbing for Jeff Bass
Wednesday, December 31
9:00 AM ~ All Levels with Emilie - All other classes ~ CANCELLED
Thursday, January 1
Noon to 2:00 PM ~ All Levels Donation Class**
Offered by Ducky and Caroline; space is limited, advance sign-up is recommended!
All other classes ~ CANCELLED

**What: All Levels Intensive with Ducky and Caroline
When: Thursday, Jan 1
Time: Noon to 2:00 PM
Cost: Donation Based (cash only, class series do not apply)

Welcome the New Year with a two-hour Donation Class that will heat you up, detox your body, and prepare you mentally for opening to the goodness of the coming year!
Space is limited (as we discovered on Thanksgiving!), so sign up now to reserve your spot ~ by email, phone, or in person.

a merry holiday winter solstice birthday weekend

i don't know about you, but i just checked my calendar for this weekend and there's a whole slew of stuff that's vying for my attention (and attendance). there are the holiday celebrations, the winter solstice observances, the family get-togethers. and i'm not even going to think about the christmas presents that i still need to shop for!

and if that weren't crazy enough, there's also the issue of my trying to find a way to squeeze in a birthday party for myself...

after spending years struggling to set aside some special time for me, my friends, and my family to celebrate my blowing out yet another candle on my birthday cake, i've decided that i'm just going to give up the whole idea of a traditional birthday party. instead, i'm going to piggyback off others' holiday celebrations to share in the merrymaking. and to make things even more interesting, i'm going to string out my birthday over the entire weekend (it sure beats my celebration two years ago when i partied 50 days in a row!)

so i'd like to invite you to join me at any or all of these upcoming events; you're on your own for the class fees. your presence will be the best gift any yogi can ask for -- just make sure you hunt me down and say hi! :)

and thanks to all the lovely people who will be hosting these events!

friday, december 19th:

6:30pm - Solstice Celebration and Kirtan with Daniel Stewart and friends
Rising Lotus Yoga, Sherman Oaks
Join Daniel for a joyful evening of musical meditation and chanting to celebrate the Winter Solstice. He'll be teaching Solstice Flow Yoga at 6:30pm, followed by Kirtan with Larry, Sarah, Sylvie, Abby, and gang. Come to the class or the kirtan or join us for both!

saturday, december 20th:

10:00am - Special Holiday Celebration Class with Tanya Beilke
Woman's Club of Hollywood, 1749 N La Brea Ave, Hollywood
Tanya is one of LA's terrific certified Anusara teachers and she is teaching a special holiday celebration class. Bring your own mats. Bring your own props. Bring your own friends and family. Tanya teaches mostly at her home studio so it's such a treat to have her in this large space.

sunday, december 21st:

7:00am - Winter Solstice Yoga Mala
Santa Monica Yoga, Santa Monica
We will be doing 108 sun salutations in celebration of the winter solstice! Join us at 7:00 am for this FREE event.

5:00pm - Live Harp Restorative with Bekah Finch and Regan Remy
Yoga Blend, Burbank
Experience profound relaxation and gentle healing as you are led by Bekah Finch through a restorative yoga practice while cascading sounds of the gentle harp, played by High Priestess, Regan Remy, serenade you into state of deep stillness.

monday, december 22nd (my actual birthday!):

10:30am - Level 2/3 Solstice class with Hala Khouri and Live Music!
Exhale Center for Sacred Movement, Venice
hala will be joined by the very talented marla leigh on percussion and suzanne sterling on harmonium and vocals. i'm definitely not missing this one!

6:00pm - Vinyasa Flow 3 class with a Mystery Teacher
YogaWorks Westwood, Los Angeles
it's time for another birthday yoga date with my buddy BDB. brock cahill usually teaches this time slot, but according to the yoga works website, he's going to be subbed by a teacher who goes by the name TBD TBD. talk about living dangerously! :)


and yes, i will eventually be doing the usual birthday stuff that "normal" people do... but all that may just have to wait until things calm down after the holidays...

another bailout candidate?

yesterday i talked about the impending closure of the core, your perfect center in redondo beach. now it looks like there's another yoga studio that needs some financial assistance.

here's an announcement i found in a recent yogamates e-mail update:

Yoga Business Opportunity

In the Mudra Yoga and Dance Studio
21835 Sherman Way, Canoga Park CA 91303
818-620-0132 cell or 818-340-YOGA (9642)

We are in a prime location, just 1 block East of Topanga Blvd AND are 2 doors West of a wonderful vegetarian restaurant & health food store "Follow Your Heart". We have plenty of free parking in the back.

We are looking for a partner or partners. Yoga teachers, dance teachers, pilates teachers or other healing/spiritual/peaceful/joyful modalities are most welcome. Only serious inquiries please.

Namaste,
Suzanne Strachan
818-620-0132

i hate when this happens

times are tough. and it's scary how we can't easily put our arms around things and make them better.

it's bad enough that i lost my job last month, but it seems that not a week goes by that i don't hear about another friend who's suddenly in the same situation :(

and now i receive word that a promising studio in redondo beach will have to shut its doors at the end of the year. sigh...


The Core, Your Perfect Center has touched thousands of lives since opening in June 2007 and we're sorry to say our final day of business will be December 31, 2008.

We'd like to thank you from the bottom of our hearts for the support and love you've given us from the start.

We invite you to join us in these final weeks as we celebrate the beautiful people, beautiful space and beautiful classes at The Core.

We've updated our schedule with additional classes past December 20th; please take advantage of as many classes as you can before our final farewell.

We look forward to seeing you soon. . .

Melinda, Angela & Dan Fornero
Core Creators


Melinda Fornero had a vision. She dreamt that children would have a space to laugh and grow while learning to channel their energy in a positive direction. She hoped adults would find a home-away-from-home where they could forget about the worries of their day and escape to a place that would welcome and love them unconditionally. She yearned to gather the South Bay's finest instructors and offer classes unlike those found in any other studio or gym.

Her dream was realized. It was realized on Sunday as 150 of The Core's greatest supporters snuggled into the Nia room for a concert that resonated with Joy and Peace. It was realized in yesterday's art class as 11 children made holiday wreaths with the excitement and pride that exemplifies what this season is all about. It is realized right now as 5 girls dance in Hip Hop with a confidence they hadn't discovered until Miss Melinda came into their lives. It was realized as 6 adults sat in tears on our couches moments ago, comparing The Core to the television show "Cheers". . .where everybody knows your name. . .

and in these hard times, it helps to have a sense of humor. here are some "want ads" the core has posted on its website. it can't hurt to try, right?

~~~~~~~~

MILLIONAIRE WANTED

Business for sale! =) One-of-a-kind concept, quality classes, dedicated clientele, experienced and professional staff. You buy it, we'll run it!

'Tis the season for giving. Give us a gift of a second chance!

~~~~~~~~

DEAR OPRAH,

We're a family with a dream of bringing joy to children and serenity to busy adults. Please keep our dream a reality. We're waiting by the phone =) (310) 542-2182.

P.S. Wait til you try Nia... you'll never look back!

celebrate the season!

it's hard to believe that 2008 will be just a pleasant memory in less than three weeks! it's even harder to believe that we're almost halfway through the month of december and i can't even remember what i've done since thanksgiving :(

hmmm... i ran a marathon sometime early this month, so all that running must've obliterated some of my memory cells...

anyway, here are the goings-on for december (i've also merged in the events that i posted a week ago to keep the month together. i know; i'm just anal that way).

the winter solstice will be coming around next week, so find an event that resonates with you and go celebrate!

by the way, i just got back from spending too much time -- and money -- at the ecogift festival at the santa monica civic auditorium (which runs through sunday the 14th, by the way), so i'm going to post what i have so far and keep adding on as i find stuff...


ongoing events:

Kids Fitness Classes
lululemon Glendale, 233 South Brand Avenue
Every Wednesday 3:00pm
Cost: FREE

Complimentary Kids Fitness classes on Wednesdays at 3:00pm.

Yoga For A Cause
Liberation Yoga, Los Angeles
Every Wednesday 4:30pm
Cost: By Donation

Join Laurie Searle For This Inspiring All levels Class!
A weekly all levels flow class with the intention of raising awareness for the issues we care about as a studio and community. Although this is not a donations class, donations are collected at the box hanging at the front desk and go directly to the cause. No donation is too small. This class is sponsored by www.ewishingwell.org

Community Fitness Classes
lululemon Calabasas, 4719 Commons Way
Every Wednesday 8:30-9:30pm
Every Sunday 9:30-10:30am
Cost: FREE

Complimentary Community Fitness classes on Wednesdays at 9:30 pm and Sundays at 9:30 am.

Yoga for Runners with Steve Mackel
lululemon Pasadena, 110 W Colorado Blvd
Every Thursday 6:30-7:30pm
Cost: FREE

Join us on our outdoor patio for Yoga for Runners with Certified ChiRunning Instructor, USA Triathlon Coach, and lululemon Ambassador, Coach Steve Mackel.
Class is held every Thursday at 6:30pm on our store's back patio in Miller Alley just off Delacey Ave.
Coach Steve Mackel works on creating overall balance, taking runners through a series of yoga poses and explains the correlations between the pose and the biomechanics of running. He also moves students through vinyasa flow series while he focuses on creating strength first and flexibility second.
Limited community mats are available. As classes fill up quickly and space is limited, please come early.
Also, please dress in layers so that you may remain comfortable as you warm-up during the class.

Kirtan at SMPY West
Power Yoga West, Santa Monica
Every Saturday 8:00-10:00pm
Cost: By Donation

Our instructors will hold a candlelit evening of Kirtan/Chanting every Saturday of the month. Different instructors lead each week and always on donation basis.
1st Saturday of every month, Govindas and Radha (kirtanwithgovindas.com)
2nd Saturday of every month, Travis (traviseliot.com)
3rd Saturday of every month, Andres (powersoulyoga.com)
4th Saturday of every month, Terra and Friends (terrawellness.com)
Bring meditation cushions or blanket (no yoga mat). Wear comfy clothes.
Come sing from the deepest corner of your heart!

Weekly In-Store Fitness/Yoga Class
lululemon Santa Monica, 331 Santa Monica Blvd
Every Sunday 9:00-10:00am
Cost: FREE

December is an exciting month at lululemon. We are focused on GOAL SETTING, spreading the holiday love in our community, and FUN!
This HOLIDAY month, our YOGA classes will be provided by the Studio of the Month, YogaHop.
HAPPY HOLIDAYS to you from lu!
Dec. 7th - Marko King
Dec. 14th - Matthew Reyes
Dec. 21st - Jennifer Moore
Dec. 28th - Marko King

All-levels Fitness Class
lululemon Beverly Hills, 334 North Beverly Drive
Every Sunday 9:30-10:45am
Cost: FREE

Every Sunday we host a complimentary fitness class featuring different styles of yoga, pilates, dance and personal training. All levels welcome - perfect for beginner, intermediate or advanced practitioners. Check our community events listing, we do family classes too!
Weekly classes are followed by healthy snacks to refuel!
Sample some of the Los Angeles area's best instructors in a non-intimidating environment, deepen your practice with personal attention in an intimate space and practice with us!
We have community mats for our guests.
(see "other events" section below for scheduled yoga classes)

Yoga on the Green
lululemon Glendale, 233 South Brand Avenue
Every Sunday 9:30-10:30am
Cost: FREE

Come participate and help us achieve our goal of seeing 100 happy faces on the green!
Light refreshments to follow, limited mats available for class use.
*Keep in mind class is outside, and may be in partial sun. Dress appropriately or wear sunblock, and bring water!*
Sun, Dec 28th - Yoga with Larry Santiago from 9:30am-10:30am
Mon, Dec 29th - Candlelight Flow with Jeff Bass from 9pm-10pm

In-store Fitness Classes
lululemon South Bay, 2008A East Park Place
Every Sunday 9:30-10:30am
Cost: FREE

All levels flow yoga class from 9:30-10:30am
(see "other events" section below for scheduled yoga classes)

All-levels Yoga
lululemon Pasadena, 110 W Colorado Blvd
Every Sunday 10:00am
Cost: FREE

Limited "community" mats are available. Bringing your own mat is encouraged. As classes fill up quickly, and space is limited, please come early.
Please dress in layers so that you may remove articles as you warm-up during the class. Our space is outdoors behind the store on the patio (accessible through the alley on Delacey).
(see "other events" section below for scheduled yoga classes)

Kirtan in the Canyon with Andrew and Michele and Friends
Yoga Desa, Topanga
Saturday, Dec 6th (1st Saturday of the month) 7:00pm

Singing these special songs with full enthusiasm is a meditation in itself and can leave you quite happy and high. See for yourself.
Call (818) 340-6088 for information.
www.artoflivingla.org/public.html

Devotional Chanting
Monthly Devotional Chanting Kirtan
Ananda Los Angeles, Santa Monica
Saturday, Dec 6th (Once a month) 7:30pm

Just a reminder: we have changed our kirtan schedule. Kirtans are now being held once per month, on the first Saturday night. We hope to see you there. This is a wonderful opportunity for you to experience the profound inner peace and joy of devotional chanting. As Yogananda said, "Chanting is half the battle!"

Live Music class with Lucy Bivins
Guerilla Yoga at the Hollywood Dance Center, Hollywood
Every Friday, 6:00pm
Cost: $10 Suggested minimum donation

Lucy Bivins's monthly Live Music class is held every Friday evening at The Hollywood Dance Center. 2 hours of sweet, flowing asana accompanied by three of her loyal and talented musicians. The music starts at 6 pm.

FRIDAY NIGHT GROOVE NIGHT
Yoga Groove, North Hollywood
Friday, Dec 5th (1st Friday of the month) 8:00-9:15pm
Cost: $5 Suggested Donation

Only a suggested donation of $5 that goes to support the artists is requested for a great evening of fun filled entertainment.

Kirtan with Daniel and Friends
Rising Lotus Yoga, Sherman Oaks
Friday, Dec 19th (Once a month) 8:15pm
Cost: $15 Suggested donation

Join Daniel and friends for a joyful evening of musical meditation and chanting to celebrate the Winter Solstice. Daniel will be singing with Larry, Steve, and Keelan on drums, Sarah and Sylive on Vocals, Abbie on Cello and Jeff on guitar.
Hope you'll come and help us warm up the room and spread the joy at the Lotus. Jai Ma!

Community Nights at City Yoga: AN EVENING OF RESTORATIVE YOGA with Sharon Skok
City Yoga, West Hollywood
Tuesday, Dec 9th (2nd Tuesday of the month) 7:30pm
Cost: FREE

Come join us for this special class. Props, such as bolsters, blankets, blocks and straps will be used to assist in relaxing the nervous system, gently opening the body, and quieting the mind.
DON'T MISS OUT ON THIS RELAXING OPPORTUNITY
Hope to see you there!

Kirtan (call and response chanting) with Travis Eliot and Friends
Santa Monica Yoga, Santa Monica
None this month (4th Saturday of the month) 8:00-9:30pm
Cost: By Donation


other special events:

WELCOME HOME Chanting with Steve Ross
Maha Yoga, 13050 San Vicente Blvd, 2nd floor, Los Angeles, CA 90049
Friday, December 5th 8:00pm
Cost: By Donation

Please help us gratefully welcome back Steve Ross from his trip to Mumbai, India. Join us for a beautiful evening of chanting guaranteed to open your heart. This is a donation based event. Wear comfortable clothing, bring a cushion to sit on and enjoy.

A Magical Evening of Kirtan with Dave Stringer and his Band
Yoga at The Village, 1306 Sonora Avenue, Glendale CA 91201
Friday, December 5th 8:00pm
Cost: Tickets for the event are on sale for $20 in advance, $25 at the door

Don't Miss This One...the laughter and joy is contagious!
The Los Angeles Times has declared the experience of chanting with Dave Stringer to be "a departure from ancient kirtan. Stringer's performance shaped the experience into a far more compelling musical encounter."
Space is limited.

RAGA LOUNGE
Shakti's Elements, 717 Broadway, Santa Monica, CA
Friday, December 5th 8:00-11:00pm

A stage for live music, poetry, spoken word, film, dance & more!

2nd Annual Holiday Charity Vinyasa Flow Yoga Class for the Midnight Mission
YogaWorks Center for Yoga, 230 1/2 N. Larchmont Blvd
Saturday, December 6th 2:00-5:00pm
Cost: Suggested Donation $25

Come flow for two amazing hours backed by live music performances with DJ Mattnifique, Whiney Allen, Becky Kessler, Holiday Carolers and a rare collection of Yoga Works Finest Vinyasa Flow teachers. This special event will be team taught by your favorite Yoga Works Vinyasa teachers including David Lynch, Joan Hyman, Peter Barnett, Whitney Allen, Eka Ekong, Kathryn Budig, Kia Miller, Mia Togo and Yogi Claus.
Last year's event was a huge success and helped raise money and awareness for an important local charity and we hope this year we can build upon our past accomplishments as a yoga community.
The Midnight Mission is one of the oldest continuously operating human services organizations in the Los Angeles region. Centered in the Skid Row area of downtown Los Angeles, the Mission offers a bridge to self-sufficiency for homeless people through counseling, education, training and job placement. The Mission makes available the necessities of life to homeless people: food , shelter, clothing, personal hygiene needs, and medical care.

Kirtan with GOVINDAS AND RADHA with special guest ARJUN BABA!
Santa Monica Power Yoga (WEST), 1410 2nd St., Santa Monica CA 90401
Saturday, December 6th 8:00pm
Cost: Suggested Donation $11

ARJUN BABA's voice has been likened by reviewers to Ben Harper (Metro Santa Cruz), and Bob Marley (Chicago Journal, & others). Jivamukti Yoga has placed ARJUN among the top 5 bhajan/kirtan singers in the western world

Kundalini Yoga with Raghubir of Golden Bridge Yoga!
lululemon Glendale, 233 South Brand Blvd
Sunday, December 7th 9:00-10:00am ***New Time***
Cost: FREE

We are so excited to host this fun and special Kundalini yoga class!
***A few notes from us to you... Boot Camp is NO MORE for 2008, stay posted next year for new bootcamp classes here at the Americana!

Anusara yoga with Anthony Benenati
lululemon Beverly Hills, 334 Beverly Drive
Sunday, December 7th 9:30am
Cost: FREE

Our alum ambassador, Anthony Benenati is the founder of City Yoga, recognized across the country as a yoga community on the cutting edge. Anthony is a senior instructor and is known in the yoga community as a skillful practitioner and a teacher's teacher for his dynamic, non-dogmatic and playful teaching style. All levels welcome! Mats available to use and as always, snacks to follow!

Yoga with Danielle Radl!
lululemon South Bay, 2008A East Park Place
Sunday, December 7th 9:30am
Cost: FREE

Kundalini Yoga this Sunday! Have you ever tried Kundalini? Prepare to chant! A typical class starts with a series of breathing excercises and chants, then moves into poses! The classes are designed to release a form of energy (called Kundalini) that is believed to be stored in the base of the spine. All levels welcome and bring a friend to join you!

The Art of Yoga: Breath, Yoga & Meditation
Evidence Gallery, 7122 Beverly Blvd, 2nd floor, Los Angeles CA 90036
Sunday, December 7th 3:30-5:00pm
Cost: FREE

Kyona and I will host a yoga workshop on Sunday, December 7th at Evidence Gallery in Los Angeles and we've decided to just make it a FREE CLASS as a Christmas gift to all of our folks.
The gallery is beautiful with bamboo floors, skylight and an amazing atmosphere. The class will focus on making your yoga practice more personal with emphasis on breathwork to clear your mind and clean your system from the inside out. Kyona will be giving hands-on adjustments during class.
The gallery is located above Starbucks and Susina Bakery and there is a free parking garage adjacent to the building between La Brea and the alley.
Come spend the afternoon with friends and find the art and beauty in your yoga practice!
SPACE IS LIMITED so please reserve your spot by contacting theinsideoutyoga@gmail.com
Namaste, Andrea & Kyona

Yoga Fundraiser for Hand in Hand for Cambodia
Santa Monica Yoga, Santa Monica
Saturday, December 13th 9:00-10:30am
Cost: Regular class price

On Saturday December 13, the proceeds from Julian Walker’s 9:00 am class will be donated to Hand in Hand for Cambodia – http://www.handinhandforcambodia.org.
Students attending this class may also purchase any package of 5, 10, 15 or 20 classes at 10% off on that day.

ACRO YOGA WORKSHOP with Lara Catone & Sarah Vosen
Yoga Blend, Burbank
Saturday, December 13th 1:15-4:15pm
Cost: $35 by Dec. 6th / $40 after

TRUST - CONNECT - PLAY
Explore all the disciplines that AcroYoga offers: yoga, acrobatics and Thai massage. Open to new possibilities found through partner work from the therapeutics of stretching and Thai massage to the support of assisted inversions and basic acrobatics. Cultivating trust and connection everyone will learn to fly.
Embodying the foundations of AcroYoga offers endless opportunities to let go and play! Beginners welcome, no prior experience required. NO PARTNER NECESSARY!

Mata Mandir Singh Live in Concert with Mata Mandir Singh Khalsa
Golden Bridge Yoga, Hollywood
Saturday, December 13th 7:30-9:30pm
Cost: $20/adv or $25/day of

Golden Bridge is honoured to host Mata Mandir Singh Khalsa for a special night filled with beautiful and uplifting music
Mata Mandir’s music is heartfelt, and filled with beautiful, healing energy. He blends his guitar and soulful voice in all of his kirtan to create a rustic and enchanting quality that is inviting and majestic
Come join Mata Mandir for this unique journey experiencing the beauty of Naad Yoga through live kirtan Visit www.yogaofsound.com for more information on Mata Mandir.

The Rhythm of Axe: a night of latin rhythm and movement with Micheline Berry & Shaman's Dream, DJ Drez & Hoopnotica Dance Co.
Exhale Center for Sacred Movement, Venice
Saturday, December 13th 8:00-10:00pm
Cost: $15 in advance / $20 at the door

Venga Bailar! Come prepared to dance your heart out and ass off to an evening of hot and healing latin rhythm and world music!
From lilting bossa nova to explosive batucada, rumba to salsa, R&B to the blues, Shaman's Dream celebrates the ecstatic healing of rhythm and movement in both their ancestral African, Afro-Cuban and Afro-Brazilian roots as well as contemporary electronic and fusion forms.

108 Sun salutations for Guruji's (B.K.S. Iyengar) 90th Birthday!
Iyengar Institute of Los Angeles, Los Angeles
Sunday, December 14th 6:30am
Cost: FREE

Guruji (B.K.S. Iyengar) turns 90 on Sunday, December 14.
Help us celebrate 90 glorious years with 108 Sun Salutations & chanting at the institute.
"The sun-salutation is a part of daily religious prayer, which comes from time immemorial. Every one, along with offerings and prayers, saluted the sun, since Surya, the Sun God has a tremendous solar energy, which is a vital need for mankind." - Geeta Iyengar
What: 108 Sun salutations for Guruji led by Jim Benvenuto and chanting led by Eric Small
When: Sunday, December 14 at dawn - 6:30AM
Where: IYILA (please see directions on the website if this is your first visit)
Who: all who wish to honor Guruji – any level of student, any yoga tradition - practice one or all the sun salutations and join us for chanting and community.
FREE & Open to all - Chai & sweets follow!

Yoga for Athletes with James from Y.A.S. Silverlake
lululemon Glendale, 233 South Brand Avenue
Sunday, December 14th 9:00-10:00 NEW TIME
Cost: FREE

YAS (Yoga and Spinning) just moved into the neighborhood! They will be teaching an exciting yoga class in-store. 9-10am

DrumNyoga with Diane Hudock
lululemon Beverly Hills, 334 North Beverly Drive
Sunday, December 14th 9:30am
Cost: FREE

Come join for us a heart opening invigorating practice followed by an ecstatic drum circle groove! Inspirational yoga teacher Diane Hudock, and evocative percussionist Reid DeFever, bring together the power of dynamic flow yoga with the hypnotic transformative drumming grooves of the sacred language for an ecstatic experience.

Off the Mat, Into the World® and Groove Garden Productions present:
The L.A. Premiere of 1GiantLeap pt. 2 “What About Me?” and Global Dance Party w/ DJ Dragonfly
Blankenship Studio, 132 Brooks Ave, Venice
Sunday December 14th 7:30pm
Cost: $20 advance tickets/ $25 at the door **With a donation of $100 or more you get your own, limited edition Off the Mat® Manduka Mat! email info@offthematintotheworld.org for tickets

Raffle, silent auction, raw chocolate truffles, lots of fun!!!
$5 raffle tickets: Our awesome raffle basket includes: unlimited monthly yoga pass to YogaWorks, Manduka yoga kit, coupon for Hyde Yoga and Oxumwear, a spa basket from The Y Catalog and raw chocolate treats from Essential Living Foods. This is valued at over $500!
Silent Auction featuring beautiful hand painted yoga mats by: Sarah Llewellyn, Mykal Aubry and Amir Magal / Yoga, Tribe and Culture.
We are happy to announce the start of an online auction with amazing items including Hand altered photo by Robert Sturman, One Night stay for ten at Casa Barranca in Ojai, One Year membership pass to Yogaworks, Zen Zone party for 20 guests, 75 minute couples massage, organic whole food dinner for four from Conscious Culinary, Photo by Victoria Davis, Beach Yoga jewelry, succulents from Big Red Sun and more.
All proceeds go to support Off The Mat, Into the World® humanitarian efforts...go to http://offthematintotheworld.org to read about our community and the amazing SEVA projects being generating in the yoga world.
*please check out our online auction at http://members.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewUserPage&userid=offthematintotheworld

A Spiritual Mystic Treat with Gahl Sasson
Golden Bridge Yoga, Hollywood
Tuesday, December 16th 7:00-9:00pm
Cost: $20/adv or $25/day of

Join us as we review the major astrological aspects of the year 2009. Be prepared and equipped with the knowledge of the most auspicious dates and periods of the year ahead. We will learn how to surf the swells of celestial energies that will color the year to come. This workshop will give you many fun stories to share with your family during the holidays!
* Dates of Mercury Retrograde
* Full and New Moon and how to work with Moon magic
* Blessed as well as challenging periods
* Eclipses and other important times
* What is the meaning of Christmas, Hanukkah and the Holidays of Light
2009 in numerology adds up to 11, a number dubbed by mystics as the Master Number. Come and learn how to master these energies and have an easy successful year!

Indian Classical Music Concert
Maha Yoga, Brentwood
Friday, December 19th 8:00pm
Cost: $25 per person

Treat yourself to a special holiday event.
Relax to the beautiful sounds of India with 14th and 15th generation music Maestros, Professor Pandit Vikash Maharaj on Sarod and his son, Prabhash on Tabla.
Internationally known yoga instructor, Mark Whitwell will talk about their sacred lineage of music and why it is such an integral part of Yoga.
Renowned for his teachings on the healing power of intimate connection, Mark will prepare you for an intimate connection with the spiritual music of two renowned virtuosos of Indian Classical music.
For more information, please visit http://vikashmaharaj.tripod.com
Wear comfortable clothing and bring a cushion to sit on.

Special Holiday Celebration Class with Tanya Beilke
The Women's Club of Hollywood, 1749 N La Brea Ave, Hollywood
Saturday, December 20th 10:00am-noon
Cost: $15

Tanya is one of LA's terrific certified Anusara teachers and she is teaching a special holiday celebration class at The Women's Club of Hollywood.
Bring your own mats. Bring your own props. Bring your own friends and family. Tanya teaches mostly at her home studio so it's such a treat to have her in this large space.

Winter Solstice Celebration
Free Spirit Yoga, Long Beach
Saturday, December 20th 1:00pm
Cost: $25 pre-registration, $35 at the door

Bring in the Winter with 108 Sun Salutations to Live Music. 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. Cleanse and purify for the new season. You will need a small towel, yoga mat & some water. Space is limited. Following class will be light refreshments.

Holiday Family Yoga with Denise/Sat Mohine and Lee/Wahe Guru
The Awareness Center, Pasadena
Saturday, December 20th 2:00-3:30pm
Cost: $15 per adult or 2 for $20; Children 12 and under $5

Join us for a special family yoga class as we honor this season of light, love and miracles. Create a deep connection with your family and friends. Denise and Lee will lead a playful class that draws upon the universal themes of the winter season through music, movement, chanting and a special holiday treat. Kids of all ages are welcome.

WINTER SOLSTICE CELEBRATION with Bekah Finch
Yoga Blend, Burbank
Saturday, December 20th 6:00-8:00pm
Cost: *Donation Only*

"The solstice reminds us that every quality contains and gives way to its opposite. There can be no light without darkness, no darkness without light." Join Bekah as we honor the longest night of the year- and prepare to watch the light return! Using a combination of Yoga asana, meditation, visualization and creation we will connect with this natural shift in our planet and move deeper within ourselves to form a new relationship with our own darkness...and light.

Winter Solstice Celebration and Vegetarian Potluck
Silver Lake Yoga, Silverlake
Saturday, December 20th 7:00-9:30pm
Cost: $20

Gift yourself with an evening of sacred sounds and ecstatic dance!
Hosted by Jamie Bechtold and Mary Frances Spencer, this evening will include chakra movement and toning, sound bath with planetary gongs, high-energy ecstatic dance and a closing meditation with crystal singing bowls and bells.
Come prepared to move, sweat, release stress and manifest your desires!

Winter Solstice Celebration with Tej
Golden Bridge Yoga, Hollywood
Saturday, December 20th 7:00-10:00pm
Cost: $25/adv or $35/day of

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!

Ananda Kirtan ~ Sing and Dance to the rhythm of existence with Saul David Raye
Exhale Center for Sacred Movement, Venice
Saturday, December 20th 8:00-10:00pm
Cost: $20

Come celebrate the winter solstice with a very special candlelight kirtan with Saul David Raye and guest musicians: Tony Khalife, Marla Leigh, Matthew Hufschmidt and Frank Fitzpatrick.
Singing and Dancing have long been sacred healing practices to awaken the life force, connect us to spirit and embody an ecstatic connection to the Divine force that sustains all life. Join us for this inspired evening of chanting, live music and sacred dance to celebrate life, and open to the very rhythm, energy and bliss of existence.

Winter Solstice Yoga Mala
Santa Monica Yoga, Santa Monica
Sunday, December 21st 7:00-9:45am
Cost: FREE

We will be doing 108 sun salutations in celebration of the winter solstice! Join us at 7:00 am for this FREE event.

Winter Solstice at Yoga West with a course taught by Guru Singh
Yoga West, Los Angeles
Sunday, December 21st 1:00-4:30pm
Cost: $49

Invigorate your life for the Liberation of 2009
Meditate & Celebrate the True Birth of a New Year
The power of appreciation ~ Gratitude
Leads to mental clarity ~ Aptitude
Providing a vital projection ~ Attitude
Bring a piece of fruit, paper and pen

Live Harp Restorative with Bekah Finch and Regan Remy
Yoga Blend, Burbank
Sunday, December 21st 5:00-6:30pm
Cost: Regular class price

Experience profound relaxation and gentle healing as you are led by Bekah Finch through a restorative yoga practice while cascading sounds of the gentle harp, played by High Priestess, Regan Remy, serenade you into state of deep stillness.

Sacred Breathing Circle - Winter Solstice “Ceremony of Light” with Wahe Guru Kaur
The Awareness Center, Pasadena
Sunday, December 21st 5:00-7:30pm
Cost: $35 by 12/17, $40 thereafter

For this special Solstice circle we will be doing a ceremony of light – peace, healing and rebirth for the earth and all her inhabitants. Live music by ANAHATA, The Awareness Center’s Kirtan band and a candlelit belly dance performance by Carrie Bernath.
The Sacred Breathing Circle is a journey into the Self. It allows you to identify and release mental, emotional and physical blocks and bring light to areas that need healing. Experience Kundalini yoga and an ancient pranic technique, called the “Healing Breath,” that promotes healing and regeneration on all levels. Please wear comfortable clothes that you can move in.

Becoming Like Angels with Gurmukh
Golden Bridge Yoga, Hollywood
Thursday, December 25th 10:00am-12:00pm
Cost: $25/adv or $30/day of

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 be consumed in the service of Life and Destiny. This class will challenge your ego and give you the health and inner energy to live from your angelic nature. Come dance, chant, sweat and enjoy the company with sweet treats & tea following class!

Holiday Peace Chant Gathering with Joey Lugassy and Friends
Power Yoga West, Santa Monica
Saturday, December 27th 8:00pm
Cost: $12 Suggested Donation

This will be a very beautiful night of sacred music and togetherness. Come into the big beautiful candle light space at Power Yoga west in Santa Monica. Setting our intentions for peace and the new year.
Raw foods, ambient music, chanting (Kirtan), kundalini breath work! Plenty of singing! Or of course you can just chill and enjoy the vibe...
Please bring a pillow and blanket to camp on.
Featuring Joey Lugassy and Special Guest Lisbeth Scott of Biomusique and J Brave of The Luminaries
Plus a full band of amazing musicians:
Zat Baraka ~ vocals, keyboards/harmonium, Percussion
Domonic Dean Breaux ~ Winds
Ambika Leigh ~ Vocals, Mridungam, Bells
Eddie Young ~ Cello, Bass
Patrick Richey ~ Tabla, Cajon
Mathew Huffschmidt ~ Djembe, Percussion
Josh Balbien ~ Guitar
and more!

Live Classical Indian Music
Liberation Yoga, Los Angeles
Saturday, December 27th 8:00pm
Cost: Suggested Donation $20

The Maharaj family tradition is now 15 generations deep, and can be traced back over 500 years – ancient and healing sounds directly from the source. Pt.Vikash Maharaj is a gifted artist and together with his son Prabhash, he creates an ambience that is both deep and moving. His composition and improvisation is filled with joyful and complex interactions between melody and rhythm, and stirs the soul from within.
Come prepared to be inspired, uplifted, and utterly enchanted.

Anusara Yoga with Marc Savas
lululemon Beverly Hills, 334 North Beverly Drive
Sunday December 28th 9:30am
Cost: FREE

Marc, who recieved his completion of teacher training with Lululemon Ambassador Chris Chavez, dedicates his time to spreading his "FULL BLAST" philosophy in his life, in his practice, and in his teachings. Known for his powerful arm-balance and inversion sequences, his classes are unique and challenging and a must for the yoga adventurist!

Sunday Yoga with Barry Ennis
lululemon Pasadena, 110 W Colorado Blvd
Sunday, December 28th 10:00am
Cost: FREE

Did you survive Christmas? Hanukkah's almost over too...What better way to celebrate the season than a great yoga class?
Join us for yoga with instructor Barry Ennis. Barry is a senior at Occidental College and has been certified through Yoga Alliance. He has been practicing yoga for eight years and teaches a Ashtanga/Vinyasa Style of yoga. Ashtanga/Vinyasa is a power type of yoga used to build strength, gain flexibility, and increase body awareness. It is perfect for all athletes, but is also excellent for anybody who wants to get a great workout or gain flexibility.

New Year's Yoga Mala with Patricia Hipsman
Revive Yoga, Chatsworth
Wednesday, December 31st 4:00-6:00pm
Cost: Donation (cash only)

It has become tradition to mark the passage of time and celebrate the change of seasons with a Yoga Mala-- 108 Sun Salutations.
As we embark on a new season, we invite you to join us for this symbolic ritual. In any practice, Surya (sun) Namaskar (to greet or salute) is the embodied notion of stepping into the flow-- of breath, of movement, of energy. Get inspired by the group energy, and re-set your intention for a regular yoga practice as we celebrate the arrival of a new season!
Suitable for all levels - appropriate modifications for everyone will be given

An Old-Fashioned New Year's Eve: Yoga, Ecstatic Dance, Dinner and Live Music with Wahe Guru Kaur and friends
The Awareness Center, Pasadena
Wednesday, December 31st, 4:00-7:30pm
Cost: $25 Adults, $10 Children under 12 (Pre-registration required by 12/29)

An old-fashioned family affair full of laughter, love, and magic! Ring in the New Year in our candlelit studio with your Awareness Center Family. Wahe Guru will lead a joyfully transformative Kundalini Yoga Kriya with live music and Ecstatic Dancing. Set your intentions for the coming year and enjoy a delicious homemade vegetarian meal.

Celebrate New Year's Eve with Guru Singh
Yoga West, Los Angeles
Wednesday, December 31st 6:30-8:30pm (Doors open at 5:30 for light refreshments & mingling)
Cost: $20 Pre-reg until 12/30, $30 on 12/31; No Keytags
Space is Limited - will sell out!

Guru Singh would like to extend the following invitation:
Please join us across the street at the Guru Ram Das Ashram for more New Year's Eve Festivities.
Food - 9:00 pm
Meditation - 9:30 pm
Chanting - 10:30 pm until Midnight
**Please bring a head-covering**

New Years Eve Kirtan Bhakti Celebration with Govindas, Travis Eliot, Andres Salcedo, Randall Reel and many others
2235 Linnington Ave, Los Angeles 90064 (1 blk west of Beverly Glen, 1 blk south of Olympic)
Wednesday, December 31st 7:30pm till 2009

This event is at a private home, ALL ARE WELCOME!!! (street parking available)
VEGETARIAN POTLUCK... BRING YOUR FAVORITE VEGETARIAN DISH OR BEVERAGE!!!

Steve and Shirley's 2nd Annual Yoga Mala
Black Dog Yoga, Sherman Oaks
Wednesday, December 31st 8:00pm-Midnight
Cost: $35 per person or bring a friend, only $60 for two

Challenge yourself to complete a Yoga Mala of 108 Sun Salutations - a ritual traditionally used to mark transition, to spark positive change, and to fuel personal evolution.
Champagne and Pizza will be served afterward.

11th Annual New Year's Eve Celebration with Gurmukh, Tej, Harijiwan and Gurushabd
Golden Bridge Yoga, Hollywood
Wednesday, December 31st (Doors Open at 9:00pm)
Cost: $54/adv or $64/day of

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 live 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 2008, giving space for new opportunities and relationships to be found in the highly charged energy field of 2009.
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 this event will last until about 1 am! Thanks!
Please note also that there is NO CHILDCARE at this event. Parents are responsible for their kids at all times! Thank you

A New Year's Celebration Kirtan with special guest Dave Stringer
Hosted by City Yoga
Blankenship Ballet Company, Venice
Wednesday, December 31st 9:30pm-midnight
Cost: $25 in advance; $35 at the door

You are cordially invited to add your voices to the blend on New Year's Eve in Venice. The band includes Dave Stringer on harmonium and vocals, Miles Shrewsbery on tablas and cajon, Patrick Richey on mridangam, C.C. White and Joni Allen on vocals, Jeff Andrews on hammer dulcimer, guitar and bouzouki, Michael Mollura on piano, Sapphron Obois on saxophone and a number of special guests.
Tickets include hors d'oeuvres, chai and fizzy drinks. Bring a cushion.

New Year's Eve at Liberation with Christine!
Liberation Yoga, Los Angeles
Wednesday, December 31st 9:45pm-Midnight
Cost: $40

Just when you thought there was nothing great to do this New Year's - Yoga until midnight! Join Gary and me as I pull myself out of early semi-retirement babyland to spend New Year's with my favorite crowd - Liberation Yoga students! Join me for a reflective, jubilant, healthy and unique New Year's Eve experience. This all levels flow class will have you glowing into the new year. It includes a toast, some treats, yoga and meditation.
Please pre-register with payment to ensure your spot. Historically this workshop sells out so don't dally!

New Years Eve Celebration and Puja
Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Center
Wednesday, December 31st 10:00pm

Ring in 2009 in peace, setting intentions for your spiritual progress. Join like-minded members of the yoga community for our annual New Year celebration.
The evening will consist of meditation, chanting and a puja at midnight to welcome the new year.

y'all have fun now...

i'll be leaving for kiawah island, south carolina tomorrow night to run yet another marathon -- my last for this year. the plan was hatched when dana (a running friend) brought up the fact that it was going to be jay's (another running friend) 50th state -- in other words, he will have run a marathon in every state once he crosses the finish line in south carolina. and by the way, would i like to run that marathon with them to celebrate the occasion?

yes, only insane runners would rather run 26.2 miles instead of throwing down a beer or two at the local watering hole...

hey, but at least i'll be able to get a little downdog in before the race gun goes off. check out this update i just got from the race organizers:

RUNNER’S PRE-MARATHON YOGA
Help to warm and stretch your entire body with an emphasis on the ankles, calves, quads, hamstrings and hips. Clear your mind and connect your breath - flow in this 15 minute, Yoga inspired warm up.
Complimentary at 6:45 am and 7 am. Inside the East Beach Conference Center. No reservations required. For more information visit the Marathon Information table inside the East Beach Conference Center...

yoga rules!

anyway, while we're sweating it out (or freezing our buns off; i haven't checked the weather report yet) out east, the rest of the sane world will be having some fun of its own right here in LA. but just because i have to miss all of it, doesn't mean you have to!

here are the goings-on this coming weekend. i'll fold these into this month's events calendar once i get a chance to check the websites:


WELCOME HOME Chanting with Steve Ross
Maha Yoga, 13050 San Vicente Blvd, 2nd floor, Los Angeles, CA 90049
Friday, December 5th 8:00pm
By Donation

Please help us gratefully welcome back Steve Ross from his trip to Mumbai, India. Join us for a beautiful evening of chanting guaranteed to open your heart. This is a donation based event. Wear comfortable clothing, bring a cushion to sit on and enjoy.


A Magical Evening of Kirtan with Dave Stringer and his Band
Yoga at The Village, 1306 Sonora Avenue, Glendale CA 91201
Friday, December 5th 8:00pm
Tickets for the event are on sale for $20 in advance, $25 at the door

Don't Miss This One...the laughter and joy is contagious!
The Los Angeles Times has declared the experience of chanting with Dave Stringer to be "a departure from ancient kirtan. Stringer's performance shaped the experience into a far more compelling musical encounter."
Space is limited.


RAGA LOUNGE
Shakti's Elements, 717 Broadway, Santa Monica, CA
Friday, December 5th 8:00-11:00pm

A stage for live music, poetry, spoken word, film, dance & more!


2nd Annual Holiday Charity Vinyasa Flow Yoga Class for the Midnight Mission
YogaWorks Center for Yoga, 230 1/2 N. Larchmont Blvd
Saturday, December 6th 2:00-5:00pm
Suggested Donation is $25

Come flow for two amazing hours backed by live music performances with DJ Mattnifique, Whiney Allen, Becky Kessler, Holiday Carolers and a rare collection of Yoga Works Finest Vinyasa Flow teachers. This special event will be team taught by your favorite Yoga Works Vinyasa teachers including David Lynch, Joan Hyman, Peter Barnett, Whitney Allen, Eka Ekong, Kathryn Budig, Kia Miller, Mia Togo and Yogi Claus.
Last year's event was a huge success and helped raise money and awareness for an important local charity and we hope this year we can build upon our past accomplishments as a yoga community.
The Midnight Mission is one of the oldest continuously operating human services organizations in the Los Angeles region. Centered in the Skid Row area of downtown Los Angeles, the Mission offers a bridge to self-sufficiency for homeless people through counseling, education, training and job placement. The Mission makes available the necessities of life to homeless people: food , shelter, clothing, personal hygiene needs, and medical care.


Kirtan with GOVINDAS AND RADHA with special guest ARJUN BABA!
Santa Monica Power Yoga (WEST), 1410 2nd St., Santa Monica CA 90401
Saturday, December 6th 8:00pm
Suggested Donation $11

ARJUN BABA's voice has been likened by reviewers to Ben Harper (Metro Santa Cruz), and Bob Marley (Chicago Journal, & others). Jivamukti Yoga has placed ARJUN among the top 5 bhajan/kirtan singers in the western world


Kundalini Yoga with Raghubir of Golden Bridge Yoga!
lululemon Glendale, 233 South Brand Blvd
Sunday, December 7th 9:00-10:00am ***New Time***
FREE

We are so excited to host this fun and special Kundalini yoga class!
***A few notes from us to you... Boot Camp is NO MORE for 2008, stay posted next year for new bootcamp classes here at the Americana!


December Weekly In-Store YOGA with YogaHop: Marko King
lululemon Santa Monica, 331 Santa Monica Blvd
Sunday, December 7th 9:00am
FREE

December is an exciting month at lululemon. We are focused on GOAL SETTING, spreading the holiday love in our community, and FUN!
This HOLIDAY month, our YOGA classes will be provided by the Studio of the Month, YogaHop.

Anusara yoga with Anthony Benenati
lululemon Beverly Hills, 334 Beverly Drive
Sunday, December 7th 9:30am
FREE

Our alum ambassador, Anthony Benenati is the founder of City Yoga, recognized across the country as a yoga community on the cutting edge. Anthony is a senior instructor and is known in the yoga community as a skillful practitioner and a teacher's teacher for his dynamic, non-dogmatic and playful teaching style. All levels welcome! Mats available to use and as always, snacks to follow!


Yoga with Danielle Radl!
lululemon South Bay, 2008A East Park Place
Sunday, December 7th 9:30am
FREE

Kundalini Yoga this Sunday! Have you ever tried Kundalini? Prepare to chant! A typical class starts with a series of breathing excercises and chants, then moves into poses! The classes are designed to release a form of energy (called Kundalini) that is believed to be stored in the base of the spine. All levels welcome and bring a friend to join you!


The Art of Yoga: Breath, Yoga & Meditation
Evidence Gallery, 7122 Beverly Blvd, 2nd floor, Los Angeles CA 90036
Sunday, December 7th 3:30-5:00pm
FREE

Kyona and I will host a yoga workshop on Sunday, December 7th at Evidence Gallery in Los Angeles and we've decided to just make it a FREE CLASS as a Christmas gift to all of our folks.
The gallery is beautiful with bamboo floors, skylight and an amazing atmosphere. The class will focus on making your yoga practice more personal with emphasis on breathwork to clear your mind and clean your system from the inside out. Kyona will be giving hands-on adjustments during class.
The gallery is located above Starbucks and Susina Bakery and there is a free parking garage adjacent to the building between La Brea and the alley.
Come spend the afternoon with friends and find the art and beauty in your yoga practice!
SPACE IS LIMITED so please reserve your spot by contacting theinsideoutyoga@gmail.com
Namaste,
Andrea & Kyona


and one must not forget the BIG event this weekend -- the football match-up of crosstown rivals UCLA and USC! my friend louie commented that UCLA should just forfeit the game to save themselves the embarrassment... knowing full well that i'm a diehard bruin fan. needless to say, i'm surprised i'm still talking to him :(

regardless, even if our team's barely hovering above a few other teams on the PAC-10 rankings while the trojans are thumbing their noses at everyone from their perch at the top, miracles have happened. ok, so USC is favored to win by 33 points. so maybe we need a BIG miracle...

kick-off is on saturday at 1:30pm at the rose bowl. so for whatever it's worth -- GO BRUINS!

holiday eco-shopping

on black friday, while shoppers were busy elbowing their way through the crowds at the malls, i was calmly shopping online for one-day deals at store websites.

then on cyber monday, while bargain hunters were busy scouring the internet for deeply discounted merchandise (while they were trying to look productive at the office), i was strolling up and down store aisles, looking for stuff on sale.

either i'm a smart shopper, or i just have the whole holiday shopping thing down wrong...

one thing i know for sure is that crowds or no crowds, deals or no deals, i'm going to be at the eco gift festival next weekend. not only is it in my neck of the woods -- which means i can bike or take to the bus to it -- but it will feature all kinds of eco-friendly food and merchandise. and even better yet, part of the proceeds will be donated to charity.

here are the details:

Eco Gift Festival 2008
The Eco-Holiday Shopping Festival for the Global Community
December 12th thru 14th, 2008

Presented by The Los Angeles Times, Eco Gift is the largest environmentally conscious consumer gift show in the world. Eco Gift delivers a stress-free holiday shopping experience unlike any other in the country. Presented in a festival-like setting, Eco Gift showcases world-class live entertainment, socially conscious speakers, an organic food court and on-site eco gift-wrapping and shipping. The company holds its events to the highest standards of sustainability, employing green event experts to ensure their own greening efforts remain at the cutting-edge. Eco Gift donates a percentage of its profits each year to various charities.

Location
Santa Monica Civic Auditorium
1855 Main Street, Santa Monica, CA 90401

Dates and Show Hours
Friday, December 12th and Saturday, December 13th: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Sunday, December 14th: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM

Tickets
$10 per day; $20 for a weekend pass. Children under 12 and Seniors over 65 get in for free. Tickets may be purchased at http://www.ecogift.com/

Parking
$8.00 at the venue; Overflow parking is available at the corner of Colorado and Main Street
PLEASE CARPOOL WHEREVER POSSIBLE

~ 20 Inspirational Speakers
~ 10 Acclaimed Bands and Musicians
~ 150 Exhibitors selling eco-conscious gifts
~ Children's Stage and Play area
~ Organic Food Court


ECO GIFT SPEAKER LINE-UP

Bryan Welch (Emcee) Publisher/Editorial Director Ogden Publications, Inc.
Arianna Huffington (Keynote) - Huffington Post
Michael Brune - Exec. Director, Rainforest Action Network
Blake Mycoskie - Founder Tom's Shoes
Seane Corn - Yoga Teacher, Founder, Off The Mat, Into The World
Linda Loudermilk - Visionary couture and eco-designer
Josh Tickell - Speaker, Activist, Filmmaker (FUEL)
Elizabeth Rogers - Author NY Times Bestseller "The Green Book"
Robyn Griggs-Lawrence - Editor-In-Chief, Natural Home Magazine
David Crow - Author, Lecturer, Founder, Floracopeia Aromatic Treasures
Dr. Edison De Mello - Founder, Akasha Center for Integrative Medicine
Shallom Berkman - Founder, Urth Caffe
Dr. Andrew Dattila - Nutritional Expert, Founder InnerBloom
Scott Badenoch - Founder, Creative Citizen
Compton Rom - Founder, Ascended Health
Michael and Bianca Alexander - Conscious Living TV
John Marshall Roberts - Motivational Speaker, Author "Igniting Inspiration"
Sherry Beall - host/producer Healthy Planet, Healthy Me on KPFK


ECO GIFT MUSICIAN LINE-UP

Guru Singh and The Kundalini Band (Special Opening Ceremonies Friday 4:00PM)
Tom Freund
The Luminaries
Chris Pierce
Jillian Speer
Tony Khalife
Shannon Moore
Jon T. Howard
Mojow & The Vibration Army
Todd Washington