Raven Yoga Shala

“Do you practice and All is coming.” Sri K Pattabhi Jois

Traditional and Contemporary Ashtanga Yoga

Ashtanga Yoga is a system of yoga transmitted to the modern world by Sri K. Pattabhi Jois (1915-2009). This method of yoga involves synchronizing the breath with a progressive series of postures—a process producing intense internal heat and a profuse, purifying sweat that detoxifies muscles and organs. The result is improved circulation, a light and strong body, and a calm mind.

  99% Practice, 1% Theory  Many people who do yoga have heard this phrase,  It talks of the need to immerse yourself in the actual practice of yoga, rather than theorize on what it “could” do.  It is the equivalent of saying: “Participate!  Don’t just stand there on the sidelines!”  But there’s another way to view it too. “99% Practice, 1% Theory,” also refers to the way in which you live your life.  It asks the question-How do you apply Yoga to your life?  By only “doing Yoga” on the mat, you’re essentially just theorizing about the effect Yoga can have.  But by living out the various teachings you gain in class, you can start to see their real wonder.  In your life do you expand your stretch to see what you can do?  Can you turn within when you encounter turbulence in your day?  Can you stand quiet and balanced while all around you people scurry around?  Can you struggle and persevere and then not be attached to the  outcome?  You can choose yourself how the Yoga manifests in your day, but the idea is to live consciously. 

 The Schedule has bee revised and you can view it on the schedule page.  Few changes, you will find the requested Yogapolitan class offered now on Tuesday at 5:30 - 6:25 pm.  Yogapolitan is a class dedicated to the student with a busy schedule,,,those needing time for work, shopping or a break from the children.   Yogapolitan meets Monday thru Friday at noon for about an hour and on Tuesday nights. The pace of the class will vary from day to day with time for rest at the end of each session.  Modifications are presented to the student if needed.  This is a class for the moderate beginner thru advanced students.  A perfect class for a student to advance their confidence, strength and agility.  Please read the class descriptions before attending a class.  The primary series is NOT a beginners class and does require sufficient knowledge of sun salutation, standing and closing sequences. Another new class has been added to the winter Schedule - “Masala” is the Hindi word meaning “spicy blend.” Masalasana is a versatile and creative blend of Ashtanga yoga series 1-4. integrating strength, fluidity, alignment, breath, and meditation, for a complete and absorbing mind/body/spirit experience. Classes are dynamic as well as intelligent and meditative. This is a class that is unique and is offered to the seasoned (intermediate) practioner.  Monday night, 5:30 - 6:40pm and then create your own or traditional closing sequence to rest.  Ebullience that will whirl up your inner fire!

“Story Yoga” is for children ages 4 through 12. Enjoy some fun, movement, and stories from diverse cultures. Each lesson will introduce yoga poses and teach a lesson from a traditional legend. Yoga benefits children in many ways, including increased flexibility, body awareness, strength, coordination and concentration. $35 for 4 classes. Call 988-3566 for more information, Maria.

Jan 21st:  Diamonds, Rubies and Pearls: a folktale from Germany    January 28th The Buffalo Dance, a Native American legend

February 4th Ganesha’s Lesson, a story from India    February 11, Maui Slows the Sun, a traditional legend from Hawai’i

Please check the schedule page for frequent updates.  Amah’s winter class schedule begins early February.  Contact her for specific class information: ak_wildflower@hotmail.com (BellyFit and Holy Rhythm).

We welcome the Charter School back to the studio this winter.  Courtney Nelson is a truly dedicated yoga teacher and brings the light of yoga to many of the students at the school..Thank You for your generous dedication to education Courtney!  om shanti 

Spring Quinox ~ a March 108 Salutation and an April SUP Adventure..patiently waiting for warmer temperatures. 

Kale and Friends Soup

Ingredients:

1/4 cup olive or coconut oil

1 white onion, medium chop

4-6 garlic cloves, rough chop

1 small - medium butternut squash, medium dice

2T curry powder or more to taste

2 tsp each, cardamon and cumin

red chili flakes to taste

1 6 oz can Italian tomato paste-Italian!

1 15 oz can cooked beans, your choice

*my choice? kidney or garbanzo beans

2 quarts vegetable stock, or stock water  combination

1 large bunch lacination kale, stems removed (the length of the leaf), sliced thinly

1/2 cup chopped cilantro - to taste

 

Instructions:

Heat choice oil in a pot.  Add onion, garlic and squash with spice and saute until almost soft.  Add Tomato paste and cook for about a minute.  Add beans and stock/water and simmer for about 15 minutes/  Season with salt and pepper.  Add kale and cover about 3/4, simmer about 15 minutes, don’t overcook the kale!  Season again as needed and add desired amount of cilantro.  A spoon of tamarind is also an exotic finish to this soup.

This nutritious soup is delicious with warm naan and yogurt. What a delightful winter meal. 

  

Seasons of 2012:
SPRING EQUINOX	March 20, 1:14 A.M. EDT
SUMMER SOLSTICE	June 20, 7:09 P.M. EDT
FALL EQUINOX	September 22, 10:49 A.M. EDT
WINTER SOLSTICE	December 21, 6:12 A.M. EST

 

 Observe the wonders as they occur around you. Don’t claim them. Feel the artistry moving through and be silent.”   Rumi

              we appreciate your support and the practice you share with us ~ juneau’s premier ashtanga studio