UPCOMING WORKSHOPS:
Saturday, November 23rd, 2024 9:00am - 12:30pm Restorative Yoga is an opportunity to deeply relax, renew and journey inward. The body is supported by props in each pose, so each pose can be held for some time effortlessly, which encourages a gradual dissolution of holding patterns of stress and tension in the inner body. All these passive postures are an excellent prelude to pranayama, since they open and gently stretch the respiratory muscles, quiet the mind, and cultivate stillness and ease in the body. During the workshop, Betty will serenade you with selected, inspired poems and vocalese, the vibration of the sounds of harmonious words and melodies ushered by the human voice is the breath that touches the heart of the listener. This experience allows for a deeper absorption into our essence. A variety of restorative poses will be practiced - forward bends, twists, inversions, and backbends. Then, we will explore some simple yogic breathing techniques designed to expand ("yama") our lifeforce ("prana"). Pranayama strengthens the mind and is a doorway to meditation. As we move beneath the exterior boundaries, we will experience a feeling of inner spaciousness and revealing clarity that can help us realize our fullest spiritual potential.
Where:
Yoga du Soleil located at 224 Divisadero St. --------------
Saturday, November 16th, 2024 9:00am-12:30pm Yoga is designed to serve the heart, allowing us to be in the essence of our being. In this workshop we will explore movements, postures and actions that strengthen and bring flexibility to the shoulders, chest, neck, thoracic spine, arms, and wrists. By cultivating freedom in the torso, backbends, inverted poses, and sitting can be experienced with more ease. As the upper body grows into healthy alignment, breathing is naturally freer and deeper, potentially preparing one for pranayama practice as well as backbends postures or inversions .In this workshop we will explore how the opening and strengthening of the upper back ,can lead to ease in back extensions.The mind can then become calm and clear and the heart can grow more loving and peaceful, leading the way to a natural state of spaciousness, stillness, and aligning us with our innermost bliss.
Where:
Yoga du Soleil located at 224 Divisadero St. --------------
Saturday, November 9th, 2024 9:00am-12:00pm Rope work, or yoga korunta, is a dynamic and playful aspect of the Iyengar tradition. Ropes help tremendously in building agility and strength of body and mind. In this workshop we will focus on learning how to incorporate the ropes in our yoga practice. By transforming our relationship with gravity, the ropes assist us in focusing on specific parts of the body, refining the dynamics within a pose, and going beyond our habitual limits. We will explore standing postures, forward bends, backbends, twists and inversions. Be prepared to enjoy yourself and be challenged. This workshop is open to all levels and teachers. Optional: bring cycling or weight lifting gloves. Small class size,7 students max, ensures individualized attention.
Where:
Yoga du Soleil located at 224 Divisadero St. --------------
Saturday, August 24th, 2024 9:00am - 12:30pm The use of a chair was developed by Sri BKS Iyengar to enable any body to enhance their asana practice with the gifts that comes from its usage. Some of the main purposes of using the chair are: Perform asanas which are difficult to perform independently; Achieve and maintain correct alignment during the practice; Stay longer and relax in challenging asanas, in order to receive maximum benefit; Study and investigate the asanas in greater depth; Therapeutic purposes;Increase awareness and fun in the practice! I have personally enjoyed using a chair as part of my practice for the past 30+ years and keep exploring and finding new creative ways to play with it. It is truly a boon, whether you are an athlete, an older adult, or suffer from injuries. Props are a means to an end and are a great tool for teachers to add to their repertoire. This session will be an exploration of a variety of asanas, standing poses, twists, backbends, forward bends, and inversions. I am inviting you to discover and savor the infinite possibilities that this wondrous prop can offer!
Where:
Yoga du Soleil located at 224 Divisadero St. --------------
Saturday, August 10th, 2024 9:00am-12:30pm Our relationship to the earth through our foundation is a dynamic, living relationship, serving in much the same way as the roots of a tree to draw nourishment for growth. The distribution of weight through our feet affects the function and flow of energy through our knees, hips, back and core. Similarly, how we place our weight through our hands creates a powerful cascade effect into the wrists, elbows, shoulders and neck. In this workshop we will reflect on the meaning of balance in our lives and discover how to enliven our inner body and how finding balance is a dance of pulsations. The interplay of the awareness of our center and extremities awakens us to the vibrancy of the present moment. We will explore core-strengthening asanas, movements to condition the extremities, and leg and arm balances. Finding balance is the manifestation of our internal power, creativity, calm, clarity, and remembering to see the sacred in every breath we take.
Where:
Yoga du Soleil located at 224 Divisadero St. --------------
Saturday, July 27th, 2024 9:00am-12:30pm In this session we will explore ways to cultivate freedom and stability in the pelvis. This can be achieved by learning how to engage the inner and outer muscles of the thighs, how to lengthen and fortify the hamstrings, and how to soften and loosen the hips, groin, ankle joints and feet . The fruit of such practice can prepare one for deep forward bending, back bending, as well as balancing which becomes critical as we age. Understanding how to create mobility in the legs and pelvis while being stable allows one to experience well-being for many years to come. Clear articulation and regular practice of optimal alignment of the lower body can alleviate back pain as well as create a firm, earthly foundation from which the spine can elongate easefully toward the sky. This can lead one to be able to sit comfortably for meditation and pranayama.
Where:
Yoga du Soleil located at 224 Divisadero St. --------------
Sunday, July 14th, 2024 9:00am-12:30pm Yoga is designed to serve the heart, allowing us to be in the essence of our being. In this workshop we will explore movements, postures and actions that strengthen and bring flexibility to the shoulders, chest, neck, thoracic spine, arms, and wrists. By cultivating freedom in the torso, backbends, inverted poses, and sitting can be experienced with more ease. As the upper body grows into healthy alignment, breathing is naturally freer and deeper, potentially preparing one for pranayama practice as well as backbends postures or inversions. The mind then becomes clear and quiet, and the heart loving and peaceful, leading the way to a natural state of meditation, and aligning us with our innermost purpose.
Where:
Yoga du Soleil located at 224 Divisadero St. --------------
Saturday, June 29th ,2024 9:00am-12:30pm Forward bends form an essential experience in the yogic understanding that "the path is the goal". When practiced skillfully, forward bend postures physically stretch the legs, open the hips, and lengthen the entire back body. Psychologically, they teach us surrender. Twists in forward bend allow yet ,for a deeper level of introspection and release of tensions with increased ease of breathing. These poses also teach us patience and trust, they help cultivate deep listening, turning our attention inward. In this workshop we will explore how to mindfully unite both halves of the body with optimal principle of alignments. Harmonious flow of the breath, correct action of the legs and pelvis, and activation of core will be addressed, to safely create mobility, traction, and freedom of the spine. Standing ,seated ,forward bends and twists will be practiced, and the meditative, introspective qualities of these poses will be emphasized. As we expand and soften from deep inside, we become more fully alive, spacious and peaceful in the present moment.
Where:
Yoga du Soleil located at 224 Divisadero St. --------------
Saturday, June 15th, 2024 9:00am - 12:30pm The use of a chair was developed by Sri BKS Iyengar to enable any body to enhance their asana practice with the gifts that comes from its usage. Some of the main purposes of using the chair are: Perform asanas which are difficult to perform independently; Achieve and maintain correct alignment during the practice; Stay longer and relax in challenging asanas, in order to receive maximum benefit; Study and investigate the asanas in greater depth; Therapeutic purposes;Increase awareness and fun in the practice! I have personally enjoyed using a chair as part of my practice for the past 30+ years and keep exploring and finding new creative ways to play with it. It is truly a boon, whether you are an athlete, an older adult, or suffer from injuries. Props are a means to an end and are a great tool for teachers to add to their repertoire. This session will be an exploration of a variety of asanas, standing poses, twists, backbends, forward bends, and inversions. I am inviting you to discover and savor the infinite possibilities that this wondrous prop can offer!
Where:
Yoga du Soleil located at 224 Divisadero St. --------------
Saturday, May 25th, 2024 9:00am-12:00pm Rope work, or yoga korunta, is a dynamic and playful aspect of the Iyengar tradition. Ropes help tremendously in building agility and strength of body and mind. In this workshop we will focus on learning how to incorporate the ropes in our yoga practice. By transforming our relationship with gravity, the ropes assist us in focusing on specific parts of the body, refining the dynamics within a pose, and going beyond our habitual limits. We will explore standing postures, forward bends, backbends, twists and inversions. Be prepared to enjoy yourself and be challenged. This workshop is open to all levels and teachers. Optional: bring cycling or weight lifting gloves. Small class size ensures individualized attention.
Where:
Yoga du Soleil located at 224 Divisadero St. --------------
Saturday, May 18th, 2024 9:00am-12:30pm The essence of yoga is relationship ,with our breath, our body ,our mind, heart, each other and the present moment.In this workshop we will work with each other to explore a variety of asanas standing poses, twists, back extensions, forward bends,.This process requires our utmost attention in listening and seeing each other and ourselves in stillness and movement, which increases our ability to be present as each moment arises.This interplay of giving and receiving can be educative, transformative and playful. Practicing with the help of a sensitive partner can quicken our understanding of the poses, allowing for a deeper experience of the posture and teach us the subtle art of communicating with others thru touch with breath awareness.It can also enable us to develop trust (Shraddha) and give us an opportunity to express gratitude (Bhava).By cultivating these heart qualities we open to a more immediate experience of the interconnectedness of us all.
Where:
Yoga du Soleil located at 224 Divisadero St. --------------
Saturday, April 6st, 2024 9:00am-12:30pm Yoga is designed to serve the heart, allowing us to be in the essence of our being. In this workshop we will explore movements, postures and actions that strengthen and bring flexibility to the shoulders, chest, neck, thoracic spine, arms, and wrists. By cultivating freedom in the torso, backbends, inverted poses, and sitting can be experienced with more ease. As the upper body grows into healthy alignment, breathing is naturally freer and deeper, potentially preparing one for pranayama practice as well as backbends postures or inversions .In this workshop we will explore how the opening and strengthening of the upper back ,can lead to ease in back extensions.The mind can then become calm and clear and the heart can grow more loving and peaceful, leading the way to a natural state of spaciousness, stillness, and aligning us with our innermost bliss.
Where:
Yoga du Soleil located at 224 Divisadero St. --------------
Saturday, March 23rd, 2024 9:00am-12:30pm Twisting poses, when performed skillfully, infuse the body and mind with vitality and well being, and assist in releasing enormous amounts of tension. They are traditionally associated with toning and rejuvenating the abdominal and pelvic organs. When these organs are squeezed, blood flow is stimulated and toxins are released - a natural internal massage. With regular practice the entire spine becomes more flexible, the upper back, neck, and hips move more freely, and these areas are nourished and strengthened by increased circulation. In this session we will explore supine, standing, seated and inverted twists. Twisting poses assist in cultivating introspection: they can be seen as a spiral movement, ascending or descending, towards freedom from within. They are an excellent prelude to meditation, enabling you to feel more in tune with yourself, energized in a restful way, and sit quietly with more ease.
Where:
Yoga du Soleil located at 224 Divisadero St. --------------
Saturday, March 16th, 2024 9:00am-12:30pm Inversions are an intrinsic aspect of a balanced yoga practice. Regular practice of these postures nourishes the vital organs, strengthens the immune and nervous system, and clears the mind, creating radiant well-being and serenity from the inside out. This session will be an exploration of the journey toward being inverted. We will work on poses and actions to access our powerful core, to stabilize and strengthen the shoulder girdle, arms and hands, and to increase mobility of the upper back while understanding how to align the head and neck in a safe, pain-free way. We'll explore headstand, shoulderstand, forearm stand and full arm balance. This workshop is an opportunity for new students to break through their resistances to inversions and make friends with the world being upside down, and an opportunity for more seasoned students to explore more variations and deepen one's expression of these revitalizing poses.
Where:
Yoga du Soleil located at 224 Divisadero St. --------------
Saturday, March 2nd, 2024 9:00am - 12:30pm This workshop will be a dynamic exploration of the many mutations of Mountain pose, expressed through the whole spectrum of asanas, culminating in the meditative experience of ultimate surrender in Corpse Pose. We will practice a variety of standing poses, twists, back extensions, arm balancing poses, inversions and forward bends, all woven and balanced within the threads of breath awareness, optimal alignment and concentration. Poses will be modified to meet the specific needs of each yogi. This comprehensive practice, will lead the way to feeling a deep state of presence, peace, joy and renewed vitality: an experience of Yoga, described as union and vibrancy of body, mind and heart!
Where:
Yoga du Soleil located at 224 Divisadero St. --------------
Saturday, February 24th, 2024 9:00am - 12:30pm The use of a chair was developed by Sri BKS Iyengar to enable any body to enhance their asana practice with the gifts that comes from its usage. Some of the main purposes of using the chair are: Perform asanas which are difficult to perform independently; Achieve and maintain correct alignment during the practice; Stay longer and relax in challenging asanas, in order to receive maximum benefit; Study and investigate the asanas in greater depth; Therapeutic purposes;Increase awareness and fun in the practice! I have personally enjoyed using a chair as part of my practice for the past 30+ years and keep exploring and finding new creative ways to play with it. It is truly a boon, whether you are an athlete, an older adult, or suffer from injuries. Props are a means to an end and are a great tool for teachers to add to their repertoire. This session will be an exploration of a variety of asanas, standing poses, twists, backbends, forward bends, and inversions. I am inviting you to discover and savor the infinite possibilities that this wondrous prop can offer!
Where:
Yoga du Soleil located at 224 Divisadero St. --------------
Saturday, February 10th, 2024 9:00am-12:30pm Our relationship to the earth through our foundation is a dynamic, living relationship, serving in much the same way as the roots of a tree to draw nourishment for growth. The distribution of weight through our feet affects the function and flow of energy through our knees, hips, back and core. Similarly, how we place our weight through our hands creates a powerful cascade effect into the wrists, elbows, shoulders and neck. In this workshop we will reflect on the meaning of balance in our lives and discover how to enliven our inner body and how finding balance is a dance of pulsations. The interplay of the awareness of our center and extremities awakens us to the vibrancy of the present moment. We will explore core-strengthening asanas, movements to condition the extremities, and leg and arm balances. Finding balance is the manifestation of our internal power, creativity, calm, clarity, and remembering to see the sacred in every breath we take.
Where:
Yoga du Soleil located at 224 Divisadero St. --------------
Saturday, February 3rd, 2024 9:00am-12:00pm 7 students only - register early! Rope work, or yoga korunta, is a dynamic and playful aspect of the Iyengar tradition. Ropes help tremendously in building agility and strength of body and mind. In this workshop we will focus on learning how to incorporate the ropes in our yoga practice. By transforming our relationship with gravity, the ropes assist us in focusing on specific parts of the body, refining the dynamics within a pose, and going beyond our habitual limits. We will explore standing postures, forward bends, backbends, twists and inversions. Be prepared to enjoy yourself and be challenged. This workshop is open to all levels and teachers. Optional: bring cycling or weight lifting gloves. Small class size ensures individualized attention.
Where:
Yoga du Soleil located at 224 Divisadero St. --------------
Saturday, January 27th, 2024 9:00am-12:30pm In this session we will explore ways to cultivate freedom and stability in the pelvis. This can be achieved by learning how to engage the inner and outer muscles of the thighs, how to lengthen and fortify the hamstrings, and how to soften and loosen the hips, groin, ankle joints and feet . The fruit of such practice can prepare one for deep forward bending, back bending, as well as balancing which becomes critical as we age. Understanding how to create mobility in the legs and pelvis while being stable allows one to experience well-being for many years to come. Clear articulation and regular practice of optimal alignment of the lower body can alleviate back pain as well as create a firm, earthly foundation from which the spine can elongate easefully toward the sky. This can lead one to be able to sit comfortably for meditation and pranayama.
Where:
Yoga du Soleil located at 224 Divisadero St. --------------
Saturday, january 13th, 2024 9:00am-12:30pm Yoga is designed to serve the heart, allowing us to be in the essence of our being. In this workshop we will explore movements, postures and actions that strengthen and bring flexibility to the shoulders, chest, neck, thoracic spine, arms, and wrists. By cultivating freedom in the torso, backbends, inverted poses, and sitting can be experienced with more ease. As the upper body grows into healthy alignment, breathing is naturally freer and deeper, potentially preparing one for pranayama practice as well as backbends postures or inversions. The mind then becomes clear and quiet, and the heart loving and peaceful, leading the way to a natural state of meditation, and aligning us with our innermost purpose.
Where:
Yoga du Soleil located at 224 Divisadero St. --------------
Saturday, December 16th, 2023 9:00am - 12:30pm This workshop will be a dynamic exploration of the many mutations of Mountain pose, expressed through the whole spectrum of asanas, culminating in the meditative experience of ultimate surrender in Corpse Pose. We will practice a variety of standing poses, twists, back extensions, arm balancing poses, inversions and forward bends, all woven and balanced within the threads of breath awareness, optimal alignment and concentration. Poses will be modified to meet the specific needs of each yogi. This comprehensive practice, will lead the way to feeling a deep state of presence, peace, joy and renewed vitality: an experience of Yoga, described as union and vibrancy of body, mind and heart!
Where:
Yoga du Soleil located at 224 Divisadero St. --------------
Saturday, December 9th, 2023 9:00am - 12:30pm The use of a chair was developed by Sri BKS Iyengar to enable any body to enhance their asana practice with the gifts that comes from its usage. Some of the main purposes of using the chair are: Perform asanas which are difficult to perform independently; Achieve and maintain correct alignment during the practice; Stay longer and relax in challenging asanas, in order to receive maximum benefit; Study and investigate the asanas in greater depth; Therapeutic purposes;Increase awareness and fun in the practice! I have personally enjoyed using a chair as part of my practice for the past 30+ years and keep exploring and finding new creative ways to play with it. It is truly a boon, whether you are an athlete, an older adult, or suffer from injuries. Props are a means to an end and are a great tool for teachers to add to their repertoire. This session will be an exploration of a variety of asanas, standing poses, twists, backbends, forward bends, and inversions. I am inviting you to discover and savor the infinite possibilities that this wondrous prop can offer!
Where:
Yoga du Soleil located at 224 Divisadero St. --------------
Saturday, november 11th, 2023 9:00am - 12:30pm Restorative Yoga is an opportunity to deeply relax, renew and journey inward. The body is supported by props in each pose, so each pose can be held for some time effortlessly, which encourages a gradual dissolution of holding patterns of stress and tension in the inner body. All these passive postures are an excellent prelude to pranayama, since they open and gently stretch the respiratory muscles, quiet the mind, and cultivate stillness and ease in the body. During the workshop, Betty will serenade you with selected, inspired poems and vocalese, the vibration of the sounds of harmonious words and melodies ushered by the human voice is the breath that touches the heart of the listener. This experience allows for a deeper absorption into our essence. A variety of restorative poses will be practiced - forward bends, twists, inversions, and backbends. Then, we will explore some simple yogic breathing techniques designed to expand ("yama") our lifeforce ("prana"). Pranayama strengthens the mind and is a doorway to meditation. As we move beneath the exterior boundaries, we will experience a feeling of inner spaciousness and revealing clarity that can help us realize our fullest spiritual potential.
Where:
Yoga du Soleil located at 224 Divisadero St. --------------
Saturday, november 4th, 2023 9:00am-12:30pm Inversions are an intrinsic aspect of a balanced yoga practice. Regular practice of these postures nourishes the vital organs, strengthens the immune and nervous system, and clears the mind, creating radiant well-being and serenity from the inside out. This session will be an exploration of the journey toward being inverted. We will work on poses and actions to access our powerful core, to stabilize and strengthen the shoulder girdle, arms and hands, and to increase mobility of the upper back while understanding how to align the head and neck in a safe, pain-free way. We'll explore headstand, shoulder stand, forearm stand and full arm balance. This workshop is an opportunity for new students to break through their resistances to inversions and make friends with the world being upside down, and an opportunity for more seasoned students to explore more variations and deepen one's expression of these revitalizing poses.
Where:
Yoga du Soleil located at 224 Divisadero St. --------------
Saturday, October 21, 2023 9:00am-12:30pm Forward bends form an essential experience in the yogic understanding that "the path is the goal". When practiced skillfully, forward bend postures physically stretch the legs, open the hips, and lengthen the entire back body. Psychologically, they teach us surrender. Twists in forward bend allow yet ,for a deeper level of introspection and release of tensions with increased ease of breathing. These poses also teach us patience and trust, they help cultivate deep listening, turning our attention inward. In this workshop we will explore how to mindfully unite both halves of the body with optimal principle of alignments. Harmonious flow of the breath, correct action of the legs and pelvis, and activation of core will be addressed, to safely create mobility, traction, and freedom of the spine. Standing ,seated ,forward bends and twists will be practiced, and the meditative, introspective qualities of these poses will be emphasized. As we expand and soften from deep inside, we become more fully alive, spacious and peaceful in the present moment.
Where:
Yoga du Soleil located at 224 Divisadero St. --------------
Saturday, October 7, 2023 9:00am-12:30pm Our relationship to the earth through our foundation is a dynamic, living relationship, serving in much the same way as the roots of a tree to draw nourishment for growth. The distribution of weight through our feet affects the function and flow of energy through our knees, hips, back and core. Similarly, how we place our weight through our hands creates a powerful cascade effect into the wrists, elbows, shoulders and neck. In this workshop we will reflect on the meaning of balance in our lives and discover how to enliven our inner body and how finding balance is a dance of pulsations. The interplay of the awareness of our center and extremities awakens us to the vibrancy of the present moment. We will explore core-strengthening asanas, movements to condition the extremities, and leg and arm balances. Finding balance is the manifestation of our internal power, creativity, calm, clarity, and remembering to see the sacred in every breath we take.
Where:
Yoga du Soleil located at 224 Divisadero St. --------------
Saturday, September 23rd, 2023 9:00am-12:30pm Yoga is designed to serve the heart, allowing us to be in the essence of our being. In this workshop we will explore movements, postures and actions that strengthen and bring flexibility to the shoulders, chest, neck, thoracic spine, arms, and wrists. By cultivating freedom in the torso, backbends, inverted poses, and sitting can be experienced with more ease. As the upper body grows into healthy alignment, breathing is naturally freer and deeper, potentially preparing one for pranayama practice as well as backbends postures or inversions .In this workshop we will explore how the opening and strengthening of the upper back ,can lead to ease in back extensions.The mind can then become calm and clear and the heart can grow more loving and peaceful, leading the way to a natural state of spaciousness, stillness, and aligning us with our innermost bliss.
Where:
Yoga du Soleil located at 224 Divisadero St. --------------
Saturday, September 9th, 2023 9:00am-12:30pm In this session we will explore ways to cultivate freedom and stability in the pelvis. This can be achieved by learning how to engage the inner and outer muscles of the thighs, how to lengthen and fortify the hamstrings, and how to soften and loosen the hips, groin, ankle joints and feet . The fruit of such practice can prepare one for deep forward bending, back bending, as well as balancing which becomes critical as we age. Understanding how to create mobility in the legs and pelvis while being stable allows one to experience well-being for many years to come. Clear articulation and regular practice of optimal alignment of the lower body can alleviate back pain as well as create a firm, earthly foundation from which the spine can elongate easefully toward the sky. This can lead one to be able to sit comfortably for meditation and pranayama.
Where:
Yoga du Soleil located at 224 Divisadero St. --------------
Saturday, August 26, 2023 9:00am - 12:30pm Restorative Yoga is an opportunity to deeply relax, renew and journey inward. The body is supported by props in each pose, so each pose can be held for some time effortlessly, which encourages a gradual dissolution of holding patterns of stress and tension in the inner body. All these passive postures are an excellent prelude to pranayama, since they open and gently stretch the respiratory muscles, quiet the mind, and cultivate stillness and ease in the body. During the workshop, Betty will serenade you with selected, inspired poems and vocalese, the vibration of the sounds of harmonious words and melodies ushered by the human voice is the breath that touches the heart of the listener. This experience allows for a deeper absorption into our essence. A variety of restorative poses will be practiced - forward bends, twists, inversions, and backbends. Then, we will explore some simple yogic breathing techniques designed to expand ("yama") our lifeforce ("prana"). Pranayama strengthens the mind and is a doorway to meditation. As we move beneath the exterior boundaries, we will experience a feeling of inner spaciousness and revealing clarity that can help us realize our fullest spiritual potential.
Where:
Yoga du Soleil located at 224 Divisadero St. --------------
Saturday, August 12, 2023 9:00am-12:30pm Inversions are an intrinsic aspect of a balanced yoga practice. Regular practice of these postures nourishes the vital organs, strengthens the immune and nervous system, and clears the mind, creating radiant well-being and serenity from the inside out. This session will be an exploration of the journey toward being inverted. We will work on poses and actions to access our powerful core, to stabilize and strengthen the shoulder girdle, arms and hands, and to increase mobility of the upper back while understanding how to align the head and neck in a safe, pain-free way. We'll explore headstand, shoulder stand, forearm stand and full arm balance. This workshop is an opportunity for new students to break through their resistances to inversions and make friends with the world being upside down, and an opportunity for more seasoned students to explore more variations and deepen one's expression of these revitalizing poses.
Where:
Yoga du Soleil located at 224 Divisadero St. --------------
Saturday, August 5, 2023 9:00am-12:30pm The standing poses are invigorating and of essential nature in yoga asana. They refresh the body and mind by removing tension, aches and pains. They improve circulation and breathing. The back, shoulders, hips, legs, ankles and feet all gain strength and mobility through regular practice. They also teach us the principles of alignment and balance and help develop optimal posture in our walking, sitting, and standing. They contain within their architecture all the more complex and advanced asanas. In this workshop we will explore the many creative ways to be in each standing posture, with a rich repertoire of variations on feet placement, the use of wall, belts, blocks, chairs, and different relationships with gravity. We will dive deeper into understanding and experiencing their dynamic vitality with renewed awareness and relaxation. Thus we will find stability, freedom, and peace of body, mind and heart in these fundamental postures. This workshop might be of special interest to yoga teachers.
Where:
Yoga du Soleil located at 224 Divisadero St. --------------
Saturday, July 22, 2023 9:00am - 12:30pm The use of a chair was developed by Sri BKS Iyengar to enable any body to enhance their asana practice with the gifts that comes from its usage. Some of the main purposes of using the chair are: Perform asanas which are difficult to perform independently; Achieve and maintain correct alignment during the practice; Stay longer and relax in challenging asanas, in order to receive maximum benefit; Study and investigate the asanas in greater depth; Therapeutic purposes;Increase awareness and fun in the practice! I have personally enjoyed using a chair as part of my practice for the past 30 +years and keep exploring and finding new creative ways to play with it. It is truly a boon, whether you are an athlete, an older adult, or suffer from injuries. Props are a means to an end and are a great tool for teachers to add to their repertoire. This session will be an exploration of a variety of asanas, standing poses, twists, backbends, forward bends, and inversions. I am inviting you to discover and savor the infinite possibilities that this wondrous prop can offer!
Where:
Yoga du Soleil located at 224 Divisadero St. --------------
Saturday, July 15, 2023 9:00am - 12:30pm This workshop will be a dynamic exploration of the many mutations of Mountain pose, expressed through the whole spectrum of asanas, culminating in the meditative experience of ultimate surrender in Corpse Pose. We will practice a variety of standing poses, twists, back extensions, arm balancing poses, inversions and forward bends, all woven and balanced within the threads of breath awareness, optimal alignment and concentration. Poses will be modified to meet the specific needs of each yogi. This comprehensive practice, will lead the way to feeling a deep state of presence, peace, joy and renewed vitality: an experience of Yoga, described as union and vibrancy of body, mind and heart!
Where:
Yoga du Soleil located at 224 Divisadero St. --------------
Saturday, June 24th, 2023 9:00am-12:30pm Yoga is designed to serve the heart, allowing us to be in the essence of our being. In this workshop we will explore movements, postures and actions that strengthen and bring flexibility to the shoulders, chest, neck, thoracic spine, arms, and wrists. By cultivating freedom in the torso, backbends, inverted poses, and sitting can be experienced with more ease. As the upper body grows into healthy alignment, breathing is naturally freer and deeper, potentially preparing one for pranayama practice as well as backbends postures or inversions. The mind then becomes clear and quiet, and the heart loving and peaceful, leading the way to a natural state of meditation, and aligning us with our innermost purpose.
Where:
Yoga du Soleil located at 224 Divisadero St. --------------
Saturday, June 17th, 2023 9:00am-12:30pm In this session we will explore ways to cultivate freedom and stability in the pelvis. This can be achieved by learning how to engage the inner and outer muscles of the thighs, how to lengthen and fortify the hamstrings, and how to soften and loosen the hips, groin, ankle joints and feet . The fruit of such practice can prepare one for deep forward bending, back bending, as well as balancing which becomes critical as we age. Understanding how to create mobility in the legs and pelvis while being stable allows one to experience well-being for many years to come. Clear articulation and regular practice of optimal alignment of the lower body can alleviate back pain as well as create a firm, earthly foundation from which the spine can elongate easefully toward the sky. This can lead one to be able to sit comfortably for meditation and pranayama.
Where:
Yoga du Soleil located at 224 Divisadero St. --------------
Sunday, April 30th, 2023 9:00am-12:30pm Forward bends form an essential experience in the yogic understanding that "the path is the goal". When practiced skillfully, forward bend postures physically stretch the legs, open the hips, and lengthen the entire back body. Psychologically, they teach us surrender. Twists in forward bend allow yet ,for a deeper level of introspection and release of tensions with increased ease of breathing. These poses also teach us patience and trust, they help cultivate deep listening, turning our attention inward. In this workshop we will explore how to mindfully unite both halves of the body with optimal principle of alignments. Harmonious flow of the breath, correct action of the legs and pelvis, and activation of core will be addressed, to safely create mobility, traction, and freedom of the spine. Standing ,seated ,forward bends and twists will be practiced, and the meditative, introspective qualities of these poses will be emphasized. As we expand and soften from deep inside, we become more fully alive, spacious and peaceful in the present moment.
Where:
Yoga du Soleil located at 224 Divisadero St. --------------
Sunday, April 16th, 2023 9:00am-12:30pm Inversions are an intrinsic aspect of a balanced yoga practice. Regular practice of these postures nourishes the vital organs, strengthens the immune and nervous system, and clears the mind, creating radiant wellbeing and serenity from the inside out.This session will be an exploration of the journey toward being inverted. We will work on poses and actions to access our powerful core ,to stabilize and strengthen the shoulder girdle , arms and hands increasing the mobility of the upper back while understanding how to align the head and neck in a safe, pain-free way. We'll explore headstand, shoulder stand, forearm stand and full arm balance. This workshop is an opportunity for new students to break through their resistances to inversions and make friends with the world being upside down, and an opportunity for more seasoned students to explore more variations and deepen one’s expression of these revitalizing poses.
Where:
Yoga du Soleil located at 224 Divisadero St. --------------
Sunday, April 2nd, 2023 9:00am-12:30pm In this session we will explore ways to cultivate freedom and stability in the pelvis. This can be achieved by learning how to engage the inner and outer muscles of the thighs, how to lengthen and fortify the hamstrings, and how to soften and loosen the hips, groin, ankle joints and feet . The fruit of such practice can prepare one for deep forward bending, back bending, as well as balancing which becomes critical as we age. Understanding how to create mobility in the legs and pelvis while being stable allows one to experience well-being for many years to come. Clear articulation and regular practice of optimal alignment of the lower body can alleviate back pain as well as create a firm, earthly foundation from which the spine can elongate easefully toward the sky. This can lead one to be able to sit comfortably for meditation and pranayama.
Where:
Yoga du Soleil located at 224 Divisadero St. --------------
Saturday, March 25th, 2023 9:00am-12:30pm Twisting poses, when performed skillfully, infuse the body and mind with vitality and well being, and assist in releasing enormous amounts of tension. They are traditionally associated with toning and rejuvenating the abdominal and pelvic organs. When these organs are squeezed, blood flow is stimulated and toxins are released - a natural internal massage. With regular practice the entire spine becomes more flexible, the upper back, neck, and hips move more freely, and these areas are nourished and strengthened by increased circulation. In this session we will explore supine, standing, seated and inverted twists. Twisting poses assist in cultivating introspection: they can be seen as a spiral movement, ascending or descending, towards freedom from within. They are an excellent prelude to meditation, enabling you to feel more in tune with yourself, energized in a restful way, and sit quietly with more ease. Where: Yoga du Soleil located at 224
Divisadero St. --------------
Opening the Upper Back
and Shoulders for the Bliss of Backbending Yoga is designed to serve the heart, allowing us to be in the essence of our being. In this workshop we will explore movements, postures and actions that strengthen and bring flexibility to the shoulders, chest, neck, thoracic spine, arms, and wrists. By cultivating freedom in the torso, backbends, inverted poses, and sitting can be experienced with more ease. As the upper body grows into healthy alignment, breathing is naturally freer and deeper, potentially preparing one for pranayama practice as well as backbends postures or inversions .In this workshop we will explore how the opening and strengthening of the upper back ,can lead to ease in back extensions.The mind can then become calm and clear and the heart can grow more loving and peaceful, leading the way to a natural state of spaciousness, stillness, and aligning us with our innermost bliss. Where: Yoga du Soleil located at 224
Divisadero St. --------------
The Many Faces of
Standing Poses
The standing poses are invigorating and of essential nature in yoga asana. They refresh the body and mind by removing tension, aches and pains. They improve circulation and breathing. The back, shoulders, hips, legs, ankles and feet all gain strength and mobility through regular practice. They also teach us the principles of alignment and balance and help develop optimal posture in our walking, sitting, and standing. They contain within their architecture all the more complex and advanced asanas. In this workshop we will explore the many creative ways to be in each standing posture, with a rich repertoire of variations on feet placement, the use of wall, belts, blocks, chairs, and different relationships with gravity. We will dive deeper into understanding and experiencing their dynamic vitality with renewed awareness and relaxation. Thus we will find stability, freedom, and peace of body, mind and heart in these fundamental postures. This workshop might be of special interest to yoga teachers . Where: Yoga du Soleil located at 224
Divisadero St. -------------- The Art of Yoga with a ChairSunday, February 12th, 2023 9:00am-12:30pm The use of a chair was developed by Sri BKS Iyengar to enable any body to enhance their asana practice with the gifts that comes from its usage. Some of the main purposes of using the chair are: Perform asanas which are difficult to perform independently; Achieve and maintain correct alignment during the practice; Stay longer and relax in challenging asanas, in order to receive maximum benefit; Study and investigate the asanas in greater depth; Therapeutic purposes;Increase awareness and fun in the practice! I have personally enjoyed using a chair as part of my practice for the past 30 +years and keep exploring and finding new creative ways to play with it. It is truly a boon, whether you are an athlete, an older adult, or suffer from injuries. Props are a means to an end and are a great tool for teachers to add to their repertoire. This session will be an exploration of a variety of asanas, standing poses, twists, backbends, forward bends, and inversions. I am inviting you to discover and savor the infinite possibilities that this wondrous prop can offer! Where: Yoga du Soleil located at 224
Divisadero St. --------------
Saturday, February 18th, 2023 9:00am-12:00pm 7 students only - register early! Rope work, or yoga korunta, is a dynamic and playful aspect of the Iyengar tradition. Ropes help tremendously in building agility and strength of body and mind. In this workshop we will focus on learning how to incorporate the ropes in our yoga practice. By transforming our relationship with gravity, the ropes assist us in focusing on specific parts of the body, refining the dynamics within a pose, and going beyond our habitual limits. We will explore standing postures, forward bends, backbends, twists and inversions. Be prepared to enjoy yourself and be challenged. This workshop is open to all levels and teachers. Optional: bring cycling or weight lifting gloves. Small class size ensures individualized attention. Where: Yoga du Soleil located at 224
Divisadero St. ---------- FINDING CENTER AND BALANCE:
Connecting to the
Power of Hands and Feet Our relationship to the earth through our foundation is a dynamic, living relationship, serving in much the same way as the roots of a tree to draw nourishment for growth. The distribution of weight through our feet affects the function and flow of energy through our knees, hips, back and core. Similarly, how we place our weight through our hands creates a powerful cascade effect into the wrists, elbows, shoulders and neck. In this workshop we will reflect on the meaning of balance in
our lives and discover how to enliven our inner body and how
finding balance is a dance of pulsations. The interplay of the
awareness of our center and extremities awakens us to the
vibrancy of the present moment. We will explore
core-strengthening asanas, movements to condition the
extremities, and leg and arm balances. Finding balance is the
manifestation of our internal power, creativity, calm, clarity,
and remembering to see the sacred in every breath we take. Where: Yoga du Soleil located at
224
Divisadero St. ---------- Being Radiant in the Heart Center: Opening the Upper Back and Shoulders Sunday, January 15th 2023 9:00am-12:30pm Yoga is designed to serve the heart, allowing us to be in the essence of our being. In this workshop we will explore movements, postures and actions that strengthen and bring flexibility to the shoulders, chest, neck, thoracic spine, arms, and wrists. By cultivating freedom in the torso, backbends, inverted poses, and sitting can be experienced with more ease. As the upper body grows into healthy alignment, breathing is naturally freer and deeper, potentially preparing one for pranayama practice as well as backbends postures or inversions. The mind then becomes clear and quiet, and the heart loving and peaceful, leading the way to a natural state of meditation, and aligning us with our innermost purpose. Where: Yoga du Soleil located at
224
Divisadero St. ---------- Opening and Strengthening the Hips, Groin and Hamstrings Sunday, January 29th, 2023 9:00am-12:30pm In this session we will explore ways to cultivate freedom and stability in the pelvis. This can be achieved by learning how to engage the inner and outer muscles of the thighs, how to lengthen and fortify the hamstrings, and how to soften and loosen the hips, groin, ankle joints and feet . The fruit of such practice can prepare one for deep forward bending, back bending, as well as balancing which becomes critical as we age. Understanding how to create mobility in the legs and pelvis while being stable allows one to experience well-being for many years to come. Clear articulation and regular practice of optimal alignment of the lower body can alleviate back pain as well as create a firm, earthly foundation from which the spine can elongate easefully toward the sky. This can lead one to be able to sit comfortably for meditation and pranayama. Where: Yoga du Soleil located at
224
Divisadero St. -------------- The Poetic Melody of Restorative Poses Sunday, November 20th 2022 Sunday, December 18th 2022 9:00am - 12:30pm Restorative Yoga is an opportunity to deeply relax, renew and journey inward. The body is supported by props in each pose, so each pose can be held for some time effortlessly, which encourages a gradual dissolution of holding patterns of stress and tension in the inner body. All these passive postures are an excellent prelude to pranayama, since they open and gently stretch the respiratory muscles, quiet the mind, and cultivate stillness and ease in the body. During the workshop, Betty will serenade you with selected, inspired poems and vocalese, and play chants from her CD "La Lumière du Son". The vibration of the sounds of harmonious words and melodies ushered by the human voice is the breath that touches the heart of the listener. This experience allows for a deeper absorption into our essence. A variety of restorative poses will be practiced - forward bends, twists, inversions, and backbends. Then, we will explore some simple yogic breathing techniques designed to expand ("yama") our lifeforce ("prana"). Pranayama strengthens the mind and is a doorway to meditation. As we move beneath the exterior boundaries, we will experience a feeling of inner spaciousness and revealing clarity that can help us realize our fullest spiritual potential. Where: Yoga du Soleil located at
224
Divisadero St. ----------- New workshop! From Tadasana to Savasana: From Mountain Pose to Corpse Pose Sunday, November 13th 9:00am - 12:30pm This workshop will be a dynamic exploration of the many mutations of Mountain pose, expressed through the whole spectrum of asanas, culminating in the meditative experience of ultimate surrender in Corpse Pose. We will practice a variety of standing poses, twists, back extensions, arm balancing poses, inversions and forward bends, all woven and balanced within the threads of breath awareness, optimal alignment and concentration. Poses will be modified to meet the specific needs of each yogi. This comprehensive practice, will lead the way to feeling a deep state of presence, peace, joy and renewed vitality: an experience of Yoga, described as union and vibrancy of body, mind and heart! Where: Yoga du Soleil located at
224
Divisadero St. ----------- The Inward Journey of Forward Bends with Twists Sunday, October 30th 2022 9:00am - 12:30pm Forward bends form an essential experience in the yogic understanding that "the path is the goal". When practiced skillfully, forward bend postures physically stretch the legs, open the hips, and lengthen the entire back body. Psychologically, they teach us surrender. Twists in forward bend allow yet ,for a deeper level of introspection and release of tensions with increased ease of breathing. These poses also teach us patience and trust, they help cultivate deep listening, turning our attention inward. In this workshop we will explore how to mindfully unite both halves of the body with optimal principle of alignments. Harmonious flow of the breath, correct action of the legs and pelvis, and activation of core will be addressed, to safely create mobility, traction, and freedom of the spine. Standing ,seated ,forward bends and twists will be practiced, and the meditative, introspective qualities of these poses will be emphasized. As we expand and soften from deep inside, we become more fully alive, spacious and peaceful in the present moment. Where: Yoga du Soleil located at
224
Divisadero St. ----------- The Art of Yoga with a ChairSunday, February 9th, 2020; 9:30am-1:00pm The use of a chair was developed by Sri BKS Iyengar to enable any body to enhance their asana practice with the gifts that comes from its usage. Some of the main purposes of using the chair are: Perform asanas which are difficult to perform independently; Achieve and maintain correct alignment during the practice; Stay longer and relax in challenging asanas, in order to receive maximum benefit; Study and investigate the asanas in greater depth; Therapeutic purposes;Increase awareness and fun in the practice! I have personally enjoyed using a chair as part of my practice for the past 30 +years and keep exploring and finding new creative ways to play with it. It is truly a boon, whether you are an athlete, an older adult, or suffer from injuries. Props are a means to an end and are a great tool for teachers to add to their repertoire. This session will be an exploration of a variety of asanas � standing poses, twists, backbends, forward bends, and inversions. I am inviting you to discover and savor the infinite possibilities that this wondrous prop can offer! Where: Yoga du Soleil located at
224
Divisadero St. --------------
Saturday, February 29th, 2020 Saturday, March 28th, 2020 1:30pm-4:30pm 7 students only - register early! Rope work, or yoga korunta, is a dynamic and playful aspect of the Iyengar tradition. Ropes help tremendously in building agility and strength of body and mind. In this workshop we will focus on learning how to incorporate the ropes in our yoga practice. By transforming our relationship with gravity, the ropes assist us in focusing on specific parts of the body, refining the dynamics within a pose, and going beyond our habitual limits. We will explore standing postures, forward bends, backbends, twists and inversions. Be prepared to enjoy yourself and be challenged. This workshop is open to all levels and teachers. Optional: bring cycling or weight lifting gloves. Small class size ensures individualized attention. Where: Yoga du Soleil located at
224
Divisadero St. ---------- FINDING BALANCE: Connecting to the
Power of Hands and Feet Our relationship to the earth through our foundation is a dynamic, living relationship, serving in much the same way as the roots of a tree to draw nourishment for growth. The distribution of weight through our feet affects the function and flow of energy through our knees, hips, back and core. Similarly, how we place our weight through our hands creates a powerful cascade effect into the wrists, elbows, shoulders and neck. In this workshop we will reflect on the meaning of balance in
our lives and discover how to enliven our inner body and how
finding balance is a dance of pulsations. The interplay of the
awareness of our center and extremities awakens us to the
vibrancy of the present moment. We will explore
core-strengthening asanas, movements to condition the
extremities, and leg and arm balances. Finding balance is the
manifestation of our internal power, creativity, calm,
clarity,
and remembering to see the sacred in every breath we take. ---------- Spring Rejuvenation with Twisting Poses Sunday, March 22nd, 2020; 9:30am-1:00pm Twisting poses, when performed skillfully, infuse the body and mind with vitality and well being, and assist in releasing enormous amounts of tension. They are traditionally associated with toning and rejuvenating the abdominal and pelvic organs. When these organs are squeezed, blood flow is stimulated and toxins are released - a natural internal massage. With regular practice the entire spine becomes more flexible, the upper back, neck, and hips move more freely, and these areas are nourished and strengthened by increased circulation. In this session we will explore supine, standing, seated and inverted twists. Twisting poses assist in cultivating introspection: they can be seen as a spiral movement, ascending or descending, towards freedom from within. They are an excellent prelude to meditation, enabling you to feel more in tune with yourself, energized in a restful way, and sit quietly with more ease. Where: Yoga du Soleil located at
224
Divisadero St. -----------
Sunday, March 29th, 2020, 9:30am-1:00pm The standing poses are invigorating and an essential type of yoga asana. They refresh the body and mind by removing tension, aches and pains. They improve circulation and breathing. The back, shoulders, hips, legs, ankles and feet all gain strength and mobility through regular practice. They also teach us the principles of alignment and balance and help develop optimal posture in our walking, sitting, and standing. They contain within their architecture all the more complex and advanced asanas. In this workshop we will explore the many creative ways to be in each standing posture, with a rich repertoire of variations on feet placement, the use of wall, belts, blocks, chairs, and different relationships with gravity. We will dive deeper into understanding and experiencing their dynamic vitality with renewed awareness and relaxation. Thus we will find stability, freedom, and peace of body, mind and heart in these fundamental postures. This workshop might be of special interest to yoga teachers . Where: Yoga du Soleil located at
224
Divisadero St. -------------- PAST WORKSHOPS
Being Radiant in the
Heart Center: Opening the Upper Back and Shoulders Yoga is designed to serve the heart, allowing us to be in the essence of our being. In this workshop we will explore movements, postures and actions that strengthen and bring flexibility to the shoulders, chest, neck, thoracic spine, arms, and wrists. By cultivating freedom in the torso, backbends, inverted poses, and sitting can be experienced with more ease. As the upper body grows into healthy alignment, breathing is naturally freer and deeper, potentially preparing one for pranayama practice as well as backbends postures or inversions. The mind then becomes clear and quiet, and the heart loving and peaceful, leading the way to a natural state of meditation, and aligning us with our innermost purpose. Where: Yoga du Soleil located at
224
Divisadero St. --------------
Saturday, January 18th, 2020, 1:30pm-4:30pm 7 students only - register early! Rope work, or yoga korunta, is a dynamic and playful aspect of the Iyengar tradition. Ropes help tremendously in building agility and strength of body and mind. In this workshop we will focus on learning how to incorporate the ropes in our yoga practice. By transforming our relationship with gravity, the ropes assist us in focusing on specific parts of the body, refining the dynamics within a pose, and going beyond our habitual limits. We will explore standing postures, forward bends, backbends, twists and inversions. Be prepared to enjoy yourself and be challenged. This workshop is open to all levels and teachers. Optional: bring cycling or weight lifting gloves. Small class size ensures individualized attention. Where: Yoga du Soleil located at
224
Divisadero St. ---------- Opening and Strengthening the Hips, Groin and HamstringsSunday, January 26th, 2020; 9:30am-1:00pm In this session we will explore ways to cultivate freedom and stability in the pelvis. This can be achieved by learning how to engage the inner and outer muscles of the thighs, how to lengthen and fortify the hamstrings, and how to soften and loosen the hips, groin, ankle joints and feet . The fruit of such practice can prepare one for deep forward bending, back bending, as well as balancing which becomes critical as we age. Understanding how to create mobility in the legs and pelvis while being stable allows one to experience well-being for many years to come. Clear articulation and regular practice of optimal alignment of the lower body can alleviate back pain as well as create a firm, earthly foundation from which the spine can elongate easefully toward the sky. This can lead one to be able to sit comfortably for meditation and pranayama. Where: Yoga du Soleil located at
224
Divisadero St.
--------------
Saturday, November 23rd, 2019, 1:30pm-4:30pm Saturday, December 14th, 2019, 1:30pm-4:30pm 7 students only - register early! Rope work, or yoga korunta, is a dynamic and playful aspect of the Iyengar tradition. Ropes help tremendously in building agility and strength of body and mind. In this workshop we will focus on learning how to incorporate the ropes in our yoga practice. By transforming our relationship with gravity, the ropes assist us in focusing on specific parts of the body, refining the dynamics within a pose, and going beyond our habitual limits. We will explore standing postures, forward bends, backbends, twists and inversions. Be prepared to enjoy yourself and be challenged. This workshop is open to all levels and teachers. Optional: bring cycling or weight lifting gloves. Small class size ensures individualized attention. Where: Yoga du Soleil located
at
224 Divisadero St. ----------
Restorative Yoga is an opportunity to deeply relax, renew and journey inward. The body is supported by props in each pose, so each pose can be held for some time effortlessly, which encourages a gradual dissolution of holding patterns of stress and tension in the inner body. All these passive postures are an excellent prelude to pranayama, since they open and gently stretch the respiratory muscles, quiet the mind, and cultivate stillness and ease in the body. During the workshop, Betty will serenade you with selected, inspired poems and vocalese, and play chants from her CD "La Lumière du Son". The vibration of the sounds of harmonious words and melodies ushered by the human voice is the breath that touches the heart of the listener. This experience allows for a deeper absorption into our essence. A variety of restorative poses will be practiced - forward bends, twists, inversions, and backbends. Then, we will explore some simple yogic breathing techniques designed to expand ("yama") our lifeforce ("prana"). Pranayama strengthens the mind and is a doorway to meditation. As we move beneath the exterior boundaries, we will experience a feeling of inner spaciousness and revealing clarity that can help us realize our fullest spiritual potential. Where: Yoga du Soleil
located at 224 Divisadero St. --------------
A Post-Thanksgiving Rejuvenating, Detoxifying, Purifying Practice Sunday, December 1st, 2019, 9:30am-1:00pm By early registration only. Registration deadline is Monday November 25th If you are feeling sluggish, agitated and out of balance after the holiday feast, this practice will be nectar for your body, mind and spirit. The rivers of light (nadis) that run through our entire being can become blocked, overtaxed, dried up and dimmed by rich foods, alcohol, family stress, lack of movement and sleep. In this workshop we will engage the body in sun salutations, rhythmic movement combinations (vinyasa), twists and inversions to increase circulation of fluids in connective tissues and muscles, clear away accumulation of toxins in the organs, and nourish the body from inside out. We will practice conscious, slow breathing to regulate, the nervous system and increase our vitality (prana) and conclude with a sitting meditation, savoring stillness so we may begin to experience our innate joy and the radiant light within. Where: Yoga du Soleil located
at
224 Divisadero St. ---------- FINDING BALANCE: Connecting to
the Power of Hands and Feet Our relationship to the earth through our foundation is a dynamic, living relationship, serving in much the same way as the roots of a tree to draw nourishment for growth. The distribution of weight through our feet affects the function and flow of energy through our knees, hips, back and core. Similarly, how we place our weight through our hands creates a powerful cascade effect into the wrists, elbows, shoulders and neck. In this workshop we will reflect on the meaning of
balance
in our lives and discover how to enliven our inner body
and
how finding balance is a dance of pulsations. The
interplay
of the awareness of our center and extremities awakens us
to
the vibrancy of the present moment. We will explore
core-strengthening asanas, movements to condition the
extremities, and leg and arm balances. Finding balance is
the manifestation of our internal power, creativity, calm,
clarity, and remembering to see the sacred in every breath
we take. ----------
Saturday, September 21st, 2019, 1:30pm-4:30pm 7 students only - register early! Rope work, or yoga korunta, is a dynamic and playful aspect of the Iyengar tradition. Ropes help tremendously in building agility and strength of body and mind. In this workshop we will focus on learning how to incorporate the ropes in our yoga practice. By transforming our relationship with gravity, the ropes assist us in focusing on specific parts of the body, refining the dynamics within a pose, and going beyond our habitual limits. We will explore standing postures, forward bends, backbends, twists and inversions. Be prepared to enjoy yourself and be challenged. This workshop is open to all levels and teachers. Optional: bring cycling or weight lifting gloves. Small class size ensures individualized attention. Where: Yoga du Soleil located
at
224 Divisadero St. ---------- Awakening with InversionsSunday, September 22nd, 2019; 9:30am-1:00pm Inversions are an essential aspect of a balanced yoga practice. Regular practice of these postures nourishes the vital organs, strengthens the immune and nervous system, and clears the mind, creating radiant wellbeing and serenity from the inside out. We will work on poses and actions to stabilize and strengthen the shoulder girdle and arms, increasing the mobility of the upper back while understanding how to align the head and neck in a safe, pain-free way. We'll explore headstand, shoulderstand, forearmstand and full arm balance. This workshop is an opportunity for new students to break through their resistances to inversions and make friends with the world being upside down, and an opportunity for more seasoned students to explore more challenging variations. Where: Yoga du Soleil located
at
224 Divisadero St. -------------- Opening and Strengthening the Hips, Groin and HamstringsSunday, September 29th, 2019; 9:30am-1:00pm In this session we will explore ways to cultivate freedom and stability in the pelvis. This can be achieved by learning how to engage the inner and outer muscles of the thighs, how to lengthen and fortify the hamstrings, and how to soften and loosen the hips, groin, ankle joints and feet . The fruit of such practice can prepare one for deep forward bending, back bending, as well as balancing which becomes critical as we age. Understanding how to create mobility in the legs and pelvis while being stable allows one to experience well-being for many years to come. Clear articulation and regular practice of optimal alignment of the lower body can alleviate back pain as well as create a firm, earthly foundation from which the spine can elongate easefully toward the sky. This can lead one to be able to sit comfortably for meditation and pranayama. Where: Yoga du Soleil located
at
224 Divisadero St.
Being Radiant
in
the Heart Center: Opening the Upper Back and
Shoulders Yoga is designed to serve the heart, allowing us to be in the essence of our being. In this workshop we will explore movements, postures and actions that strengthen and bring flexibility to the shoulders, chest, neck, thoracic spine, arms, and wrists. By cultivating freedom in the torso, backbends, inverted poses, and sitting can be experienced with more ease. As the upper body grows into healthy alignment, breathing is naturally freer and deeper, potentially preparing one for pranayama practice as well as backbends postures or inversions .The mind then becomes clear and quiet, and the heart loving and peaceful, leading the way to a natural state of meditation, and aligning us with our innermost purpose. Where: Yoga du Soleil
located
at 224 Divisadero St. --------------
Saturday, August 10th, 1:30pm-4:30pm Saturday, August 17th, 1:30pm-4:30pm 7 students only - register early! Rope work, or yoga korunta, is a dynamic and playful aspect of the Iyengar tradition. Ropes help tremendously in building agility and strength of body and mind. In this workshop we will focus on learning how to incorporate the ropes in our yoga practice. By transforming our relationship with gravity, the ropes assist us in focusing on specific parts of the body, refining the dynamics within a pose, and going beyond our habitual limits. We will explore standing postures, forward bends, backbends, twists and inversions. Be prepared to enjoy yourself and be challenged. This workshop is open to all levels and teachers. Optional: bring cycling or weight lifting gloves. Small class size ensures individualized attention. Where: Yoga du Soleil
located
at 224 Divisadero St. ----------
Sunday, August 25th, 9:30am-1:00pm The standing poses are invigorating and an essential type of yoga asana. They refresh the body and mind by removing tension, aches and pains. They improve circulation and breathing. The back, shoulders, hips, legs, ankles and feet all gain strength and mobility through regular practice. They also teach us the principles of alignment and balance and help develop optimal posture in our walking, sitting, and standing. They contain within their architecture all the more complex and advanced asanas. In this workshop we will explore the many creative ways to be in each standing posture, with a rich repertoire of variations on feet placement, the use of wall, belts, blocks, chairs, and different relationships with gravity. We will dive deeper into understanding and experiencing their dynamic vitality with renewed awareness and relaxation. Thus we will find stability, freedom, and peace of body, mind and heart in these fundamental postures. This workshop might be of special interest to yoga teachers . Where: Yoga du Soleil
located
at 224 Divisadero St. --------------
Being Radiant
in
the Heart Center: Opening the Upper Back and
Shoulders Yoga is designed to serve the heart, allowing us to be in the essence of our being. In this workshop we will explore movements, postures and actions that strengthen and bring flexibility to the shoulders, chest, neck, thoracic spine, arms, and wrists. By cultivating freedom in the torso, backbends, inverted poses, and sitting can be experienced with more ease. As the upper body grows into healthy alignment, breathing is naturally freer and deeper, potentially preparing one for pranayama practice as well as backbends postures or inversions .The mind then becomes clear and quiet, and the heart loving and peaceful, leading the way to a natural state of meditation, and aligning us with our innermost purpose. Where: Yoga du Soleil
located
at 224 Divisadero St. --------------
Opening the Hips, Groin
and Hamstrings In this workshop we will explore ways to cultivate freedom and stability in the pelvis. This can be achieved by learning how to engage the inner and outer muscles of the thighs, how to lengthen and fortify the hamstrings, and how to soften and loosen the hips, groin, ankle joints and feet . The fruit of such practice can prepare one for deep forward bending, back bending, as well as balancing which becomes critical as we age. Understanding how to create mobility in the legs and pelvis while being stable allows one to experience well-being for many years to come. Clear articulation and regular practice of optimal alignment of the lower body can alleviate back pain as well as create a firm, earthly foundation from which the spine can elongate easefully toward the sky. This can lead one to be able to sit comfortably for meditation and pranayama. Where: Yoga du Soleil
located
at 224 Divisadero St. ---------- The Art of Yoga with a ChairSunday, June 23d, 2019; 9:30am-1:00pm The use of a chair was developed by Sri BKS Iyengar to enable any body to enhance their asana practice with the gifts that comes from its usage. Some of the main purposes of using the chair are: Perform asanas which are difficult to perform independently; Achieve and maintain correct alignment during the practice; Stay longer and relax in challenging asanas, in order to receive maximum benefit; Study and investigate the asanas in greater depth; Therapeutic purposes;Increase awareness and fun in the practice! I have personally enjoyed using a chair as part of my practice for the past 30 +years and keep exploring and finding new creative ways to play with it. It is truly a boon, whether you are an athlete, an older adult, or suffer from injuries. Props are a means to an end and are a great tool for teachers to add to their repertoire. This session will be an exploration of a variety of asanas � standing poses, twists, backbends, forward bends, and inversions. I am inviting you to discover and savor the infinite possibilities that this wondrous prop can offer! Where: Yoga du Soleil
located at 224 Divisadero St. There will be one workshop on Jully 28th and one on August 11th, topics to be announced. -------------- The Journey to Arm BalancingSunday, April 28th, 9:30am - 1:00pm Where: Yoga du Soleil
located at 224 Divisadero St. -------------- Opening the Gates to the Bliss of Back ExtensionsSunday, May 5th, 2019; 9:30am-1:00pm Back Extensions move us from the known to the unknown and demand complete physical and mental awareness. They are liberating and exhilarating. Backbending brings life to the spine, opens the chest, and stretches the entire front body as well as toning the back muscles, spine, and abdominals. With regular practice they strengthen your willpower, nervous system, and capacity to bear stress, and they correct poor posture. In this session, we will strengthen the core and then explore the essential keys that open the gates of the pelvis and the upper back and shoulders to move freely and safely into back extensions. We will practice a variety of backbends from beginning to more complex, along with poses for cooling down. Come and experience the freeing and rejuvenating power of these rewarding poses. They will light up your spirit. Where: Yoga du Soleil
located
at 224 Divisadero St. ----------
Sunday, May 19th, 2019; 9:30am-1:00pm The standing poses are invigorating and an essential type of yoga asana. They refresh the body and mind by removing tension, aches and pains. They improve circulation and breathing. The back, shoulders, hips, legs, ankles and feet all gain strength and mobility through regular practice. They also teach us the principles of alignment and balance and help develop optimal posture in our walking, sitting, and standing. They contain within their architecture all the more complex and advanced asanas. In this workshop we will explore the many creative ways to be in each standing posture, with a rich repertoire of variations on feet placement, the use of wall, belts, blocks, chairs, and different relationships with gravity. We will dive deeper into understanding and experiencing their dynamic vitality with renewed awareness and relaxation. Thus we will find stability, freedom, and peace of body, mind and heart in these fundamental postures. This workshop might be of special interest to yoga teachers . Where: Yoga du Soleil
located
at 224 Divisadero St. --------------
Saturday, May 25th, 2019; 1:30pm-4:30pm 7 students only - register early! Rope work, or yoga korunta, is a dynamic and playful aspect of the Iyengar tradition. Ropes help tremendously in building agility and strength of body and mind. In this workshop we will focus on learning how to incorporate the ropes in our yoga practice. By transforming our relationship with gravity, the ropes assist us in focusing on specific parts of the body, refining the dynamics within a pose, and going beyond our habitual limits. We will explore standing postures, forward bends, backbends, twists and inversions. Be prepared to enjoy yourself and be challenged. This workshop is open to all levels and teachers. Optional: bring cycling or weight lifting gloves. Small class size ensures individualized attention. Where: Yoga du Soleil
located
at 224 Divisadero St. --------------
Our relationship to the earth through our foundation is a dynamic, living relationship, serving in much the same way as the roots of a tree draws nourishment for growth. The distribution of weight through our feet affects the function and flow of energy through our knees, hips, back and core. Similarly, how we displace our weight through our hands creates a powerful cascade effect into the wrists, elbows, shoulders and neck. In this workshop we will discover how cultivating awareness in the hands and feet awakens us to the vibrancy of the present moment by engendering a more profound sense of internal attunement and inner core stability. We will begin the practice with a series of movements and actions designed to open, strengthen, and condition the extremities. This will be followed by a variety of standing poses, one-legged balancing poses, some backbends as well as simple arm balances. We will experience how are hands and feet are powerful symbols for our potential to expand, to give and receive, and to manifest more balance and equanimity in our lives. Where: Yoga du Soleil
located at 224 Divisadero St. --------------
In this workshop we will work with each other to explore a variety of asanas - standing poses, forward bends, backbends, twists and inversions. This process requires our utmost attention in listening and seeing each other in movement and stillness which increases our ability to be present with each moment as it arises. The essence of yoga is relationship. This interplay of giving and receiving can be educative, creative, playful and transformative. Practicing yoga with the help of a sensitive partner can quicken our understanding of the postures and teach us the subtle art of communicating through skillful touch and breath awareness. It can also enable us to develop trust (sraddha) and give us the opportunity to express gratitude (bhava). By cultivating these heart qualities we open to a more immediate experience of the interconnectedness of us all. Some previous yoga experience is required. It is not necessary to bring a partner to attend. Where: Yoga du Soleil
located at 224 Divisadero St. --------------
Saturday, April 20th, 2019; 1:30pm-4:30pm 7 students only - register early! Rope work, or yoga korunta, is a dynamic and playful aspect of the Iyengar tradition. Ropes help tremendously in building agility and strength of body and mind. In this workshop we will focus on learning how to incorporate the ropes in our yoga practice. By transforming our relationship with gravity, the ropes assist us in focusing on specific parts of the body, refining the dynamics within a pose, and going beyond our habitual limits. We will explore standing postures, forward bends, backbends, twists and inversions. Be prepared to enjoy yourself and be challenged. This workshop is open to all levels and teachers. Optional: bring cycling or weight lifting gloves. Small class size ensures individualized attention. Where: Yoga du Soleil
located at 224 Divisadero St. -------------- Being
Radiant
in the Heart Center: Opening the Upper
Back
and Shoulders Yoga is designed to serve the heart, allowing us to be in the essence of our being. In this workshop we will explore movements, postures and actions that strengthen and bring flexibility to the shoulders, chest, neck, thoracic spine, arms, and wrists. By cultivating freedom in the torso, backbends, inverted poses, and sitting can be experienced with more ease. As the upper body grows into healthy alignment, breathing is naturally freer and deeper, potentially preparing one for pranayama practice as well as backbends postures or inversions .The mind then becomes clear and quiet, and the heart loving and peaceful, leading the way to a natural state of meditation, and aligning us with our innermost purpose. Where: Yoga du Soleil
located at 224 Divisadero St. --------------
Saturday, March 23rd, 2019; 1:30pm-4:30pm 7 students only - register early! Rope work, or yoga korunta, is a dynamic and playful aspect of the Iyengar tradition. Ropes help tremendously in building agility and strength of body and mind. In this workshop we will focus on learning how to incorporate the ropes in our yoga practice. By transforming our relationship with gravity, the ropes assist us in focusing on specific parts of the body, refining the dynamics within a pose, and going beyond our habitual limits. We will explore standing postures, forward bends, backbends, twists and inversions. Be prepared to enjoy yourself and be challenged. This workshop is open to all levels and teachers. Optional: bring cycling or weight lifting gloves. Small class size ensures individualized attention. Where: Yoga du Soleil
located at 224 Divisadero St. -------------- Spring Rejuvenation with Twisting PosesSunday, March 24th, 2019; 9:30am-1:00pm Twisting poses, when performed skillfully, infuse the body and mind with vitality and well being, and assist in releasing enormous amounts of tension. They are traditionally associated with toning and rejuvenating the abdominal and pelvic organs. When these organs are squeezed, blood flow is stimulated and toxins are released - a natural internal massage. With regular practice the entire spine becomes more flexible, the upper back, neck, and hips move more freely, and these areas are nourished and strengthened by increased circulation. In this session we will explore supine, standing, seated and inverted twists. Twisting poses assist in cultivating introspection: they can be seen as a spiral movement, ascending or descending, towards freedom from within. They are an excellent prelude to meditation, enabling you to feel more in tune with yourself, energized in a restful way, and sit quietly with more ease. Where: Yoga du Soleil
located at 224 Divisadero St. ----------- The Art of Yoga with a ChairSaturday, February 23d, 2019; 1:30pm-5:00pm The use of a chair was developed by Sri BKS Iyengar to enable any body to enhance their asana practice with the gifts that comes from its usage. Some of the main purposes of using the chair are: Perform asanas which are difficult to perform independently; Achieve and maintain correct alignment during the practice; Stay longer and relax in challenging asanas, in order to receive maximum benefit; Study and investigate the asanas in greater depth; Therapeutic purposes;Increase awareness and fun in the practice! I have personally enjoyed using a chair as part of my practice for the past 30 +years and keep exploring and finding new creative ways to play with it. It is truly a boon, whether you are an athlete, an older adult, or suffer from injuries. Props are a means to an end and are a great tool for teachers to add to their repertoire. This session will be an exploration of a variety of asanas � standing poses, twists, backbends, forward bends, and inversions. I am inviting you to discover and savor the infinite possibilities that this wondrous prop can offer! Where: Yoga du Soleil
located at 224 Divisadero St. -------------- Awakening with InversionsSunday, February 10th, 2019; 9:30am-1:00pm Inversions are an essential aspect of a balanced yoga practice. Regular practice of these postures nourishes the vital organs, strengthens the immune and nervous system, and clears the mind, creating radiant wellbeing and serenity from the inside out. We will work on poses and actions to stabilize and strengthen the shoulder girdle and arms, increasing the mobility of the upper back while understanding how to align the head and neck in a safe, pain-free way. We'll explore headstand, shoulderstand, forearmstand and full arm balance. This workshop is an opportunity for new students to break through their resistances to inversions and make friends with the world being upside down, and an opportunity for more seasoned students to explore more challenging variations. Where: Yoga du Soleil
located at 224 Divisadero St. -----------
Saturday, February 16th, 2019; 1:30pm-4:30pm 7 students only - register early! Rope work, or yoga korunta, is a dynamic and playful aspect of the Iyengar tradition. Ropes help tremendously in building agility and strength of body and mind. In this workshop we will focus on learning how to incorporate the ropes in our yoga practice. By transforming our relationship with gravity, the ropes assist us in focusing on specific parts of the body, refining the dynamics within a pose, and going beyond our habitual limits. We will explore standing postures, forward bends, backbends, twists and inversions. Be prepared to enjoy yourself and be challenged. This workshop is open to all levels and teachers. Optional: bring cycling or weight lifting gloves. Small class size ensures individualized attention. Where: Yoga du Soleil
located at 224 Divisadero St. -------------- Being
Radiant
in the Heart Center: Opening the Upper
Back
and Shoulders Start the new year with aligning yourself with your highest purpose which arises from and serves the heart, allowing us to be in the essence of our being. In this workshop we will explore movements, postures and actions that strengthen and bring flexibility to the shoulders, chest, neck, thoracic spine, arms, and wrists. By cultivating freedom in the torso, backbends, inverted poses, and sitting can be experienced with more ease. As the upper body grows into healthy alignment, breathing is naturally freer and deeper, potentially preparing one for pranayama practice as well as backbends or inversions. The mind then becomes clear and quiet, and the heart loving and peaceful, leading the way to a natural state of meditation, and aligning us with our innermost purpose. Where: Yoga du Soleil
located at 224 Divisadero St. --------------
Saturday, January 26th, 2019; 1:30pm-4:30pm 7 students only - register early! Rope work, or yoga korunta, is a dynamic and playful part of the Iyengar tradition. Ropes help tremendously in building agility and strength of body and mind. In this workshop we will focus on learning how to incorporate the ropes in your yoga practice. By transforming our relationship with gravity, the ropes assist us in focusing on specific parts of the body, refining the dynamics within a pose, and going beyond our habitual limits. We will explore standing postures, forward bends, backbends, twists and inversions. Be prepared to enjoy yourself and be challenged. This workshop is open to all levels and teachers. Optional: bring cycling or weight lifting gloves. Small class size ensures individualized attention. Where: Yoga du Soleil
located at 224 Divisadero St. -------------- Hip Opening and Rejuvenation with Twisting PosesSunday, January 27th, 2019; 9:30am-1:00pm Twisting poses, when performed skillfully, infuse the body and mind with vitality and well being, and assist in releasing enormous amounts of tension. They are traditionally associated with toning and rejuvenating the abdominal and pelvic organs. When these organs are squeezed, blood flow is stimulated and toxins are released - a natural internal massage. With regular practice the entire spine becomes more flexible, the upper back, neck, and hips move more freely, and these areas are nourished and strengthened by increased circulation. In this session we will explore supine, standing, seated and inverted twists. Twisting poses assist in cultivating introspection: they can be seen as a spiral movement, ascending or descending, towards freedom from within. They are an excellent prelude to meditation, enabling you to feel more in tune with yourself, energized in a restful way, and sit quietly with more ease. Where: Yoga du Soleil
located at 224 Divisadero St.
Restorative Yoga is an opportunity to deeply relax, renew and journey inward. The body is supported by props in each pose, so each pose can be held for some time effortlessly, which encourages a gradual dissolution of holding patterns of stress and tension in the inner body. All these passive postures are an excellent prelude to pranayama, since they open and gently stretch the respiratory muscles, quiet the mind, and cultivate stillness and ease in the body. During the workshop, Betty will serenade you with selected, inspired poems and vocalese, and play chants from her CD "La Lumière du Son". The vibration of the sounds of harmonious words and melodies ushered by the human voice is the breath that touches the heart of the listener. This experience allows for a deeper absorption into our essence. A variety of restorative poses will be practiced - forward bends, twists, inversions, and backbends. Then, we will explore some simple yogic breathing techniques designed to expand ("yama") our lifeforce ("prana"). Pranayama strengthens the mind and is a doorway to meditation. As we move beneath the exterior boundaries, we will experience a feeling of inner spaciousness and revealing clarity that can help us realize our fullest spiritual potential. Where: Yoga
du Soleil located at 224
Divisadero
St. -------------- The Power of InversionsSunday, September 30th, 2018; 9:30am-1:00pm Inversions are an essential aspect of a balanced yoga practice. Regular practice of these postures nourishes the vital organs, strengthens the immune and nervous system, and clears the mind, creating radiant wellbeing and serenity from the inside out. We will work on poses and actions to stabilize and strengthen the shoulder girdle and arms, increasing the mobility of the upper back while understanding how to align the head and neck in a safe, pain-free way. We'll explore headstand, shoulderstand, forearmstand and full arm balance. This workshop is an opportunity for new students to break through their resistances to inversions and make friends with the world being upside down, and an opportunity for more seasoned students to explore more challenging variations. Where: Yoga du Soleil
located at 224 Divisadero St. --------------
Saturday, October 13th, 2018; 1:30pm-4:30pm 7 students only - register early! Rope work, or yoga korunta, is a dynamic and playful part of the Iyengar tradition. Ropes help tremendously in building agility and strength of body and mind. In this workshop we will focus on learning how to incorporate the ropes in your yoga practice. By transforming our relationship with gravity, the ropes assist us in focusing on specific parts of the body, refining the dynamics within a pose, and going beyond our habitual limits. We will explore standing postures, forward bends, backbends, twists and inversions. Be prepared to enjoy yourself and be challenged. This workshop is open to all levels and teachers. Optional: bring cycling or weight lifting gloves. Small class size ensures individualized attention. Where: Yoga du Soleil
located at 224 Divisadero St. --------------
Restorative Yoga is an opportunity to deeply relax, renew and journey inward. The body is supported by props in each pose, so each pose can be held for some time effortlessly, which encourages a gradual dissolution of holding patterns of stress and tension in the inner body. All these passive postures are an excellent prelude to pranayama, since they open and gently stretch the respiratory muscles, quiet the mind, and cultivate stillness and ease in the body. During the workshop, Betty will serenade you with selected, inspired poems and vocalese, and play chants from her CD "La Lumière du Son". The vibration of the sounds of harmonious words and melodies ushered by the human voice is the breath that touches the heart of the listener. This experience allows for a deeper absorption into our essence. A variety of restorative poses will be practiced - forward bends, twists, inversions, and backbends. Then, we will explore some simple yogic breathing techniques designed to expand ("yama") our lifeforce ("prana"). Pranayama strengthens the mind and is a doorway to meditation. As we move beneath the exterior boundaries, we will experience a feeling of inner spaciousness and revealing clarity that can help us realize our fullest spiritual potential. Where: Yoga
du Soleil located at 224
Divisadero St. ---------- The Art of Yoga with a ChairSunday, September 16th, 2018; 9:30am-1:00pm The use of a chair was developed by Sri BKS Iyengar to enable any body to enhance their asana practice and the gifts that comes from its usage. Some of the main purposes of using the chair are: Perform asanas which are difficult to perform independently; Achieve and maintain correct alignment during the practice; Stay longer and relax in challenging asanas, in order to receive maximum benefit; Study and investigate the asanas in greater depth; Therapeutic purposes;Increase awareness and fun in the practice! I have personally enjoyed using a chair as part of my practice for the past 30 years and keep exploring and finding new creative ways to play with it. It is truly a boon, whether you are an athlete, an older adult, or suffer from injuries. Props are a means to an end and are a great tool for teachers to add to their repertoire. This session will be an introduction to explore a variety of asanas � standing poses, twists, backbends, forward bends, and inversions. I am inviting you to discover and savor the infinite possibilities that this wondrous prop can offer! Where: Yoga du
Soleil
located at 224 Divisadero St. -------------- Opening and Strengthening the Hips, Groin and HamstringsSaturday, September 22nd, 2018; 1:30pm-5:00pm In this session we will explore ways to cultivate freedom and stability in the pelvis. This can be achieved by learning how to engage the inner and outer muscles of the thighs, how to lengthen and fortify the hamstrings, and how to soften and loosen the hips, groin, ankle joints and feet . The fruit of such practice can prepare one for deep forward bending, back bending, as well as balancing which becomes critical as we age. Understanding how to create mobility in the legs and pelvis while being stable allows one to experience well-being for many years to come. Clear articulation and regular practice of optimal alignment of the lower body can alleviate back pain as well as create a firm, earthly foundation from which the spine can elongate easefully toward the sky. This can lead one to be able to sit comfortably for meditation and pranayama. Where: Yoga du
Soleil located at 224
Divisadero St. -------------- Being
Radiant in the Heart
Center:
Opening the Upper Back and
Shoulders Yoga is designed to serve the heart, allowing us to be in the essence of our being. In this workshop we will explore movements, postures and actions that strengthen and bring flexibility to the shoulders, chest, neck, thoracic spine, arms, and wrists. By cultivating freedom in the torso, backbends, inverted poses, and sitting can be experienced with more ease. As the upper body grows into healthy alignment, breathing is naturally freer and deeper, potentially preparing one for pranayama practice as well as backbends postures or inversions .The mind then becomes clear and quiet, and the heart loving and peaceful, leading the way to a natural state of meditation, and aligning us with our innermost purpose. Where: Yoga du
Soleil located at 224
Divisadero St. -------------- Being
Radiant in the Heart
Center:
Opening the Upper Back and
Shoulders Yoga is designed to serve the heart, allowing us to be in the essence of our being. In this workshop we will explore movements, postures and actions that strengthen and bring flexibility to the shoulders, chest, neck, thoracic spine, arms, and wrists. By cultivating freedom in the torso, backbends, inverted poses, and sitting can be experienced with more ease. As the upper body grows into healthy alignment, breathing is naturally freer and deeper, potentially preparing one for pranayama practice as well as backbends postures or inversions .The mind then becomes clear and quiet, and the heart loving and peaceful, leading the way to a natural state of meditation, and aligning us with our innermost purpose. Where: Yoga du
Soleil located at 224
Divisadero St. --------------
Saturday, August 18th, 2018; 1:30pm-4:30pm 7 students only - register early! Rope work, or yoga korunta, is a dynamic and playful part of the Iyengar tradition. Ropes help tremendously in building agility and strength of body and mind. In this workshop we will focus on learning how to incorporate the ropes in your yoga practice. By transforming our relationship with gravity, the ropes assist us in focusing on specific parts of the body, refining the dynamics within a pose, and going beyond our habitual limits. We will explore standing postures, forward bends, backbends, twists and inversions. Be prepared to enjoy yourself and be challenged. This workshop is open to all levels and teachers. Optional: bring cycling or weight lifting gloves. Small class size ensures individualized attention. Where: Yoga du
Soleil located at 224
Divisadero St. -------------- Opening and Strengthening the Hips, Groin and HamstringsSunday, July 22nd, 2018; 9:30am-1:00pm In this session we will explore ways to cultivate freedom and stability in the pelvis. This can be achieved by learning how to engage the inner and outer muscles of the thighs, how to lengthen and fortify the hamstrings, and how to soften and loosen the hips, groin, ankle joints and feet . The fruit of such practice can prepare one for deep forward bending, back bending, as well as balancing which becomes critical as we age. Understanding how to create mobility in the legs and pelvis while being stable allows one to experience well-being for many years to come. Clear articulation and regular practice of optimal alignment of the lower body can alleviate back pain as well as create a firm, earthly foundation from which the spine can elongate easefully toward the sky. This can lead one to be able to sit comfortably for meditation and pranayama. Where: Yoga
du
Soleil located at
224
Divisadero St. -------------- The Art of Yoga with a ChairSunday, June 3rd, 2018; 9:30am-1:00pm The use of a chair was developed by Sri BKS Iyengar to enable any body to enhance their asana practice and the gifts that comes from its usage. Some of the main purposes of using the chair are: Perform asanas which are difficult to perform independently; Achieve and maintain correct alignment during the practice; Stay longer and relax in challenging asanas, in order to receive maximum benefit; Study and investigate the asanas in greater depth; Therapeutic purposes;Increase awareness and fun in the practice! I have personally enjoyed using a chair as part of my practice for the past 30 years and keep exploring and finding new creative ways to play with it. It is truly a boon, whether you are an athlete, an older adult, or suffer from injuries. Props are a means to an end and are a great tool for teachers to add to their repertoire. This session will be an introduction to explore a variety of asanas � standing poses, twists, backbends, forward bends, and inversions. I am inviting you to discover and savor the infinite possibilities that this wondrous prop can offer! Where: Yoga
du
Soleil located at
224
Divisadero St. --------------
Saturday, June 23th, 2018; 1:30pm-4:30pm 7 students only - register early! Rope work, or yoga korunta, is a dynamic and playful part of the Iyengar tradition. Ropes help tremendously in building agility and strength of body and mind. In this workshop we will focus on learning how to incorporate the ropes in your yoga practice. By transforming our relationship with gravity, the ropes assist us in focusing on specific parts of the body, refining the dynamics within a pose, and going beyond our habitual limits. We will explore standing postures, forward bends, backbends, twists and inversions. Be prepared to enjoy yourself and be challenged. This workshop is open to all levels and teachers. Optional: bring cycling or weight lifting gloves. Small class size ensures individualized attention. Where: Yoga
du Soleil
located
at 224 Divisadero St. -------------- The Journey to Arm Balancing Sunday, June 24th, 9:30am - 1:00pm Where:Yoga
du Soleil
located
at 224 Divisadero St. -------------- Being
Radiant in the
Heart
Center: Opening
the
Upper Back and
Shoulders Yoga is designed to serve the heart, allowing us to be in the essence of our being. In this workshop we will explore movements, postures and actions that strengthen and bring flexibility to the shoulders, chest, neck, thoracic spine, arms, and wrists. By cultivating freedom in the torso, backbends, inverted poses, and sitting can be experienced with more ease. As the upper body grows into healthy alignment, breathing is naturally freer and deeper, potentially preparing one for pranayama practice as well as backbends postures or inversions .The mind then becomes clear and quiet, and the heart loving and peaceful, leading the way to a natural state of meditation, and aligning us with our innermost purpose. Where: Yoga
du Soleil
located
at 224 Divisadero St. -------------- The Power of InversionsSunday, May 20th, 2018; 9:30am-1:00pm Inversions are an essential aspect of a balanced yoga practice. Regular practice of these postures nourishes the vital organs, strengthens the immune and nervous system, and clears the mind, creating radiant wellbeing and serenity from the inside out. We will work on poses and actions to stabilize and strengthen the shoulder girdle and arms, increasing the mobility of the upper back while understanding how to align the head and neck in a safe, pain-free way. We'll explore headstand, shoulderstand, forearmstand and full arm balance. This workshop is an opportunity for new students to break through their resistances to inversions and make friends with the world being upside down, and an opportunity for more seasoned students to explore more challenging variations. Where: Yoga
du Soleil
located
at 224 Divisadero St. -------------- Learning the Ropes Saturday, May 26th, 2018; 1:30pm-4:30pm 7 students only - register early! Rope work, or yoga korunta, is a dynamic and playful part of the Iyengar tradition. Ropes help tremendously in building agility and strength of body and mind. In this workshop we will focus on learning how to incorporate the ropes in your yoga practice. By transforming our relationship with gravity, the ropes assist us in focusing on specific parts of the body, refining the dynamics within a pose, and going beyond our habitual limits. We will explore standing postures, forward bends, backbends, twists and inversions. Be prepared to enjoy yourself and be challenged. This workshop is open to all levels and teachers. Optional: bring cycling or weight lifting gloves. Small class size ensures individualized attention. Where: Yoga
du Soleil
located at 224
Divisadero
St. ----------- Opening the Hips, Groin and HamstringsSunday, April 22nd, 2018; 9:30am-1:00pm In this session we will explore ways to cultivate freedom in the pelvis. This can be achieved by learning to relax and strengthen the inner and outer muscles of the thighs, stretch the hamstrings, as well as ways to soften and loosen the hips, groin, ankle joints and feet. The fruit of such practice prepares one for deep forward bending and backbending poses, as well as sitting comfortably for pranayama and meditation. Clear articulation and regular practice of optimal alignment of the lower body can alleviate back pain as well as create a firm, earthly foundation from which the spine can elongate easefully toward the sky. Where: Yoga
du Soleil
located at 224
Divisadero St. ---------- Opening the Gates to the Bliss of BackbendsSunday, April 1st, 2018; 9:30am-1:00pm Backbends move us from the known to the unknown and demand complete physical and mental awareness. They are liberating and exhilarating. Backbending brings life to the spine, opens the chest, and stretches the entire front body as well as toning the back muscles, spine, and abdominals. With regular practice they strengthen your willpower, nervous system, and capacity to bear stress and correct poor posture. In this session we will explore the essential keys that open the gates of the pelvis and the upper back and shoulders to move freely and safely into backbending. We will practice a variety of backbends from beginning to more complex, along with poses for cooling down. Come and experience the freeing and rejuvenating power of these rewarding poses. They will light up your spirit. Where: Yoga
du Soleil
located at 224
Divisadero St. ---------- Inspiration from India: An Inward PilgrimageSunday, April 15th, 2018; 9:30am-1:00pm Having returned to studying with my teacher from India, I am delighted to offer a window into some of the practices that I found profoundly inspiring and transformative. In this workshop we will explore some of the more introspective limbs of yoga: pranayama, pratyahara, dharana, dhyana, as well as preparative asanas. This session will include an introduction to the anatomy of the subtle body, a variety of long held postures to open the body, the use of sound, kriyas (breathing activities in asana), basic pranayama, and concentration techniques to lead us to a state of deep absorption. This journey will be an opportunity to experience a feeling of inner spaciousness in body, breath, mind and heart, bringing a revealing clarity that can help us realize our fullest spiritual potential. Especially recommended for teachers and students with some yoga experience. Where: Yoga
du Soleil
located at 224
Divisadero St. ---------- Learning the Ropes Saturday, April 21st, 2018; 1:30pm-4:30pm 7 students only - register early! Rope work, or yoga korunta, is a dynamic and playful part of the Iyengar tradition. Ropes help tremendously in building agility and strength of body and mind. In this workshop we will focus on learning how to incorporate the ropes in your yoga practice. By transforming our relationship with gravity, the ropes assist us in focusing on specific parts of the body, refining the dynamics within a pose, and going beyond our habitual limits. We will explore standing postures, forward bends, backbends, twists and inversions. Be prepared to enjoy yourself and be challenged. This workshop is open to all levels and teachers. Optional: bring cycling or weight lifting gloves. Small class size ensures individualized attention. Where:
Yoga
du Soleil
located at 224
Divisadero St. ----------- Learning the Ropes Saturday, March 17th, 2018; 1:30pm-4:30pm 7 students only - register early! Rope work, or yoga korunta, is a dynamic and playful part of the Iyengar tradition. Ropes help tremendously in building agility and strength of body and mind. In this workshop we will focus on learning how to incorporate the ropes in your yoga practice. By transforming our relationship with gravity, the ropes assist us in focusing on specific parts of the body, refining the dynamics within a pose, and going beyond our habitual limits. We will explore standing postures, forward bends, backbends, twists and inversions. Be prepared to enjoy yourself and be challenged. This workshop is open to all levels and teachers. Optional: bring cycling or weight lifting gloves. Small class size ensures individualized attention. Where:
Yoga
du Soleil
located at 224
Divisadero St. ----------- Spring Rejuvenation with TwistsSunday, March 18th, 2018; 9:30am-1:00pm Twisting poses, when performed skillfully, infuse the body and mind with vitality and well being, and assist in releasing enormous amounts of tension. They are traditionally associated with toning and rejuvenating the abdominal and pelvic organs. When these organs are squeezed, blood flow is stimulated and toxins are released - a natural internal massage. With regular practice the entire spine becomes more flexible, the upper back, neck, and hips move more freely, and these areas are nourished and strengthened by increased circulation. In this session we will explore supine, standing, seated and inverted twists. Twisting poses assist in cultivating introspection: they can be seen as a spiral movement, ascending or descending, towards freedom from within. They are an excellent prelude to meditation, enabling you to feel more in tune with yourself, energized in a restful way, and sit quietly with more ease. Where:
Yoga
du Soleil
located at
224
Divisadero
St. -------------- Learning the Ropes Saturday, January 27th, 2018; 1:30pm-4:30pm 7 students only - register early! Rope work, or yoga korunta, is a dynamic and playful part of the Iyengar tradition. Ropes help tremendously in building agility and strength of body and mind. In this workshop we will focus on learning how to incorporate the ropes in your yoga practice. By transforming our relationship with gravity, the ropes assist us in focusing on specific parts of the body, refining the dynamics within a pose, and going beyond our habitual limits. We will explore standing postures, forward bends, backbends, twists and inversions. Be prepared to enjoy yourself and be challenged. This workshop is open to all levels and teachers. Optional: bring cycling or weight lifting gloves. Small class size ensures individualized attention. Where:
Yoga
du
Soleil
located at
224
Divisadero
St. ----------- Opening and Strengthening the Hips, Groin and HamstringsSunday, January 28th, 2018; 9:30am-1:00pm In this session we will explore ways to cultivate freedom and stability in the pelvis. This can be achieved by learning how to engage the inner and outer muscles of the thighs, how to lengthen and fortify the hamstrings, and how to soften and loosen the hips, groin, ankle joints and feet . The fruit of such practice can prepare one for deep forward bending, back bending, as well as balancing which becomes critical as we age. Understanding how to create mobility in the legs and pelvis while being stable allows one to experience well-being for many years to come. Clear articulation and regular practice of optimal alignment of the lower body can alleviate back pain as well as create a firm, earthly foundation from which the spine can elongate easefully toward the sky. This can lead one to be able to sit comfortably for meditation and pranayama. Where:
Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at 224
Divisadero
St. -------------- The Art of Yoga with a ChairSunday, February 4th, 2018; 9:30am-1:00pm The use of a chair was developed by Sri BKS Iyengar to enable any body to enhance their asana practice and the gifts that comes from its usage. Some of the main purposes of using the chair are: Perform asanas which are difficult to perform independently; Achieve and maintain correct alignment during the practice; Stay longer and relax in challenging asanas, in order to receive maximum benefit; Study and investigate the asanas in greater depth; Therapeutic purposes;Increase awareness and fun in the practice! I have personally enjoyed using a chair as part of my practice for the past 30 years and keep exploring and finding new creative ways to play with it. It is truly a boon, whether you are an athlete, an older adult, or suffer from injuries. Props are a means to an end and are a great tool for teachers to add to their repertoire. This session will be an introduction to explore a variety of asanas � standing poses, twists, backbends, forward bends, and inversions. I am inviting you to discover and savor the infinite possibilities that this wondrous prop can offer! Where:
Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St. -------------- The Power of InversionsSunday, February 11th, 2018; 9:30am-1:00pm Inversions are an essential aspect of a balanced yoga practice. Regular practice of these postures nourishes the vital organs, strengthens the immune and nervous system, and clears the mind, creating radiant wellbeing and serenity from the inside out. We will work on poses and actions to stabilize and strengthen the shoulder girdle and arms, increasing the mobility of the upper back while understanding how to align the head and neck in a safe, pain-free way. We'll explore headstand, shoulderstand, forearmstand and full arm balance. This workshop is an opportunity for new students to break through their resistances to inversions and make friends with the world being upside down, and an opportunity for more seasoned students to explore more challenging variations. Where:
Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St. -------------- Being Radiant in the Heart Center: Opening the Upper Back and ShouldersSunday, January 14th, 2018; 9:30am-1:00pm Yoga is designed to serve the heart. Begin the new year by affirming your presence in the essence of your being. In this workshop we will explore movements, postures and actions that strengthen and bring flexibility to the shoulders, chest, neck, thoracic spine, arms, and wrists. By cultivating freedom in the torso, backbends, inverted poses, and sitting can be experienced with more ease. As the upper body grows into healthy alignment, breathing is naturally freer and deeper, potentially preparing one for pranayama practice. The mind then can become clear and quiet, and the heart loving and peaceful, leading the way to a natural state of meditation, and aligning us with our innermost purpose. Where:
Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St. ---------- Hip Opening and Rejuvenation with Twisting PosesSunday, October 8th, 2017; 9:30am-1:00pm Twisting poses, when performed skillfully, infuse the body and mind with vitality and well being, and assist in releasing enormous amounts of tension. They are traditionally associated with toning and rejuvenating the abdominal and pelvic organs. When these organs are squeezed, blood flow is stimulated and toxins are released - a natural internal massage. With regular practice the entire spine becomes more flexible, the upper back, neck, and hips move more freely, and these areas are nourished and strengthened by increased circulation. In this session we will explore supine, standing, seated and inverted twists. Twisting poses assist in cultivating introspection: they can be seen as a spiral movement, ascending or descending, towards freedom from within. They are an excellent prelude to meditation, enabling you to feel more in tune with yourself, energized in a restful way, and sit quietly with more ease. Where:
Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St. ---------- Learning the Ropes Saturday, October 21st, 2017; 1:30pm-4:30pm (7 students only - register early!) Note: This will be the last ropes workshop offered this year Rope work, or yoga korunta, is a dynamic and playful part of the Iyengar tradition. Ropes help tremendously in building agility and strength of body and mind. In this workshop we will focus on learning how to incorporate the ropes in your yoga practice. By transforming our relationship with gravity, the ropes assist us in focusing on specific parts of the body, refining the dynamics within a pose, and going beyond our habitual limits. We will explore standing postures, forward bends, backbends, twists and inversions. Be prepared to enjoy yourself and be challenged. This workshop is open to all levels and teachers. Optional: bring cycling or weight lifting gloves. Small class size ensures individualized attention. Where:
Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St. ----------- Awakening with InversionsSunday, October 22nd, 9:30am-1:00pm Inversions are an essential aspect of a balanced yoga practice. Regular practice of these postures nourishes the vital organs, strengthens the immune and nervous system, and clears the mind, creating radiant wellbeing and serenity from the inside out. We will work on poses and actions to stabilize and strengthen the shoulder girdle and arms, increasing the mobility of the upper back while understanding how to align the head and neck in a safe, pain-free way. We'll explore headstand, shoulderstand, forearmstand and full arm balance. This workshop is an opportunity for new students to break through their resistances to inversions and make friends with the world being upside down, and an opportunity for more seasoned students to explore more challenging variations. Where:
Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St. ----------- Inspiration from India: An Inward PilgrimageSunday, October 29th, 2017; 9:30am-1:00pm I am delighted to offer a window into some of the practices that I found profoundly inspiring and transformative while studying in India. In this workshop we will explore and integrate some of the more introspective limbs of yoga: pranayama, pratyahara, dharana, dhyana, as well as preparative asanas. This session will include an introduction to the anatomy of the subtle body, a variety of long held postures to open the body, the use of sound, kriyas (breathing activities in asana), basic pranayama, and concentration techniques to lead us to a state of deep absorption. This journey will be an opportunity to experience a feeling of inner spaciousness in body, breath, mind and heart, bringing a revealing clarity that can help us realize our fullest spiritual potential. Especially recommended for teachers and students with some yoga experience. Where:
Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St. ---------- Opening the Hips, Groin and HamstringsSunday, November 5th, 2017; 9:30am-1:00pm In this session we will explore ways to cultivate freedom in the pelvis. This can be achieved by learning to relax and strengthen the inner and outer muscles of the thighs, stretch the hamstrings, as well as ways to soften and loosen the hips, groin, ankle joints and feet. The fruit of such practice prepares one for deep forward bending and backbending poses, as well as sitting comfortably for pranayama and meditation. Clear articulation and regular practice of optimal alignment of the lower body can alleviate back pain as well as create a firm, earthly foundation from which the spine can elongate easefully toward the sky. Where:
Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St. --------------
Restorative Yoga is an opportunity to deeply relax, renew and journey inward. The body is supported by props in each pose, so each pose can be held for some time effortlessly, which encourages a gradual dissolution of holding patterns of stress and tension in the inner body. All these passive postures are an excellent prelude to pranayama, since they open and gently stretch the respiratory muscles, quiet the mind, and cultivate stillness and ease in the body. During the workshop, Betty will serenade you with selected, inspired poems and vocalese, and play chants from her CD "La Lumière du Son". The vibration of the sounds of harmonious words and melodies ushered by the human voice is the breath that touches the heart of the listener. This experience allows for a deeper absorption into our essence. A variety of restorative poses will be practiced - forward bends, twists, inversions, and backbends. Then, we will explore some simple yogic breathing techniques designed to expand ("yama") our lifeforce ("prana"). Pranayama strengthens the mind and is a doorway to meditation. As we move beneath the exterior boundaries, we will experience a feeling of inner spaciousness and revealing clarity that can help us realize our fullest spiritual potential. Where:Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St. ---------- The Journey to Arm BalancingSaturday, December 2nd, 2017; 1:30pm-4:00pm This workshop will be held at Love Story Yoga in San Francisco Come and experience a sense of playfulness in these delightfully challenging poses, cultivating wholesome intelligence of the body. Arm balances expand our inner sense of equilibrium and integration. With regular practice they develop lightness, strength, courage and agility; freeing the mind and body of limiting habitual patterns. This workshop will emphasize the process of arm balancing. Preparation will include:
We will learn to struggle less with the muscular strength of the arms and upper body by using the alignment of the bones for optimal leverage, while connecting to the source of our core. The essence of balancing on our hands is in creating a steady foundation that allows us to equally root into the earth while taking flight. This workshop is open to all levels of practice. Beginners as well as seasoned practitioners will learn how to start and/or refine their practice of arm balancing. Please visit the Love Story Yoga website to register. Love Story Yoga is located at 473 Valencia Street, San Francisco, CA, 94103 ----------- The Art of Yoga with a ChairSunday, December 3rd, 2017; 9:30am-1:00pm The use of a chair was developed by Sri BKS Iyengar to enable any body to enhance their asana practice and the gifts that comes from its usage. Some of the main purposes of using the chair are: Perform asanas which are difficult to perform independently; Achieve and maintain correct alignment during the practice; Stay longer and relax in challenging asanas, in order to receive maximum benefit; Study and investigate the asanas in greater depth; Therapeutic purposes;Increase awareness and fun in the practice! I have personally enjoyed using a chair as part of my practice for the past 30 years and keep exploring and finding new creative ways to play with it. It is truly a boon, whether you are an athlete, an older adult, or suffer from injuries. Props are a means to an end and are a great tool for teachers to add to their repertoire. This session will be an introduction to explore a variety of asanas � standing poses, twists, backbends, forward bends, and inversions. I am inviting you to discover and savor the infinite possibilities that this wondrous prop can offer! Where:
Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St. ---------- Being Radiant in the Heart Center: Opening the Upper Back and ShouldersSunday, September 17th, 2017; 9:30am-1:00pm In this workshop we will explore movements, postures and actions that strengthen and bring flexibility to the shoulders, chest, neck, thoracic spine, arms, and wrists. By cultivating freedom in the torso, backbends, inverted poses, and sitting can be experienced with more ease. As the upper body grows into healthy alignment, breathing is naturally freer and deeper, potentially preparing one for pranayama practice. The mind then can become clear, quiet and the heart peaceful leading the way to a natural state of meditation, aligning us with our innermost purpose. Where:
Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St. ---------- Learning the Ropes Saturday, September 23rd, 2017; 1:30pm-4:30pm (7 students only - register early!) Rope work, or yoga korunta, is a dynamic and playful part of the Iyengar tradition. Ropes help tremendously in building agility and strength of body and mind. In this workshop we will focus on learning how to incorporate the ropes in your yoga practice. By transforming our relationship with gravity, the ropes assist us in focusing on specific parts of the body, refining the dynamics within a pose, and going beyond our habitual limits. We will explore standing postures, forward bends, backbends, twists and inversions. Be prepared to enjoy yourself and be challenged. This workshop is open to all levels and teachers. Optional: bring cycling or weight lifting gloves. Small class size ensures individualized attention. Where:
Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St. ----------- Inspiration from India: An Inward PilgrimageSunday, September 24th, 2017; 9:30am-1:00pm Having recently returned from studying in India, I am delighted to offer a window into some of the practices that I found profoundly inspiring and transformative. In this workshop we will explore and integrate some of the more introspective limbs of yoga: pranayama, pratyahara, dharana, dhyana, as well as preparative asanas. This session will include an introduction to the anatomy of the subtle body, a variety of long held postures to open the body, the use of sound, kriyas (breathing activities in asana), basic pranayama, and concentration techniques to lead us to a state of deep absorption. This journey will be an opportunity to experience a feeling of inner spaciousness in body, breath, mind and heart, bringing a revealing clarity that can help us realize our fullest spiritual potential. Especially recommended for teachers and students with some yoga experience. Where:
Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St. Learning the Ropes Saturday, July 29th, 2017; 1:30pm-4:30pm Saturday, August 19th, 2017; 1:30pm-4:30pm (7 students only - register early!) Rope work, or yoga korunta, is a dynamic and playful part of the Iyengar tradition. Ropes help tremendously in building agility and strength of body and mind. In this workshop we will focus on learning how to incorporate the ropes in your yoga practice. By transforming our relationship with gravity, the ropes assist us in focusing on specific parts of the body, refining the dynamics within a pose, and going beyond our habitual limits. We will explore standing postures, forward bends, backbends, twists and inversions. Be prepared to enjoy yourself and be challenged. This workshop is open to all levels and teachers. Optional: bring cycling or weight lifting gloves. Small class size ensures individualized attention. Where:
Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St. ---------- Opening the Hips, Groin and HamstringsSunday, August 20th, 2017; 9:30am-1:00pm In this session we will explore ways to cultivate freedom in the pelvis. This can be achieved by learning to relax and strengthen the inner and outer muscles of the thighs, stretch the hamstrings, as well as ways to soften and loosen the hips, groin, ankle joints and feet. The fruit of such practice prepares one for deep forward bending and backbending poses, as well as sitting comfortably for pranayama and meditation. Clear articulation and regular practice of optimal alignment of the lower body can alleviate back pain as well as create a firm, earthly foundation from which the spine can elongate easefully toward the sky. Where:
Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St. ---------- Inspiration from India: An Inward PilgrimageSunday, June 11th, 2017; 9:30am-1:00pm Having recently returned from studying in India, I am delighted to offer a window into some of the practices that I found profoundly inspiring and transformative. In this workshop we will explore some of the more introspective limbs of yoga: pranayama, pratyahara, dharana, dhyana, as well as preparative asanas. This session will include an introduction to the anatomy of the subtle body, a variety of long held postures to open the body, the use of sound, kriyas (breathing activities in asana), basic pranayama, and concentration techniques to lead us to a state of deep absorption. This journey will be an opportunity to experience a feeling of inner spaciousness in body, breath, mind and heart, bringing a revealing clarity that can help us realize our fullest spiritual potential. Especially recommended for teachers and students with some yoga experience. Where:
Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St. ---------- Opening the Hips, Groin and HamstringsSunday, June 18th, 2017; 9:30am-1:00pm In this session we will explore ways to cultivate freedom in the pelvis. This can be achieved by learning to relax and strengthen the inner and outer muscles of the thighs, stretch the hamstrings, as well as ways to soften and loosen the hips, groin, ankle joints and feet. The fruit of such practice prepares one for deep forward bending and backbending poses, as well as sitting comfortably for pranayama and meditation. Clear articulation and regular practice of optimal alignment of the lower body can alleviate back pain as well as create a firm, earthly foundation from which the spine can elongate easefully toward the sky. Where:
Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St. ----------- Being Radiant in the Heart Center: Opening the Upper Back and ShouldersSunday, July 9th, 2017; 9:30am-1:00pm In this workshop we will explore movements, postures and actions that strengthen and bring flexibility to the shoulders, chest, neck, thoracic spine, arms, and wrists. By cultivating freedom in the torso, backbends, inverted poses, and sitting can be experienced with more ease. As the upper body grows into healthy alignment, breathing is naturally freer and deeper, potentially preparing one for pranayama practice. The mind then can become clear, quiet and the heart peaceful leading the way to a natural state of meditation, aligning us with our innermost purpose. Where:
Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St. ---------- Rejuvenation with Twisting PosesSunday, July 16th, 2017; 9:30am-1:00pm Twisting poses, when performed skillfully, infuse the body and mind with vitality and well being, and assist in releasing enormous amounts of tension. They are traditionally associated with toning and rejuvenating the abdominal and pelvic organs. When these organs are squeezed, blood flow is stimulated and toxins are released - a natural internal massage. With regular practice the entire spine becomes more flexible, the upper back, neck, and hips move more freely, and these areas are nourished and strengthened by increased circulation. In this session we will explore supine, standing, seated and inverted twists. Twisting poses assist in cultivating introspection: they can be seen as a spiral movement, ascending or descending, towards freedom from within. They are an excellent prelude to meditation, enabling you to feel more in tune with yourself, energized in a restful way, and sit quietly with more ease. Where:
Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St. ---------- Opening the Gates to the Bliss of BackbendsSaturday, May 13th, 2017; 1:00pm-4:30pm Backbends move us from the known to the unknown and demand complete physical and mental awareness. They are liberating and exhilarating. Backbending brings life to the spine, opens the chest, and stretches the entire front body as well as toning the back muscles, spine, and abdominals. With regular practice they strengthen your willpower, nervous system, and capacity to bear stress and correct poor posture. In this session we will explore the essential keys that open the gates of the pelvis and the upper back and shoulders to move freely and safely into backbending. We will practice a variety of backbends from beginning to more complex, along with poses for cooling down. Come and experience the freeing and rejuvenating power of these rewarding poses. They will light up your spirit. Where:
Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St. ---------- The Journey to Arm BalancingSunday, May 21st, 2017; 9:30pm-1:00pm Come and experience a sense of playfulness in these delightfully challenging poses, cultivating wholesome intelligence of the body. Arm balances expand our inner sense of equilibrium and integration. With regular practice they develop lightness, strength, courage and agility; freeing the mind and body of limiting habitual patterns. This workshop will emphasize the process of arm balancing. Preparation will include:
We will learn to struggle less with the muscular strength of the arms and upper body by using the alignment of the bones for optimal leverage, while connecting to the source of our core. The essence of balancing on our hands is in creating a steady foundation that allows us to equally root into the earth while taking flight. This workshop is open to all levels of practice. Beginners as well as seasoned practitioners will learn how to start and/or refine their practice of arm balancing. Where:
Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St. ---------- Learning the Ropes Saturday, May 27th, 2017; 1:30pm-4:30pm (7 students only - register early!) Rope work, or yoga korunta, is a dynamic and playful part of the Iyengar tradition. Ropes help tremendously in building agility and strength of body and mind. In this workshop we will focus on learning how to incorporate the ropes in your yoga practice. By transforming our relationship with gravity, the ropes assist us in focusing on specific parts of the body, refining the dynamics within a pose, and going beyond our habitual limits. We will explore standing postures, forward bends, backbends, twists and inversions. Be prepared to enjoy yourself and be challenged. This workshop is open to all levels and teachers. Optional: bring cycling or weight lifting gloves. Small class size ensures individualized attention. Where:
Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St. ----------- Awakening with InversionsSaturday, June 3rd, 2017; 1:00pm-4:00pm $75 This workshop will be held at Love Story Yoga in San Francisco Inversions are an essential aspect of a balanced yoga practice. Regular practice of these postures nourishes the vital organs, strengthens the immune and nervous system, and clears the mind, creating radiant wellbeing and serenity from the inside out. We will work on poses and actions to stabilize and strengthen the shoulder girdle and arms, increasing the mobility of the upper back while understanding how to align the head and neck in a safe, pain-free way. We'll explore headstand, shoulderstand, forearmstand and full arm balance. This workshop is an opportunity for new students to break through their resistances to inversions and make friends with the world being upside down, and an opportunity for more seasoned students to explore more challenging variations. Please visit the Love Story Yoga website to register. Love Story Yoga is located at 473 Valencia Street, San Francisco, CA, 94103 ---------- Learning the Ropes Saturday, April 29th, 2017; 1:30pm-4:30pm (7 students only - register early!) Rope work, or yoga korunta, is a dynamic and playful part of the Iyengar tradition. Ropes help tremendously in building agility and strength of body and mind. In this workshop we will focus on learning how to incorporate the ropes in your yoga practice. By transforming our relationship with gravity, the ropes assist us in focusing on specific parts of the body, refining the dynamics within a pose, and going beyond our habitual limits. We will explore standing postures, forward bends, backbends, twists and inversions. Be prepared to enjoy yourself and be challenged. This workshop is open to all levels and teachers. Optional: bring cycling or weight lifting gloves. Small class size ensures individualized attention. Where:
Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St. ----------- The Art of Yoga with a ChairSunday, May 7th, 2017; 9:30am-1:00pm The use of a chair was developed by Sri BKS Iyengar to enable any body to enhance their asana practice and the gifts that comes from its usage. Some of the main purposes of using the chair are: Perform asanas which are difficult to perform independently; Achieve and maintain correct alignment during the practice; Stay longer and relax in challenging asanas, in order to receive maximum benefit; Study and investigate the asanas in greater depth; Therapeutic purposes;Increase awareness and fun in the practice! I have personally enjoyed using a chair as part of my practice for the past 30 years and keep exploring and finding new creative ways to play with it. It is truly a boon, whether you are an athlete, an older adult, or suffer from injuries. Props are a means to an end and are a great tool for teachers to add to their repertoire. This session will be an introduction to explore a variety of asanas � standing poses, twists, backbends, forward bends, and inversions. I am inviting you to discover and savor the infinite possibilities that this wondrous prop can offer! Where:
Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St. ----------- OPENING
THE
GATES
TO
THE
BLISS
OF
BACKBENDS
In this session we will explore the essential keys that open the gates of the pelvis and the upper back and shoulders to move freely and safely into backbending. We will practice a variety of backbends from beginning to more complex, along with poses for cooling down. Come and experience the freeing and rejuvenating power of these rewarding poses. They will light up your spirit. Where:
Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St. ---------- Spring
Cleaning:
Rejuvenation
with
Twisting
Poses Twisting poses, when performed skillfully, infuse the body and mind with vitality and well being, and assist in releasing enormous amounts of tension. They are traditionally associated with toning and rejuvenating the abdominal and pelvic organs. When these organs are squeezed, blood flow is stimulated and toxins are released - a natural internal massage. With regular practice the entire spine becomes more flexible, the upper back, neck, and hips move more freely, and these areas are nourished and strengthened by increased circulation. In this session we will explore supine, standing, seated and inverted twists. Twisting poses assist in cultivating introspection: they can be seen as a spiral movement, ascending or descending, towards freedom from within. They are an excellent prelude to meditation, enabling you to feel more in tune with yourself, energized in a restful way, and sit quietly with more ease. Where:
Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St. ---------- Awakening
the
Core
with
Inversions We will start the practice by examining how to access our internal power of steadfastness, stability and strength. From the deep connection to our core, optimal alignment and innate intelligence of the body will be established. Then we will explore headstand and shoulderstand, as well as forearm and full arm balance. We will work on poses and actions which stabilize and strengthen the shoulder girdle and arms, increasing the mobility of the upper back while understanding how to align the neck and head in a safe, pain free way. Headstand and shoulder stand are the father and mother of all asanas. Regular practice of these two postures nourishes all the vital organs, strengthens the immune and nervous system and clears the mind creating radiant wellbeing and serenity from the inside out. Inversions are an essential aspect of a balanced yoga practice. Not recommended for women on their menstrual cycle. Where:
Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St. ---------- Being
Radiant
in
the
Heart
Center:
Opening
the
Upper
Back
and
Shoulders Where: Yoga du Soleil located at 224 Divisadero St. Cost: $80 in advance, $95 if registered less than 48hrs prior Register: Call Betty at 415-861-3055 No refunds with less than 24 hour cancellation
-----------
This workshop is open to all levels and teachers. Optional: bring cycling or weight lifting gloves. Small class size ensures individualized attention. Where: Yoga du Soleil located
at
224
Divisadero
St. ----------- Opening
the
Hips,
Groin
and
Hamstrings Clear
articulation
and
regular
practice
of
optimal
alignment
of
the
lower
body
can
alleviate
back
pain
as
well
as
create
a
firm,
earthly
foundation
from
which
the
spine
can
elongate
easefully
toward
the
sky. ---------
If you are feeling sluggish, agitated and out of balance after the Thanksgiving feast, this practice will be nectar for your body, mind and spirit. The rivers of light (nadis) that run through our entire being can become blocked, overtaxed, dried up and dimmed by rich foods, alcohol, family stress, lack of movement and sleep. Twisting poses, when performed skillfully, infuse the body and mind with vitality and well being, and assist in releasing enormous amounts of physical and mental tension. They are traditionally associated with tonifying and rejuvenating the abdominal and pelvic organs. When these organs are squeezed, blood flow is stimulated and toxins are released - a natural internal massage. With regular practice the entire spine becomes more flexible, the upper back, neck, and hips move more freely, and these areas are nourished and strengthened by increased circulation. In this session we will explore supine, standing, seated and inverted twists. Twisting poses assist in cultivating introspection: they can be seen as a spiral movement, ascending or descending, towards freedom from within. Twists are an excellent prelude to contemplation, enabling you to feel more in tune with yourself, energized in a restful way, and allowing you to sit quietly with more ease. Where:Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St. --------------
Restorative Yoga is an opportunity to deeply relax, renew and journey inward. The body is supported by props in each pose, so each pose can be held for some time effortlessly, which encourages a gradual dissolution of holding patterns of stress and tension in the inner body. All these passive postures are an excellent prelude to pranayama, since they open and gently stretch the respiratory muscles, quiet the mind, and cultivate stillness and ease in the body. During the workshop, Betty will serenade you with selected, inspired poems and vocalese, and play chants from her CD "La Lumière du Son". The vibration of the sounds of harmonious words and melodies ushered by the human voice is the breath that touches the heart of the listener. This experience allows for a deeper absorption into our essence. A variety of restorative poses will be practiced - forward bends, twists, inversions, and backbends. Then, we will explore some simple yogic breathing techniques designed to expand ("yama") our lifeforce ("prana"). Pranayama strengthens the mind and is a doorway to meditation. As we move beneath the exterior boundaries, we will experience a feeling of inner spaciousness and revealing clarity that can help us realize our fullest spiritual potential. Where:Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St. --------------
In this workshop we will explore headstand and shoulderstand, as well as forearm and full arm balance. We will work on postures and actions which stabilize and strengthen the shoulder girdle and arms, increasing the mobility of the upper back while understanding how to align the neck and head in a safe, pain free way. By examining how to access our internal power of steadfastness, stability and strength and from the deep connection to our core, optimal alignment and innate intelligence of the body will be established. Headstand and shoulder stand are the father and mother of all asanas. Regular practice of these two postures nourishes all the vital organs, strengthens the immune and nervous system and clears the mind creating radiant wellbeing and serenity from the inside out. Inversions are an essential aspect of a balanced yoga practice. This workshop is an opportunity for students who lack experience and confidence in practicing these essential poses to break though their resistances and make friends with the world of being upside down. The fundamentals will be covered and more seasoned students can explore more challenging variations. Not recommended for women on their menstrual cycle. Where:Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St. -------------- The Journey to Arm Balancing Sunday, November 6th, 9:30pm - 1:00pm Where:Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St. --------------
In this workshop we will explore movements, postures and actions that strengthen and bring flexibility to the shoulders, chest, neck, thoracic spine, arms, and wrists. By cultivating freedom in the torso, backbends, inverted poses, and sitting can be experienced with more ease. As the upper body grows into healthy alignment, breathing is naturally freer and deeper, potentially preparing one for pranayama practice. The mind then can become clear, quiet and the heart peaceful leading the way to a natural state of meditation, aligning us with our innermost purpose. Where:Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St. --------------
Yoga
for
Back
Care Where:
Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St. In this workshop we will examine optimal ways to align the body while sitting, standing and moving both on and off the yoga mat.We will look at actions and poses that strengthen and open the upper back, low back and pelvis. These methods can help to prevent and correct underlying causes of back pain. You will leave with some tools , practices and a clearer understanding of the conditions that can alleviate and prevent discomfort and aches in your back. Learning to choose to move wisely and kindly everyday can be the best self care. This workshop is open to all practitioners of yoga. ---------
THE
ART
OF
YOGA
WITH
A
CHAIR The use of a chair was developed by Sri BKS Iyengar to enable any body to enhance their asana practice and the gifts that comes from its usage. Some of the main purposes of using the chair are: Perform asanas which are difficult to perform independently; Achieve and maintain correct alignment during the practice; Stay longer and relax in challenging asanas, in order to receive maximum benefit; Study and investigate the asanas in greater depth; Therapeutic purposes;Increase awareness and fun in the practice! I have personally enjoyed using a chair as part of my practice for the past 30 years and keep studying and finding new creative ways to play with it. It is truly a boon, whether you are an athlete, an older adult, or suffer from injuries. Props are a means to an end and are a great tool for teachers to add to their repertoire. This session will be an introduction to explore a variety of asanas – standing poses, twists, backbends, forward bends, and inversions. I am inviting you to discover and savor the infinite possibilities that this wondrous prop can offer! Where: Yoga du Soleil located
at
224
Divisadero
St. --------- Opening
the
hips,
groin
and
hamstrings Clear
articulation
and
regular
practice
of
optimal
alignment
of
the
lower
body
can
alleviate
back
pain
as
well
as
create
a
firm,
earthly
foundation
from
which
the
spine
can
elongate
easefully
toward
the
sky. --------- Journey
to
Arm
Balancing Where:
Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St.
-----------
THE
ART
OF
YOGA
WITH
A
CHAIR The use of a chair was developed by Sri BKS Iyengar to enable any body to enhance their asana practice and the gifts that comes from its usage. Some of the main purposes of using the chair are: Perform asanas which are difficult to perform independently; Achieve and maintain correct alignment during the practice; Stay longer and relax in challenging asanas, in order to receive maximum benefit; Study and investigate the asanas in greater depth; Therapeutic purposes;Increase awareness and fun in the practice! I have personally enjoyed using a chair as part of my practice for the past 30 years and keep studying and finding new creative ways to play with it. It is truly a boon, whether you are an athlete, an older adult, or suffer from injuries. Props are a means to an end and are a great tool for teachers to add to their repertoire. This session will be an introduction to explore a variety of asanas – standing poses, twists, backbends, forward bends, and inversions. I am inviting you to discover and savor the infinite possibilities that this wondrous prop can offer! Where: Yoga du Soleil located
at
224
Divisadero
St. --------- OPENING
THE
GATES
TO
THE
BLISS
OF
BACKBENDS
In this session we will explore the essential keys that open the gates of the pelvis and the upper back and shoulders to move freely and safely into backbending. We will practice a variety of backbends from beginning to more complex, along with poses for cooling down. Come and experience the freeing and rejuvenating power of these rewarding poses. They will light up your spirit.
---------
OPENING
THE
HIPS,
GROINS
AND
HAMSTRINGS Clear
articulation
and
regular
practice
of
optimal
alignment
of
the
lower
body
can
alleviate
back
pain
as
well
as
create
a
firm,
earthly
foundation
from
which
the
spine
can
elongate
easefully
toward
the
sky. -----------------
This workshop is open to all levels and teachers. Optional: bring cycling or weight lifting gloves. Small class size ensures individualized attention. Where: Yoga du Soleil located
at
224
Divisadero
St. -----------
Awakening
the
Core
with
Inversions We will start the practice by examining how to access our internal power of steadfastness, stability and strength. From the deep connection to our core, optimal alignment and innate intelligence of the body will be established. Then we will explore headstand and shoulderstand, as well as forearm and full arm balance. We will work on poses and actions which stabilize and strengthen the shoulder girdle and arms, increasing the mobility of the upper back while understanding how to align the neck and head in a safe, pain free way. Headstand and shoulder stand are the father and mother of all asanas. Regular practice of these two postures nourishes all the vital organs, strengthens the immune and nervous system and clears the mind creating radiant wellbeing and serenity from the inside out. Inversions are an essential aspect of a balanced yoga practice. Not recommended for women on their menstrual cycle. Where:
Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St. ----------
Opening
the
Gates
to
the
Bliss
of
Backbends
In this session we will explore the essential keys that open the gates of the pelvis and the upper back and shoulders to move freely and safely into backbending. We will practice a variety of backbends from beginning to more complex, along with poses for cooling down. Come and experience the freeing and rejuvenating power of these rewarding poses. They will light up your spirit!
----- Opening
the
hips,
groin
and
hamstrings Clear
articulation
and
regular
practice
of
optimal
alignment
of
the
lower
body
can
alleviate
back
pain
as
well
as
create
a
firm,
earthly
foundation
from
which
the
spine
can
elongate
easefully
toward
the
sky. ---- Rejuvenation
with
twisting
poses Where:
Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St. --------- Journey
to
Arm
Balancing Where:
Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St.
----------- The
Poetic
Melody
of
Restorative
Poses Where:
Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St. -------- Opening
and
Strengthening
Upper
Back
and
Shoulders Learn new ways to express your fullness of spirit by exploring the inner landscape of your body, breath, and heart to unlock the boundless potential within you. In this workshop we will explore movements that strengthen and bring flexibility to the shoulders, chest, neck, thoracic spine, arms, and wrists. By cultivating freedom in the torso, backbends, inverted poses, and sitting can be experienced with more ease. As the upper body grows into healthy alignment, breathing is naturally freer and deeper, preparing us for pranayama practice. The mind becoming clear, quiet and the heart peaceful will lead the way to meditation, aligning us with our innermost purpose and luminous nature. Where: Yoga du Soleil located
at
224
Divisadero
St. -------
The Lotus is a magnificent paradox. Its leaves and flowers grow in the mud and murky water, yet they are unstained. It is associated with both heat and cool, chaos and order, the sun and the moon, even life and death. Under the summer's scorching sun, its blossoms are fragrant on the cool water's surface. It is no wonder that the Lotus has been the main symbol of yoga, enlightenment and sacredness, while remaining the optimal posture for pranayama and meditation. In this session we will explore creative ways to cultivate freedom in the pelvis. We will look at the many actions and postures necessary to open the hips, groin, hamstrings, ankles and feet while keeping the knees safe. Experiencing the grounding, stillness and the optimal alignment of this seated posture will guide us on the journey to a free, elongated spine. Reaching effortlessly for the sunlight like the long stalk that dances in the breeze, Padmasana is an expression of the flowering of our human potential. Where:
Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St.
THE
ART
OF
YOGA
WITH
A
CHAIR
1 The use of a chair was developed by Sri BKS Iyengar to enable any body to enhance their asana practice and the gifts that comes from its usage. Some of the main purposes of using the chair are: Perform asanas which are difficult to perform independently; Achieve and maintain correct alignment during the practice; Stay longer and relax in challenging asanas, in order to receive maximum benefit; Study and investigate the asanas in greater depth; Therapeutic purposes;Increase awareness and fun in the practice! I have personally enjoyed using a chair as part of my practice for the past 30 years and keep studying and finding new creative ways to play with it. It is truly a boon, whether you are an athlete, an older adult, or suffer from injuries. Props are a means to an end and are a great tool for teachers to add to their repertoire. This session will be an introduction to explore a variety of asanas – standing poses, twists, backbends, forward bends, and inversions. I am inviting you to discover and savor the infinite possibilities that this wondrous prop can offer! Where: Yoga du Soleil located
at
224
Divisadero
St.
-------- Awakening
the
Core
with
Inverted
Poses
We will start the practice by examining how to access our internal power of steadfastness, stability and strength. From the deep connection to our core, optimal alignment and innate intelligence of the body will be established. Then we will explore headstand and shoulderstand, as well as forearm and full arm balance. We will work on poses and actions which stabilize and strengthen the shoulder girdle and arms, increasing the mobility of the upper back while understanding how to align the neck and head in a safe, pain free way. Headstand and shoulder stand are the father and mother of all asanas. Regular practice of these two postures nourishes all the vital organs, strengthens the immune and nervous system and clears the mind creating radiant wellbeing and serenity from the inside out. Inversions are an essential aspect of a balanced yoga practice. Not recommended for women on their menstrual cycle. Where:
Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St. ----
This workshop is open to all levels and teachers. Optional: bring cycling or weight lifting gloves. Small class size ensures individualized attention. Where: Yoga du Soleil located
at
224
Divisadero
St.
----------- Opening
the
hips,
groin
and
hamstrings Clear
articulation
and
regular
practice
of
optimal
alignment
of
the
lower
body
can
alleviate
back
pain
as
well
as
create
a
firm,
earthly
foundation
from
which
the
spine
can
elongate
easefully
toward
the
sky.
This workshop is open to all levels and teachers. Optional: bring cycling or weight lifting gloves. Small class size ensures individualized attention. Where: Yoga du Soleil located
at
224
Divisadero
St.
Being
Radiant
in
the
Heart
Center:
Opening
the
Upper
Back
and
Shoulders We
will
conclude
with
meditation
to
align
with
our
highest
purpose
and
innermost
luminous
nature.
----------- Opening
to
the
Bliss
of
Backbends
at
Yoga
Tree
Potrero In this session we will explore the essential keys that open the gates of the pelvis and the upper back and shoulders to move freely and safely into backbending. We will practice a variety of backbends from beginning to more complex, along with poses for cooling down. Come and experience the freeing and rejuvenating power of these rewarding poses. They will light up your spirit!
-------- The
Poetic
Melody
of
Restorative
Poses Where:Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St.
-------------------- The
Poetic
Melody
of
Restorative
Poses Where:Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St. ------------ Rejuvenation
with
twisting
poses
at
Yoga
Tree
Hayes Where:
Yoga
Tree
Hayes ----------
(7
students
only
each
class
-
register
early!) Each workshop will focus on different sets of poses. So, come to one or both. This workshop is open to all levels and teachers. Optional: bring cycling or weight lifting gloves. Small class size ensures individualized attention. Where: Yoga du Soleil located
at
224
Divisadero
St. ------ Opening
Upper
Back
and
Shoulders
for
Pranayama Learn new ways to express your fullness of spirit by exploring the inner landscape of your body, breath, and heart to unlock the boundless potential within you. In this workshop we will explore movements that strengthen and bring flexibility to the shoulders, chest, neck, thoracic spine, arms, and wrists. By cultivating freedom in the torso, backbends, inverted poses, and sitting can be experienced with more ease. As the upper body grows into healthy alignment, breathing is naturally freer and deeper, preparing us for pranayama practice. The mind becoming clear, quiet and the heart peaceful will lead the way to meditation, aligning us with our innermost purpose and luminous nature. Where: Yoga du Soleil located
at
224
Divisadero
St.
COMPLETE
BODY
OPENING
AND
THE
ART
OF
YOGA
WITH
A
CHAIR The use of a chair was developed by Sri BKS Iyengar to enable any body to enhance their asana practice and the gifts that comes from its usage. Some of the main purposes of using the chair are: Perform asanas which are difficult to perform independently; Achieve and maintain correct alignment during the practice; Stay longer and relax in challenging asanas, in order to receive maximum benefit; Study and investigate the asanas in greater depth; Therapeutic purposes;Increase awareness and fun in the practice! I have personally enjoyed using a chair as part of my practice for the past 30 years and keep studying and finding new creative ways to play with it. It is truly a boon, whether you are an athlete, an older adult, or suffer from injuries. Props are a means to an end and are a great tool for teachers to add to their repertoire. This session will be an introduction to explore a variety of asanas – standing poses, twists, backbends, forward bends, and inversions. I am inviting you to discover and savor the infinite possibilities that this wondrous prop can offer! Where: Yoga du Soleil located
at
224
Divisadero
St. --------------- Journey
to
Arm
Balancing -----------
Opening
the
pelvis,
groin
and
hamstrings Clear
articulation
and
regular
practice
of
optimal
alignment
of
the
lower
body
can
alleviate
back
pain
as
well
as
create
a
firm,
earthly
foundation
from
which
the
spine
can
elongate
easefully
toward
the
sky. ----------------- Awakening
the
Core
with
Inverted
Poses
We will start the practice by examining how to access our internal power of steadfastness, stability and strength. From the deep connection to our core, optimal alignment and innate intelligence of the body will be established. Then we will explore headstand and shoulderstand, as well as forearm and full arm balance. We will work on poses and actions which stabilize and strengthen the shoulder girdle and arms, increasing the mobility of the upper back while understanding how to align the neck and head in a safe, pain free way. Headstand and shoulder stand are the father and mother of all asanas. Regular practice of these two postures nourishes all the vital organs, strengthens the immune and nervous system and clears the mind creating radiant wellbeing and serenity from the inside out. Inversions are an essential aspect of a balanced yoga practice. Not recommended for women on their menstrual cycle. Where:
Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St.
Each workshop will focus on different sets of poses. So, come to one or both. This workshop is open to all levels and teachers. Optional: bring cycling or weight lifting gloves. Small class size ensures individualized attention. Where: Yoga du Soleil located
at
224
Divisadero
St. ----------------- Opening
the
Upper
Back
and
Shoulders We
will
conclude
with
meditation
to
align
with
our
highest
purpose
and
innermost
luminous
nature. ---- THE
ART
OF
YOGA
WITH
A
CHAIR The use of a chair was developed by Sri BKS Iyengar to enable any body to enhance their asana practice and the gifts that comes from its usage. Some of the main purposes of using the chair are: Perform asanas which are difficult to perform independently; Achieve and maintain correct alignment during the practice; Stay longer and relax in challenging asanas, in order to receive maximum benefit; Study and investigate the asanas in greater depth; Therapeutic purposes;Increase awareness and fun in the practice! I have personally enjoyed using a chair as part of my practice for the past 30 years and keep studying and finding new creative ways to play with it. It is truly a boon, whether you are an athlete, an older adult, or suffer from injuries. Props are a means to an end and are a great tool for teachers to add to their repertoire. This session will be an introduction to explore a variety of asanas – standing poses, twists, backbends, forward bends, and inversions. I am inviting you to discover and savor the infinite possibilities that this wondrous prop can offer! Where: Yoga du Soleil located
at
224
Divisadero
St. --------------------
Each workshop will focus on different sets of poses. So, come to one or both. This workshop is open to all levels and teachers. Optional: bring cycling or weight lifting gloves. Small class size ensures individualized attention. Where: Yoga du Soleil located
at
224
Divisadero
St. --------------
Opening
the
pelvis,
groin
and
hamstrings Clear
articulation
and
regular
practice
of
optimal
alignment
of
the
lower
body
can
alleviate
back
pain
as
well
as
create
a
firm,
earthly
foundation
from
which
the
spine
can
elongate
easefully
toward
the
sky. --------------- ---------
I have been practicing and teaching the ropes for the past 30 years. Rope work, or yoga korunta, is a dynamic and playful part of the Iyengar tradition. Ropes help tremendously in building agility and strength of body and mind. In this workshop we will focus on learning how to incorporate the ropes in your yoga practice. By transforming our relationship with gravity, the ropes assist us in focusing on specific parts of the body, refining the dynamics within a pose, and going beyond our habitual limits. We will explore standing postures, forward bends, backbends, twists and inversions. Be prepared to enjoy yourself and be challenged. Each workshop will focus on different sets of poses. So, come to one or both. This workshop is open to all levels and teachers. Optional: bring cycling or weight lifting gloves. Small class size ensures individualized attention. Where: Yoga du Soleil located
at
224
Divisadero
St. ------------
Where:
Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St. ----------------------- THE
ART
OF
YOGA
WITH
A
CHAIR The use of a chair was developed by Sri BKS Iyengar to enable any body to enhance their asana practice and the gifts that comes from its usage. Some of the main purposes of using the chair are: Perform asanas which are difficult to perform independently; Achieve and maintain correct alignment during the practice; Stay longer and relax in challenging asanas, in order to receive maximum benefit; Study and investigate the asanas in greater depth; Therapeutic purposes;Increase awareness and fun in the practice! I have personally enjoyed using a chair as part of my practice for the past 30 years and keep studying and finding new creative ways to play with it. It is truly a boon, whether you are an athlete, an older adult, or suffer from injuries. Props are a means to an end and are a great tool for teachers to add to their repertoire. This session will be an introduction to explore a variety of asanas – standing poses, twists, backbends, forward bends, and inversions. I am inviting you to discover and savor the infinite possibilities that this wondrous prop can offer! Where:
Yoga
Tree
Mission,
24
Shotwell
St,
San
Francisco
Each workshop will focus on different sets of poses. So, come to one or both. This workshop is open to all levels and teachers. Optional: bring cycling or weight lifting gloves. Small class size ensures individualized attention. Where: Yoga du Soleil located at 224 Divisadero St.Cost: $90 Register: Call Betty at 415-861-3055 No refunds with less than 48 hour cancellation ---------- Awakening
the
Core
with
Inverted
Poses
We will start the practice by examining how to access our internal power of steadfastness, stability and strength. From the deep connection to our core, optimal alignment and innate intelligence of the body will be established. Then we will explore headstand and shoulderstand, as well as forearm and full arm balance. We will work on poses and actions which stabilize and strengthen the shoulder girdle and arms, increasing the mobility of the upper back while understanding how to align the neck and head in a safe, pain free way. Headstand and shoulder stand are the father and mother of all asanas. Regular practice of these two postures nourishes all the vital organs, strengthens the immune and nervous system and clears the mind creating radiant wellbeing and serenity from the inside out. Inversions are an essential aspect of a balanced yoga practice. Not recommended for women on their menstrual cycle. Where:
Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St.
Opening
the
Upper
Back
and
Shoulders
We
will
conclude
with
meditation
to
align
with
our
highest
purpose
and
innermost
luminous
nature. ----------- Spring
Cleaning
and
the
Art
of
Twists Where: Yoga du Soleil located
at
224
Divisadero
St. -----------
Opening
the
pelvis,
groin
and
hamstrings Clear
articulation
and
regular
practice
of
optimal
alignment
of
the
lower
body
can
alleviate
back
pain
as
well
as
create
a
firm,
earthly
foundation
from
which
the
spine
can
elongate
easefully
toward
the
sky. ------------- Opening
the
Gates
to
the
Bliss
of
Backbends
Backbends move us from the known to the unknown and demand complete physical and mental awareness. They are liberating and exhilarating. Backbending brings life to the spine, opens the chest, and stretches the entire front body as well as toning the back muscles, spine, and abdominals. With regular practice they strengthen your willpower, nervous system, and capacity to bear stress and correct poor posture. In this session we will explore the essential keys that open the gates of the pelvis and the upper back and shoulders to move freely and safely into backbending. We will practice a variety of backbends from beginning to more complex, along with poses for cooling down. Come and experience the freeing and rejuvenating power of these rewarding poses. They will light up your spirit! Where: Yoga du Soleil located
at
224
Divisadero
St. -------------------------------------------- Hatha
Yoga:
Sun
meets
moon
in
Asana,
Pranayama
and
Meditation Where:
Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St. --------------- Opening
the
pelvis,
groin
and
hamstrings Clear
articulation
and
regular
practice
of
optimal
alignment
of
the
lower
body
can
alleviate
back
pain
as
well
as
create
a
firm,
earthly
foundation
from
which
the
spine
can
elongate
easefully
toward
the
sky. -----------
Special
class
New
Year's
Eve
at
Yoga
Tree
--------------------------------------------- The
Journey
to
Arm
Balancing
-------------------------------------------------------- The
Poetic
Melody
of
Restorative
Poses Where:Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St. -------------------------------------------------------
Mexico
Yoga
Retreat
with
Betty
Roi Revitalize yourself with a week of yoga and Mexican sunshine at Prana del Mar in Cabo! A location that is easily accessible yet feels remote. Surrounded by nature – the power of the ocean, the vast expanse of desert skies, the majesty of the mountains – while also being coddled in luxurious accommodations. A place dedicated to environmental sustainability, but without sacrificing all the comfort and amenities of a deluxe experience. I invite you to explore Prana del Mar and join me for a week of yoga, contemplation, and personal transformation. Delicious and healthful cuisine awaits you, a swimming pool and spa facilities, a dedicated meditation room, tranquil gardens with a labyrinth, a stunning beach at the front of the property, and a staff dedicated to ensuring that you feel welcome and supported, Prana del Mar serves as the perfect setting to relax, refresh, and rejuvenate. $1925 for double accommodations. $2275 for single if available. Includes a week of deluxe accommodations, all meals, round-trip airport transfers, and all taxes,yoga twice a day with an afternoon free in the middle of the week to improvise a local adventure or a leisurely day. There are also a host of optional excursions, activities, and spa treatments that can be added to your stay. To register send a non refundable deposit of $600. The balance will be due October 31st. There are only a few spaces left. For more info, call Betty at 415 861 3055. --------------------- FINDING
BALANCE Where:
Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St. ----- THE
ART
OF
YOGA
WITH
A
CHAIR The use of a chair was developed by Sri BKS Iyengar to enable any body to enhance their asana practice and the gifts that comes from its usage. Some of the main purposes of using the chair are: Perform asanas which are difficult to perform independently; Achieve and maintain correct alignment during the practice; Stay longer and relax in challenging asanas, in order to receive maximum benefit; Study and investigate the asanas in greater depth; Therapeutic purposes;Increase awareness and fun in the practice! I have personally enjoyed using a chair as part of my practice for the past 28 years and keep studying and finding new creative ways to play with it. It is truly a boon, whether you are an athlete, an older adult, or suffer from injuries. Props are a means to an end and are a great tool for teachers to add to their repertoire. This session will be an introduction to explore a variety of asanas – standing poses, twists, backbends, forward bends, and inversions. I am inviting you to discover and savor the infinite possibilities that this wondrous prop can offer! Where:
Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St.
---------
This workshop is open to all levels and teachers. Optional: bring cycling or weight lifting gloves. Small class size ensures individualized attention. Yoga
Tree
Potrero Cost: $75 Learning
the
Ropes
Opening
the
Upper
Back
and
Shoulders We
will
conclude
with
meditation
to
align
with
our
highest
purpose
and
innermost
luminous
nature. --------------------- Journey
to
Arm
Balancing
@
Yoga
Tree
Potrero!
-----------------------
The Lotus is a magnificent paradox. Its leaves and flowers grow in the mud and murky water, yet they are unstained. It is associated with both heat and cool, chaos and order, the sun and the moon, even life and death. Under the summer's scorching sun, its blossoms are fragrant on the cool water's surface. It is no wonder that the Lotus has been the main symbol of yoga, enlightenment and sacredness, while remaining the optimal posture for pranayama and meditation. In this session we will explore creative ways to cultivate freedom in the pelvis. We will look at the many actions and postures necessary to open the hips, groin, hamstrings, ankles and feet while keeping the knees safe. Experiencing the grounding, stillness and the optimal alignment of this seated posture will guide us on the journey to a free, elongated spine. Reaching effortlessly for the sunlight like the long stalk that dances in the breeze, Padmasana is an expression of the flowering of our human potential. Where:
Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St.
--------------------------- Opening
The
Gates
to
the
Bliss
of
Backbends:
The
Art
of
Backbending In this session we will explore the essential keys that open the gates of the pelvis and the upper back and shoulders to move freely into backbending. We will practice a variety of backbends, along with poses for cooling down. Come and experience the freeing and rejuvenating power of these rewarding poses. They will light up your spirit! Where:
Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St.
--------------- Opening
the
hips,
groin
and
hamstrings Clear
articulation
and
regular
practice
of
optimal
alignment
of
the
lower
body
can
alleviate
back
pain
as
well
as
create
a
firm,
earthly
foundation
from
which
the
spine
can
elongate
easefully
toward
the
sky. -----------------------------------------------------
This workshop is open to all levels and teachers. Optional: bring cycling or weight lifting gloves. Small class size ensures individualized attention. Where:Yoga du Soleil located at 224 Divisadero St. Cost: $90 (class
size
limited
to
6
students
only)
---------------------------------------------------------------------
This workshop is open to all levels and teachers. Optional: bring cycling or weight lifting gloves. Small class size ensures individualized attention. Where:Yoga du Soleil located at 224 Divisadero St. Cost: $90 (class
size
limited
to
6
students
only) ------------------------------ Awakening
the
Core
with
Inverted
Poses
We will start the practice by examining how to access our internal power of steadfastness, stability and strength. From the deep connection to our core, optimal alignment and innate intelligence of the body will be established. Then we will explore headstand and shoulderstand, as well as forearm and full arm balance. We will work on poses and actions which stabilize and strengthen the shoulder girdle and arms, increasing the mobility of the upper back while understanding how to align the neck and head in a safe, pain free way. Headstand and shoulder stand are the father and mother of all asanas. Regular practice of these two postures nourishes all the vital organs, strengthens the immune and nervous system and clears the mind creating radiant wellbeing and serenity from the inside out. Inversions are an essential aspect of a balanced yoga practice. Not recommended for women on their menstrual cycle. Where:
Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St.
---------------------------------
Twisting poses assist in cultivating introspection: they can be seen as a spiral movement, ascending or descending, towards freedom from within. They are an excellent prelude to meditation, enabling one to feel more in tune with oneself and energized in a restful way. Where: Yoga du Soleil located
at
224
Divisadero
St. ----------------------
Opening
the
Upper
Back
and
Shoulders
We
will
conclude
with
meditation
to
align
with
our
highest
purpose
and
innermost
luminous
nature. ---------------------- Opening
the
hips,
groin
and
hamstrings Clear
articulation
and
regular
practice
of
optimal
alignment
of
the
lower
body
can
alleviate
back
pain
as
well
as
create
a
firm,
earthly
foundation
from
which
the
spine
can
elongate
easefully
toward
the
sky. --------------------
In this workshop we will engage the body in sun salutations, rhythmic movement combinations (vinyasa), twists, backbends and inversions to increase circulation of fluids in connective tissues and muscles, clear away accumulation of toxins in the organs, and nourish the body from inside out. We will practice conscious, slow breathing to regulate the nervous system and increase our vitality (prana) and conclude with a sitting meditation, savoring stillness so we may begin to experience our innate joy and listen deeply to what is in our heart. Where:Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St. ----
Where:Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St. ------------------------------------ Opening
the
Hips,
Groins
and
Hamstrings Where:Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St. -------
Each workshop will address the specific and different students needs. So if you wish to come to both you will learn different postures in each.
Where:Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St. -------- Each workshop will address the specific and different students needs. So if you wish to come to both you will learn different postures in each.
Where:Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St. -------- FINDING
BALANCE Where:
Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St. --------------------------------------- Being
Radiant
in
the
Heart
Center Learn new ways to express your fullness of spirit by exploring the inner landscape of your body, mind, and heart to unlock the boundless potential within you. In this workshop we will explore movements that strengthen and bring flexibility to the shoulders, chest, neck, thoracic spine, arms, and wrists. By cultivating freedom in the torso, backbends, inverted poses, and arm balances can be experienced with more ease. As the upper body grows into healthy alignment, breathing will be freer and deeper, allowing the mind to become clear and quiet, and the heart peaceful. We will conclude with meditation to align with our highest purpose and innermost luminous nature. Where:
Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St. --------------------
FINDING
BALANCE Where:
Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St. ....................................................................................
FINDING
BALANCE Where:
Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St. ....................................................................................
Where:
Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St. .................................................................................... Being
Radiant
in
the
Heart
Center Learn new ways to express your fullness of spirit by exploring the inner landscape of your body, mind, and heart to unlock the boundless potential within you. In this workshop we will explore movements that strengthen and bring flexibility to the shoulders, chest, neck, thoracic spine, arms, and wrists. By cultivating freedom in the torso, backbends, inverted poses, and arm balances can be experienced with more ease. As the upper body grows into healthy alignment, breathing will be freer and deeper, allowing the mind to become clear and quiet, and the heart peaceful. We will conclude with meditation to align with our highest purpose and innermost luminous nature. Where:
Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St. Opening
the
Groin,
Hips,
and
Hamstrings Where:
Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St.
Where:
Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St. ....................................................................................
............................................................................................................
Where:
Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St. ............................................................................................................
Where:
Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St. ............................................................................................................
Where:
Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St. ............................................................................................................ Learning
the
Ropes Rope work, or yoga korunta, is a dynamic and playful part of the Iyengar tradition. Ropes help tremendously in building agility and strength of body and mind. In this workshop we will focus on learning how to incorporate the ropes in your yoga practice. By transforming our relationship with gravity, the ropes assist us in focusing on specific parts of the body, refining the dynamics within a pose, and going beyond our habitual limits. We will explore standing postures, forward bends, backbends, twists and inversions. Be prepared to enjoy yourself and be challenged. This workshop is open to all levels and teachers. Optional: bring cycling or weight lifting gloves. Small class size ensures individualized attention.Early Registration Advised
Where:Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St.
...........................................................................................................
Entering the heart is like coming into the center of the sun ... when you are in the center of the sun, there is no way to block it’s light... so, by entering your own heart, you make the whole world a better paradise. - Swami Shantananda Being
Radiant
in
the
Heart
Center Learn new ways to express your fullness of spirit by exploring the inner landscape of your body, mind, and heart to unlock the boundless potential within you. In this workshop we will explore movements that strengthen and bring flexibility to the shoulders, chest, neck, thoracic spine, arms, and wrists. By cultivating freedom in the torso, backbends, inverted poses, and arm balances can be experienced with more ease. As the upper body grows into healthy alignment, breathing will be freer and deeper, allowing the mind to become clear and quiet, and the heart peaceful. We will conclude with meditation to align with our highest purpose and innermost luminous nature. Where:
Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St. ........................................................................................................... Spring
Awakening
and
the
Art
of
Twists Twisting poses, when performed skillfully, infuse the body and mind with vitality and well being, and assist in releasing enormous amounts of tension. They are traditionally associated with tonifying and rejuvenating the abdominal and pelvic organs. When these organs are squeezed, blood flow is stimulated and toxins are released - a natural internal massage. With regular practice the entire spine becomes more flexible, the upper back, neck, and hips move more freely, and these areas are nourished and strengthened by increased circulation. In this session we will explore supine, standing, seated and inverted twists. Twisting poses assist in cultivating introspection: they can be seen as a spiral movement, ascending or descending, towards freedom from within. They are an excellent prelude to meditation, enabling you to feel more in tune with yourself, energized in a restful way, and sit quietly with more ease. Where:
Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St. ........................................................................................................... Opening
the
Groin,
Hips,
and
Hamstrings In this session we will explore ways to cultivate freedom and strength in the pelvis. This can be achieved by learning to relax and strengthen the inner and outer muscles of the thighs and stretch the hamstrings, as well as learning ways to soften and loosen the hips, groin, ankle joints and feet. The fruit of such practice can prepare one for deep forward bending and back bending poses, as well as sitting comfortably for pranayama and meditation. Clear articulation and regular practice of optimal alignment of the lower body can alleviate back pain as well as create a firm earthly foundation from which the spine can elongate easefully towards the sky. Where:
Jewish
Community
Center:
3200
California
Street
SF,
CA
94118 ............................................................................................................ Learning
the
Ropes In
this
workshop
you
will
learn
ways
to
enhance
your
yoga
practice. Early Registration Advised
Where:
The
Yoga
Loft
-
321
Divisadero
Street,
SF ............................................................................................................
The
Poetic
Melody
of
Restorative
Poses
and
Pranayama Restorative Yoga is an opportunity to deeply relax, renew and journey inward. The body is supported by props in each pose, so each pose can be held for some time effortlessly, which encourages a gradual dissolution of holding patterns of stress and tension in the inner body. All these passive postures are an excellent prelude to pranayama, since they open and gently stretch the respiratory muscles, quiet the mind, and cultivate stillness and ease in the body. During the workshop, Betty will serenade you with selected, inspired poems and vocalese, and play chants from her CD “La Lumiere du Son”. The vibration of the sounds of harmonious words and melodies ushered by the human voice is the breath that touches the heart of the listener. This experience allows for a deeper absorption into our essence. A variety of restorative poses will be practiced - forward bends, twists, inversions, and backbends. Then, we will explore some simple yogic breathing techniques designed to expand ("yama") our lifeforce ("prana"). Pranayama strengthens the mind and is a doorway to meditation. As we move beneath the exterior boundaries, we will experience a feeling of inner spaciousness and revealing clarity that can help us realize our fullest spiritual potential. Where:
Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St. ........................................................................................................... Halloween Special: To Be Announced Sunday, October 28, 9:30 am - 1 pm PAST WORKSHOPS ...........................................................................................................
Opening
the
Gates
to
the
Bliss
of
Backbends ............................................................................................................ Spring
Awakening
and
the
Art
of
Twisting Twisting poses, when performed skillfully, infuse the body and mind with vitality and well being, and assist in releasing enormous amounts of tension. They are traditionally associated with tonifying and rejuvenating the abdominal and pelvic organs. When these organs are squeezed, blood flow is stimulated and toxins are released - a natural internal massage. With regular practice the entire spine becomes more flexible, the upper back, neck, and hips move more freely, and these areas are nourished and strengthened by increased circulation. In this session we will explore supine, standing, seated and inverted twists. Twisting poses assist in cultivating introspection: they can be seen as a spiral movement, ascending or descending, towards freedom from within. They are an excellent prelude to meditation, enabling you to feel more in tune with yourself, energized in a restful way, and sit quietly with more ease. Where:
Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St. ........................................................................................................... Many Blessings and Peace to All Asana
and
Meditation
for
a
Contemplative
Holiday
The
great
love
and
sacred
light
that
the
season
celebrates
are
found
within
our
own
awakened
hearts.
The
Asana
practice
will
explore
ways
to
cultivate
freedom
in
the
pelvis,
as
well
as
open
the
upper
back
and
chest.
The
fruit
of
such
practice
can
prepare
one
to
sit
comfortably
for
meditation
with
an
elongated
spine
and
ease
in
breathing.
This
time
spent
together
will
be
an
opportunity
to
experience
mindfulness
of
body,
mind
and
spirit
in
movement
and
stillness.
Where:
Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St. .......................................................................................................... photo by Susan McLaughlin Entering the heart is like coming into the center of the sun ... when you are in the center of the sun, there is no way to block it’s light... so, by entering your own heart, you make the whole world a better paradise. - Swami Shantananda Being
Radiant
in
the
Heart
Center:
Opening
the
Upper
Back
and
Shoulders
Learn new ways to express your fullness of spirit by exploring the inner landscape of your body, mind, and heart to unlock the boundless potential within you. In this workshop we will explore movements that strengthen and bring flexibility to the shoulders, chest, neck, thoracic spine, arms, and wrists. By cultivating freedom in the torso, backbends, inverted poses, and arm balances can be experienced with more ease. As the upper body grows into healthy alignment, breathing will be freer and deeper, allowing the mind to become clear and quiet, and the heart peaceful. We will conclude with meditation to align with our highest purpose and innermost luminous nature. Where:
Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St. ........................................................................................................... Learning
the
Ropes
Workshop We will explore standing postures, forward bends, back bends, twists, and inversions. This workshop is open to all levels and teachers who may want to teach rope work.
Rope
work
assists
in Where:
Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St. ............................................................................................................ photo by Susan McLaughlin Awakening
To
Our
Roots:
The
Healing
Power
Of
Hands
&
Feet Our relationship to the earth through our foundation is a dynamic, living relationship, serving in much the same way as the roots of a tree, to draw nourishment for growth. The distribution of weight through our feet affects the function and flow of energy through our knees, hips, back and shoulders. Similarly, how we displace our weight through our hands creates a powerful cascade effect into the wrists, elbows, shoulders and neck. In this workshop we will discover how cultivating awareness within the feet and hands awakens us to the vibrancy of the present moment and connects us to our center. The practice will start with an in-depth exploration of movements designed to open, strengthen, condition and heal the extremities. This will be followed by one-legged as well as simple arm balances. We will experience how our hands and feet are powerful symbols for our potential to expand, to give and receive, and to manifest more balance and creativity in our lives. Where:
Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St. ...........................................................................................................
Yoga
Retreat
in
Cabo
San
Lucas,
Mexico Join us to bask in the beauty and warmth of Mexico-Cabo San Lucas, for an unforgettable, magical week of yoga, meditation, walks by the beach, and the incredible joy of whale watching.
The first yoga class will start on Sunday at 4:30 pm and the retreat will end after lunch on Sat. the 27th. There will be about 5 hours a day of practice and ample time for relaxation, swimming, contemplation, and fun. Massages and other treatments are available in the beautiful spa at your own expense. The retreat is limited to 10 students. The magnificent rooms are double occupancy.
Early registration is advised. The
cost
is
$1188,
two
spots
are
available
for
$958
-
ask
Betty
for
details. Airfare, taxi from the airport, and dinners are not included.
A non-refundable deposit of $400 is due by the deadline registration date of Jan. 15 to hold your space. The balance of $788 is due on Jan. 24, 2010.
CANCELLATION
POLICY:
In
the
event
of
cancellation
the
entire
payment
will
be
refunded,
less
the
$400
deposit,
if
the
cancellation
is
made
before
Jan,
24,
2010. Please make checks payable to Elisabeth Roi. For
more
info
call
Betty
at
415
861-3055
or
email
at
bettyroi@yahoo.com
..........................................................................................................
Core
Awakening
in
Inverted
Poses This workshop is an opportunity for students who lack experience and confidence in practicing these essential poses to break through their resistances, and make friends with the world being upside down. The fundamentals will be covered, and more seasoned students can explore more challenging variations. We will start the practice by examining how to access our internal power of steadfastness, stability and strength. From the deep connection to our core, optimal alignment and innate intelligence of the body will be established. A feeling of inner toning, openness and serenity will unfold, allowing us to savor the wonder of these poses. Then we will explore headstand and shoulder stand, as well as forearm and full arm balance. Using props and modifications we will work on poses and actions which stabilize and strengthen the shoulder girdle and arms, and increase the mobility of the upper back while understanding how to align the neck and head in a safe, pain-free way. Headstand and shoulder stand are the Father and Mother of all asanas. Regular practice of these two poses nourishes all the vital organs, strengthens the nervous system, and clears the mind, creating radiant well-being from the inside out. Inversions are an essential aspect of a balanced yoga practice. Not recommended for women on their menstrual cycle. Where:
Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St. ........................................................................................................... Opening
The
Gates
to
the
Bliss
of
Backbends Backbends move us from the known to the unknown and demand complete physical and mental awareness. They are liberating and exhilarating. Backbending brings life to the spine, opens the chest, and stretches the entire front body. One can experience an energetic shift that can lay the ground for a new path, one which uncovers the unearthed parts of our body, mind, and heart. In this session we will explore the essential keys that open the gates of the pelvis and the upper back and shoulders to move freely into backbending. We will practice a variety of backbends, along with poses for cooling down. Come and experience the freeing and rejuvenating power of these rewarding poses. They will light up your spirit! Where:
Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St. ............................................................................................................ The
Journey
to
Arm
Balancing Arm balancing poses cultivate the intelligence of the body. They expand our inner sense of equilibrium and integration. With regular practice they develop lightness, strength, courage and agility, freeing the mind and body of habitual patterns. This workshop will emphasize the process of arm balancing. Preparation will include hip openers, twists, wrist and shoulder openers and strengtheners. We will learn to struggle less with the muscular strength of the arms by using the alignment of the bones for optimal leverage, while connecting to the power of our core. The essence of balancing on our hands is in creating a steady foundation that allows us to equally root into the earth while taking flight. Where:
Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St. ............................................................................................................ Spring
Cleaning:
Rejuvenate
and
Nourish
Yourself
with
Twists Twisting poses, when performed skillfully, infuse the body and mind with vitality and well being, and assist in releasing enormous amounts of tension. They are traditionally associated with tonifying and rejuvenating the abdominal and pelvic organs. When these organs are squeezed, blood flow is stimulated and toxins are released - a natural internal massage. With regular practice the entire spine becomes more flexible, the upper back, neck, and hips move more freely, and these areas are nourished and strengthened by increased circulation. In this session we will explore supine, standing, seated and inverted twists. Twisting poses assist in cultivating introspection: they can be seen as a spiral movement, ascending or descending, towards freedom from within. They are an excellent prelude to meditation, enabling you to feel more in tune with yourself, energized in a restful way, and sit quietly with more ease. Where:
Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St. ........................................................................................................... Opening
The
Gates
to
the
Bliss
of
Backbends Backbends move us from the known to the unknown and demand complete physical and mental awareness. They are liberating and exhilarating. Backbending brings life to the spine, opens the chest, and stretches the entire front body. One can experience an energetic shift that can lay the ground for a new path, one which uncovers the unearthed parts of our body, mind, and heart. In this session we will explore the essential keys that open the gates of the pelvis and the upper back and shoulders to move freely into backbending. We will practice a variety of backbends, along with poses for cooling down. Come and experience the freeing and rejuvenating power of these rewarding poses. They will light up your spirit! Where:
Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St. ............................................................................................................ Asana
&
Meditation:
Uniting
the
Sun
and
Moon
Thru
Mindfulness
Yoga
reunites
all
polarities
and
reconciles
opposites;
sun
meets
moon,
heaven
meets
earth,
and
this
sacred
union
manifests
in
the
heart.
Together,
asana
and
meditation
strengthen
our
capacity
to
be
present,
see
clearly,
and
directly
sense
the
body
as
a
doorway
to
the
boundless. Where:
Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St. ........................................................................................................... To see photos from the 2007 Brazil retreat, click HERE ........................................................................................................... Yoga
&
Meditation
for
a
Contemplative
Holiday Winter is a time of turning inward, when much of the natural world goes into hibernation. We are intimately tied to the seasonal rhythms around us. As the year comes to a close, now is the time for reflection and contemplation. Join
Mark
and
Betty,
as
they
skillfully
guide
you
into
the
inner
spaces
of
your
body,
mind
and
heart.
The
asana
practice
will
stimulate
and
soothe
you
through
a
delightful
combination
of
standing
poses,
backbends,
inversions,
twists,
and
forward
bends.
With
an
emphasis
on
cultivating
breath
awareness
throughout,
you
will
be
able
to
attune
to
the
subtle
flow
of
prana,
the
light
and
vibration
that
makes
up
the
entirety
of
the
cosmos.
This
awareness
will
be
used
to
practice
pranayama
(literally,
breath,
expansion),
to
further
settle
the
mind,
and
enter
into
communion
with
the
most
subtle
energetic
realms
of
your
body.
In
this
state,
you
will
be
led
through
a
meditation
in
which
you
will
navigate
the
ocean
of
your
heart,
to
dissolve
into
the
unwavering
pulsation
of
the
great
heart
of
consciousness,
your
timeless
essence
of
being. Please bring your own mat. All other props (when needed) will be provided. Where:
Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St. ........................................................................................................... The
Inward
Journey
of
Forward
Bends
Forward bends form an essential part of a balanced asana practice. Physically they stretch the legs, open the hips, and lengthen the entire back body. Psychologically, they teach us surrender, which is well expressed in the fact that we cannot see above or behind. In the acceptance of this situation lies humility. Therapeutically, they can be prescribed for issues such as migraines, insomnia, and hypertension, as well as forming a major component of the menstrual cycle sequence. These poses also teach us patience and trust, they help cultivate deep listening, turning our attention inward. In this workshop we will explore how to skillfully unite both halves of the body at the hips, the point of bending. Harmonious flow of the breath, and correct action of the legs and pelvis, will be addressed to create maximum mobility, traction, and freedom of the spine. Standing and seated forward bends will be practiced, and the meditative, introspective qualities of these poses will be emphasized. As we expand and soften from deep inside, we become more fully alive and peaceful in the present moment. Where:
Yoga
du
Soleil
located
at
224
Divisadero
St. ...........................................................................................................
|