Click here to view the embedded video.

Padmasana, lotus pose, is one of the most iconic poses in yoga. The lotus flower is a great symbol for the yogic path. It has murky beginnings. It grows through mud and blooms at the top of the lake as a beautiful pink flower. We, like the lotus, begin to grow as we root ourselves in our yoga practice. As we start to change our perceptions of the world, things start to grow and change.

Padmasana is the best seat for meditation. In order to sit in it comfortably, we have to protect our knees and keep our hips even. We do this by opening up our hips before getting into this meditative seat. One great one is ankle-to-knee pose, sitting on a block, placing a blanket underneath your thigh, or extending one leg. Another hip opener is a lying-down posture, hanging onto one foot and then extending the other leg onto the ground, and then bringing the leg that is up out to the side. A third hip opener is baddhokonasana, bound angle pose. To do this pose, open up the knees, grab the bottoms of the feet, and open them like a book. Lift the heart and fold forward. Then, you should be ready for lotus.

In lotus, keep the feet in close to the hips and you’re ready to meditate like a yogi. As you can see with all the hip openers we have to do, a good lotus posture takes time, which requires a core virtue of the yogi to be present. That virtue is patience. Keep your breath focused on the higher goal and enjoy.

Click here to learn more about the Kaivalya Yoga Method!

Welcome to the first weekend of February 2012! We hope that you have found joy and abundance in the new year thus far, and continue to enjoy every beautiful moment that it has to offer. We have selected a few of our favorite events going down around the world to help you kick off this  new month with a bang! Check out our weekend picks below, and get out there and have some fun!

Don’t see events listed in your city? Want to submit an event of your own? Email us at Submissions@yoganonymous.org and let us know the deal!

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Montego Bay, Jamaica

Thursday, February 2nd – Sunday, February 5th

Get ready for the 1st Annual Caribbean Yoga Conference in Montego Bay, Jamaica this weekend!

The conference lineup includes workshops for all abilities with world-class instructors including Toni Bergins, Gaia Budhai, Kathryn Budig, Jeffrey Cohen & Andrea Boyd, Seane Corn, Sharon Feanny, Scott Feinberg & Amy Lombardo, Moses Jas Jeet, Noah Levine, Nadine McNeil, Sadie Nardini, Jason Nemer & Jenny Sauer-Klein, Simon Park, Stacey Shanks, and MC Yogi & Amanda G.  Topics range from Vinyasa Flow and Journey Dance to Core Strength and Kudalini.  The conference will offer two 2.5-hour sessions each day with opportunities for morning meditation and Noon yoga on the beach.

Click here for the Full Scoop!

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Philadelphia, PA

Friday, February 3rd – Sunday, February 5th

The Gravity Cowboys are heading to Philadelphia this weekend – don’t miss Brock and Krista Cahill at Dhyana Yoga!

Lift Off! | 2/3 | 6:30pm – 8:30pm: “Ladies and gentlemen, this is your captain speaking.  We’d like to thank you for joining us as we fly the friendly skies.  En route this evening we will be crossing over many points of interest, including the grand handstand, oceans of navasana, mountainous arm balancing postures, and rivers of vinyasa.” Enough said.

Buoyancy Control | 2/4 | 12pm – 3pm: Brock & Krista will take the principals of basic arm balancing techniques, and refine them using cultivation of bandhas (energetic locks). You will learn how to tap into the subtle energy in the body and explore how the blending of physical strength and energetic power can create a state of weightlessness.

One Giant Leap | 2/5 | 12pm – 3pm: One small step for man, one giant leap for your practice! We will investigate the jumps in this workshop, including jump throughs and jump backs, jumps to handstand, jumps into arm balances, jumps into standing poses…and more! Take a leap, and the landing will appear…if you want it to.

Click here for the Full Scoop!

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New York, NY

Saturday, February 4th – Sunday, February 5th

Alanna Kaivalya will be teaching her Art of Adjustments workshops at Pure Yoga this weekend!

Explore the principles behind save and transformative hands-on assists and effective adjustments to convey technique, sublety and mastery. All types of adjustments will be covered, and an understanding of how to “see” the body and optimize students’ freedom in asanas will be examined.

Click here for the Full Scoop!

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New York, NY

Saturday, February 4th

Also at Pure Yoga this weekend – Arm Balancing + Gravity Surfing w/ Kay Kay Clivio!

Join Kay Kay as she guides you through a broad range of playful and safe poses, step by step. Build strength, courage, and connection in a graceful arm balance practice.

Click here for the Full Scoop!

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Newburyport, MA

Saturday, February 4th

Join Ame Wren for her ‘Hot Core Cool Sequencing’ workshop at Repose Yoga Studio on Saturday afternoon!

In this 2-hour workshop, Ame will lead a 90-minute open level class focusing on smart and creative sequencing and the firing up of agni, or core strength to create internal heat. Through bandha work, core transitions, and specific anatomical and breathing cues, you will sweat your way into a deeper understanding of how to move  fluidly, fiercely, and intelligently from your core self. Following the asana practice Ame will open the space for questions about how to greater utilize your core throughout your practice.

Click here for the Full Scoop!

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Venice, CA

Saturday, February 4th – Sunday, February 5th

Head over to the Exhale Center for Sacred Movement for a meSheeky trunk show!

meSheeky takes you from studio to street, looking fit, fab and full of sheekitude. Our line of yoga-inspired skirts, pants and tanks is designed to accentuate your best parts and cover up the stuff you’d rather not display to the world. We’ve got leg-lengthening, hip-hiding and booty-boosting in the bag with mixable, matchable pieces to flatter every body. It’s no wonder Sheekynistas are effortlessly stylish wherever they go. Featured everywhere from the Today Show to Health Magazine, this is way more than well-crafted fitness wear, it’s a shot of confidence. meSheeky is yogi-owned and operated by Flowmotion yoga founder Sarah Tomson Beyer in Park City, Utah.

Click here for the Full Scoop!

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Wishing you a safe & wonderful weekend,

With LOVE,

YOGANONYMOUS

Click here to view the embedded video.

Hanuman, is a legendary character from yoga mythology. He has three poses, or asanas, attributed to him: hanumanasana (splits pose), anjaneyasana (lunge pose), and virasana (hero pose). This video illustrates the mythology behind all three and introduces a sequence that incorporates these three hanuman poses.

The story of Hanuman comes from the Ramayana, an epic poem and tale. In this tale, Ram and Hanuman are best friends. Hanuman was a demigod sent to live in the forest with a band of monkeys. When he was young, his name was Anjaneya, named after his mother. That is why we call this kneeling lunge pose Anjaneyasana. This pose named for the baby Hanuman is all about finding an even stretch. Virasana is another name for Hanuman. Ram’s girlfriend, Sita, was stolen by an evil demon so he sent Hanuman to save her. He prayed for the faith to do a seemingly impossible task. He prayed to be filled with confidence and love. The last Hanuman pose is (you guessed it!) Hanumanasana. This video shows how to get into this challenging splits pose through multiple variations and sequences. In this challenging pose, it is super helpful to remember that Hanuman is the embodiment of friendship and happiness – not suffering!

What do these poses have in common? They are all hip openers and involve the stretching of the psoas, the muscle that is most involved in moving through fear. And moving through fear is exactly what this monkey demigod does and what we can do through practicing these asanas. As we start to open these muscles, we begin to relieve our fear and our stress. When we do that, we can do anything.

Click here to learn more about the Kaivalya Yoga Method

Guess what?! It’s the last month of January – we are 1/12 of the way through 2012! We hope that the new year has started off well for you, and if it hasn’t, that’s ok too – there’s plenty of time to turn things around! You can start by checking out our weekend picks for some great yoga events happening across the country. Wherever you may be this lovely weekend, get out there and have some fun!

Don’t see events listed in your city? Want to submit an event of your own? Email us at Submissions@yoganonymous.org and let us know the deal!

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Boston, MA

Friday, January 27th – Sunday, January 29th

Root, Rise, and Fly with Brock and Krista Cahill at South Boston Yoga this weekend!

Root to Rise | 1/27 | 6p – 8pm: This workshop begins with plentiful amount of core work to warm the body by igniting the fire within and awakening the inner warrior. Brock & Krista will then go over proven secrets to make arm balances and inversions effortless! The workshop will conclude with a few creative “arm balance medleys” created by Brock & Krista that sequence these challenging postures together in a fun & melodic flow.

Get Grounded | 1/28 | 1pm – 3pm: Powered by the ebb and flow of rhythm and spirit, fueled by the seductive tunes of rock „n roll, and focused by the fluidity and grace of moving meditation. Move quietly into a space of poetic stillness and use the breath to create a mantra of healing and rejuvenation.

Monkey Business | 1/28 | 3:30pm – 5:30pm: This practice is hanuman training. We will take a trip down the rabbit hole to the monkeys den, and practice hanuman style. Of course this will include his namesake pose, and great news! We will be on our hands quite a bit, and riding the wind. Jai hanuman!

One Giant Leap | 1/29 | 1pm – 3pm: This workshop is geared toward giving you the tools you need to resist landing. This is a fantastic way to practice honing your leaping skills, building confidence, so that when a leap appears out in life, you are ready to rock.

Flight Club | 1/29 | 3:30pm – 5:30pm: Ladies and gentlemen, this is your captain speaking. We’d like to thank you for joining us as we fly the friendly skies. En route this evening we will be crossing over many points of interests, including the grand handstand, oceans of navasana, mountainous arm balancing postures, and rivers of vinyasa.

Click here for the Full Scoop!

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Chicago, IL

Friday, January 27th – Sunday, January 29th

Get ready for a weekend of Forrest Yoga w/ Allison English at the Chicago School of Hot Yoga!

New Year, New Yoga: Introduction to Forrest Yoga | 1/27 | 6pm – 8pm: Start the New Year off by exploring a different style of yoga or deepening your knowledge of a favorite path. This Introduction to Forrest Yoga will take you on a journey into the simple yet transformative four pillars of this amazing practice – Breath, Strength, Integrity and Spirit. Open to all levels of practitioners.

Forrest Yoga: Opening Your Heart to the Unknown | 1/28 | 1:30pm – 3:30pm: Inherent in each new moment, period or year is the opportunity for the unknown to become the experienced. In this Forrest Yoga workshop learn to safely and therapeutically explore backbends into the unknown pockets of energy and strength within your body, mind and Spirit.

Changing Perspectives: Moving from your Wiser Self | 1/29 | 1:30pm – 3:30pm: The practice of Forrest Yoga is grounded in the direct use of Spirit to guide decision making from a powerful space of personal wisdom. Interweaving inversions and arm balances into an exciting adventure, this workshop will help you connect to and use your Spirit to change your perspective on decisions or resolutions you are making in your New Year. Open to all levels of practitioners.

Click here for the Full Scoop!

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Denver, CO

Friday, January 27th – Sunday, January 29th

Don’t miss Les Leventhal this weekend at Bliss Yoga in Denver, CO!

Hips & Twists: Liberate Your Hips, Free Your Spine: In this workshop, we will open our hips by stretching our hamstrings and relaxing and strengthening our quads and thighs, while cultivating awareness of the challenges that we hold deep in our hip and pelvic regions. We will also free our spine with twists, which can release enormous amounts of tension and can tone and rejuvenate the abdominal and pelvic regions.

Art of Backbends: Backbends are some of yoga’s most invigorating postures and sometimes some of the most challenging. In this workshop we will explore the physical, psychological and spiritual aspects of backbends. While  balancing effort and surrender, we will open the  entire front body, with emphasis on the heart center.

Arm Balancing & Inversions: Arm Balances and Inversions are some of yoga’s most fun and exhilarating poses to practice. In this workshop you will learn to safely defy gravity, strengthen your core, build upper body strength, and begin cultivating awareness of your body being upside down and moving through space.

Click here for the Full Scoop!

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Boulder, CO

Saturday, January 28th

Join Nancy Kate Williams at Om Time Yoga in Boulder for an ‘Honoring the Transitions’ workshop!

The transitions we embark upon in life are powerful opportunities for growth and personal evolution.  Honor and embody the spaces between breath and posture to allow the practice of weaving them to become a broadened current of time to savor, reflect, and deeply feel.  Learn to embody fluid connection with ease through fun transitions on and off the mat to bring yourself more deeply into the call of each moment.

Click here for the Full Scoop!

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Philadelphia, PA

Saturday, January 28th – Sunday, January 29th

Don’t miss out on this awesome weekend of liquid flow yoga with Simon Park at Dhyana Yoga in Philadelphia!

Jai Hanuman! Inversions & Arm Balances | 1/28 | 2pm – 4:30pm: Handstands and inversions are empowering mudras that embody the best qualities of Hanuman, the archetypal heroic monkey: courage, fearless flying, pranic body of power, agility and light. Learn a pathway of flows within a powerful Vinyasa Flow workshop so that you can evolve to enjoying handstand in the center of the room with creative energy and empowered vitality.

Chakra Vinyasa – Focus on Backbends | 1/29 | 2pm – 4:30pm: Practice an accessible and universal approach to the chakra system within vinyasa that accesses the essential truths of our energetic body to live in greater alignment with our authentic flow. Experience a full spectrum practice dedicated to the elements and chakras, and how backbends such as Naturajasana, King Pigeon, and Scorpion are the perfect way to ignite the Chakras.

Click here for the Full Scoop!

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Del Mar, CA

Sunday, January 29th

Take your practice upside down with Aubrey Hackman at Bindu Yoga in Del Mar this Sunday in ‘Demystifying Upside-Down Poses’!

Stop missing out on the most integral part of your yoga practice! Discover the ease and benefits of going upside down in this physically available inversion session. Explore headstand, shoulderstand, hand stand and all of the possible modifications as we breakdown any fear or hesitation that may be related with the most potent of yoga asanas (poses). Come flip your world upside down in this Jivamukti style workshop!

Click here for the Full Scoop!

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New York, NY

Saturday, January 28th

Join Alanna Kaivalya at Land Yoga for her Myths of the Asanas Workshop!

Alanna’s first book, Myths of the Asanas, was released in Spring 2010 to great praise by yogis and non-yogis alike.  Join us for this very special lecture/workshop based around Alanna’s book and learn the Beautiful Stories behind your Yoga poses.  Your practice will be transformed!

Click here for the Full Scoop!

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Wichita, KS

Friday, January 27th – Saturday, January 28th

Join Dave Romanelli at Siva Yoga in Wichita for 3 beautiful, funny, delicious workshops!

Yoga & Wine | 1/27: Unleash the mind with a little….

Yoga & Chocolate | 1/28: How exotic chocolate  makes you look and feel awesome!

Yoga for Foodies | 1/28: The rich taste of slow food from Tanya’s soup kitchen!

Click here for the Full Scoop!

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Wishing you a fun & fabulous weekend!

With LOVE,

YOGANONYMOUS

She has written a book, is an accomplished singer/songwriter and musician, and is celebrated across the globe as one of today’s greatest yoga teachers. As if that weren’t enough, Alanna recently launched her own teacher training program, the Kaivalya Yoga Method. Since Alanna lead my 200 hour teacher training at Pure Yoga a few years back, I have been her biggest fan. She has the ability to engage her students, make them laugh, and make them see yoga as something that is happening right now, something that we are all capable of. I highly recommend studying with her.

Recently, I had the opportunity to sit down with Alanna and talk to her about the Kaivalya Yoga Method. Check our interview below, and if you are interested in learning more about TKYM, click here. The first program kicks off April 1st in NYC.

Interview w/ Alanna Kaivalya

Michaela Best: First of all, congratulations on the creation of The Kaivalya Yoga Method, what an incredible accomplishment. What was the inspiration behind developing your own teacher training system?

Alanna Kaivalya: Thank you! I’m really excited about this process, which has arisen pretty organically in response to students’ requests that I develop a training and a method for them to study and learn what I’ve learned over the years. Having worked with and developed teacher trainings across the country, I now have an eager body of students who want to be able to take their teachings to the next level. What’s interesting for me is that this process has demanded that I do the same. As I started to think about doing my own training, naturally, I had to figure out what to call it. Then, once I named it, I needed to quantify the specifics of what it would include. While it hasn’t necessarily been easy, it has been effortless, and it seems like that’s the sign that it’s the right time for The Kaivalya Yoga Method to be brought to life.

Michaela Best: That’s so exciting! How does the Kaivalya Yoga Method stand out from other 200-hr programs, and what sort of students would benefit most from participating in it?

Alanna: One of the things that became clear to me over the years was that there is only so much that can really fit in to an initial 200 hour teacher training program. While these programs are great ways to begin a teaching career, the serious teacher eventually needs to get another injection of wisdom and knowledge to take their teachings up a notch. That’s who this training is for – those who’ve been teaching for a while and feel they’ve plateaued and want to develop further their knowledge of anatomy, adjustments, philosophy, sanskrit and sequencing and learn how to tie all these things together into a masterfully artful class backed by substantiated knowledge. What I’m looking to provide is the platform for mastery, understanding and intelligence in teaching. I’m hoping to give the folks in the training what they need to be able to open their eyes to individual students (even in group classes) and truly see what they need to be happier and more free in their bodies and heart.

Michaela: That’s great, there is definitely a need for that sort of refresher. Is the program appropriate for individuals without any prior certification as well?

Alanna: It could be! I’m honestly looking for committed students with a solid history of yoga practice and study. This training will require a kind of “spiritual maturity” because we’re not covering basics, per se. There is an application process so that people will get a feeling of whether this is a good fit for them, and also so that this training can be filled with students who are ready to make a leap into the depths of yoga. What’s important to me at this early juncture is cultivating the right group of individuals – individuals who are interested in teaching yoga and seeing students without boundaries and beyond hierarchy – to help substantiate and grow this method. It’s an important, exciting time, and I can’t wait to develop a team of people in April who are excited about sharing yoga in this uncomplicated and profound way.

Michaela: Yes of course – that leads us right into our next question: what are your visions for the future of the Kaivalya Yoga Method? How do you see this program growing in years to come?

Alanna: My vision is to facilitate the growth and training of responsible, educated and compassionate teachers. The Kaivalya Yoga Method isn’t about creating a formatted kind of experience, but rather giving teachers the foundation and structure they need to create authentic, important and intelligent classes for students informed by the fact that they have the tools they need to live this practice. Maybe most important is this: Yoga is not an external experience. We cannot throw it out to students without having run it through our own bodies and hearts first. It’s not rote or experimental, but rather known and experiential. While each of the TKYM teachers will need to fortify all they learn with me through their own dedicated practices, they’ll have a comprehensive set of tools to be the kind of teachers that help students find more peace and freedom….because they’ve had that experience themselves. It’s an optimistic vision, but one that I believe there is room for. I’m hoping to relinquish hierarchy and dogma in favor of cohesiveness and integrity. I think if these principles are the foundations than the future will be shaped by those on my team – TKYM teachers who can hold space for students to transform and evolve in a responsible, effective and safe way.

Michaela: Fabulous! Anything else you’s like to tell our readers?

Alanna: Just that on the heels of all the hubbub about the recent New York Times article, this seems like a good time for all of us to examine how and why we teach and practice. This kind of inquiry can result in profound insight. I hope to facilitate both the inquiry and the insight with those who study with me, and extend that wisdom to the students whose lives we may have the opportunity to touch. This is an exciting time in our yogic culture. Yoga has taken hold of the west and is here to stay so I think we have to be conscious and cautious of how we continue to make our mark on the world.  This idea brings me back to a quote from one of my favorite movies, Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory (the Gene Wilder version) – “We are the music makers, we are the dreamers of the dream.” This is true, and so what dream are we going to create together and how will that music sound? We have this great responsibility as yogis to be those who affect the greater world through our actions because we’re so aware of them, and this awareness is best when fueled with heart and compassion.

Check out this video below to learn more about the Kaivalya Yoga Method:

Click here to view the embedded video.

Click here to learn more about the Kaivalya Yoga Method & to apply today!

Become a certified yoga teacher with Yoga Vida NYC’s 200-hr program! The next session begins on February 3rd, and early-bird pricing ends on January 6th so sign up today to save $500! More information below from Yoga Vida’s website:

200-hr Teacher Training at Yoga Vida NYC

Weekends; February 3rd – April 22nd | New York, NY

Yoga Vida is proud to introduce their 200-hour Yoga Alliance Registered Teacher Training Program, held at three convenient times throughout the year at the new Noho location.

The 200-hour Training Program is for more than just the aspiring yoga teacher. It’s for anyone in a transition, looking for direction, or simply searching for a deeper understanding of yoga. Students become part of a community of like-minded yogis looking to evolve their own personal practice. Working together in this supported group environment as well as with individual mentors, students will have an opportunity to grow as teachers and individuals.

Throughout the 12-week program, you will study…

~ Yoga Asana

-Teaching Methodology and Practicum

-Intelligent Sequencing

-Effective communication through hands-on adjustments and clear verbal cues

-Working with special populations including pregnant women and those with injuries

~ History of Yoga

~ Pranayama

~ Anatomy

~ Yoga Philosophy and Ancient Texts and Teachings

~ Subtle Anatomy including Chakras and Koshas

Yoga Vida Faculty:

Zoe Silverman, Alyssa Arroyo, Domenic Savino, Kyle Miller

Guest Faculty:

Alanna Kaivalya, Adam Vitolo, Raghunath Cappo, David Hollander, Nechama Karman, Cynthia King

Pricing:

$2,500 before January 6th

$3,000 after January 6th

Click here for more information and to register today!

How would you like to get 4 yoga classes/month for only $12.95 while helping to raise money for animals in need? Sounds pretty good, huh? Here’s the deal – every single penny that Alanna earns by new subscriptions to her podcasts in the month of December will go directly to the ASPCA – her goal is to get 300 new subscribers, and donate $3,000!

Check out all the details below from Alanna’s website:

A Message from Alanna…

One of the many ways we can continue to cultivate gratitude is by giving things away – our practice, kindness to strangers and spare change to those in need.

Recently, I read How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie and in it he talks about the one being on the planet that doesn’t have to work for a living – the dog. The dog creates happiness in others and that’s why we endlessly support these fantastic four legged friends. If you’ve ever come home to a smiling, panting face and a wagging tail, you understand the magic of how unconditional love paves the way for all things. My own little furry friend, Roxy, has taught me endless lessons about the power of love over the last two years, and she’s inspired the Podcast for Puppies drive.

Last year was the inaugural year for Podcasts for Puppies. We raised $750 for the ASPCA, but I think we can do better. Our original goal of $3000 still stands, and it can only be reached with your help! Every penny earned through my podcasts for the month of December will go to the ASPCA. If you’re a regular subscriber, your subscription will already go to the cause. But, in order to reach $3000, we need 300 subscribers!

Commit to your practice. Commit to giving it away, too. This is a win-win opportunity. When you subscribe to the Podcast in December, it goes to 2 good causes – your yoga practice and the puppies (and kitties, too!). Tell your friends and fellow yogis and lets create common cause together to support the furry friends who endlessly, without question or judgement, always support us.

Stay tuned for a count on how we’re progressing toward our goal. Remember – every subscription helps… you and the puppies!

Click here to learn more and to sign up today!

Alanna Kaivalya will be teaching her Art of Adjustments workshops at Pure Yoga on February 4th and 5th. More information below from the studio website:

The Art of Physical Adjustments

February 4th – 5th | 2pm – 5pm | Pure East

Explore the principles behind save and transformative hands-on assists and effective adjustments to convey technique, sublety and mastery. All types of adjustments will be covered, and an understanding of how to “see” the body and optimize students’ freedom in asanas will be examined.

Click here for more information and to register today!

The first 200-hr program will be held in New York, NY April 1st – 25th. Check out all the details below:

The Kaivalya Yoga Method 200-Hour Teacher Training

Dates: April 1 – 25, 2012 (Monday – Friday, orientation on April 1, 4 – 7 pm) | Times: 9 am – 7 pm | Location: Simple Studios, 134 West 29th St (2nd floor, between 6th and 7th avenues)

“If you truly learn something, how you express it is different than how you learned it.” - Krishnamacharya

Description of Method:

The Kaivalya Yoga Method focuses on the whole person and seeks to unite all aspects of one’s being through specific yogic techniques including skilled hands-on adjustments, intelligently sequenced vinyasa, sanskrit chanting and mantra, meditation and a continuous focus on the highest aim of yoga – freedom and happiness.

This Method is a technique for creating the condition for the state of yoga to arise naturally, as it is already inbuilt and yogic practices lay the groundwork for this realization of yoga to occur. As the name indicates, The Kaivalya Yoga Method is a means for liberating oneself from any ideas of disintegration or disunity. In short, it is a method for realizing happiness, but in a modern-day context. Without dogma. Without hierarchy. With generosity, authenticity and elegant simplicity.

Curriculum & Course Particulars

The Kaivalya Yoga Method has been formulated after over a decade of dedicated study and research and teaching experience. It is a comprehensive compilation of the fundamentals of yoga directed at creating teachers who can translate this ancient practice for a modern-day audience while staying true to yoga’s highest aim.

Through intelligent sequencing rooted in the Ashtanga Vinyasa method, students of The Kaivalya Yoga Method are taught the core philosophy of yoga from fundamental yogic texts (including The Yoga Sutra and Bhagavad Gita), alongside the mythology and mysticism of yoga that centers on shraddha (faith) which are the values found inside one’s heart.

This is a no-holds barred training. It will provide an extensive body of knowledge to substantiate the practice and give the foundation for a teacher to truly educate and liberate students.

Curriculum will Include:

~ Physical Anatomy (provided by Yoga TuneUp)

~ Intelligent Sequencing based on the Ashtanga Vinyasa system

~ Skilled hands-on adjustments

~ Yoga Philosophy including: Yoga Sutra, Bhagavad Gita, yogic myth from the Ramayana, Mahabbharata, Upanishadic & Puranic texts

~ Sanskrit (provided by Manorama)

~ Subtle Anatomy including extensive work with the chakra system for aligning the energetic body

~ Music/Kirtan/Chant (assisted by Joel Lambdin & guests)

~ Meditation Techniques

~ Non-Violent Communication Techniques (provided by The Center for Collaborative Communication)

~ Successful teaching skills including: vocal training and concise cueing

Sample Daily Schedule

9 am – 11 am: Kaivalya Method yoga class and/or student teaching practice

12 pm – 3 pm: Teaching Methodology and Practicum (work on hands-on adjustments, sequencing, teaching techniques or anatomy)

3:30 pm – 7 pm: Lecture (including subtle anatomy, philosophy, mythology, successful cueing or chanting)

Teachers

Alanna Kaivalya

The founder of The Kaivalya Yoga Method, Alanna has dedicated more than a decade to intense study in all areas of yoga with master-level teachers from around the world. She worked closely with the founders of the Jivamukti Yoga tradition for many years before discovering the power of the Ashtanga Vinyasa yoga system and continuing her studies with teachers around the globe. This has resulted in her accessible modern-day approach that remains true to the heart of yoga. She is authentic, dynamic and skilled in the art of teaching, and has led teacher trainings since 2004, and written several teacher trainings, including Pure Yoga and Yoga Vida in New York City. She is thrilled to finally be offering her own take on yoga: unabashedly, authentically and joyfully.

Manorama (Sanskrit)

Manorama is the Director of Luminous Shabda and Sanskrit Studies. A world recognized leader in the field of Sanskrit & Yoga, Manorama tours the globe training students in the Path of Luminous Shabda which brings Sanskrit, Meditation, and Yoga philosophy together to bridge sacred teachings into every day life for the purpose of Self – and authentic happiness. More information about her can be found at: www.sanskritstudies.org

Aubrey Hackman

Aubrey Hackman is a certified Jivamukti instructor and founder of the Telluride Yoga Festival. Aubrey has made it her life’s work to find excellent teachers and to bring that quality of instruction to others whether through her teaching or yoga festivals.  She illuminates a passion for non-violence and conscious living along with a strong foundation in yogic philosophy, asana, and Sanskrit. She has studied Ashtanga Yoga for 7 years with various teachers and has completed a 500hr Ashtanga apprenticeship under the guideance of Victoria Hoffman.  Additionally, she has completed an intensive 5 week program in Mysore, India with B.N.S. Iyengar and Sheshadri in the Ashtanga Yoga System. In conjunction with her Ashtanga and Jivamukti background, she has spent hundreds of hours with certified Iyengar and therapeutic based yoga disciplines. Her classes range from rigorous, alignment based vinyasa, to therapeutic restoratives created for special needs.

**Additional teachers TBA

Testimonials

“I look back on my teacher training with Alanna as one of the most wonderful experiences of my life. She has the ability to hold your attention, and to make everything fun! Her teachings are always relatable, and I consistently walk out of her classroom feeling better about the world than I did walking in. Plus, she knows her stuff and she’s generally awesome. “ – Michaela Best, YOGANONYMOUS, Los Angeles, CA

“Alanna is a gifted teacher who has dedicated herself to discovering and learning the highest aim of yoga. Not only does she guide you to move closer to your greatest potential but she is there for you every step of the way. I am extremely grateful to her for her wisdom compassion and support”. – Domenic Savino, Yoga Instructor, NYC

“Alanna knows how to apply yoga philosophy to everyday yoga practice so that the big ‘Whys?’ become a resounding ‘Yes, of course!’  Her teaching methods as a mentor are a rare combination of deep knowledge, integrity, support, humor, preciseness and devotion.” – Krister Paakkonen, Yoga Instructor, NYC

“My teacher training with Alanna truly was the time of my life. Now that I am a teacher myself I am forever grateful for her teachings and find myself channeling them on a daily basis. Not only did the teacher training with Alanna give me the tools to teach yoga but it also taught me HOW to teach this beautiful practice. Alanna’s teachings are clear and concise which allow her students absorb the information with ease. She also has an amazing ability to translate these teachings so that they are accessible for the modern yogi living in our changing world. Whether you wish to teach or just expand your knowledge, Alanna will guide you on the right path.” – Jamie Lugo, Yoga Instructor, NYC

Click here for more information and to apply today!

TGIF is right! What a week it has been, we are feeling the full swing of fall over here, and we bet you all are too. The energy in the air is tangible, and we want to help you burn it off in the best way possible! Check out our weekend picks below, and enjoy this beautiful fall weekend wherever you may be!

Don’t see events listed in your city? Want to submit an event of your own? Email us at Submissions@yoganonymous.org and let us know the deal!

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Naples, FL

Friday, September 16th – Sunday, September 18th

Hey all you Floridian yogis! Don’t miss this fabulous weekend of workshops with Alanna Kaivalya at Love Yoga Center in Naples Friday through Sunday!

Sita, Ram, Hanuman | Saturday 9/17 | 1pm – 4:30pm: As one of yoga’s most beloved texts, the Ramayana is the epic tale, of a king, his lady and his best friend as they fight through darkness to rediscover love and light. We’ll honor the highlights of this tale and embody its lessons through specific postures and uplifting chanting.

Introduction to Kirtan | Saturday 9/17 | 6pm – 8pm: Music is an essential component of yoga, and kirtan is the beloved practice of call-and-response chanting where the audience becomes part of the band. As an accomplished musician and recording artist, Alanna leads a jubilant kirtan including sacred Sanskrit mantras as well as uplifting English chants that help to integrate the audience, and offer an experience of down-home bliss.

Art of Adjustments | Sunday 9/18 | 1pm – 4:30pm: Yoga practitioners derive tremendous benefit from effective adjustments. This workshop will explore the principles behind safe and transformative hands-on assists. All types of adjustments will be covered, and an understanding of how to “see” the body and optimize students’ freedom in asanas will be explored.

Click here for the Full Scoop!

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Indianapolis, IN

Friday, September 16th

Mark your calendars for September 16th, Brock and Krista Cahill are heading to town! The gravity cowboys will be teaching on Friday evening from 6pm – 8:30pm at Cityoga in Indianapolis!

This workshop begins with plentiful amounts of corework to warm the body by igniting the fire within and awakeng the inner warrior. Brock and Krista will the go over proven secrets to make arm balances and inversions effortless! The workshop will conclude with a few creative “armbalance medleys” created by Brock & Krista that sequence these challenging postures together in a fun melodic flow. This workshop is great for a group of fledging flyers who are just gaining their wings: and of course the frequent flyers are welcome to join in as well and brush up on the basic techniques of these masterful postures!

Click here for the Full Scoop!

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Houston, TX

Friday, September 16th – Sunday, September 18th

San Francisco-based yoga teacher, Les Leventhal is teaching a weekend of workshops at CuraYoga in Houston! Les will be teaching 4 workshops throughout the weekend, there’s sure to be something for everyone!

Yoga with Les is a vinyasa/flow yoga practice. Les is one of San Francisco’s most popular and sought after teachers around the world. His classes and podcasts are filled with all the basic technique and alignment cues you will need to get your yoga practice started. They are also filled with lots of variations and occasional longer sequences to challenge the more seasoned practitioner. The prana (life force) comes from within. So be prepared to sweat and let the rasa (the sap and the juice) flow freely.

Click here for the Full Scoop!

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Nashville, TN

Friday, September 16th – Sunday, September 18th

Even though Hurricane Irene kept David Regelin from teaching at Sanctuary in Nashville in late August, he is ready to rock this weekend with 4 awesome Vesica/Multi-Intenso workshops!

The Vesica Practice is an evolutionary thread of postures supported by technique-oriented instruction. A typical class begins with Surya Namaskar variations. What follows is an innovative sequence of postures that includes foot standing, hand standing, and seated asanas. The pace of the class ranges from fluid and dynamic, to still, measured, and organic.

The Vesica Practice combines techniques from multiple Vinyasa styles and movement modalities with Kundalini and Nevine Michaan yoga. Students learn to be skillful and efficient in movement, and well adjusted in postures. The Vesica Practice employs archetypal alignment principles that reveal the proportion, balance, integration, pattern, and structure inherent within each posture. The goal of the Vesica Practice is to offer a sustainable method of yoga that turns students into teachers, by developing their ability to self adjust, uplift, ground, gain clarity, insight, and become powerful and graceful practitioners.

Click here for the Full Scoop!

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New York, NY

Sunday, September 18th

Sunday, September 18th will mark the inaugural Dharma Yoga in the City event on Governor’s Island.

The day will open with sun salutations, and will offer various free classes, demos, lectures, kirtans, and meditations throughout the afternoon and early evening. There will also be classes and activities for kids, and free vegetarian, vegan, and raw food. Governor’s Island, with it’s amazing views of The Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan sky-line, provides a beautiful natural venue to help us make Dharma Yoga history yet again in NYC.

Click here for the Full Scoop!

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Brooklyn, NY

Saturday, September 17th

The Wanderlust crew is gearing up for Wanderlust at the Music Hall of Williamsburg on Saturday night with Elena Brower, Schuyler Grant, and Forro!

Wanderlust is teaming up with two of NYC’s renowned yoga instructors and a breadth of diverse musicians at one of Brooklyn’s most celebrated music venues, the Music Hall of Williamsburg (map). The yoga program features Anusara veteran Elena Brower and Williamsburger Schuyler Grant, founder of Kula Yoga Project. Sonic architect Garth Stevenson will accompany Elena & Schuyler for a joint 2-hour class. After savasana, the party will kick into high gear with an opening set by dub master Karsh Kale and Brazilian-infused headliners Forro in The Dark. Click here for more info from the website.

Click here for the Full Scoop!

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Wishing you a fun & fabulous weekend!

With LOVE,

YOGANONYMOUS

See the interview below, from Dana’s facebook page:

Alanna and I first met up last summer when we were both teaching on the Solstice at Times Square.

Of course I had already heard so many AMAZING things about Alanna.

I was Immediately drawn into her soulful vibe, open face and the way she moves in the world. Then of course I got to hear her sing, what a GIFT! I can’t wait for ya’ll to hang out with her and go LIVE with her unique offering!

Alana’s classes truly express her spirit and blend her deep love and knowledge of philosophy, precise alignment and musicality.

Dana Flynn: What is turning you on these days?

Alanna Kaivalya: Actually, I recently went gluten free, and finding new things to eat and creative ways to cook is pretty awesome. I did it to try and treat a thyroid disorder, but am realizing the far reaching health effects. I’m also super turned on by good jazz.

DF: What keeps showing up?

AK: Two things: My dog and my mat.

DF: What gets in your way?

AK: Two things: My skepticism and my habit of sleeping in late.

DF: What teacher or teachings has had the biggest influence on you, please explain?

AK: Wow. This is a big question.  The teachings of Sharon Gannon and David Life have without a doubt been my biggest influences as this system is the one I’ve most closely followed for years. Within that, I’ve discovered the magic of the sutras and the gita which are sources of unending wisdom. But, most recently, I’m intrigued by the concepts presented by Mark Whitwell which are simple and profound – namely, that there is no path and that we are already here. Brilliant.

DF: Let us in on your sadhana or daily practice, what does it look like most days.

AK: I‘m a dedicated practitioner of the Ashtanga vinyasa system. Every day (except Saturdays and moon days!), I roll out my mat and do my practice. This summer, I’ve been lucky enough to utilize my building’s little backyard and practice in the sunshine while my dog runs around and digs up the planters. It doesn’t get much better than that, honestly.

DF: Are there poses you notice you love and hang out in and others that you avoid and why?

AK: This kind of thing isn’t really an option in the practice I do. Each pose is what it is. It’s never the pose that we want to avoid or hang out with, only ourselves. Cultivating steadiness and steadfastness becomes the practice that the asanas present to us.

DF: What is in ur iPod right now?

AK: Mumford & Sons! Dang, they’re good!

Don’t miss Alanna’s class tomorrow afternoon at LL!

Don’t miss Alanna Kaivalya’s Chakra Tuning Workshop at Yoga Vida NYC on Thursday, September 22nd! More info below from the studio website:

Chakra Tuning

Thursday, September 22nd | 6:15pm – 8:15pm | 666 Broadway

Explore the 7 main energy centers with Alanna Kaivalya. The chakra system allows us to discover where we are holding on to false beliefs, and explore our fullest potential as spiritual beings. By working through corresponding asanas and mantras, you will tap into your energy centers and uncover the spirit that lies within.

About Alanna

Alanna Kaivalya is an artistic and inspiring teacher of yoga. Born with a hearing impairment, Alanna learned through the power of vibration at a young age, and was then naturally drawn to the harmonic practice of yoga. Listed as Yoga Journal’s top 21 Yoga Teachers Under 40 (March, 2008), and now with more than a decade of teaching experience, she has developed a teaching style that is a unique combination of her spirit, her knowledge, and of course the teachers who have influenced her along the path.

Click here to register today!

Don’t miss this fabulous weekend of workshops with Alanna Kaivalya at Love Yoga Center in Naples, FL September 17th – 18th! More information below from the studio website:

Sita, Ram, Hanuman: A Yogis Exploration of the Ramayana

Saturday, September 17th | 1pm – 4:30pm

As one of yoga’s most beloved texts, the Ramayana is the epic tale, of a king, his lady and his best friend as they fight through darkness to rediscover love and light. We’ll honor the highlights of this tale and embody its lessons through specific postures and uplifting chanting. Learn the path of heart through this magical journey into deep backbends that help to open the body and the heart.

Introduction to Kirtan

Saturday, September 17th | 6pm – 8pm

Music is an essential component of yoga, and kirtan is the beloved practice of call-and-response chanting where the audience becomes part of the band. As an accomplished musician and recording artist, Alanna leads a jubilant kirtan including sacred Sanskrit mantras as well as uplifting English chants that help to integrate the audience, and offer an experience of down-home bliss.

Art of Adjustments

Sunday, September 18th | 1pm – 4:30pm

Yoga practitioners derive tremendous benefit from effective adjustments. This workshop will explore the principles behind safe and transformative hands-on assists. All types of adjustments will be covered, and an understanding of how to “see” the body and optimize students’ freedom in asanas will be explored. This is a dynamic class and adjustments will be practiced to convey technique, subtlety and mastery.

Click here to register today!

A very happy last weekend of July 2011 to all of you! We are so excited to be writing live from the Wanderlust Festival in beautiful Squaw Valley, CA! If you aren’t out here with us, no need to fret – we have plenty of awesome yoga events happening all over the country. It’s high summer my friends, so get out there, do some yoga and most importantly, have some FUN!

Don’t see events listed in your city? Want to submit an event of your own? Email us at Submissions@yoganonymous.org and let us know the deal!

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Lake Tahoe, CA

Thursday, July 28th – Sunday, July 31st

Wanderlust California is going down all weekend long in glorious North Lake Tahoe, CA!

Wanderlust is a one-of-a-kind festival bringing together the world’s best yoga and wellness teachers and top musical acts and DJs, all in a setting of breathtaking natural beauty. For a list of suggested classes/activities that you just can’t miss, click here.

We’re talking about fun in the sun and dancing under the stars. Getting’ your down dog on at the top of the mountain and sipping poolside cocktails with your crew. Early morning meditations and all-night chakra spinning musical performances. The epic Lake Tahoe Valley in all of its picturesque glory. A place to root down and rise up, to get centered on your yoga mat and get funky on the dancefloor – lux rooms, fresh healthy food, and good people. Yoga, music, nature, and a whole lot more. This is Wanderlust California. For a list of not-to-be-missed classes and activities, click here.

Click here for the Full Scoop!

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Boulder, CO

Monday, July 25th – Sunday, July 31st

Don’t miss this opportunity to study with Brazilian Yoga teacher Francisco Kaiut at Vida Yoga in Boulder! Francisco will be teaching a week of therapeutics workshops – even if you didn’t make the first few days, you can still join in for the weekend!

A former chiropractor with background in cranial sacral, polarity therapy, Tibetan Buddhism, and hatha yoga, Francisco’s method has had enormous success in helping students to release stress and physical discomfort while increasing energy and openness. This workshop will be especially powerful for those with complex injuries, emotional struggles, or chronic illnesses.

Click here for the Full Scoop!

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New York, NY

Friday, July 29th – Sunday, July 31st

Join Alanna Kaivalya at Yoga Vida NYC for a weekend of adjustment workshops!

Yoga practitioners derive tremendous benefit from effective adjustments. This workshop will explore the principles behind save and transformative hands-on assists. All types of adjustments will be covered, and an understanding of how to “see” the body and optimize students’ freedom in asanas will be explored. This is a dynamic class and adjustments will be practiced to convey technique, subtlety and mastery.

Click here for the Full Scoop!

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Bozeman, MT

Sunday, July 31st – Tuesday, August 2nd

Hey Montana – don’t miss Nicki Doane and Eddie Modestini’s Asana Intensive beginning this Sunday at Down to Earth Yoga!

Devotion to yoga and the desire to share with and give back to the world are what motivate the teachings of Maya Yoga with Eddie Modestini and Nicki Doane.  Maya Yoga is the “unsystem” system of yoga.  Maya means “illusion” in Sanskrit so it is never what you think it is!  Eddie and Nicki have developed an approach to yoga that is intent on serving the Individual student.  Yoga is spirit in action, and as Eddie and Nicki teach, they inspire people to find a place of spirit inside themselves, recognizing the profound connection between the Self and Spirit.

Click here for the Full Scoop!

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Omaha, NE

Sunday, July 31st

Join Carole Westerman at the Lotus House of Yoga in Omaha for Prana Vayus + Chakras: Energy Lines in Asana from 10am – 1pm on Sunday!

The Prana Vayus are essential in a well-rounded and informed yoga practice. They are the five main movements of energy (Prana) through the body. We will discuss and experience the power of each of the 5 Vayus, and then link it all together in a practice calling on these energies in a new and insightful way. Come explore your ENERGY in a profound way, as you call upon your bodies inner wisdom, and take your practice to the next level. This workshop will be approximately 40% discussion and 60% asana practice.

Click here for the Full Scoop!

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Wishing you a FUN & FABULOUS Weekend,

With LOVE,

YOGANONYMOUS

What a beautiful summer weekend we are having, hopefully you are feeling the sunshine and joyous vibes wherever you are. We have some fabulous yoga and wellness events happening this weekend, from coast to coast and everywhere in between. So check out our weekend picks below, and take some time for yourself this weekend, to unwind, to recharge, to practice YOGA!

Don’t see events listed in your city? Want to submit an event of your own? Email us at Submissions@yoganonymous.org and let us know the deal!

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Santa Monica, CA

Sunday, July 24th

This Sunday from 12pm – 5pm, the 3rd Street Promenade in Santa Monica is going to transform into the stage for some of the area’s best yoga teachers, including Shiva Rea, Tommy Rosen, Kia Miller, and Hala Khouri, as a part of Wanderlust Festival’s “Yoga in the City” events (sponsored by SmartWater).

Wanderlust Yoga In The City created with smartwater is headed to Santa Monica! As part of a seven city national tour celebrating the modern day culture of yoga, we will be making a stop at the 3rd Street Promenade to rock out with the burgeoning local yoga and wellness community! This event will feature a taste of the larger Wanderlust experience complete with yoga, music, community, and celebration all in an amazing outdoor setting of natural beauty. Don’t miss YOGANONYMOUS’ Dan Wilf emceeing live on stage!

Click here for the Full Scoop!

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Boulder, CO

Sunday, July 24th

Head on over to Om Time Yoga in Boulder for ‘Practical Magic: Unlock the Mystic and Not-So Secrets of Arm Balances for Women’ with Shannon Paige Schneider from 1:30pm – 3:30pm on Sunday afternoon!

join in this all levels exploration of the key actions, from simple to complex, that get the feminine form soaring with the integrity and grace she was born with and meant to express! This arm balancing session is perfect for healthy vinyasa practitioners of all levels and will certainly be full of some eyebrow raising tricks embodied in your practice upon leaving our time and laughter together.

Click here for the Full Scoop!

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Omaha, NE

Sunday, July 24th

Yoga Rocks the Park’s closing event is going down this Sunday, July 24th in Omaha, NE with yoga teacher Libba Harmon and music by Kianna Alarid! This event is FREE and open to the public!

YOGA ROCKS THE PARK offers yogis of all ages and abilities the opportunity to practice to a soundtrack of live music under Omaha’s clear summer skies.

The day’s festivities begin with a 75-minute, all-levels yoga practice coupled with live performances from talented local and national musicians. Kids 5–10 can join in the fun with CAMP YOGA ROCKS: an interactive program featuring yoga postures, face painting, hula hooping, free snacks and other surprises. Following the asana practice, the live music continues as attendees socialize in the vibrant vendor area.

Click here for the Full Scoop!

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Hailey, ID

Tuesday, July 19th – Saturday, July 23rd

Join Nicki Doane and Eddie Modestini for an Asana Intensive at the Hailey Yoga Center in Hailey, ID! Drop in for a day, or spend your whole weekend, whatever you prefer!

Integrating asana with philosophy is one of the bechmarks of Maya Yoga. In this intensive, Eddie and Nicki will weave the philosophy, as taught in the yoga sutras, into the asana practices. You will study and discuss the yoga sutras as they relate to your practice and your everyday life. What is practice really, other than preparing us for the real work, which happens on a day-to-day, hour-to-hour basis, off the mat and in our own lives?

Click here for the Full Scoop!

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New York, NY

Saturday, July 23rd

Join the lovely Alanna Kaivalya for a master class at Yoga Vida NYC (99 University Place) on Saturday from 2pm – 3:30pm!

In this 90-minute Vinyasa Flow class anything goes:  OM’s, pranayama (breath work), chanting (feel the vibration), and dharma talks (spiritual teachings).  Open to all levels. Alanna is a world-renowned Jivamukti Yoga teacher, author, songwriter, and musician, who leads workshops and retreats across the globe – don’t miss this opportunity to practice with her!

Click here for the Full Scoop!

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Philadelphia, PA

Saturday, July 23rd

Hey Philly yogis! Head on over to Dhyana Yoga in West Philly on Saturday afternoon from 2pm – 5pm in ‘Pursuit of Happy Hips’ with Eoin Finn!

The energy of the hip area can be alive and vital, or dull and dormant.  The hips are the connecting point between the upper and lower body.  Furthermore, the hip area is where we experience significant tightness, both from the stresses of our sporting activities as well as from the inactivity of sitting in chairs for more hours in a week than our ancestors could have imagined possible.

Building from the foundation we experience in the Yin and Yang of Yoga, we will continue on to explore pelvic anatomy and the psychology of the hips. Find out what rules we need to follow to help keep the yoga practice safe and beneficial to our physiology, while also learning how many rules actually restrict us.

Click here for the Full Scoop!

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Have a fun & fabulous weekend!

With LOVE,

YOGANONYMOUS