November 2009

Jaya Yoga Center
1626 8th Ave.
Brooklyn NY 11215
718-788-8788
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November Focus of the Month

Scorpion / Compassion

For the transformational month of November, we will physically focus on the challenge of Vrschikasana, a.k.a. scorpion. Like the animal itself, this pose can really sting if you move too quickly without enough physical information to do it properly. The basic level classes will focus on poses to prepare the body for this exciting asana. Expect ingenious shoulder openers, a review of the fundamentals of backbends — think sphinx and cobra — and eventually flirting with forearm stand, forearms on the wall not the floor. To the basic level student, be not afraid; bite-size pieces of this pose, not the whole thing at once, will be introduced. For all levels this is a time for discernment and deep listening to what your body is telling you, not what your mind or ego are barking.

Just so we have our minds wrapped around this thing correctly, a quote from the amazing Aadil Palkhivala in response to a question regarding contortionism and yoga: "Contortionism is different from yoga — in contortionism, the aim is the posture, while in yoga, the aim is the effect that the posture has on our mind and nervous system to effect a deeper connection with our spirit. I encourage you to be completely unconcerned with attainment of postures, for that concern is not about yoga, it is about the ego."

Philosophically we turn our attention to compassion, or the original Pali word karuna. The yoga sutras of Patanjali state that we need to cultivate compassion for those who are unhappy (Ch. 1, Sutra 33) as part of the path, to free ourselves from the obstacles en route to the yogic experience.

Karuna also comes up in Buddhism. A while back we studied the 'four immeasurables' (love, compassion, joy, and equanimity). It is so interesting to see one of the many clear intersections of the yoga sutras of Patanjali with Buddhism right here. There is a lot to ponder as we work with the physical challenge of the month and maybe turn a little compassion on ourselves as we work — not to imply that just trying scorpion is going to make you unhappy — I think you know what I mean ;)

Men's Yoga Class
Taught by Michael Gates
Sunday evenings from 7:45 - 9:10 pm
Next classes November 1, 15, 29; December 13 and 27

KIRTAN
8 - 9:30 pm
Come and be lead through beautiful Sanskrit chants to uplift the spirit. Offered by donation. Please join us for these special evenings of music and devotion.

Friday, November 6, Nina & Devadas
Friday, November 13, Devadas
Friday, December 4, Ambik
Friday, December 11, Devadas

Deep Rest
Next class Sunday, November 8, 7:45 - 9:10 pm
Restorative, a.k.a. Deep Relaxation, focuses on how the yin (receptive) qualities of the poses can be tapped to induce deeper states of rest and relaxation. This class has one sole aim: deep mindful rest. You will be exposed to a combination of restorative yoga poses for an extended period of time (using props to provide physical support). Breath observation and guided meditation exercises are also included. Taken as a whole, these techniques are used to usher your mind, body, and spirit into a state of deep internal awareness where you may let go of your body's hardened and habitual daily reactions (samskaras). This is a great class if you wish to reduce stress in your daily life.
$15 to drop in or use your class card
Please note: This class will meet every other week.
Next classes November 8, 22; December 6, 20

Free Introduction to Deep Rest Class
with Carla Stangenberg
Monday November 9, 4:45-5:50 pm
Please read description above for the class. Please bring a friend for this soothing experience.

MEDITATION
Tuesday 8:45 - 9:15, Wednesday 8:30 - 9:15 and Thursday 8:45 - 9:15
Bring your meditation practice to Jaya. Come sit (or lie down) with us for these free sessions. The space for your practice is given not directions. If you do not already have a meditation practice and want to come here are some simple guidelines: find a comfortable seat (yes you can lie down), bring your attention to your breath and keep it there. When your attention wanders to thinking or anything else (sounds sights feeling...) there will be a moment when you realize, that is the moment to bring your attention back to the breath. Come and give it a try.

All You Need Is Love Yoga
with Kenzie Pause
Friday November 20, 8 pm
The music of The Beatles has spanned decades and generations. The beautiful practice of yoga has spanned over 5,000 years, evolving into many forms and styles over time. While The Beatles may be young in comparison, combining the two seemed like a natural addition to my yoga practice. I created All You Need Is Love to put two of my favorite things together: yoga and The Beatles. The class takes you on a physical, mental and sometimes even emotional journey through energizing asanas (poses) to revitalizing pranayama (breathing exercises) to a soothing yoga nidra (deep relaxation) complete with the music of one of the greatest bands ever. $15 (class cards can not be used for this event). Sign up now!!

All We Are Saying Is Give Peace A Chance.—John Lennon

BEGINNERS ONLY
FREE INTRODUCTION TO YOGA CLASS
with Ramit Kreitner
Monday, November 23, 4:45 - 5:50 pm
Please bring yourself and a friend to Jaya Yoga Center for a free introduction to asana (posture) practice, meditation, and even a little philosophy. We are equipped with all the props you will need during your class, free to borrow. Everyone is welcome! No reservations needed — just show up!

BEGINNERS ONLY
6-Week Beginners' Series
with Ramit Kreitner
Sundays, December 6 - January 10, 2 - 3:15 pm
This class is tailored to the newcomer to yoga. You will be eased into the practice by the skillful attention of your teacher. You will learn basic body awareness exercises; basic yoga poses (asanas) that stretch, lengthen, and strengthen your body; and a handful of techniques to help reduce stress in your daily life. At the end of your six classes, you will be ready to join any of our basic level classes.
If you miss one class, you can attend a make-up class on Thursdays at 7:45 pm.
$90 for the series or $20 to drop in
Contact namaste@jayayogacenter.com to preregister.
Next Beginner Series: January 2010!!

Drop In At Any Of These Series

Little Lotuses
with Lauren Maples
Mondays, Until December 21
11:30 am - 12:15 pm
(crawling to 3 years)
This class is our "mommy and me" yoga class. Children from crawling to 3 years can practice yoga along with their parent or guardian. Class size is limited to nine children. $25 to drop in.
(There will be no class on October 12, Columbus Day.)

Down Dog for Kids
with Lauren Maples
Wednesdays, Until December 2
3:30 - 4:15 pm
(ages 4 to 8)
Down Dog classes introduce children to the practice of yoga. Yoga poses and principles are explored in a variety of fun ways. Nature, anatomy, and imagination are all key aspects of the class. Children are encouraged to explore the way their bodies move through creative projects, partner work, story time, and songs. Chanting, breathing exercises, and simple meditation practices relax and calm the mind. Each class finishes with relaxation — something the little yogis come to look forward to! No prior yoga experience required! Drop in for $25.

FALL BEGINNERS' SERIES
Sundays, Until November 22, 2 - 3:15 pm
This class is tailored to the newcomer to yoga. You will be eased into the practice by the skillful attention of your teacher. You will learn basic body awareness exercises; basic yoga poses (asanas) that stretch, lengthen, and strengthen your body; and a handful of techniques to help reduce stress in your daily life. At the end of your six classes, you will be ready to join any of our basic level classes.
If you miss one class, you can attend a make-up class on Thursdays at 7:45 pm.
$20 to drop in

SPECIAL OFFERING: Community Acupuncture at Jaya
Thursdays, from 12 - 3 pm

We are offering a special service this month: community acupuncture on a sliding scale.

Acupuncture is a many-thousand-year-old healing modality of natural medicine. Originating in China, acupuncture utilizes our own internal energies of body, mind, and spirit. Acupuncture is used in two distinct ways: The first is preventative, as it enables us to remain our natural healthy and vibrant selves. Treatments provide balance, harmony, and realignment, allowing us to adapt to external and internal stresses. Acupuncture is also a powerful medicine that aids us in remedying a wide range of ailments, from physical to psychic pain, digestive upsets, gynecological issues, headaches, and more.

Balancing the body, mind, and spirit is important at times of transition. Weather and seasonal fluctuations, regular travel, and environmental stress can all tax our sense of balance. Acupuncture is a safe, natural, drug-free way to maintain and achieve greater levels of health and wellness.

A typical session involves a health history and wellness assessment. Specific acupuncture points are recommended to achieve the most fluidity and flow of internal energetics or Qi (chee). Sterile hair-fine single-use needles are gently inserted and retained as you lie comfortably and rest. Ten to 30 minutes later, the needles are removed and you experience sensations of realignment with yourself.

Our community wellness practice runs on a sliding scale of $20 - $40; you determine what an appropriate amount is for you. We appreciate your understanding of a sliding scale and offering what you can to keep our doors open and maintain the highest level of professional services. If you would like an appointment, please call 718-788-8788; we are taking appointments at half-hour intervals.

BIO:

Leah Sasha Schwartz, L.Ac., is a NY State licensed acupuncturist who practices Classical Chinese Medicine in the tradition of her teacher, Jeffrey C. Yuen, 88th generation master teacher of the Jade Purity Sect. In her practice, she focuses on women's wellness, natural care of children with essential oils, and general holistic treatments. She lives and loves in Brooklyn, attends Jaya Yoga, and has one amazing kitten, Cat Stevens.

Jaya Yoga Retreat in Guatemala
April 10 - 17, 2010
with Sarah Selig and Carla Stangenberg

MEETING for more information on the Retreat
Monday, November 23, 6:30 pm at Jaya
please RSVP to namaste@jayayogacenter.com

We hope you will join us for this yoga retreat celebrating the 10th anniversary of Jaya Yoga Center. Lake Atitlan is 4,500 feet above sea level, a perfect place for reflection on your personal practice and the connection of all of us together in the wonderful Jaya community. Everyone is welcome Ð even those who do not currently practice at Jaya. We will have two daily yoga classes including asana, pranayama, meditation, and deep rest (not necessarily in that order). Each day there will be "open studio" where Carla and Sarah will be available for your practice questions. The beautiful setting, three meals each day, a sauna, and an excursion round out this experience.

Here is a little list of extracurricular activities you can enjoy while you are practicing with us in Guatemala: swimming (in the lake or a solar-heated pool), massage, hot tub, sauna, Spanish lessons, kayaking, hiking, climbing a volcano, horseback riding, bird watchingÉ this list goes on!

This is an amazing opportunity to get a deeper understanding of your practice and how it fits into your life as a whole.

Prices: $1,375 (single), $1,165 (double), triple optional. Prices do not include transportation. A $150 non-refundable deposit is required to reserve your spot. Please contact namaste@jayayogacenter.com to reserve. The earlier you make your reservation, the lower the airfare will be (we will let you know which flights we are coming in on so we can arrange transportation to Villa Sumaya together if you like).

You will need to book a flight into Guatemala City early in the day of April 10 or even the day before the retreat actually starts. If you are interested in coming and want to buddy up with folks who are coming from Brooklyn, let us know (namaste@jayayogacenter.com) and we will connect you with each other. Also, the sooner you are able to book a flight the cheaper it will be. Recently I saw a flight as low as $200 roundtrip.

Announcements:

Yoga for a Cause
Last month, Dara Silverman and Carly Sachs offered a class to raise money to buy blocks for a class they teach to pregnant women in a homeless shelter in Harlem. Between the class itself and the generosity of those who could not attend, they were able to raise $208, which is enough for the props! Thanks to everyone who contributed.

Online Purchases
We are stepping up to the 21st century in that very soon you will be able to purchase your class cards, gift certificates, and private lessons all online. We will keep you posted with when you can start!