Legend: BLUE-open, RED-closed, GREEN-by donation
Click here to view the accidental yogist's map of los angeles yoga studios in a full-size page

Wednesday, September 29, 2010

it's in the bag

i happen to be on the mailing list of many, many LA-based yoga studios. yes, by choice.

one plus is that i'm kept up-to-date with what's going on the in LA yoga scene.

but one definite minus is that i end up with a lot of mail that i have to sift through in my e-mailbag. after all, i have nothing better to do with my time...

this month seems to be particularly news-laden because many of the studios have just announced new class schedules for the fall -- although it's hard to imagine it being fall while we're going through a heat wave!

rather than keep all this update richness to myself, i've decided to share the highlights with you all. as you know, i tend to focus on free and donation-based classes as well as fundraisers and music events, so here's what i've found... and don't forget to "like" my facebook page to keep updated on even more stuff going on around town!


FREE yoga class at the jewish county fair in malibu -- yeah, that was new to me, too :)

Free yoga session with Marcus J Freed at 12pm
Sunday, Oct 3rd 11am-6pm
Jewish County Fair at the Shalom Institute
34342 Mulholland Hwy, Malibu
Fair Tickets: $5 in advance, $8 at gate


Marcus J Freed is a studio-trained yogi, yeshiva-trained educator, published author and classically-trained actor. During the last decade he has developed Bibliyoga®, a system for accessing Jewish spiritual wisdom through the body. His plays have been seen in 20 countries and he enlightens his students with weekly Bibliyoga® “Kosher Sutras”. To join the journey, visit http://www.bibliyoga.com/


FREE yoga sponsored by lululemon santa monica and yogis anonymous in santa monica:

Yogis Unite
Thursday,9/30/10, @ 6:30 p.m.
Palisades Park (at the end of Santa Monica Blvd.)

The great instructors of Yogis Anonymous are coming together to teach a complimentary sunset yoga class, in honor of Yoga month. All levels welcome and feel free to bring a friend. If you need a mat, please come by our location and we will lend you a mat. See you there!


from bikram yoga silverlake:

Introductory Special $20 FOR A WEEK OF YOGA! *for new students and local residents only


from black dog yoga in sherman oaks:

ONE FREE CLASS with Mischa Allen*

This coupon is valid for one free class during the month of October with Mischa Allen. Please print out this coupon and present it to the desk prior to taking the class.
* Coupon valid for one class per customer please.
Mischa's yoga classes are:
Tues & Thurs ....5:30p - 6:55p.......Basics
Sunday ............ 11:30a - 12:45p....Basic Alignment for Healthy Backs


from city yoga in west hollywood:

Free Community Night at City Yoga with Steffany Vance
Tuesday October 12th 7:30p.m.
FREE!


City Yoga presents a FREE night of yoga related topics for discussion, contemplation and inspiration. Join our fine teachers for a laid back night of fun questions and answers. Remember it’s FREE for you and your friends. Make a night of it! Topics will vary each month.
Please R.S.V.P. by calling 323-654-2125

HIV+ YOGA with Scott Brinkman
Monday Nights @ 7:45pm

This class is open to anyone who is HIV+. Come practice in a safe, non-judgemental environment.

11th Step Yoga
Thursdays @ 7:45 pm, Saturdays @ 7:00 am

11th step combines a meeting and a yoga class in one. Anyone involved in a 12 step program is welcomed to attend.


from creative chakra spa in marina del rey:

Donation $8 Hatha Yoga Friday 10am
1st Friday of every month


Community Class, All levels, semi private. Call to be sure to RSVP to save your space!
How to find us: Come to the Zen Studio 2A, it is 4th door, up the stairs and along the pathway looking at the ocean, the Tea and Aromatherapy Lounge is the end by the green ocean porch swing if you want to grab a healthy snack and a custom blend Tea before.


from golden bridge yoga in hollywood:

Simrit Kaur: Live in Concert
Friday, October 8th 7:30 - 9:30 pm
Cost: $20/adv or $25/day of


Golden Bridge is honored to host Simrit Kaur for a magical and uplifting night of Live Music. Simrit will be singing songs from her new album "The Sweetest Nectar."
Joined by Priytham Hari Singh and Kristopher Rein on guitar and tabla.
Renowned Gong master, Harijiwan, will join Simrit on stage... A synergy that will create an exception sound space for the night's musical journey.


from happy me yoga in redondo beach:

BUY ONE PRIVATE CLASS-GET ONE FREE!


from hot 8 yoga in santa monica:

For new students, take an advantage of our 1 week of unlimited classes for $30.


from the hub in west LA:

Phoenix Agape workshop with Lama Norbu
Thursday, October 14, 7-9 pm

FREE

Experience the powerful Shiva Garuda practice, a precious gift from Divine Mother Guan Yin. Overcome worry and fear while balancing body, speech and mind. Cultivate inner peace, clarity and joy with breathwork, intention, mantra and mudra. Raise your vibrational frequency and elevate your consciousness while helping to heal the collective suffering of humankind.
In this unique, all-male workshop, we will learn the Shiva Garuda practice, release limiting concepts and return to our Inner Nature. This workshop will be a celebration of peace geared specifically toward males between the ages of 17-30.

Introductory Workshop on Ayurveda with Jeff Perlman
Sunday, October 24, 1-3 pm

FREE

Ayurveda is the Indian Holistic Medical System which has been practiced continuously for over 5000 years and is considered the sister science to Yoga. Ayurveda explains how our interrelationship with nature’s cycles, rhythms and patterns affect our daily lives and how by making simple lifestyle changes bring true health, balance, presence and wellness into your life.
Jeff Perlman is a Certified Ayurvedic Practitioner with advanced accrediation in Pulse Diagnosis and Pancha Karma Therapies, a Certified Massage Therapist, a Member of the National Ayurvedic Medical Association, a 500-hour Registered Yoga Instructor and a Certified Cordon Bleu Chef.
Please RSVP Jeff Perlman at jeff@threeseasonsayurveda.com


from the jade apple yoga in north hollywood:

BREAST CANCER FUNDRAISER
FRIDAY OCTOBER 1st 6:30 – 8pm


This Candlelight Stretch & Meditation Class will be a DONATION-ONLY class, in honor of all those who have been touched by Breast Cancer. Take the class for FREE and donate as you like. We will work on 12 simple yoga poses. We're asking you to donate $1 per pose. Feel free to ask friends to ‘sponsor’ you or join you for this class and help us raise funds. 100% of the proceeds will go directly to the American Breast Cancer Foundation. The five year survival rate after early-stage diagnosis and treatment is over 90%.
Please email jenn@jadeappleyoga.com to sign up for this class so we know how many to expect.


from kate yoga in monrovia:

"Buy One, Get One Free" special on private classes. Purchase a private class online sometime and I'll add an additional private class to your account for free! Use one now, save one for later. Or use one class for yourself, and give the other one to a friend or family member. This is a special I offer once a year, so please take advantage of it!


from mission street yoga in south pasadena:

Pasadena Magazine and Mission Street Yoga present:
October Hot off the Press Party and Open House
Friday, October 8th 6-8:30pm
Mission Street Yoga, 1017 Mission Street
$20 donation benefiting The Circle of Huntington Memorial Hospital

Enjoy tasty cocktails and guilt-free bites provided by Healthy Cuisine
Celebrate the mind body & soul!
Join us for a complimentary Yoga 101 session!
Comfy clothes recommended
RSVP to rsvp@pasadenarose.com or call 626.744.0954 x317

Join us for a free weekend of classes during our OPEN HOUSE
October 9 & 10 (regular weekend schedule)

Accept our invitation during this weekend to practice on us FREE -- take one of our playful Anusara® Yoga classes, dive into your core with a Pilates® Sculpt class, or take a sweet Restorative. Use this opportunity to explore our weekend schedule, meet our gifted community of teachers and enjoy the studio as a place of gathering and self-discovery. All weekend long we'll be offering SUPER DEALS on class packages, and we also look forward to introducing you to wonderful organic food vendors.


from silver lake yoga in silverlake:

FREE intro class - FIRST SUN of each month 2-4pm
FREE tai chi class - LAST SUN of each month 4-4:45pm
$10 classes:
~ community - WED 4-5pm / FRI 3:45-5pm / SAT 1:15-2:30pm
~ yoga of joy - SAT 8-8:45am
~ meditation - MON 8-9am / WED 8-9am / SAT 9-9:45am
~ just stretch - MON 12:30-1:30pm / WED 12:30-1:30pm


from yoga at the village in glendale:

Donation Intro Classes!
Yoga Basics: An Intro for the Yoga Curious
Weekly Workshops with the Yoga at the Village Staff
First Sunday of Every Month - 11:00am - 12 Noon


Introduce your mind to your body...they just might like each other. Learn basic breath and relaxation techniques while becoming fit and having fun! The result? A healthy body and a calm mind. What could be better?


from yoga blend in burbank:

New $9 community classes:
WED 4:00pm-5:00pm - Basics w/ Tracy Sosa
THU 8:00am-9:00am - Gentle/Stretch w/ Dana **Starting October 7th

Also $5 (cash only) flow classes on Tuesdays, Wednesday, Thursday, and Fridays 6:30-7:30am


from yoga desa in topanga:

Art of Living Kirtan & Meditation - 10 Year Anniversary!
Saturday, October 2, 7-9pm
By Donation


Art of Living teachers Michele Krolik and Andrew Behla will celebrate the 10 years that they have been offering a monthly kirtan 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 ~ Held the First Saturday of Every Month

Yoga Desa 10 Year Anniversary!
Ecstatic Global Yogic Grooves Dance Party With Globesonic DJ Fabian Alsultany (NYC/LA) October 9 at 8pm
$15 (cash at door)


Come celebrate Yoga Desa’s 10 Year Anniversary with acclaimed Globesonic DJ Fabian Alsultany (NYC/LA). Hot off an epic 3 hour set at Bhakti Fest, Fabian is ready to raise the Shakti for Yoga Desa. Join us for an evening not to be forgotten as we toast to Yoga Desa's 10 years of offering yoga, movement and special events to the Topanga community and beyond.
Visit www.yogadesa.com/10-year-party for more details.

Illumination: The Sutra Collective Launch
DJ Drez David Connolly from Dharmy Shannon Michael Terry of the Open Door Orchestra Saturday October 23, 8pm
$15 love donation at the door, no one turned away
If you like to cook, bring food!


The Sutra Collective is the thread that brings together individuals, brands, artists, musicians, and causes to empower individuals to make the greatest impact in the world. Conscious change requires Love and Action.
More information at The Sutra Collective on Facebook


from yoga loft in manhattan beach:

Yoga Loft creator & teacher Genevieve Fischer needs your help in meeting her $20,000 fundraising goal for Off the Mat, Into the World (http://www.offthematintotheworld.org/)!

Silent Auction/Fundraiser at the home of Benjamin Fucanan
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 2 5:00-9:00pm
Call for address (i've purposely omitted the address because it's a private home)

Featuring the island sounds of Koolanesian heart, a special guest DJ, silent auction (from many awesome local businesses), and more!
Yoga Loft is offering a 5-class series for an auction item!
All funds collected will benefit Off the Mat and their programs.
* PLEASE RSVP BY PURCHASING YOUR ENTRANCE TICKET IN ADVANCE: $25 DONATION. VISIT http://www.paypal.com/, CHOOSE SEND MONEY, SEND TO BFUCANAN@GMAIL.COM OR CALL BENJAMIN AT 310.409.5052

Donation Vinyasa Flow Class
Sunday, October 24, 4-6pm
Clark Building, Valley Drive & 8th St., Hermosa Beach
Featuring: Genevieve Fischer, Jo Tastula, Shelley Williams, Julie Rader, Jamie Horgan, and Adriano Dos Santos
$40 suggested donation/ Space is limited


Live music
Refreshments/raffle drawing to follow, 6-6:30pm
*To pre-purchase tix, drop a check off to Genevieve in person (payable to The Engage Network), or visit PayPal.com. Choose Send Money. Send to GENKATE@HOTMAIL.COM. Your name will be on the list at the door.
All event proceeds will go directly to Off the Mat Into the World's Global Seva Challenge Program. Thank you for your support!!


from the yogi tree in toluca lake:

The Yogi Tree's First Annual Community Night Bazaar
Friday, October 29, 7-10 pm
COST: FREE Pre-register Now- Space is limited www.theyogitree.com

Halloween Theme! Come as your Favorite Spirit, Goddess/God, Fairy, Princess or Prince!
We are so privileged and excited to invite you to this FREE celebration of The Yogi Tree community, which will honor you, our studio, and National Yoga Month (www.yogamonth.org).
Come as you are, with an open heart and whatever else you've got. Perhaps it's a delicious and healthy dessert or a scrumptious hors d'oeurvres (no alcohol, please). Maybe it's an acoustic guitar or a wonderfully funny joke. Could be you're an artist, a jewelry maker, a collector, or a poet. Whoever you are, whatever you love, however you fill your life, that's all we ask of you on this amazing evening of sharing and connection.
If you make art, bring it. If you make music, be ready to make it. If you do jokes or rhymes, prepare to crack them. If you collect comics or exotic bric-a-brac, don't be shy. If you love to eat, bring your favorite dish.
Please send and email to jennifer@theyogitree.com if you would like to vend or share your talent.
The Yogi Tree will provide music, meditation, an open mic, and that space we've all come to know and love.
Also, don't forget to clean out your closet, bringing along any clothing you no longer wear. We'll pile it up like a ceremonial bonfire, minus the flames, and take turns digging for buried treasure. You could walk away with a gently used blouse or a legendary pair of Doc Martens, a hot pair of jeans or a studly new (non)smoking jacket. Wacky - and fun!
Let's call this the First Annual Community Night Bazaar at The Yogi Tree. We know we'll be seeing you there...

Thursday, September 16, 2010

supreme bhaktification

it's been four days since i got back from bhakti fest, and today's probably the first day since my four-day immersion in supreme bhaktification in the california high desert that i've felt like my usual self again.

honestly, by the time i left the joshua tree retreat center late sunday night (which was technically early monday morning), i was truly spent. i couldn't think straight. i could barely walk straight. and anything i said probably wouldn't have made sense to anyone. including myself.

luckily, the fatigue is finally gone, but the memories still linger...

the sights...

~ the smiling faces, familiar and otherwise, as they made their way to and from the kirtan stages, the yoga venues, and the vendor booths
~ the musicians who were constantly scurrying around with their instruments to get to their scheduled gigs on stage and in the classrooms
~ the LA kirtan junkies who took turns on and off the same blanket in front of the main stage
~ the krishna devotees who seemed to be everywhere
~ the burners who had relocated their campsites from the desert in nevada to the desert in california and continued to rekindle their burning man experience
~ the yoga students practicing both indoors and outdoors in classes led by shiva rea, saul david raye, annie carpenter, joan white, krishna kaur, kristin olson, and other awesome yoga teachers
~ the assortment of merchandise for sale at the vendor booths -- clothing, accessories, books, CDs, sacred images, musical instruments, and anything else one could ever need or want
~ the bhakti babies who were carried around and doted on by their proud new parents
~ the hoop dancer who casually stripped down to her birthday suit, skipped around the perimeter of the main stage, then as if nothing had happened, put her clothes back on
~ the dark moonless sky while walking back to the campground after the last headliner for the night had left the stage
~ the bright sun rising over the desert after pulling a kirtan all-nighter

the sounds...

~ the kirtan superstars -- dave stringer, jai uttal, krishna das, deva premal and miten, david newman, wah!, donna de lory, girish, bhagavan das, shyamdas
~ the rising stars -- brenda mcmorrow, prema hari, larisa stow and the shakti tribe, suzanne sterling, gaura vani, shantala, sat jot singh, simrit kaur, steve ross, mike cohen, geoffrey gordon, steve gold, wynne paris, mukti, arjun baba, karnamrita dasi, and chaytanya
~ lesser-knowns (at least to me) -- anjula, jagadeesh, yvette, yofiyah, babukishan das, sruti ram and ishwari, fantuzzi, and gina sala
~ the high-energy performers who had us dancing ecstatically from their first chant to their last -- the mayapuris, sean johnson and the wild lotus band, MC yogi, the kirtan rabbi, and c.c. white
~ the LA locals whom we've come to know and love -- govindas and radha, terra gold, zat baraka, masood ali khan, joey lugassy, chris morro, cooper madison, marla leigh, momo loudiyi, the breath of life tribe, the kirtaniyas, tony khalife, daniel stewart, and the temple bhajan band
~ all the backup musicians who made the kirtan wallahs sound even more amazing -- patrick richey, matthew hufschmidt, josh brill, david watts, craig kohland, denise kaufman, manose, ben leinbach, david schommer, mark gorman, matt pszonak, and many, many more
~ the spontaneous drum circles that popped up in the campground, on the cafeteria steps, and any place where more than two yogis with percussion instruments came together
~ the late-night snoring from nearby tents that lulled me to sleep and the early morning conversations that served as my wake-up call

the tastes...

~ the cool nectar of young coconuts from krishna's kitchen
~ the warm bowls of kicharee from radha govindas
~ the eclectic assortment of toppings -- yams, strawberries, broccoli, fried egg -- on the pizzas by pie for the people
~ the wheat-free, gluten-free, and/or dairy-free scones and cookies at the island sol bakery
~ the i-can't-believe-it's-actually-vegan mac n' cheese and reuben sandwiches at palm greens cafe
~ the invigorating bite of chilled reed's ginger brew
~ the decadent pleasure of frozen dark chocolate coconut bliss bars

the smells...

~ the comforting aroma of a cup of freshly-brewed chai tea first thing in the morning
~ the fragrance of burning incense and sage sticks
~ the distinctive scent of sweaty bodies writhing to the music
~ the odors wafting from the portapotties scattered around the grounds (i know, TMI...)

the feelings...

~ the joy of being able to take yoga classes with norcal teachers debbie steingesser, dana flynn, and especially with MC yogi and his wife amanda as we practiced to cuts from his "elephant power" CD... even learning a flash mob vinyasa sequence to "ganesh is fresh". so fun!
~ the intense heat during the day and the frigid cold at night
~ the cool air-conditioned comfort of the sanctuary
~ the desert dust that found its way into everything -- between my toes, in my hair, on my blanket, inside my tent
~ the quick cold showers in the campground and the one leisurely warm shower in a friend's bathroom
~ the soft luxuriousness of the couch as i power-napped in the artist hospitality suite, thanks to my connections with a certain editor of an LA yoga magazine :)
~ the extreme gratitude i'd like to express to all the event producers, coordinators, and volunteers who made bhakti fest 2010 a rousing success

in short, will i return for bhakti fest 2011? you bet i will, even if it means my having to chant yet another iteration of the maha mantra!

here's one more round, just for good measure:

hare krishna hare krishna krishna krishna hare hare
hare rama hare rama rama rama hare hare... hari bol!

Monday, September 06, 2010

because yoga month is all about... yoga, of course!

since it's yoga month, why not take a yoga class -- and better yet, bring along a friend! after all. some of these classes will be FREE, while others will be by donation. so not only will your body feel good after class, but your conscience will know that your money went to a good cause!


~~~ FREE yoga-related events ~~~

a FREE WEEK of yoga, courtesy of yogamonth.org and a slew of participating yoga studios, including:
~ atma yoga, venice
~ awareness center, pasadena
~ city yoga, west hollywood
~ creative chakra spa, marina del rey
~ inner power yoga, calabasas
~ iyengar yoga institute, los angeles
~ jade apple yoga, north hollywood
~ karen shuman's beyond yoga, sherman oaks
~ liberation yoga, los angeles
~ mahasukha center, westchester
~ mark blanchard's power yoga, studio city
~ point dume yoga, malibu
~ purple yoga, long beach
~ redondo beach yoga, redondo beach
~ rising lotus yoga, sherman oaks
~ rymenmy yoga, palos verdes
~ santa monica yoga, santa monica
~ still yoga, silverlake
~ svastha health, long beach
~ swerve studio, los angeles
~ third eye yoga, west hollywood
~ truyoga, santa monica
~ u studio yoga, miracle mile
~ up dog yoga, west hollywood
~ YAS fitness, all locations
~ yoga blend, burbank
~ yoga kingdom sanctuary, pasadena
~ yoga loft, manhattan beach
~ yoga shelter, studio city
~ yogaworks, all locations
and more!!
click here to sign up to get coupon and entire list - limited to new students at each location

FREE weekend yoga at lululemon stores:

lululemon beverly hills, 334 North Beverly Dr, Beverly Hills - Sundays 9:30am
lululemon brentwood, 11920 San Vicente Blvd, Los Angeles - Sundays 9:30am
lululemon calabasas, 4719 Commons Way, Calabasas - Sundays 9:30am
lululemon glendale, 233 South Brand Blvd, Glendale - Sundays 9:30am
lululemon malibu showroom, 22333 Pacific Coast Highway Suite #216, Malibu *
lululemon pasadena, 110 W. Colorado Blvd, Pasadena - Sundays 10:00am
lululemon santa monica, 331 Santa Monica Blvd, Santa Monica - Sundays 9:30am
lululemon sherman oaks showroom, 13559 Ventura Blvd, Sherman Oaks *
lululemon south bay, 2008A East Park Pl, El Segundo - Sundays 9:30am (also Saturdays 9:00am at the Shade Hotel in Manhattan Beach for the summer; check site for details)

* showrooms have limited retail hours; check websites for community events

also, all lululemon stores will be celebrating yoga month with FREE yoga on saturday, sept 25th!! (i'll post the details here once they've all been confirmed)

at 5 point yoga and point dume yoga in malibu:

Thanks to Lululemon and the Lululemon Malibu Showroom you have the opportunity to take FREE classes at 5 point yoga and Point Dume Yoga! All you have to do is go to the Lululemon Malibu Showroom and pick up a pass. Lululemon Malibu Showroom is located at 22333 PCH, Ste. #216, Malibu, CA 90265 - 310-456-5483

at black dog yoga in sherman oaks:

Click here for coupons for these FREE classes

ONE FREE CLASS with Dice Iida-Klein:
Dice's yoga classes are:
Tues & Thurs .... 7:00p - 8:30p....Strong Flow
Wednesday .... 9:00a - 10:30a....Strong Flow
Sunday ........... 9:30a - 11:00a....Strong Flow

ONE FREE CLASS with Bow Savikul:
Bow's yoga classes are:
Mon & Weds .... 7:00p - 8:30p....Basic+Gentle (Yin Yang Yoga)

ONE FREE CLASS with Cassie Crespo:
Cassies's yoga classes are:
Wednesday .... 12:15ap - 1:15p....Come Alive for $5 (Mixed Level Flow)
Sunday ........... 9:15a - 10:45a....Intermediate Flow

ONE FREE CLASS with Tyler Pagan:
Tylers's yoga class is:Friday .... 6:30p - 8:00p....Soulful Flow

at the green yogi in manhattan beach:

FREE YOGA 101 WORKSHOP with WENDY GARAFALO
SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 19TH 4:15 - 5:45 pm

Never done yoga? Now's your chance!!!
This workshop is perfect for those who are new to yoga, as well as for seasoned students who want to review the basics.

at heal and soul in tarzana:

New! Saturdays, 8:00 - 9:15 am
Tennis & Golf Yoga with Rozanne Englehart
FREE until 9/23!
Basic yoga routine focusing on the key muscles and joints utilized in tennis & golf rotations. Perfect for: Anyone who wants to improve shoulder and hip flexibility to develop more consistent and powerful performance - no yoga experience necessary

at jade apple yoga in north hollywood:

The Jade Apple is pleased to offer you a couple of featured classes to try out…for FREE!
This month’s freebies are:
FRIDAY Sept. 3rd at 9:30am FUN FRIDAY YOGA with KAREN
WEDNESDAY Sept 15th at 8pm VIBRANT FLOW with TREVOR
MONDAY Sept 20th at 11:30am KIND & GENTLE with LARA

at city yoga in west hollywood:

FREE Community Night: A basics approach to the Divine Feminine with Heather Foster
Tuesday, September 14th 7:30pm
Please R.S.V.P. by calling 323-654-2125

While juggling the many facets of daily life, do you find yourself able to promote your personal health as well as your spiritual growth?
Stressors within the social dynamics of work, the economy, our families and our precious free-time often lead to quick trigger responses, meals on the go, intimacy in a flash, doing more, getting there faster, taking care of others, checking things off the "to do" list ....
If you can relate, you may also relate to feeling somewhat disconnected. There is a certain amount of freedom lacking within such a paradigm. Not a freedom from our lives, but a more balanced sense of freedom within our lives. The cycle of birth, transformation and rebirth resides in all of us as the nurturing and sustaining influence within the bigger picture of the universe as a whole. These are aspects of the Divine Feminine. We will come together to look at our own preconceived notions behind the many aspects of the Divine Feminine and awaken our diverse understandings. With the intention to grow, evolve, and understand each other more fully, our transformation as individuals is enhanced. This class will include the opportunity to recognize both feminine and masculine aspects of reality as they exist in your life, followed by an asana practice to enliven the Shiva/Shakti energy within us and will end with a led meditation.
This workshop is for MEN AND WOMEN!

at the lululemon glendale store:

Moonlight Yoga on the Fall Equinox
lululemon Glendale hosts class on the Green at the Americana!
233 S. Brand Blvd, Glendale
Wednesday, Sept 22nd 9:00-10:00pm

Join us as we welcome the Fall Equinox with a beautiful moonlight yoga class on the green of the Americana. Taught by our Alumni Ambassador, Jeff Bass. Jeff will lead us through an exciting Anusara Inspired yoga class, which focuses on fun, alignment, and heart-opening. Remember all classes are complimentary!

at the lululemon plaza el segundo store:

Lululemon Plaza El Segundo's 3rd Birthday Party!
2008A East Park Place, El Segundo
Saturday, Sept 11th

Happy Birthday to us! Come celebrate PES turning 3! We will have a DJ, Four Truffles Skincare will be giving hand massages, and Sage will be providing yummy food!

at the new lululemon sherman oaks store:

GRAND OPENING PARTY!
13559 Ventura Boulevard, Sherman Oaks
Friday, Sept 10th 7:00-9:00pm

Let's celebrate!! Join us for an evening of food, drinks and live entertainment...oh and not to mention DJ Dinari on the ones and twos! uhhh, did we also mention there will be PRIZES?!! Can't wait for this rad night with our AMAZING community!!

at rising lotus yoga in sherman oaks:

(ask studio for coupon if you aren't on their mailing list)
One Class Free in September (for featured teachers):
Kate Szilagyi - Thursdays, 7:30-8:45am - Mixed Level (2-3)
Nicole Woodard - Saturdays, 5:00-6:30pm - Mixed Level (2-3)
Offer Expires: September 30, 2010. Valid for one class only per teacher.

at rymenmy yoga in palos verdes:

FREE Rymenmy Yoga Class!
When: Saturday 6-19-10
Time: 10-12:30 pm
Where: Donald Trump Golf Course Ocean Trails Drive
Contact: Rymenmy Healing Center 310-831-4279

Whether you've been practicing yoga for years or you're just getting started, Rymenmy Yoga is here to help. Learn how to get the most out of your yoga practice through learning proper breathing and poses. Presented by Rubi Reyes and a guest teacher!
Note: please bring a mat and water

at santa monica yoga in santa monica:

Free Yoga Orientation with Nathalie Canessa
Sunday Sept 26th 10:00-11:30 am
Space is limited; please pre-register

Santa Monica Yoga welcomes new students to our studio for a free orientation. Learn about what yoga is, where it came from and basic guidelines for practice. We also help you find classes that suit your needs and answer any questions you may have. A beginning level class will be included. Anyone who attends a free orientation, who has not previously purchased a pass at SMY, is eligible to purchase a 5, 10, 15, or 20-class pass at a 20% discount that day.

at the standard hotel in west hollywood:

Stan's Summer Club on the Pooldeck
Yoga on Saturdays and Sundays 9:30am
By Donation <-- not free, but close :) Saturday, Christel Joy Johnson Christel Joy’s class is Vinyasa Flow with a focus on alignment, open to all levels. In her class she loves to help her students understand why they do the pose in addition to helping them find the proper way to do it on their path to fitness, peace of mind and ultimately, health. Sunday, Nicole Ulrick Nicole is the founder of ThirdEye Yoga and Overflow Yoga. Her training includes Anusara Teacher Training, Bhakti Vinyasa Flow Teacher Training, Thai Yoga Therapy Essential and Foundational Trainings, Craniosacral Therapy level 1 and an ongoing self-study. The mantra of her teachings is to support and encourage people to embrace their unique nature both in body and in life path.

at yoga blend in burbank:

Free Intro to Yoga with Christy Marsden
Sunday, Sept 26th 1:30-3:30pm

New to Yoga? What class should you take? Have an injury? Need more energy? Want strength & flexibility? Looking to reduce stress?
Then this is the workshop for you! We will cover the basics of yoga philosophy, pranayama (breath control) and asana (yoga postures). It is a great workshop for those wanting to learn more about yoga before taking their first class. It is also an excellent overview for newer or current students.
We will be moving so be prepared with:
~ A mat (or you can use ours)
~ Clothes you can move in
~ Water and a towel
~ Any and all questions
~ An open heart and mind!

at yogaglo in santa monica:

all in-studio classes are FREE; you just need to sign a waiver that you're OK with being videotaped for their online classes :)

click here for this month's class schedule

at the yogi tree in toluca lake:

FREE INTRO TO KUNDALINI YOGA with Jennifer Kelly
Saturday, September 25, 1-4 pm

Are you new to yoga? Want to expand your current practice? Then this workshop is for you. In this safe, supportive, uplifting workshop, we will learn the fundamentals of Kundalini Yoga. We will cover the basics of yoga philosophy, pranayama (breath control), mudras ( hand movements), asana (yoga postures), mantras (positive affirmations), and meditation. This is a great workshop for those wanting to learn more about yoga before taking their first formal class. It is also an excellent overview for newer students and a great refresher for current students. What is Kundalini Yoga? A 5000 year-old science originated in India and brought to the United States by Yogi Bhajan some 40 years ago, Kundalini Yoga is for everyone - a blissful, challenging, celebratory practice that will help you achieve greater joy in your life and relief, too, from back pain, stress, addiction, depression, insomnia, and weight control issues. How can Kundalini Yoga help me? An inspiring and invigorating combination of movement, sound current, breath, and meditation which promotes relaxation and healing, allowing your spirit to flow freely, Kundalini Yoga is also known as "the yoga of awareness." This practice can release emotional blocks and deepen the connection between mind, body, and spirit. Please wear comfortable clothing, bring a yoga mat, a towel, a small pillow, and plenty of water.

FREE COMMUNITY NIGHT BAZAAR: Music, Meditation, Connection
Saturday, September 25, 6 - 9 pm
Pre-register NOW: http://www.theyogitree.com/

God creates men, but they choose each other, said Machiavelli. The Yogi Tree is so grateful that you've chosen each other - and that you've chosen to share your journey with us.
We are so privileged and excited to invite you to this FREE celebration of The Yogi Tree community, which will honor you, our studio, and National Yoga Month (http://www.yogamonth.org/).
Come as you are, with an open heart and whatever else you've got. Perhaps it's a delicious and healthy dessert or a scrumptious hors d'oeurvres (no alcohol, please). Maybe it's an acoustic guitar or a wonderfully funny joke. Could be you're an artist, a jewelry maker, a collector, or a poet. Whoever you are, whatever you love, however you fill your life, that's all we ask of you on this amazing evening of sharing and connection.
If you make art, bring it. If you make music, be ready to make it. If you do jokes or rhymes, prepare to crack them. If you collect comics or exotic bric-a-brac, don't be shy. If you love to eat, bring your favorite dish.
The Yogi Tree will provide music, meditation, an open mic, and that space we've all come to know and love.
Also, don't forget to clean out your closet, bringing along any clothing you no longer wear. We'll pile it up like a ceremonial bonfire, minus the flames, and take turns digging for buried treasure. You could walk away with a gently used blouse or a legendary pair of Doc Martens, a hot pair of jeans or a studly new (non)smoking jacket. Wacky - and fun!
Let's call this the First Annual Community Night Bazaar at The Yogi Tree. We know we'll be seeing you there...

at yogis anonymous in santa monica:

Yogis Anonymous 1st Anniversary Party!
Saturday, Sept 18th 8:00pm

We are ONE!!!! What do you get when you mix a bunch of yogis, a Mezcal tasting (for those who choose to partake), a karaoke machine and a bunch of twister mats?? Come find out and party with us on Saturday September 18, 8pm-?? As we celebrate our first year and our amazing community (YOU). Happy Birthday!


~~ you'll need to pull out your wallet for these events... for a good reason, of course :) ~~~

Save the Sea Turtles in the Gulf! with Dice Iida-Klein and Briohny Smyth
Black Dog Yoga, Sherman Oaks
Sunday, Sept 5th 9:30-11:30am
Cost: $20 suggested donation - all proceeds will be donated

Join Dice and Briohny in their efforts to help spread awareness and raise funds for Kurmalliance to help save the sea turtles in the Gulf.
In this special extended Sunday morning class you will deepen your understanding of inversions and arm balances, as well as play with transitions from right side up to upside down and visa versa. Prepare to work hard and have fun for a righteous cause!
Kurma is the Sanskrit word for turtle. Beloved Kurma is also the second avatar of Vishnu. He is the preserver, the one who comes to the rescue. The one we need now!
In an age old story, Vishnu comes in earthly form as Kurma to save humanity by hoisting a great mountain upon his shell, churning the seas and distilling the elixir of life. That was the first time the turtle saved the world - the second is now. The turtle is the totem of this revolution. He is providing the motivation to get involved and fight for what is right. The nectar of life lies within the ocean, and if we continue to kill it, we will be faced with our own death and extinction.
You can also donate independently online by visiting the sites below:
www.insightsfoundation.com/donations
www.yogisanonymous.com/Events-kurmalliance.htm
http://www.kurmalliance.com/


Bhakti Fest 2010
Joshua Tree Retreat Center, 59700 29 Palms Hwy, Joshua Tree
Thursday, Sept 9th thru Sunday , Sept 12th
Cost: 4-day pass - $300, weekend pass (sat/sun) - $170, sunday pass - $75 (see website for kids passes, housing, etc.)


Bhakti Fest is a four day music festival celebrating devotion through chanting, yoga, meditation and community. All of our presenters embody the spirit of Bhakti - deep devotion. We gather on 450 acres of inspiring desert land to express our love and devotion as one community through an enchanting array of activities, including:
~ Constant Kirtan Concerts
~ Yoga Classes
~ Private and Group Meditation
~ Vegetarian, Vegan, and Raw Vegan Cuisine
~ Fire Ceremonies (Pujas)
~ Hanuman Chalisas
~ Eco-Friendly Vendor Village
~ Camping, Cottages and Cabin Accommodations
~ Wellness Sanctuary: with massage, reiki, channeling, and other unique healing sessions.
In addition, a substantial portion of the festival's proceeds are donated to charitable organizations.


The Art Sutra: A Weekend on the Arts and Enlightenment
Mahasukha Center, Westchester
Friday, Sept 10th thru Sunday, Sept 12th
Cost: Suggested donation - $50 weekend, $30 day pass, $10 per drop-in class


Explore emptiness through the arts during this urban weekend retreat. Discover how emptiness awakens your experience of Performance, Dance, Music, Visual Art, Language, Touch and Yoga. Class details at www.theartsutra.com.

Fri., Sept. 10
7:30-9:30pm - Art, the Senses and Emptiness with Venerable Sumati Marut, Transcedent Speech with Cindy Lee

Sat., Sept. 11
12-1:30pm - Destroying Yourself to Create with Theatre Maker and Actor Brian Reid
2-3:00pm - The Impossible Touch with Yoga/Massage Therapist Claire Thompson
4-6:00pm - Understanding Your Four Infinite Bodies with Choreographer Mira Kingsley
8-11:00pm - Moving in Your Four Infinite Bodies with Choreographer Mira Kingsley, DJ SolarLion and live drummers

Sun., Sept 12
10am-12pm - Tibetan Heart Yoga - The Yoga of Wisdom with Yoginis Sarah Canfield and Rebecca Stanley
1-3:00pm - Art as Meditation, Meditation as Art with Visual Artist Douglas Paul Smith
3:30-5:00pm - Basslines and Buddhism with DJ/Producer FreQ Nasty
5-6:30pm - Dub Kirtan All-Star Jam with David Starfire, FreQ Nasty, G-dub, Dvine1, Henry Strange, SolarLion and vocalists


Your Neighborhood Studio Family BBQ & Potluck
Carlson Park, Braddock Drive at Motor Avenue, Culver City
Saturday, Sept 11th 1:00-5:00pm
Cost: it's a potluck!

Join the YNS family for an end of the summer BBQ! Fun in the sun, yummy food and drinks, games & dancing - we would love to celebrate our love for dance with our amazing YNS community!
We will provide meat to grill (vegetarians please bring any special items that you might want). However, we would greatly appreciate if you would contribute any Picnic/Potluck style dish as well. This way we have plenty of food to go around : )
What you can expect: Kickball, Bingo & of course, DANCING! It's going to be a blast!
Please RSVP with what dish you are bringing so we can keep a tally of what food will be provided. Thanks!


APLA Fundraiser Class: A special yoga class fundraiser with Ally Hamilton, Charlie Samos, and Lauren Peterson
Yogis Anonymous, Santa Monica
Sunday, Sept 12th 11:45am-1:45pm
Cost: Suggested donation $14 (All proceeds to APLA)


Join Ally Hamilton, Charlie Samos, and Lauren Peterson for a special 2 hour yoga class to raise funds for AIDS Project LA.
AIDS Project Los Angeles is dedicated to: improving the lives of people affected by HIV disease; reducing the incidence of HIV infection; and advocating for fair and effective HIV-related public policy.


Kirtan with Yogis & Friends with Greg Klimuck & LB Iddings
Yoga Blend, Burbank
Friday, Sept 17th 8:30-10:30 PM
Cost: Suggested Donation $15


Music is SOUL good for you!
LB and Greg are kirtan artists spreading peace, love, and commUNITY through music. Join us and our musical friends for an evening of ecstatic music and song as your heart and soul dance!... and maybe even your feet!
Kirtan is a call and response style of music born of the Bhakti Yoga tradition. "Bhakti" is the yoga of love and devotion. In kirtan we combine our voices, minds, hearts, and breath with music to build an ecstatic energy virtually impossible to duplicate. There is no line between band and audience as we become all one entity with the vibrations. No prior singing experience necessary. Just be sure to bring your positive intentions and a “cush for your tush”.


Seasonal OM Chant with Allison McCready
Santa Monica Yoga, Santa Monica
Saturday, Sept 18th 6:00-7:15 pm

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


An Evening of Kirtan with Mike Cohen
Yoga at the Village, Glendale
Saturday, Sept 18th 8:00pm
Cost: $15 in advance, $20 at the door; space is limited


Kirtan with Mike Cohen and Friends is an invitation to sing, clap, meditate and dance together to create deep connection to the secret places of your soul. Visit http://www.mikecohenkirtan.com/ for a free download sample from Mike's album, Om Dattatreya: Journey to the West
LIGHT FARE, SOFT DRINKS, WINE AND BEER AVAILABLE


Yoga Aid Challenge Los Angeles
YogaCo, Santa Monica
Sunday, Sept 19th 11:00am-1:00pm
Cost: By donation

Yoga Aid began in 2006 with knowledge so beautifully summed up in MC Yogi’s words: “When we live to give love, there’s no greater feeling”. Two yoga enthusiasts, Clive and Eriko, set out to put their yoga practice into action by creating the Yoga Aid Challenge, an international fundraising event with the dual purpose of raising funds for charity and sharing the wonderful joys of yoga.
Come practice Asana and Karma Yoga with the LA yoga community as they raise awareness and money for Y.O.G.A. for Youth, 4 One World, Off the Mat into the World, and Africa Yoga Project. Participants will take the 2 hour yoga challenge featuring 12 amazing teachers, including Sarah Ezrin, Annie Carpenter, Denise Kaufman, Jay Co, Brock Cahill, Krista Cahill, Kathryn Budig, Claire Hartley, Jennifer Pastiloff, Tiffany Russo, Jen Posner, and Hillary Rubin!
Register online for FREE at http://www.yogaaid.com/.
Check out the youtube video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w-juMgVj20w


FALL EQUINOX Celebration
Bhakti Yoga Shala, Santa Monica
Sunday, Sept 19th 6:00-9:00pm
Cost: Suggested Donation $15


A Bhakti Ritual Ceremony where we dive deeply into Yin Yoga, Astrology/Meditation, and Kirtan with Govindas, Ashley Laksmi and Lisa Florine
The Fall equinox will be at 8:09 p.m. in Santa Monica on September 22, 2010. On the evening of Sunday, September 19, we will be honoring this auspicious time with a Meditative Bhakti Ritual Ceremony that includes exploring the deeply relaxing meditative yin style asana practice and how the potent time of the fall equinox coupled with western astrology affects our personal experiences, and the heart opening soul cleansing experience of singing out through Kirtan. Through balancing our physical, mental, emotional, energetic, and spiritual bodies this evening will aid us as we enter in the new season of Fall with a renewed sense of lightness, focus, joy, and a highly in tune consciousness and awareness that will leave us feeling a sense of freedom and gratitude for our lives! Jai Ma


Anusara Grand Gathering and Yoga Journal Conference
YMCA of the Rockies, Estes Park, CO
Sunday. Sept 19th 7:30pm through Sunday, Sept 26th 12:00pm

Join us for our 15th Annual Colorado Conference set in the Rockies Mountains in Estes Park, CO. This year features the Anusara Yoga Grand Gathering with John Friend and other top certified Anusara teachers. It sold out in 2008, so register early!
We will also offer 4 days of 100+ yoga classes in all styles for all levels with 40+ teachers. Choose from the Main Conference or an All Day Intensive including Rock Climbing and Yoga on Thursday and Friday plus Special Events such as:
* Concert with Krishna Das
* LUNAFEST Film Festival
* Trance Dance with Shiva Rea, Shantala, and DJ Dragonfly
* Kirtan with Shantala


Yoga for Peace with Siri Högfeldt
Tuesday, Sept 21st 8:00pm
Purple Yoga, Long Beach
Cost: By donation

September 21 is the International Day of Peace. It became a day in the calendar 10 years ago when Jeremy Gilley decided to take action to increase people's awareness around peace. It is a day that is not only about creating peace between nations but about non-violence at all levels, in our homes, communities, and within ourselves.

Purple Yoga and Siri will honor Jeremy's effort of bringing people together by dedicating a class and its proceeds to peace September 21 at 8pm. It will be a fun 90 minute class with focus on moving from a place of compassion and care, partner work in challenging poses, and finding peace, happiness, and home within us. Class will start with breathing and short meditation, warming up with sun salutations, and playing with fun poses to the sound of great artist and poets who have created music with awareness and love for all people on earth.

There is more information to be found about all the great work people are doing around the world throughout this day at http://www.peaceoneday.org/.

This is a donation based class open to everyone. Pay what you like, or just check in with your regular membership. All proceeds will go to Long Beach Rescue Mission who provides food, clothing, and shelter to thousands of men, women and children.


Fall Equinox Celebration with Bekah Finch
Yoga Blend, Burbank
Tuesday, Sept 21st 8:30-10:30pm
Cost: Suggested Donation $15, a portion of proceeds donated to charity


The equinox is equal day and night; once again we have an opportunity to bring our bodies, minds, spirits and emotions into balance before the nights grow longer. The Fall is about harvest, reaping what you have sowed over the year. It is the most powerful time to decide what is working and not working in your life and begin to take action towards letting go. Just as the trees change to orange and red before the leaves wither, and the fruits and vegetables are full and heavy before they rot, we must take the time to receive the light and then prepare to release it. It is a time of gratitude and moving toward introspection.
Join Bekah for an evening of honoring the transition to Autumn through Yoga, Sacred Circle, Meditation and Creation.


"Yoga Unveiled" Screening and Q&A with the film's director, Gita Desai
Loyola Marymount University, University Hall
Friday, Sept 24th 7pm
Cost: $10

Please join us at LMU for a screening of the award winning movie "Yoga Unveiled" followed by a live Q&A after the film by director, Gita Desai. The event is made possible by Eden Goldman and Terra Gold's “Yoga and the Healing Sciences” Yoga Teacher Training Program @ LMU, which begins on September 17. It is one of only 4 events in the training that is open to the public.
"Yoga Unveiled" harnesses the colorful commentary of prominent yoga scholars, teachers and medical experts including Indra Devi, B.K.S. Iyengar, Jon Kabat-Zinn, Rodney Yee, Georg Feuerstein, Larry Payne, Pattabhi Jois, Pandit Rajmani Tigunait, Patricia Walden, Dr. Dean Ornish, T.K.V. Desikachar, Krishna Das, Dr. Mehmet Oz and many more! As Dr. Deepak Chopra said, “Yoga Unveiled is a one-of-a-kind documentary film that covers the most comprehensive overview of the yoga tradition in its true essence. An artistic and inspirational triumph, it should be viewed by all!”
Directions: Enter the LMU campus from Lincoln Blvd by turning onto LMU Drive. Once you pass the guard gate, University Hall is the first building on the right. Park in the parking lot & follow the posted signs to the room.
For more information please visit http://www.yogadoctors.com/


Annual September Equinox with Jessica Anderson
Yogaworks Westlake Village
Friday, Sept 24th 7:00-9:30pm
Cost: $25

September Equinox marks the first day of the fall season, where night and daylight hours are equal. There is a tremendous value in seeking balance in times when we feel trapped in daily life routines, hardships, or lack of inspiration.Jessica will draw upon the theme of opposites through sun/moon, masculine/feminine, yin/yang, and the archetypes of Shiva and Shakti, as a way to guide the body through posture (asana), by the flow of the breath (pranayama), towards a balanced mind state (equanimity/ meditation/dhyana.
*With special guest musician Cooper Madison Ladnier


Yoga for Change with Grace for Coastal Cleanup Day
Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica
Saturday, Sept 25th 7:30-9:00am
Cost: Minimum donation $5 per participant on the day of the event. Please make sure to bring cash/check with you. All donations will benefit Heal the Bay

Get Involved in Coastal Cleanup Day and start with Yoga with Grace on the Santa Monica Pier! All proceeds benefit Heal the Bay.
On Saturday, September 25th, from 7:30am to 9:00am, Yoga for Change hosts Grace Yoga on the west end of Santa Monica Pier with a donation-based, all levels Sunrise Yoga Class. Please bring your mat, water and wear warm, layered clothing. Space is limited and participants are strongly encouraged to RSVP via Eventbrite to reserve space. Please RSVP here so we keep track of attendees as space is limited and will be capped at 150.
7am to 7:45am - Check in
7:50am to 8am - Morning Meditation
8am to 9am - Vinyasa FlowEarly arrival suggested to ensure a prompt 7:50am start.
Any questions, please email grace@graceyogala.com. For more information about Yoga For Change, please email info@iyogaforchange.com.


Sweat For Tashirat ~ A special donation based class taught by Chaz Russ
Yogaworks Westlake Village
Saturday, Sept 25th 11:30am-2:00pm
Cost: By donation

11:30 -pre class meet & greet, learn about Tashirat, FREE aromatherapy consultations with Robin Barnette of Aromachick
12-1:30 - Fun vinyasa class with CHAZ RUSS
1:30-2:00 - yummy snacks compliments of Chipotle
To RSVP and RESERVE YOUR SPACE: 805-371-3030
EMAIL: kasa.philanthropy@gmail.com
ALL LEVELS WELCOME

Tashirat yoga school and Ashram is located in the mountains of Central Mexico. Since it's founding in 1993, the Tashirat staff has served the neediest sectors of society, providing yoga, counseling, classes in natural and remedial education. In 2003, the Tashirat Foundation staff decided that the greatest service they could provide the surrounding community would be to open an orphanage.http://www.tashiratkids.org/http://www.tashirat.com/tashirat-kids-newsletter-junejuly-2010


The Seva Series - 108 Sun Salutes with Nicole Honnig
Yoga Blend, Burbank
Saturday, Sept 25th 1:30-4:00 PM
Cost: Suggested Donation $15, a portion of the proceeds will be donated to charity


A Sun Salutation is a series of yoga poses linked together, common in almost every style of yoga. 108 is a sacred number in numerous traditions. This workshop is open to all levels, just be prepared to work up a sweat! You can do as many or as few as you want. It is your intention, and most importantly, your presence that counts. You can take breaks as often as you need to and soak up the energy as it flows around you, and then jump back in whenever you recover and you won't have to worry about keeping track.
Seva, a Sanskrit word, means "selfless service". This is a DONATION ONLY workshop open to everyone who wishes to explore the benefits that this healing practice has to offer. The word "service" does not fully capture the essence of the word seva. Seva is much more than donating money to a charity. The word "seva" means 'together with' and describes those actions that seek collective upliftment through an understanding of the needs of others, and are based on togetherness and integration. Seva is an expression of compassion, of the desire to uplift and assist people. Beginners to advanced yogis are welcome.


Stretch to the Cure with Sarah Girard
YogaCo, Santa Monica
Sunday, Sept 26th 9:30-11:00am
Cost: By donation


It seems that more and more of us are being affected by a form of cancer, whether directly or through a loved one.
Being a cancer survivor, and one who's life has been affected so deeply by this enigmatic disease, Stretch to the Cure is connected deeply to my heart.
I truly believe that through our consciousness and generosity, we will be able to find a cure for cancer.
As always,
ALL are welcome.
ALL Levels Flow.
ALL cash donations are accepted.
Please bring a friend, your mat and your intentions!!!
Let's get moving!!!

Thursday, September 02, 2010

is it summer yet?

the labor day holiday is almost upon us, but if you live on the westside like me, you're probably still waiting for summer to arrive. with average daytime temps in the low 70's and the evenings cooling down to the mid 50's, i've had to carry along a lightweight jacket every time i've walked out my front door :(

our usual june gloom turned into july gloom. then august gloom. in fact, i biked to the titans of yoga movie premiere here in santa monica last night and was tempted to wear my ugg boots to keep my feet warm. yes, it was that cold. ugh.

but then again, on those handful of days when the sun did peek out and it got warm and toasty, we all whined about how dreadfully hot it was. yes, i'll admit it; all this wonderful southern california weather has gotten us spoiled...

maybe we should just practice more yoga indoors so we don't notice how cold or how hot it is outside? :)

so while most of the country is hoping that the labor day holiday will mark the end of summer and the start of their cooling trend, i'm keeping my fingers crossed that it'll be warm enough to bike around in shorts and flipflops this weekend. which reminds me -- i need to dig out my shorts and shake them out because they've been folded up all summer!

speaking of the labor day holiday, many yoga studios will be observing the weekend with abbreviated schedules; here's what's been posted so far. keep checking back for updates...

5 point yoga, malibu

Saturday:
9am - Ted McDonald - Vinyasa Flow - Level 2/3
10:45am - Ted McDonald - Vinyasa Flow - Level 2/3

Sunday:
8:30am - Krista Cahill - Slow Flow - All levels
9:30am - Krista Cahill - Core Yoga - All levels (strong class)
11am - Brigitte Bedi - Happy Yoga - All levels (strong flow)

Monday:
9am - Michelle Geft - Vinyasa Flow - All levels
10:45 - Tara - Prime of Life Yoga

black dog yoga, sherman oaks

Saturday, September 4th - Regular Schedule.
Sunday, September 5th - Regular Schedule except No Belly Dance class.

Monday, September 6th:
9:00a - 10:30a Strong Flow Briohny Smyth
9:30a - 10:55a Basic Flow Sigrid Matthews
10:30a - 11:30a Kick-BoX Burn Joe Rivera
10:35a - 12:05p Strong Anusara Jenny Brill
11:00a - 12:30p Deep Stretch, All Levels Heidi Kaufman
12:15p - 1:15p Come Alive for $5 (Mixed Level Flow) Shawn Bracha

city yoga, west hollywood

Sunday Sept 5th:
9:00-10:30 Alain
10:30-12:00 Miki
11:00-12:30 Nicole

Monday Sept 6th:
8:30-10:00 Anthony
9:00-10:30 Maud
All other classes are cancelled.

dharma mittra yoga, los angeles

Special schedule on Monday:
915am Sonya - Dharma 1/2
630pm Nina - Dharma 1

earth's power yoga, los angeles

Labor Day Weekend Schedule
Due to a small shortage in Staff this Labor day week we will have abridged scheduling:
Thursday 9/2 10:30 am Lyndsey / 5:45 pm Steven
Friday 9/3 10:30 am Lyndsey
Saturday 9/4 10:30 am Steven
Sunday 9/5 10:30 am Steven
Monday 9/6 10:30 am Steven
We will resume to our full schedule Tuesday the 7th with all our regular teachers.

exhale center for sacred movement, venice

Labor Day Schedule:
8:00 - Shiva Rea - 2/3
9:15 - Keri-Anne Telford - 1
10:30 - Annie Carpenter - 2/3
10:45 - Matthew Cohen - 1/2
12:30 - Cristi Christensen - 1/2
12:45 - Brad Keimach - 2/3

golden bridge yoga, hollywood

Monday, September 6th
10:00am-12:00pm - Labor Day Class: Expanding into your Excellence with Gurmukh
Cost: $20
We all have a destiny we have been given to grow towards, and we all have an inner calling that reflects a bright and beautiful ray of light of the Infinite.
That inner connection can become so bright & peaceful that you can wake up another person just with your glow. When your own Vastness is awakened in you, your presence will speak.
As the consciousness is elevated, we are given the courage, organization and one pointedness to find our direction. With the help of Kundalini Yoga and Deep Meditation, we can decide how the next chapter of our lives will look, and move towards our own Greatness.
Join us as we awaken the psyche towards the next great adventure of our own unfolding.
Studio closed the rest of the day.

heal and soul yoga, encino

Labor Day Weekend - Full class schedule!!!! With the following exceptions....
There will be NO:
Advanced Tai Chi - Saturday 8-9:30 AM
Yoga For Backs - Saturday 3-4:30 PM
Qigong - Monday 7-8 PM

in the mudra yoga and dance, woodland hills

The studio will be closed Thurs 9/02 - 9/06. My son & I are going camping in Kings Canyon with the Sequoia trees & will be completely unplugged! Have a great safe weekend & hope to see you all when I return...love suzanne

the infinite yoga, long beach

The Infinite is Closed from Sept 2nd - 8th. See you all next week:)

inyoga center, valley village

Sat 7/4: Regular schedule; no changes
Sun 7/5: Regular schedule; no changes
Mon 7/6: Mo Flow (9-10:30) with Clio Manuelian / Lo Flow (10:30-12) with Emily Kosloski

iyengar institute, los angeles

Special Schedule – Labor Day – Monday, September 6
9:30-11:00 am – All Levels with Marla Apt
All other classes with be canceled for the holiday
Institute Hours will be 9:00 am-12:00 pm

Normal class schedule will resume Tuesday, September 7

the jade apple, north hollywood

We will have our regular schedule for Labor Day weekend, so come on by for your favorite classes.
On Monday, September 6th, we will have just one class…a SPECIAL 2-Hour Yoga class with our very special teacher, Danny Gray! This class is fit for all levels of practice and will be an amazing experience for everyone.
Stay after the class for a fun potluck on the patio! Bring a dish if you’d like…and spend the day with our community!!!i

karen shuman's yoga remedy, sherman oaks

LABOR DAY WEEKEND SCHEDULE:
Friday Sept 3rd the Tai Chi class has been canceled. Early morning schedule as usual.
Saturday Sept. 4th schedule is the same as always.

Sunday Sept. 5th shortened schedule:
10:30-12:00pm - Kundalini Yoga & Meditation - Alana Gentry
5:00-6:30pm - Relax, Restore, Renew - Karen Shuman
7:00-8:15pm - Belly Dancing - Shiri Soloman

Monday Sept 6th LABOR DAY shortened schedule:
7:15-8:45am - Kundalini Yoga & Meditation - Nina Berry
10:30-12:00pm - Yoga for Your Body - Karen Shuman
closed for the rest of the day!!

Schedule will resume to its normal times on Tuesday!!

liberation yoga, los angeles

LABOR DAY WEEKEND SCHEDULE~
SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 4th:
8:30am Vinyasa Krama with Arun is CANCELLED just for this weekend.
The rest of the day is as usual.

SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 5th: Schedule is as usual.

MONDAY- SEPTEMBER 6TH - LABOR DAY:
8:00am-10:00am Ashtanga Mysore Style with Joel Bender
8:30am-10:00am Level 2 with Steven Freedman
10:00am-11:30am Iyengar All levels with Pagan
10:00am-11:30am Level 1 with Lynn Taylor
11:30am-1:00pm Vinyasa Flow level 2/3 with Claudia Fucigna

maha yoga, brentwood

these are the classes listed on the schedule for monday, sept 6:
7:00:00 AM - 9:00:00 AM - Mysore Ashtanga - Jorgen Christiansson
9:15:00 AM - 10:45:00 AM - All Levels - Gabi
11:00:00 AM - 12:30:00 PM - Level 2&3 - Steve Ross

mission street yoga, south pasadena

Monday 09/06/10:
09:00AM 10:30AM - Anusara Style/Basic - Nancy Kyes
10:30AM 11:30AM - Pilates Sculpt/All Levels - Rhea Corona
10:45AM 12:15PM - Mixed - Brad Smith
12:30PM 01:30PM - FIVE DOLLAR YOGA! All Levels - Jose Alvarado
All other classes are canceled.

point dume yoga, malibu

Saturday:
9am - Michelle Kronenberg - Iyengar Yoga - All levels
10:45am - Debbie Pommer-Seigel - Vinyasa Flow - All levels

Sunday:
9am - Ryan Patterson - Deep Flow - All levels
10:45am - Debbie Pommer-Seigel - Vinyasa Flow - All levels

Monday:
9am - Ted McDonald - Vinyasa Flow - Level 2/3
11am - Michelle Kronenberg - Iyengar Yoga - All levels

purple yoga, long beach

Holiday classes are typically busy, online reservations recommended.
Purple Yoga Long Beach Labor Day Cancellations:
6:30pm Red Series
7:00pm Blue Series
8:00pm Red Series
Regular Schedule resumes Tuesday, September 7th.

raksa, culver city

For Labor Day, we will be closed tomorrow Sun 9/5 and 'Feldenkrais for Wellness' class is canceled for Mon 9/6. Have a lovely and safe holiday!

rising lotus yoga, sherman oaks

Labor Day Hours:
8:30 - 9:30 - Level 1-2 - Lindsley Allen
9:00 - 10:30 - Mixed Level - Claire Hartley
9:35 - 11:00 - Easy Does It - Karen Rosales
10:35 - 12:05 - Level 1 - Kiera Anderson
12:15 - 1:15 - Lunch Flow (2-3) Jennifer Black
All other classes are canceled. Enjoy your holiday!

santa monica yoga, santa monica

Monday, September 6th: Closed for Labor Day

silver lake yoga, silverlake

Labor Day MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 6
9:15-10:30 am - Beginners II with Jonathan
10:45 am-noon - Prenatal with Sarah
11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. - Mixed Levels/Flow with Susan Priver
All other classes will be canceled.

still yoga, silverlake

Only one class on Monday, Sept 6th:
12:30 - 2:00 PM - all levels anusara - Tony Giuliano
All other classes that day are canceled

swerve studio, los angeles

Special Labor Day Schedule:
SATURDAY the 4th
8:30am - World Beat Workout with Kim B.
10:00am - YBB with Teigh M.
11:30am - Circuit Training with Robin R. (subbing for Patty)
12:15pm - Ballet with Mike C.
1:30pm - Bollywood Bhangra Beats with Achinta M.
2:30pm - Triple A with Krista M.
3:30pm - Modern Jazz with Kim B. (special class format!)

SUNDAY the 5th
10:00am - YBB with Lauren Haze
11:30am - Circuit Training with Robin R.
11:30am - Bollywood Bhangra Beats with Achinta M.
*All Afternoon classes are canceled

MONDAY the 6th (Labor Day)
8:30am - Barre Body and More with Kim D.
9:30am - 6 pack abs with Kim D.
10:00am - YBB with Lauren Haze
11:30am - Triple A with Krista M.
12:15pm - Circuit Training w/ Amanda B. (subbing for Patty)
*All Afternoon and Evening classes are canceled

tenth gate yoga, various locations

SATURDAY 9/4
8-9:15 AM - HATHA YOGA, St. Bernard High School, Playa del Rey

SUNDAY 9/5
9-10 AM - YOGA BY THE SEA, Will Rogers State Beach, Pacific Palisades

MONDAY 9/6
9:30-10:30 AM - End of Summer/Labor Day Yoga Class, 1800 So. Shenandoah St, Los Angeles

up dog yoga + cycling, west hollywood

Labor Day Dog (Special Class Schedule) - Monday, September 6
Yoga:
9am - 10:15am (all levels) - Claudia
10:30am - 12:00pm (full blast) - Meaghan
1 - 2pm (community class) - Siddiqi

Cycling:
8:15 - 9am - Charlene
9:30 - 10:15am - Sandra
12:15 - 1pm - Siddiqi

u studio yoga, los angeles

Our Labor Day Weekend Schedule:
Wed Sept 1, 7pm - Mary
Thurs Sept 2, 10:15am - Mary / 5:30pm - Omar
Fri Sept 3, 5:30 - Mary
Sat Sept 4, 9am - Mary (no 10:30am)
Sun Sept 5, 10:30am - Mary (no 4pm)
Mon Sept 6, 10:30 - Mary
(Andrea is out of town Thurs 9/2 - Mon 9/6)

urban lily yoga, sherman oaks

Urban Lily's “Special” Labor Day Class Schedule for Monday, September 6, 2010 Includes: 9:00–10:30am Yoga Blend Level 1/2
10:30am-12:00pm Vinyasa Flow Level 2/3
Both With Elinore Cohen.
ALL Other Classes are Cancelled for the Day. Happy Labor Day!!!!

urth yoga, silverlake

Monday, September 6th:
9:00a - Basics/Intermediate with Keric
10:45a - Mixed Levels with Nicole
12:30p - $5 Yoga Hour with Sarika

YAS - venice, silverlake, and downtown LA

All YAS Locations are OPEN ½ Day on Labor Day, come “Start Your Day Off Right!!”

yoga at the village, glendale

~Open as usual Labor Day Weekend~

yoga blend, burbank

Monday, September 6th:
9:30am - 11:00am Basics w/ Bekah Finch
11:30am - 12:45am Gentle w/ Bekah FInch
12:00pm - 1:30pm Mixed Level w/ Keric Morinaga
1:00pm - 2:00pm Yoga Stretch w/ Priscilla Williams
Studio will close at 2:00pm on Monday and all remaining classes will be canceled.
Our regular class schedule resumes Tuesday morning. Have a wonderful holiday!

yogaco, santa monica

Labor Day cancellations:
11am-Robert/Water Room
11:45am-Brian/Water Room
5:30pm-Rennie/Earth Room
6pm-Grant/Water Room
7pm-Chelsea/Earth Room
7:45pm-Jennifer/Water Room
10:30pm-Jay Co/Earth room

yogaglo, santa monica

4:15 - 5:15 pm - Vinyasa Flow Level 2 - Kathryn Budig will be subbing for Jo Tastula
6 - 7:30 pm - Anusara® Level 2 - Noah Mazé

yogahop, santa monica

Monday, September 06:
8:15AM-9:45AM - Level 2/3 - Matthew Reyes
10:00AM-11:00AM - Level 2/3 - Kourtney Kaas
1:00PM-2:00PM - Cancelled
4:30PM-6:00PM - Cancelled
6:30PM-7:45PM - Summit 2/3+ - Matthew Reyes
8:00PM-9:00PM - Cancelled

yoga loft, manhattan beach

LABOR DAY WEEKEND:
Friday: Regular Schedule
Saturday: Regular Schedule

Sunday:
8:30 am 2/3 Flow w/Genevieve
10:00 am 1/2 Flow w/Genevieve

Monday:
8:40 am 2/3 Flow w/Suzy
10:15 am 1/2 Flow w/Suzy

the yoga loft, woodland hills

We will be open over the Labor Day weekend except the Monday 7:00 pm class will be canceled.

yoga shelter, studio city

LABOR DAY SCHEDULE:
Monday September 6, 2010
9:45am Yoga Rocks with Lisa
11:15am Slow Flow with Lisa
*all other classes (on 9.6.10 only) will be canceled*

yoga west, los angeles

Yoga West will be closed Monday, September 6th for Labor Day
We will be open for regular classes on Tuesday, September 7th!

yoga works center for yoga, los angeles

Monday 9/6/2010
08:00-09:25am - Maria Zavala - Yoga Blend (1/2)
08:30-09:55am - Billy Gill - Yoga Blend 2
09:30-10:55am - Bebe Chianni Lin - Yoga Works (1)
10:00-11:30am - Joan Hyman - Vinyasa Flow 2/3
11:00-01:00pm - Jodi Blumstein - Ashtanga / Mysore
11:30-01:00pm - Paul Cabanis - Iyengar (2)
All other classes are canceled

yoga works main street, santa monica

Monday 9/6/2010
07:30-09:00am - Chad Hamrin - Yoga Blend 2/3
09:15-10:45am - Vinnie Marino - Vinyasa Flow 2/3
11:00-12:30pm - Sara Ivanhoe - Vinyasa Flow 2/3
12:45-02:15pm - Rachael Simmons - YogaWorks 1/2
All other classes are canceled

yoga works montana avenue, santa monica

Monday 9/6/2010
06:30-08:55am - Sonya Cottle - Ashtanga / Mysore
07:30-08:55am - Al Tavera - Yoga Works (1)
09:00-10:30am - Malachi Melville - Vinyasa Flow 2
09:15-10:45am - Scott Hobbs - Iyengar (1&2)
10:45-12:10 - Alexandria Crow - Vinyasa Flow 2/3
11:00-12:30pm - Charlie Samos - Yoga Blend (1/2)
All other classes are canceled

yoga works pacific palisades

Monday 9/6/2010
09:00-10:25am - Szymon Wojcik- Yoga Blend 2
10:30-11:55am - Larry Heliker - Iyengar 1/2
12:00-01:30pm - Al Tavera - YogaWorks 1
All other classes are canceled

yoga works south bay, el segundo

Monday 9/6/2010
06:00-08:00am - Natale Ferreira- Ashtanga/Mysore
08:30-09:30am - Monica Schuller - Mat Pilates 1/2
09:30-11:00am - Greville Henwood - Vinyasa Flow 2/3
10:00-11:25am - Doug Binzak - Yoga Blend (1)
11:15-12:45pm - Saraswati Browne - Iyengar (1&2)
11:30-01:00pm - Genevieve Fischer - Vinyasa Flow 2
All other classes are canceled

yoga works westwood

Monday 9/6/2010
08:00-09:30am - Bahni Turpin - Vinyasa Flow 2
09:30-11:00am - Thomas Taubman - YogaWorks 1/2
10:45-12:15pm - David Kim - Vinyasa Flow 2/3
11:45-01:15pm - Marla Apt - Iyengar (2)
All other classes are canceled

the yogi tree, toluca lake

In honor of the Labor Day holiday, The Yogi Tree will be CLOSED Monday, September 6.
We WILL be open for regularly scheduled classes SATURDAY and SUNDAY, September 4 and 5, with regular schedule resuming TUESDAY, September 7.
Have a blessed, beautiful holiday!!!

yogis anonymous, santa monica

Labor Day, Monday, September 6:
9:15 AM - 10:45 AM- Krista Cahill- Level 2/3 Inversional Flow
11:00 AM - 12:30 PM- Ally Hamilton- All Levels Power Yoga
2:30 PM - 3:55 PM- Gina Regalbuto- All Levels Vinyasa Flow
6:30 PM - 8:00 PM- Jorgen Christiansson- Led Primary Series

your neighborhood studio, culver city

September 06, 2010 -LABOR DAY CLASSES:
ZUMBA AT 7PM
LYRICAL AT 8PM
HIP HOP AT 9PM

yummy yoga, los feliz

Labor Day Classes: Monday, Sept 6
Join our dedicated teachers for some great yoga this Labor Day:
07:30AM ~ Power Hour ~ Ariel
12:00PM ~ Lunchtime Flow ~ Clio
06:00PM ~ All Levels ~ Amy

Wednesday, September 01, 2010

happy national yoga month!

september is national yoga month!!

In 2008, the Department of Health and Human Services designated September as National Yoga Month. National Yoga Month is a national observance and awareness campaign to educate the population about the health benefits of yoga and to inspire both youths and adults to take responsibility for their wellbeing by focusing on prevention and healthy lifestyle choices. -- from the yoga month website

so to kick off national yoga month, i thought it would be fun to have a contest to pick five lucky yogis who'll receive a 20-pack box of ultima replenisher, courtesy of the nice people from ultima!

Ultima Replenisher is a natural sports drink with zero sugar. It contains a full complement of electrolytes, not just a ton of sodium. Ultima also contains complex carbs for energy, water-soluble vitamins and vitamin enhancers for day-to-day health maintenance, and antioxidants to protect body systems from free radicals (toxins). Ultima uses no artificial colors, flavors or sweeteners.

Top 10 Reasons to drink Ultima:
10. ELECTROLYTES with ZERO SUGAR
9. NATURALLY sweet. NO ARTIFICIAL ingredients
8. Better choice than PEDIALYTE® & Gatorade®
7. VEGAN friendly – GLUTEN FREE
6. Rapid absorption – Speeds FLUIDS to muscle cells
5. ESTER C® Supports the Immune System
4. Better hydration = Faster METABOLISM
3. PREGNANCY – Before, during & after labor
2. Helps CANCER patients stay hydrated — Recommended by nutritionalists at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
1. Perfect for any and everyone!


in other words, it is the only 100% natural, non-GMO, gluten-, sugar-, and dye-free electrolyte beverage on the market. and it's really easy to use; all you have to do is tear open a packet, pour it into a bottle of water, shake it up, and drink!

so to get as many of you as possible in the drawing, all you have to do is answer this question:

what was the hottest yoga class you ever took?

your response can be a short one-liner, a humorous anecdote, or maybe even an story about how you ended up needed medical intervention (although i hope that never happens to anyone!).
if you can, include the yoga studio, the city it was in, the teacher teaching the class -- although in the case of a bad outcome, it's perfectly fine if you choose to keep the specifics to yourself; i'll leave it up to you.

post the answer on the accidental yogist facebook page -- you'll need to "like" the page before you can post anything on its wall -- by this friday, september 3rd, and i'll pick 5 winners at random. and if you don't have a facebook account, just post your response as a comment here and you'll have an equal chance of winning.

while don't have to be a resident of LA or southern california to win, you do have to have a US mailing address in order for me to mail your prize to you.

good luck, and i hope to get some interesting stories!

for more about yoga month and all the fun events happening around the country to observe the event, click here to visit the yoga month web site: yogamonth.org