Yoga Studio of Corpus Christi

Video of Duncan Wong's Workshop in Corpus Christi

2010-09-16T12:37:00.000-05:00

Master Duncan Wong's visit to Corpus Christi!

2010-09-16T09:22:00.000-05:00

Yoginos Yoga For Youth Classes Resume!!

2010-09-13T09:24:00.001-05:00

Please visit Yoga Studio of Corpus Christi to get more information and enroll in the amazing Yoginos Yoga for Youth Children's yoga program. Now on Thursdays 4:00pm-4:45 pm. (361)883-1052 or http://www.yogastudioofcc.com/

Duncan Wong comes to Corpus Christi, Texas One Day Only September 11, 2010

2010-08-31T22:49:00.001-05:00

Drop Box

2010-08-29T19:28:00.000-05:00

The Heart of Yoga~ Three Life-changing weekends with Manorama

2010-07-01T19:48:00.000-05:00

The Heart of Yoga~ Three Life-changing weekends with Manorama

The Heart of Yoga - Home

2010-07-01T19:37:00.000-05:00

The Heart of Yoga - Home: "The Heart of Yoga

The Heart of Yoga Program is three weekends of study, contemplation, meditation and chanting with renowned teacher, Manorama. Each weekend can be attended individually or, taken together, will provide a comprehensive introduction to the practices and philosophical precepts that inform the Yoga Tradition.

This program is highly intereactive, deeply engaging and will inspire you to evolve and grow in new and surprising ways. If you have ever dreamed of learning Sanksrit, if you have ever wanted to explore the deeper aspects of the Yoga tradition, if you are longing to get to know yourself more fully, this course is for you.

Dates:
February 11-13, 2011
The Path of Luminous Shabda:
An Introduction to Sanskrit and Yoga Philosophy

June 24-26, 2011
Exploring the Bhagavad Gita

September 30-0ctober 2, 2011
The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali

Schedule:
Friday, 6:00-8:00
Saturday 1:00-6:00
Sunday 9:00-12:00

Tuition:
$175/weekend
$450/all three weekends

For More Information or Registration:
Contact Michele Acebo
(361) 883-1052
www.yogastudioofcorpuschristi.com"

Jivamukti Yoga Focus of The Month~ July, 2010

2010-07-01T19:15:00.000-05:00

Jivamukti Yoga Focus of The Month~ July, 2010

2010-06-03T16:02:00.000-05:00

India

2010-06-03T16:01:00.000-05:00

David Newman Workshop and CD Release Party/Kirtan

2010-05-20T13:15:00.012-05:00

2010-05-20T13:14:00.000-05:00

Teacher Training Yoga Studio of Corpus Christi, November 2009 Manorama Visit

2009-11-15T19:47:00.001-06:00

2009-11-15T19:17:00.000-06:00

2009-06-16T17:52:00.004-05:00

Addiction
"The great way is not difficult for those who have no preferences." -3rd Chinese Patriarch Most of us spend the first part of our lives desperately trying to acquire an identity and the rest of our lives defending that identity. The definition of an adult, after all, is one who has stopped growing. Addiction is a suppression of our creativity-our natural youthful ability to grow and evolve.

We hanker after experiences that will reinforce a sense of who we are as not different from who we think we are. But the fact is that who we think we are has been decided by us; in other words it is not an absolute "something" set in stone. If we have programmed ourselves, through long-term habitual actions, to feel that we need certain stimulants in order to feel a sense of self worth, then our identity becomes inseparable from our habitual experiences. These stimulants can come from the outside, as in the case of alcohol, marijuana, heroin, cocaine, sugar, caffeine, chocolate, etc., which are referred to as exogenous chemicals. Stimulants can also come from inside the body. These internally produced chemicals are called endogenous chemicals, and they can produce a similar high as the exogenous chemicals. Some people are even said to be addicted to work, gambling, sex or other kinds of activities that can trigger the release of endogenous chemicals in the body.

The human body has receptor cells that have the ability to receive drugs like cocaine and heroin, as well as any other drug or substance that we are capable of being addicted to. It isn't that we are biologically designed to become drug addicts. The fact is that our body is equipped with its own pharmaceutical laboratory that is able to manufacture the same chemicals internally that drug addicts crave from external sources. Any external drug that has an effect in our body works because it behaves like a similar internal chemical that is natural to us. Our body is able to recognize the external drug because our body already has its own receptors that were designed for the internal natural chemicals that we are able to manufacture ourselves. One major problem with chemical addiction is that when you habitually rely on external means to feel good, your body's own ability to manufacture those chemicals decreases, and you become more and more dependent on external means. A similar thing happens in the case of addiction to external activities or behaviors, like work or exercise-your body's ability to manufacture endogenous chemicals when you are not working or exercising decreases. An addict has to go outside of him/herself to find a sense of wellbeing. Dependency is a never-ending search with debilitating results.

These kinds of addictions are counterproductive to the attainment of yoga, as they block a person from becoming truly happy, self confident, self reliant and whole. Addiction suppresses spiritual, emotional and physical development-retarding growth-keeping a person bound to staying the same. Addiction inhibits the blossoming of creativity, the potential for change and the evolution of consciousness.

When external activities are coupled with an intention to grow spiritually, however, they provide a means to consciously train your body to access your own pharmaceutical laboratory and help become free of chemical and other addictions. The practice of yoga asanas is a good example of this. Also, bhakti yogis actively cultivate what they refer to as an addiction to God, yet this "addiction" is not unhealthy, because it moves one closer to God and closer to the realization of who one truly is. Asana practice involves the stimulation of the endocrine system. Consciousness is chemical, and certain asanas stimulate specific glands in the body. These glands in turn secrete chemicals which have a profound effect upon our consciousness: Standing poses affect the adrenals; forward bends, the ovaries and testicles; twists, the pancreas and liver; backbends, the thymus; shoulderstand, the thyroid; child's pose, the pineal; and headstand, the pituitary. Even though a person may practice yoga every day, it will never become an addiction like an addiction to chemicals or to work or gambling, because those kinds of addictions keep one the same and inhibit growth and evolution, whereas yoga provides a means to evolve.

When we become free of addiction, we can then feel what it means to have a body that is an instrument for happiness, ecstasy and bliss, and our body/mind system can do what it was meant to do-take us into new heights of experience beyond our wildest dreams.

-Sharon Gannon

please search Ram Dass on Addiction video on u-tube.com

Manorama from Sanskrit Studies in New York comes to Corpus Christi November 13th, 14th and 15th

2009-06-16T17:24:00.010-05:00

Manorama
The director of the School of Sanskrit Studies in NYC, Manorama leads workshops on the Path of Luminous Shabda, a path that combines Sanskrit, Meditation and Yoga philosophy. She leads workshops nationally, as well as internationally. Manorama's mix of earthy charm, deep scholarship and humorous teaching style were born from years of close study with her Guru, Shri Brahmananda Sarasvati. She is a graduate of Columbia University. In 2005, Sanskrit Studies released the acclaimed Learn to Pronounce Yoga Poses, an invaluable tool for yoga teachers & students. Manorama is committed to affecting the world in a positive way through Sanskrit, language of awareness and love. www.sanskritstudies.org

SANSKRIT Level 1: LUMINOUS SHABDA SERIES
THE PATH OF LUMINOUS SHABDA
SANSKRIT ALPHABET
Luminous Shabda Series Level 1
“Level 1 is An Introduction to Sanskrit and teaches students how sound can become a doorway to freedom, through light and awareness.” ~ Manorama

Description: This course is an immersion into the Path of Luminous Shabda (“sound as light and awareness”) through study of the Sanskrit alphabet, Meditation, Yogic life principles and Mantras.
In this course students learn to:
Develop insight into the unique relationship between breath and sound, which is energy and consciousness.
Practice Yoga meditation and the Yoga of Sound to soothe the mind and return it to a natural energized state of tranquility.
Understand how and why Sanskrit sounds are energetically healing.
Experience the harmonious circularity of Sanskrit sounds.

Elements of the course include:

Learning proper pronunciation of Sanskrit through study of the five mouth positions.
Developing understanding of breath patterns and how to work with them in mantras.
Develop a practice of silent conscious listening.
Introduction to select Mantras, practice of Yoga Meditation, and discovery of key elements in the Yoga of sound.
Reading the Devanagari and Transliteration script.
Light homework exercises support the course material.

Level: Appropriate for all students, Yoga teachers and anyone interested to deepen their practice of Self Knowledge through chanting, Sanskrit & Yoga.
Please bring: notebook, pencil/pen, meditation shawl

Please contact us by calling 361-883-1052 or yogastudioofcc@yahoo.com or emailing Manorama at classes@sanskritstudies.org to learn more about Sanskrit studies programs. Manorama is currently the director of Sanskrit Studies at Jivamuki's Omega Teacher's Training program 2009. For details go to www.jivamuktiyoga.com

This is part of The Teacher Training Program with Christina Sell at The Yoga Studio of Corpus Christi. We will be allowing students not enrolled in the TT program to this very special weekend. There will be limited space. Registration is open now.

When: November 13-15th, 2009

Where: Yoga Studio of Corpus Christi 513 Clifford Street, Corpus Christi Texas 78404

What: SANSKRIT Level 1: LUMINOUS SHABDA SERIES THE PATH OF LUMINOUS SHAB DA SANSKRIT ALPHABET Luminous Shabda Series Level 1

Cost of entire program $300

2009-03-31T20:03:00.003-05:00

Jules Febre
Jules Febre was born and raised in a section of New York City known as the Lower East Side. He grew up in the L.E.S. during a very rough period surrounded by violence, drugs and a general atmosphere of anger. At the age of 13, Jules spent three months in India; two of which were spent in Mysore studying Ashtanga Yoga with Sri. K. Pattabhi Jois. During that time he was invited to share satsang with Swami Nirmalananda and Shyam Das, two radical yogis that have each helped to add to the progression of yoga in the West. At the age of 16 Jules began working at the Jivamukti Yoga School helping to clean, by 21 had become the general manager of two Jivamukti Yoga Schools and eventually became the C.O.O of Jivamukti Inc. in New York City. After years of working behind a desk Jules realized his need was to be with others in a more hands on relationship and took the 350 hour Jivamukti Yoga Teacher training. After completing the extensive one month training, he chose to work for an additional 350 hour advanced certification program. Jules decided it was time to give back to the neighborhood he grew up in and started Hip Hop Asana with two other Jivamukti Yoga teachers. Combining hip hop music and his street smarts, he teaches classes geared toward those interested in the hip hop culture and yoga; especially those who cannot always afford to pay for classes. So far, Hip Hop Asana has been taught by Jules in New York City in Homeless Shelters, High Schools and Recreational Centers for inner city youth. Teaching yoga is Jules' passion. He is grateful to his teachers, Sharonji, Davidji & Yogeswari for igniting his devotion to the Jivamukti Yoga practice and inspire countless students.
Sessions $50 each
$40 per class if you register for 3 or more classes
All Classes and Workshops $300

Wednesday, June 10th 5:00 Basic
Wednesday, June 10th 6:45 Open
Thursday, June 11th 5:00 Basic
Thursday, June 11th 6:45 Open
Friday, June 12th 5:00 Basic
Friday, June 12th 6:45 Open
Saturday, June 13th Forward Bending Workshop 9:00 a.m.-11:30 p.m.
Sunday, June 14th Hip Hop Asana Workshop 11:00 a.m.- 1:30 p.m.

BEGINNER BASICS COURSE If you're a beginner struggling with downward dog or a more advanced student perfecting your shoulder stand, give the Basics course a try. Take advantage of a more intimate environment and focus on the fundamentals. Each week of the month features a concentration: standing poses, forward bends, back bends, and finally, combinations and inversions. The classes are popular and fill up quickly, so reservations are encouraged
OPEN Whether you're a beginner, deciphering the difference between a halasana (plough pose) and sirshasana (headstand) or an advanced yogi, the Open class encompasses all levels at Jivamukti. You work at your own pace, following the teacher's constant guidance. A typical Open class consists of flowing vinyasa sequences partnered with Sanskrit chanting, traditional Vedic and contemporary teachings and commentary, breath awareness, meditation, hands-on alignment, and relaxation. We do sitting, standing, and inverted postures, and suggest challenging variations for more advanced students. Exuberant, eclectic music plays an integral role; in a typical Open class you might practice to a shifting soundtrack of ragas, global trance, Bob Dylan, the chanting of Krishna Das, Miles Davis, Gregorian chants, and Dido
Limited Space available. Registration open Now. Contact The Yoga Studio of Corpus Christi to register by phone (361)883-1052 or by e-mailing michelle.acebo@yogastudioofcc.com.

Jivamukti Yoga Focus of The Month~April '09

2009-03-31T19:18:00.005-05:00

The Seat Of Isis

sarva mangala mangalye shive sarvartha sadhike sharanye tryambake gauri narayani namo’stu te (from Durga Saptashati, Chapter 11) I salute the three-eyed goddess, who fulfills the desire for liberation. Realization arises with Her blessing. She is the world itself. Only through the experiences of life can the soul be perfected. Honor this gift, your life.

To the ancient Egyptians, the Goddess Isis was the divine personification of the perfection that comes through the ability to connect perfectly. It was Isis, after all, who, through her power of love, reintegrated the dismembered body of her brother/husband, Osiris. She knew how to put it all back together because she held the key that connects: love.
Interestingly, the Egyptian hieroglyph for Isis, the Divine Mother Goddess, looks like a chair. Her hieroglyph looks like a seat, and its phonetic sound is st, like the Sanskrit sound sthit, which represents stability (the English word “steady” is related).
Obviously, the Egyptians did not mean that Isis should be referred to as “Your Chairness.” They were worshiping a quality of connectedness and relationship to the Earth that is inherent in the power aspect of the goddess.
Ram Dass, the great American spiritual teacher, put a chair on the cover of his classic 1971 book Be Here Now. Not a symbolic chair like the Egyptian hieroglyph for Isis, but an early American ladder-back, rattan seat chair, entangled in a network of interconnected lines that form a wheel. How appropriate for such an innovative book, one of the first books on yoga written by an American to reveal that yoga is about so much more than physical exercise.
Yoga is about being kind and good and connected well to the Earth. When you are, the Earth will support and sustain you. She as the Mother Goddess will also provide you with the means to go beyond mere sustainability, allowing you to rise out of all that has previously bound you to the mundane and impermanent. Through the experiences of life, opportunities to purify our karmas arise, leading to enlightenment or liberation from the world of suffering. Asana can be a means to overcome the limitations of the body revealing the more subtle sources of physical form.
Asana practice is a form of goddess worship. The Earth is another way of referring to the Divine Mother. Mother Earth is the Goddess. To practice asana means to practice perfecting one’s relationships with all aspects of the Earth and all beings that inhabit the Earth.
The Goddess supports those who are not greedy. Selflessness is the key to living happy in the world. It is the key to successful asana practice. It is the key to the attainment of Yoga. It is the way of the jivanmukta, the liberated being. A yogi walks in peace upon the earth, embracing each day, each experience, as providing opportunities for giving back more than he or she has taken.
The root of every asana is this steady connection to the earth. When your connection to the earth is stable, you feel ease in body and mind. Through this ease of being you begin to feel whole and with that wholeness, disconnection subsides, revealing your holiness -your own divine nature.
Practice: Seat of Isis Sequence found on pages 110-111 of the Jivamukti Yoga Book -Sharon Gannon (text adapted from the JY book)

Jivamukti Yoga Focus of the Month~March 09

2009-03-09T14:39:00.003-05:00

Guru Mantra
Gurur Brahma, Gurur Vishnur, Gurur devo Maheshwarah,Guruh sakshat, param Brahma, tasmai shri guravay namah -Guru Stotram
Our creation is that guru (Brahma-the force of creation); the duration of our lives is that guru (Vishnu-the force of preservation); our trials, tribulations, illnesses, calamities and the death of the body is that guru (devo Maheshwara-the force ofdestruction or transformation). There is a guru nearby (Guru Sakshat) and a guru that is beyond the beyond (param Brahma). I make my offering (tasmai) to the beautiful (shri) remover of my darkness, my ignorance (Guru); it is to you I bow and lay down my life (namah).
Guru is the remover of darkness: Gu means darkness, and Ru means remover. Darkness refers to what obscures the light of awareness. Guru is the enlightenment principal that aids one in the realization of the true Self, the whole Self, the holy Self. The guru removes avidya, or ignorance, which is a case of mistaken identity. It is when you think you are your personality, mistaking your body/mind container for who you are and ignore who you really are. It is when you feel separate from the whole.
By reciting this mantra with a sincere heart, you will see that the power that enlightens is all around you at all times. The mantra asks for the ability to see the guru in all names and forms, and even to acknowledge, love and serve the guru who you cannot see, who is beyond all visible forms. The guru is your own self, the inner guiding light.
Your own birth, the creation principle, holds within it the potential for enlightenment. This would include your parents, your day and the place of your birth and all the circumstances surrounding your birth. Many people find it difficult to recognize the guru in their parents. Many of us spend a lot of time complaining about the bodies we have been given by our parents and blame our parents for the difficulties in our lives.
The situation we are living in right now at this time is where guru Vishnu manifests. If we could see our present circumstances-who we work with, who we live with, who our friends are-as embodying the guru principle, we might stop perceiving them as in the way of our happiness and begin to realize that they might be providing us with the way for our enlightenment to unfold.
The most difficult circumstances to accept in a positive way are the calamities, the injuries and illnesses that befall us physically or mentally. Guru devo Maheshwara manifests as the big challenges in our lives, which actually provide us with the greatest opportunities for clearing away avidya and embracing all that happens to us as a gift from God. Destruction always opens the door for transformation.
To see the guru in the teacher who is right in front of you, giving you the teachings of enlightenment, may be very difficult for us due to preconceived idealistic notions about what a guru is suppose to look like. This prejudice may disable us from seeing past the outer form or personality of the teacher.
To acknowledge that the guru is beyond name and form, beyond what we could imagine with the limited vision of the thinking mind, is to begin to open to the mystery of cosmic awareness.
The most potent prayer is the last line of the mantra in which we ask to have the good sense to be humble enough not to miss our chance to recognize the guru when they do appear. Only if we can let go of our self-cherishing, our pride, our need to be recognized and our yearning to be given credit for the things we do, can we ever hope to encounter the guru, that which brings enlightenment to our soul.
-Sharon Gannon

Studio Web Site UP and RUNNING www.yogastudioofcc.com

2009-03-09T14:31:00.004-05:00

Our new web site is up and running! Please check it out at www.yogastudioofcc.com
You may also e-mail me for more information at
michelle.acebo@yogastudioofcc.com
Thank you for your support! Take some time to let us know how we are doing! We love to hear from YOU!

2009-02-04T22:31:00.005-06:00

Note: We have posted the focus of the month for February, March and April 2009 in our website http://www.jivamuktiyoga.com/.

Satya and Veganism
satya-pratishthayam kriya-phalashrayatvam (PYS II.36)When one does not defile one's speech with lies, the words one says are listened to and acted upon in a positive and immediate manner. The speaker will be able to say what they mean. What one says comes true.
In the Yoga Sutras, Patanjali gives us five recommendations, called yamas, for how we should treat others if we want to attain liberation. The second yama is satya, which means "truthfulness." Shri Brahmananda Sarasvati explains that truthfulness means "not to speak untruth, physically, vocally, or mentally.... Speech should not be deceitful, mistaken, or barren of information. It should be used for the service of all, not for injury to any creature."
As yoga practitioners, we come to a time in our lives when we question whether what we have been told is true, including assumptions we hold about ourselves and the world around us. If we don't want to be taken in by the lies people tell us, we can begin to examine our own speech and ask ourselves if we are really saying what we mean. Part of the process of transitioning into living more honestly is to hold yourself accountable for the things you do. Most of us say we want peace, equality, and freedom for all, but our actions say something entirely different as we bite into a hamburger or order an ice-cream cone, wear a fur coat to an anti-war demonstration or serve hot dogs to our children. Once you become more aware, there's simply no way to not notice these everyday hypocrisies, these gaps in awareness justified by group behavior and the culture of dis-ease.
As consumers, we are not told the truth about where food comes from. When advertising is employed to sell meat, milk, and eggs, pictures of happy animals are used. Images like these are false advertising. The truth is that factory farms, and farms in general, are facilities where animals are exploited and manipulated for the benefit of the farm owners. Although in our hearts we know the truth about how food animals are being used, we lie to ourselves. We perpetuate this untruth when we lie to our children and to others and fail to encourage them to investigate the truth. The more we lie to others, the more others will lie to us. Eventually, it becomes quite normal to communicate through lying, never really saying what we mean or doing what we say.
Some meat eaters say they are peaceful people and would never hurt anyone-they didn't kill the animal; they're just eating what is convenient. This type of thinking is an example of how disempowered and disconnected most of the carnivorous members of our culture feel. They have been convinced that what they do doesn't really matter in the larger scheme of things. After all, it is only my lunch-just a piece of ham between two slices of bread; what harm could that do? The fact is that when we buy the meat of an animal, we are the ones who have signed his or her death sentence. If we are buying and eating meat and dairy products, then the slaughterhouse workers, meat packers, and factory farm workers are all working for us. To live by violence and then to deny that you do is to live a lie. Living a lie causes a deep fissure in the human psyche. Yoga seeks to heal that fissure.
One of the ways that you can tell if you are making progress in yoga is by observing your own voice. Through regular practice, you will find that you will be able to say what you mean and mean what you say. When this happens, it is an indication that the disease of disconnection is beginning to be healed. You will experience for yourself what is true, and all the lies you have been told, even those that you have told, will fade away in the light of the greater truth of your true potential.
-Adapted from Yoga and Vegetarianism, by Sharon Gannon

February Special

2009-01-20T14:47:00.008-06:00

February – Share Yoga Month
Bring a loved one (friend, relative, partner) for free during the entire month of February!

When you purchase a one month of unlimited yoga Pass ($80) you will be eligible to bring as many people as often as you would like for the entire month.*

* One guest per visit. Guests must be new to the studio. Special valid for Purchases made in February, 2009 only. Special cannot be combined with any other offer.

2009-01-20T14:18:00.005-06:00

Chakra and Tantra Yoga Workshop with Marco Mandrino, E-R.Y.T. 500
February 28-March 1, 2009

The Yoga Studio of Corpus Christi proudly announces a Chakra and Tantra Yoga Workshop with Marco Mandrino! Many of you have expressed interest in this subject so Marco has taken the time to come back to Corpus Christi from Italy.

ABOUT THE WORKSHOP: This is a rare opportunity to be introduced to an in-depth Tantric perspective of the seven chakras in a format both theoretical and experiential. The two day workshop begins with an explanation of the concept of Sukshma Sharira (energetic subtle body), followed by an exploration of each chakras meaning, position, element, symbolism (number of lotus petals, animal and Divine qualities), sense and action organ, imbalance diagnostics, rajasic, tamasic and sattvic aspects and practice suggestions to re balance and purify chakra energy. Participants will also learn a Kundalini Shakti awakening techniques. Both Days will start with a component consisting of about 3 hours of Asana, pranayama and Dharana (concentration) techniques specific to each chakra. The practice is followed by theoretical component complemented by Kriya Yoga, Mantras or pranayama practice.

Saturday, February 28 and Sunday, March 1, 2009 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Participants are asked to bring a light lunch and/or snack. Please plan on attendance both days.
Workshop $250.00 Limited Space available. No registrations taken after February 25th, 2009. NON REFUNDABLE AFTER JANUARY 20TH

ABOUT MARCO MANDRINO: Marco is registered as E-R.Y.T. 500, Experienced Yoga Teacher above 500 hours by Yoga Alliance. He studied and practiced different kinds of Yoga both in Tantric Tradition and others. He leads Yoga Teacher Training Programs, workshops and retreats for the development of the potential within and for personal growth through Yoga in Italy, Australia, India and The United States. Marco is also an Ayurveda practitioner, classic and Ayurveda Aromatherapy expert. He is author of several publications and collaborator of different Italian Yoga Magazines (similar to our Yoga Journal here). Through workshops and retreats he teaches an integral way to Yoga in Tantric Tradition with a consistent Hatha Yoga practice with Asana, Pranayama, Dharana (concentration), Dhyana (meditation). He is a strong supporter of Ayurveda to purify and cleanse the body. He gives practical advice that allows you to bring Yoga into your daily life routine through Karma Yoga teaching, Jnana Yoga approach in the Advatita Vedanta Philosophy which will allow you to burn out the veils of ignorance, Bhakti Yoga practices to bring love, joy and light into the present moment.

Registration and/or questions please contact us by Phone: 361-883-1052

or you may visit The Yoga Studio of Corpus Christi at 513 Clifford Street, Corpus Christi, Texas 78404. Located off Alameda @ Six Points area.

Correction of Centering Mind and Body Article for Yoga U.S.A.

2009-01-19T10:44:00.004-06:00

Yoga Day U.S.A. (Correction to article in The Corpus Christi Caller-Times).

Please note at least three corrections to this wonderful article from the Health section dated Monday, January 19th.
Yoga has existed for more than 5,000 years
Hot Yoga Room will be in a room between 98-100 degrees
A person who has a regular yoga practice will become much more centered

Centering mind and body

Venues offer free, low-cost classes in yoga Saturday

By Elaine Marsilio (Contact)
Monday, January 19, 2009

Yoga in action

» View Photo Gallery

Timi Abney can't get enough of yoga. The 40-year-old former bodybuilder likes that it works the body through breathing, stretching and individual spirituality.

Abney and some members of her yoga class at Yoga Studio of Corpus Christi have a running joke that the exercise is an ideal therapy.

"It's a wonderful therapy," she said. "It doesn't cost very much to take it."

On Saturday several studios will offer free or discounted classes to new attendees to celebrate Yoga Day 2009.

The day prompts hundreds of yoga studio owners across the country to offer free or reduced course rates on that day. This year marks the event's 10th anniversary, according to the Yoga Alliance, the national yoga governing body heading up the day's festivities.

R. Mark Davis, president and chief executive officer of the Yoga Alliance, said the event's goal is to raise awareness about yoga.

"Yoga Day USA is a day for the yoga community to come together to embrace those who want to learn more about the practice of yoga and the transformative effects it can have on one's life," he said.

Evy Coppola, who owns Pathways to Wellness off Everhart Road, said yoga allows people to ease stress, increase flexibility, provide an intense workout and clear the mind.

"They find that it's more than the physical exercise," said Coppola, who trains and certifies yoga instructors.

She said a beneficial yoga class consists of four parts: knowledge, warmup, work and connection to self. Classes across the city offer different styles of yoga for various demographics, including youth yoga.

People become drawn to the Indian tradition because they often want to change their lifestyles, Coppola said.

Michelle Acebo, owner of the Yoga Studio of Corpus Christi, said the tradition is an important element of any yoga class.

Yoga has existed for more than 3,500 years. Once in class, participants learn the history behind various chants during each of Acebo's classes to honor the instructors who came before them, she said.

The tradition's spiritual side helps people look within themselves for guidance and comfort, she said.

"It kind of centers you," she said.

THE MAKINGS OF BENEFICIAL YOGA CLASSES

Jnana: Knowledge. Each yoga class allows participants to gain knowledge about the exercise.

Karma: Work, good or bad. In yoga, karma is the work involved in the exercise.

Hatha: Sun and Moon combined. This is the warm-up leading into the physical part of a class.

Bhaka: The connection to one’s self. This can be 75 to 90 minutes in which the body relaxes.

Source: Evy Coppola, Pathways to Wellness

YOGA DAY CLASSES ON SATURDAY

What: Yoga classes for first-time students

When: 8:30 a.m., 10 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.

Where: Pathways to Wellness, 617 Everhart Road

Cost: Free

Information: 985-9642 or www.path2wellness.com

What: Yoga classes

When: 8:00 a.m., Hatha Flow; 9:15 a.m., mixed level Hatha; 11 a.m., back bend workshop; 12:30 p.m., open class; 2:30 p.m., Tai Chi; 4 p.m., restorative yoga. All classes are Saturday.

Where: Crossroads Yoga, 5830 McArdle Road

Cost: Free

Information: 992-1111 or www.crossroadsyoga.com

What: Yoga classes

When: 9:30 a.m. and 3 p.m., Hatha Flow; 11:15 a.m., Yogiños youth yoga; 1 p.m. Hot yoga (a class in which the room temperature is increased to 90 degrees).

Where: Yoga Studio of Corpus Christi, 513 Clifford St.

Cost: Free

Information: 883-1052 or www.yogastudioofcc.com

What: Yoga classes

When: 10:30 a.m. beginner and advanced levels

Where: Corpus Christi Athletic Club, 2101 Airline Road

Cost: Free; membership not required

Information: 992-7100, Ext. 148

Contact Elaine Marsilio at 886-3794 or marsilioe@caller.com

Yoga Day, U.S.A.

2009-01-13T07:32:00.006-06:00

The Yoga Studio of Corpus Christi is proud to be a sponsor of Yoga Day, U.S.A.
Join us so you can get a first hand look at what yoga can do for you. We offer a variety of classes. Everyone can do yoga. We will help you find the best type of class for you.

We will premier Corpus Christi's first Hot Yoga Class Ever! Hot yoga will continue to be a part of our regularly scheduled classes.

We will offer:

9:30-11:00 Hatha Flow Yoga with Armando Ramirez
11:15-12:00 Yoginos Family Yoga with Beth Reese
1:00-2:15 Hot Yoga Premier! with Elizabeth Hofmann
3:00-4:15 Hatha Flow with Jan Freeman

Click on the link below for information regarding free yoga classes in Corpus Christi! Yoga Day, U.S.A. January 24th ~Full day of free yoga in Corpus Christi All classes done at The Yoga Studio of Corpus Christi will be done on a donation basis. Give what you can. No worries if you are unable to donate at this time. Just enjoy the classes. Proceeds will be used to purchase supplies for The Women's shelter of South Texas.

Living the Yoga Tradition Workshop with Christina Sell and Craig Williams

2009-01-13T06:30:00.005-06:00

February Immersion Workshop with Christina Sell

The Yoga Studio of Corpus Christi is pleased to present:

Living the Yoga Tradition:
A weekend of study and practice with Craig Williams and Christina Sell
February 20-22, 2009

The emergence of yoga in the West is a relatively recent phenomenon. Various schools or branches of yoga abound each touting a unique method, viewpoint or goal. Far from being a relaxation technique or exercise fad, the original yoga tradition developed out of a larger multi-dimensional Indic heritage: the Vedic Tradition. Unfortunately in the West few yoga teachers or practitioners are aware of the Vedic roots of the yoga tradition or the dharmic cultural milieu from which yoga blossomed. This weekend will explore the Vedic tradition through scriptural study, asana practice, mantra practice, meditation and contemplation. The workshop will be taught progressively and will be highly experiential. Students are encouraged to participate in all sessions.
Please join us for an inspiring weekend of study, practice, and good company!

Friday, February 20 6:00-8:00 Introduction to Scriptural Study

Talk with Craig Williams

Pranayama and Meditation Led by Christina Sell
Saturday, February 21 9:00-12:30 Vedic Wisdom and The Upanishads

Talk with Craig Williams

Drawing Nearer to the Self Asana Class with Christina Sell
Saturday, February 21 2:00-6:00 Bringing The Bhagavad Gita Alive

Talk with Craig Williams
Devotion, Knowledge and Action Asana Class with Christina Sell

Sunday, February 22 9:00-12:30 The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali

Talk with Craig Williams

The Splendor of the Self Asana Class with Christina Sell

Sunday, February 22 2:00-6:00 Vedanta- Experiencing Oneness

Talk with Craig Williams

The Yogic Heart Asana Class with Christina Sell

Limited registration. Be sure to sign up NOW!!
$200.00 before January 20; $225 after January 20
Individual Sessions are $50 each.
For Information and Registration please contact
Michelle Acebo at 361-883-1052.

Christina Sell has been practicing yoga since 1991. She is a certified Anusara Yoga® instructor and author of the book Yoga From the Inside Out: Making Peace with your Body Through Yoga. Christina has been training yoga teachers for over 5 years and is known for her clarity, insight and passion. Dedicated to the practices and principles of Anusara Yoga she serves on the Anusara Yoga® Teacher Assessment committee, the Anusara Yoga® Ethics Committee and the Anusara Yoga® Teacher Training Curriculum Development committee. For more information about her or her work, please visit http://www.christinasell.com/.

Anyone up for Hot Yoga???

2009-01-06T11:02:00.004-06:00

Corpus Christi, You asked for it so here it is!!

We will debut the first Hot Yoga Class in Corpus Christi January 24th, 2009

Join the Yoga Studio of Corpus Christi for a FREE Hot Yoga Class as part of Yoga Day, U.S.A.

Classes will be regularly scheduled following the debut class

General Information about Hot Yoga
Hot Yoga offers classes in Vinyasa Yoga. Vinyasa or flow yoga is one of the emerging forms of yoga in the West arising from Krishnamacharya's lineage of Ashtanga, Iyengar and Viniyoga. Vinyasa yoga is sequenced to bring balance between ease (sukha) and effort (sthira) while synchronizing the movement with the breath. The sequences of the yoga postures are both physically challenging and spiritually rejuvenating. Each posture, also referred to as an asana, is designed to prepare the body for the one that follows. Hot Yoga classes last for 60-80 minutes in a room heated to approximately 97.8 degrees, which is our body temperature. Practicing yoga in a hot environment opens both the chakras and the muscular/skeletal system, it stimulates the glandular system, and helps eliminate toxins to rebuild the body from old injuries. With continued Hot Yoga practice, what once seemed purely physical slowly transforms the practitioner towards a metaphysical state of being. In Hot Yoga, our goal is to empower each student to discover the teacher within. We hope that the classes you take at our studio will help you transform your thoughts, actions and body from the inside out.

Classes will be held by Elizabeth Hofman, R.Y.T. 200

Education wise - Elizabeth "Liz" has a BA in Biology from Occidental College (1992) and a Master's in Environmental Science from TAMU-CC (2001). She is a secondary science teacher, but has put her teaching career on hold to be home with her two boys. Elizabeths Story: I started yoga in 2001 when I was 4 months pregnant with my first child and dragged by a dear friend to a power yoga class in Okinawa, Japan. I loved it from the get go as it was the only thing that felt good while pregnant. I kept up my practice until the day before I went into labor. I quickly returned to my practice and developed a passion for Power Yoga. I received my NESTA certification in 2003 and started teaching in Okinawa for MCCS (Marine Corps Community Services)while pregnant with #2. We moved in June of 2005 to Chesapeake, Virginia where I taught at a local gym (Wellness One) from 2005-2008. I received my 200 Hr RYT in multi-style in April 2007 from Chesapeake Hot Yoga. I became addicted to Hot Yoga after my 2nd class and taught Hot Yoga from March 2007 - June 2008

Anusara Yoga Practice with Christina Sell January 2nd- 4th, 2009

2008-12-28T20:34:00.003-06:00

For those who cannot commit to a full Teacher Training Program we have opened up small sections of the weekend. Here's how you can be part of it:

January Workshop with Christina Sell!

The Yoga Studio of Corpus Christi is pleased to present:
Opening To Grace- Anusara Yoga® for all levels with Christina Sell
January 2-4, 2009
Anusara (a-nu-sar-a), means “flowing with Grace,” “going with the flow,” “following your heart.”

Founded by John Friend in 1997, Anusara Yoga is a powerful hatha yoga system that unifies a Tantric philosophy of intrinsic Goodness with Universal Principles of Alignment™. Currently, Anusara Yoga is one of the most popular and fastest growing yoga styles in the world with over 1200 affiliated teachers and 100,000 students world-wide.

Anusara Yoga's remarkable popularity is due in large part to its uplifting philosophy, epitomized by a "celebration of the heart," that looks for the good in all people and all things. Consequently, students of all levels of ability and yoga experience are honored for their unique differences, limitations, and talents. This life-affirming vision sets the basis for a yoga system in which the harmony and joy of a tightly knit community is exulted. Not only is Anusara Yoga an elegant system of alignment principles and non-dual philosophy, but it is also a wonderful community of highly trained teachers and fun-loving students. This community feels like it has the tightness of a family, yet the looseness of a merry band of bohemian artists.
Join us this weekend and find out how Anusara Yoga can help you take your practice to a new level!

Fri., Jan. 2 6:00-8:00 Flowing with Grace, Flowing with the Breath Asana Flow

Sat., Jan. 3 9:00-12:30 The Divine Pulsation:Primary Flows of Energy All-levels Asana

Sun., Jan.4 9:00-12:30 Spiral into the Flow: Inner and Outer Spiral Unveiled All-Levels Asana
$125 for the whole weekend,
individual sessions $50.
For Information and Registration please contact Michelle Acebo at 361-883-1052.
Christina Sell is a certified Anusara Yoga instructor and author of the book Yoga From the Inside Out. Her classes are fun, inspring and dedicated to helping students of all abilities enter the Flow of Grace through yoga. For more information about her and her work please visit http://www.christinasell.com/

Yoga Alliance Teacher Training Program begins January 2nd

2008-12-28T20:09:00.004-06:00

It’s time to take your practice to the next level with Christina Sell!

Don't wish you did, Just do it before it's too late

For Information and Registration please contact: Michelle Acebo, R.Y.T. 200 and Registered Jivamukti Teacher 300 hour level
(361)883-1052 or via e-mail at yogastudioofcc@yahoo.com

This 200 hour training meets all of the requirements outlined by Yoga Alliance for becoming a Registered Yoga Teacher at the 200 hour level,(R.Y.T. 200), additionally; this program fulfills the Immersion completion requirement and the level 1 and Level 2 Teacher Training requirements for Anusara Yoga and Anusara Yoga Teacher Certification requirements. Please visit www.anusara.com for more information regarding the complete requirements to become a Certified Anusara Yoga Teacher.

This is an intensive Teacher Training Program that takes place for one weekend a month for ten months. Each session builds upon the next. Students will not be allowed to register once the program begins. This is a program not to be missed

Jivamukti Yoga Focus of the Month~January 09

2008-12-28T19:59:00.003-06:00

Focus of the month, January 2009
Laughter as a Yogic Practice

Happiness is the goal of yoga - the goal of life"All the way to heaven has got to be heaven." - St. Catherine of Siena
We can become stuck in negative habits that distance us from joy, which is our true nature. Yoga practices can help us overcome these habits by making us aware of them. When you practice asana, you may feel resistance to joy. Your tendencies toward anger, greed, jealousy and sadness may be expressed as pain and tightness in the body, and as confusion, doubt or worry in the mind. Our bodies act as storehouses for our past experiences (karmas). Memories, which trigger emotions, exist not only in compartmentalized files in the brain but are stored throughout the body in the internal organs, in the blood, in the muscles and bones, in all of the cells and tissues. As neuroscientist Candace Pert says, "The body does not exist merely to carry the head around." The mind and body are not just connected - they are actually made of the same stuff, but just appear in different densities. Consciousness, or the knowing principle, infuses the whole body and mind.
Asana practice addresses not only outer muscles and joints but also organs, deep tissues, glands, blood and fluids, helping to release toxins from them. Healthy individuals can experience a wide array of emotions and not be adversely affected because they are able to process these emotions. But when we become overloaded, and are unable to digest our sensory experiences, these feelings become toxic and become trapped in our physical tissues. Emotions can be stored deep in our organs. Unexpressed feelings and negative emotions that have been long suppressed can short-circuit the entire body-mind system, resulting in debilitating dis-ease. Fear and anxiety can seep into the large intestine. Anger can become lodged in the liver. Greed takes root in the heart.
Laughter is an ancient yogic healing technique that can rid you of deeply held negative emotions. It has profound therapeutic value in restoring well-being and health, leading to happiness. Laughter induces relaxation, and because of its ability to free the body and mind of pent-up emotions that are obstacles to self-reflection, it is a potent prerequisite to meditation. It is good when laughter is spontaneous, but when emotions have been buried for so long that they have become deep-seated tensions, the conscious practice of laughing can be very healing.
The asana called hasahasana (laugh-asana)* can help to induce laughter. Lie on your back and lift both arms and legs up toward the ceiling. Flexing hands and feet, bend the right knee as you bend the right elbow, then switch sides, going back and forth until laughter overwhelms you ... and keep laughing. As you continue to laugh, you may even feel like rolling around on the floor. Feel free to do this. If you have trouble getting the laughs going, try shouting "Ha! Ha!" or "Yahoo!" or "Ooowee!" out loud, or just allow yourself to speak nonsensical, gibberish words to spark the laughter. Let your whole body shake with laughter for no reason at all, and go beyond reason, beyond thinking. Being in a room with other people involved in the same practice will help you, beacause laughter tends to be help you, be contagious.
Continue this practice for five to ten minutes, then sit up and assume a meditation seat, keeping perfectly still. Whatever feelings arise now, let them come and let them go. You may find that tears begin to flow, and even flood your whole system. Let go of the tears. Allow this cleansing to occur by witnessing without judgment or apology. Sit with this for five to ten minutes. Then relax in shavasana and practice systematic, conscious guided relaxation of each body part, starting with the toes, moving upward through the whole body to the head. Then begin to go deeper: start with the internal organs and move upward following the chakra model - relax the organs of elimination, the organs of sexuality, the organs of digestion, the organs of blood circulation, the organs of respiration, the organs of sense and, finally, the organs of thinking.
After doing laughter meditation for a month, you will feel revived, refreshed, unburdened and deeply cleansed, with a renewed sense of balance, leading to equanimity of mind and enlightenment.

- Sharon Gannon, January 2009
*See The Art of Yoga, by Sharon Gannon and David Life, Page 64.

Buy two monthly unlimited packages and get one free!!!

2008-12-14T16:52:00.004-06:00

December-January 2009 Special. Purchase two months of unlimited yoga ($160) and get one month free!! This is an $80 value. There are no hidden fees or catches*. Simply get three months of unlimited yoga for the price of two. What an awesome way to bring in the new year. You can honor your New Year's resolutions easily. Don't miss this amazing package deal. It is not likely to be offered again!!

* Please be aware that our children's yoga program, Yoginos is a totally separate program and is not included in this or any of our other packages. Let us know if you have any questions. Gift certificates available. What could be better than the gift of yoga???

Half Price all Clothing~ Two Days Only!

2008-12-14T15:59:00.007-06:00

Hurry over to The Yoga Studio of Corpus Christi Monday, December 15-Tuesday, December 16th to take advantage of our lowest prices of the year! All Clothing will be 50 % off! Yes, all clothing, and gift items on sale. Even our $10 re-sale rack will be $5 per item!!

We carry the finest brands of fitness clothing. This is the perfect spot to shop for the sports enthusiast. We even carry cute tennis skirts! Many of the styles we carry are multifunctional and can take you throughout the day in style!

If you are hard to shop for or have someone that is hard to shop for gift certificates make a wonderful choice. Come by and browse our ever growing selection of cool clothes and gift ideas.

February Immersion Workshop with Christina Sell

2008-12-07T19:44:00.002-06:00

The Yoga Studio of Corpus Christi is pleased to present:

Living the Yoga Tradition:
A weekend of study and practice with Craig Williams and Christina Sell
February 20-22, 2009

Friday, February 20 6:00-8:00 Introduction to Scriptural Study

Talk with Craig Williams
Pranayama and Meditation Led by Christina Sell

Saturday, February 21 9:00-12:30 Vedic Wisdom and The Upanishads

Talk with Craig Williams
Drawing Nearer to the Self Asana Class with Christina Sell

Saturday, February 21 2:00-6:00 Bringing The Bhagavad Gita Alive

Talk with Craig Williams
Devotion, Knowledge and Action Asana Class with Christina Sell

Sunday, February 22 9:00-12:30 The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali

Talk with Craig Williams
The Splendor of the Self Asana Class with Christina Sell

Sunday, February 22 2:00-6:00 Vedanta- Experiencing Oneness

Talk with Craig Williams
The Yogic Heart Asana Class with Christina Sell

$200.00 before January 20; $225 after January 20
Individual Sessions are $50 each.
For Information and Registration please contact
Michelle Acebo at 361-883-1052.

Craig Williams (Shambhu-Das ) is a Clinical Herbalist and Acupuncturist in private practice specializing in Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ayurveda and Yoga. He holds a Master’ Degree in Oriental Medicine and is a Professional Member of the American Herbalist Guild and a Professional member of the National Ayurvedic Mecical Association (NAMA). Craig is the recipient of the prestigious “Veda Kovid” title awarded by David Frawley and the American Institute of Vedic Studies which recognizes extensive training in the Vedic Sciences of Ayurveda, Yoga, Jyotish, Tantra and Vedanta. He also holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Religious Studies with a focus on Hindu Studies and has studied Mantra Therapy with Ashley Thomas- Farrand. For information about Craig Williams, visit http://www.ayurvedaaustin.com/.

Christina Sell has been practicing yoga since 1991. She is a certified Anusara Yoga® instructor and author of the book Yoga From the Inside Out: Making Peace with your Body Through Yoga. Christina has been training yoga teachers for over 5 years and is known for her clarity, insight and passion. Dedicated to the practices and principles of Anusara Yoga she serves on the Anusara Yoga® Teacher Assessment committee, the Anusara Yoga® Ethics Committee and the Anusara Yoga® Teacher Training Curriculum Development committee. For more information about her or her work, please visit http://www.christinasell.com/.

Workshop with Christina Sell January 2-4th

2008-12-07T19:29:00.005-06:00

The Yoga Studio of Corpus Christi is pleased to present:

Opening To Grace- Anusara Yoga® for all levels with Christina Sell
January 2-4, 2009
Anusara (a-nu-sar-a), means “flowing with Grace,” “going with the flow,” “following your heart.”

Founded by John Friend in 1997, Anusara Yoga is a powerful hatha yoga system that unifies a Tantric philosophy of intrinsic Goodness with Universal Principles of Alignment™. Currently, Anusara Yoga is one of the most popular and fastest growing yoga styles in the world with over 1200 affiliated teachers and 100,000 students world-wide.

Anusara Yoga's remarkable popularity is due in large part to its uplifting philosophy, epitomized by a "celebration of the heart," that looks for the good in all people and all things. Consequently, students of all levels of ability and yoga experience are honored for their unique differences, limitations, and talents. This life-affirming vision sets the basis for a yoga system in which the harmony and joy of a tightly knit community is exulted. Not only is Anusara Yoga an elegant system of alignment principles and non-dual philosophy, but it is also a wonderful community of highly trained teachers and fun-loving students. This community feels like it has the tightness of a family, yet the looseness of a merry band of bohemian artists.
Join us this weekend and find out how Anusara Yoga can help you take your practice to a new level!

Fri., Jan. 2 6:00-8:00 Flowing with Grace, Flowing with the Breath Asana Flow

Sat., Jan. 3 9:00-12:30 The Divine Pulsation:Primary Flows of Energy All-levels Asana

Sun., Jan.4 9:00-12:30 Spiral into the Flow: Inner and Outer Spiral Unveiled All-Levels Asana

$125 for the whole weekend,
Individual sessions $50.

For Information and Registration please contact Michelle Acebo at 361-883-1052.

We realize that not everyone can commit to a Teacher Training Program or needs a Yoga Alliance 200 hour certification. We would like to offer this incredible experience to all those who may be interested in Anusara Yoga and to those who would like the opportunity to experience a Christina Sell class!

Christina Sell is a certified Anusara Yoga instructor and author of the book Yoga From the Inside Out. Her classes are fun, inspiring and dedicated to helping students of all abilities enter the Flow of Grace through yoga.

For more information about her and her work please visit www.christinasell.com

Teacher Training Program with Christina Sell Starts in January!

2008-12-06T21:38:00.004-06:00

Anusara Yoga Immersion
and Teacher Development Program
at THE YOGA STUDIO OF CORPUS CHRISTI

January 2009-December 2009

For Information and Registration please contact:
Michelle Acebo at 361-883-1052

PHASE ONE of this unique program is a 108-hour Anusara Yoga Immersion. The Anusara Yoga Immersion program is for dedicated students who wish to begin a structured exploration of Anusara Yoga to enhance their own practice and experience, as well as students and teachers who may wish to enter the Anusara Yoga Certification Process. The Immersion is a comprehensive study designed by John Friend, the founder of Anusara Yoga. The curriculum looks at the essence of Anusara philosophy, alignment principles and practice. The in-depth program invites you to expand your mind and heart, while providing a rich and transformative experience. The focus of Phase One is highly experiential and focuses on self-development, practice and personal inquiry as the foundation of good teaching.
PHILOSOPHY: (30 HOURS): History of yoga, The Bhavagad Gita, Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras, Introduction Tantric Philosophy, Tattvas, and Anusara Yoga Philosophy and vision.
UNIVERSAL PRINCIPLES OF ALIGNMENT (48 HOURS): Opening to Grace, Muscular Energy, Expanding Spiral Contracting Spiral, the Seven Energy Loops and General principles of the Major categories of postures.
PRANAYANA: (10 HOURS): Ujayi Pranayama, Nadi Shodhana Pranayama, Viloma Pranayama
MEDITATION/CONTEMPALATION AND JOURNALING (10 HOURS): Open, closed and focus techniques.
ANATOMY (10 HOURS): Anatomy of respiration, Introduction to the skeletal system, general overview of the structure and function of the spine, pelvis and hips, esoteric anatomy.
*IMMERSION DATES *
JANUARY 2-4, 2009 *

FEBRUARY 20-22, 2009 *

MARCH 20-22, 2009 *

APRIL 10-12, 2009 *
MAY 15-17, 2009 *

AUGUST 21-23, 2009

PHASE TWO of the program is Teacher Development: The Art and Skill of Teaching Yoga. These 92-hours are aimed at developing the teaching skills required to effectively and safely introduce people to the practices and principles of Anusara Yoga. For both new and seasoned teachers, this program is highly experiential and will focus on hand-on teaching practice with feedback and peer support.
ANATOMY- (10 Hours): Anatomy of the Lower and Upper Extremities, continued work on the spine, pelvis and hips.
TEACHING METHODOLOGIES- (25 HOURS): Sequencing, developing heart-based themes, modifications, observation, adjustments, language skills, demonstration skills, use of props, class composition, special populations, progressive teaching methodology.
PRACTICUM (20 HOURS): ***THESE HOURS MUST BE COMPLETED OUTSIDE OF THE CLASSROOM.***
YOGA THERAPY (25 HOURS): Ayurveda and Yoga Therapy including mantra, pranayama, pratyahara, dharana and dhyana as well as therapeutic applications of Universal Principles of Alignment.
BUSINESS AND ETHICS- (12 HOURS)
*TEACHER TRAINING DATES*
SEPTEMBER 18-20,2009 *

OCTOBER 16-18, 2009 *

NOVEMBER 13-15, 2009 *

DECEMBER 4-6
Primary Faculty

Jivamukti Yoga~ December 2008 Focus of the Month

2008-11-29T15:20:00.004-06:00

Jivamukti Yoga Focus of the Month ~ December 2008

Yoga Nidra and Shavasana "Yoga Nidra is a state of complete bodily relaxation, in which the mind rests in a suspended state - awake, yet calm, and free of all distraction. The body, senses and material mind are magnetized." - Shri Brahmananda Sarasvati

Through deep relaxation, a state of Yoga Nidra arises, which can lead to kaivalyam, or samadhi, in which the sense of individualization merges with absolute, transcendental joy. The practice of shavasana (corpse pose)can facilitate the arising of this state. But for success in shavasana, you have to understand, as Shri Brahmananda suggests, "how to use fixation, suggestion and sensation, and how to use the proper pause for time." The following is a guided relaxation to be used in the practice of shavasana; it is meant to be spoken out loud by a teacher to students after they have assumed a lying-down position: "You are about to embark upon a wonderful adventure, a journey into the experience of deep relaxation. To relax means to become receptive; receptive to your own inner happiness and peace, your true nature, that which is boundless, limitless joy, that which is the very core of every being. To relax allows you to let go of everything that may be holding you back from the experience of the truth of your very being. "Start by taking your consciousness to your feet. Silently suggest: Toes, relax. Feet, relax. Ankles, relax. Let go. Calves and shins, relax. Let go. Knees, relax. Thighs, relax. Release the large muscles of the thighs. Allow them to let go of their grip on the thighbones. Relax. Let go. Allow the bones of the legs to rest in the softened tissues of the relaxed muscles. Relax hips and buttocks. Release all clenching, all gripping there. Release all tension from the pelvic area. Let go. Let go. Lower back, relax. Middle back, relax. Upper back, relax. Allow the muscles of the back to spread and melt into the floor, spreading warmth outward from the spine. Release into the floor. Let go. Allow the floor to lift up under you, to support you. Trust it beneath your body. Melt into it. Release into the floor, into the earth. Drop all your tension, anxieties, restlessness, and resistance into the floor, into the earth. Relax your abdomen and chest. Release. Soften. Soften. Fingers and hands, relax. Let go of all gripping and clenching there. No need now to hold on to anything. Everything is yours. Let go. Let go of it all, and receive everything. Relax your wrists, forearms, elbows, upper arms. Let the muscles melt away from the bones. Let the bones rest in the soft tissue of the relaxed muscles. Relax your shoulders. Allow the shoulder blades to drop into the floor. Release and soften all neck and throat muscles, allowing them to relax. Relax your face, the mask of your personality. Release your jaw. Relax your tongue. Allow your tongue to float inside your mouth. Lips, cheeks, let go. Nose, eyes, inside the nose, and behind the eyes, let go. Let go. Let go. Eyelids, eyebrows, forehead, relax. Release all tension between the eyebrows. Allow the forehead to broaden. Relax the scalp and the back of the head. Let your hair grow. The more you can melt heavily into the floor, into the earth, the lighter you will begin to feel. Allow yourself to feel light. "Go now, deep inside. Relax the internal organs, the organs of elimination. Relax the organs of sexuality. Relax the organs of digestion. Relax the organs of blood circulation. Relax the organs of respiration. Release the sense of feeling and of thinking. Allow the frontal part of your brain to slip back into the skull. Let go. Let go. "Your whole body now, inside and outside, is relaxing deeply. Great healing and rebalancing is taking place now. Don't interfere. Allow a complete letting go into inner wisdom, and peace. Let your body relax, and take your consciousness to the site of your spiritual heart, the lotus of the heart at the center of your chest. Enter into this lotus. Feel yourself inside the lotus of the heart, which is the source of all creative things. The source of love itself; unconditional, boundless, limitless joy - bliss, ananda. Feel the petals of the lotus surrounding you with their soft fragrance. Allow yourself to become this lotus of the heart, to become the source of all creative things, to become love itself; beyond name and form, beyond pleasure and pain, beyond night, and beyond day. Become boundless, limitless joy. Fall into love itself. This is who you are. Become who you are. Relax all resistance to who you are. Relax all resistance to boundless, limitless joy. You ... you ... you are love itself, happiness itself. Shantih, shantih, shantih. - Sharon Gannon, December 2008

(For further reference: Fundamentals of Yoga, by Shri Brahmananda Sarasvati, and The Jivamukti Relaxation and Meditation CD.)

Doug Swenson's Workshop a huge success!

2008-11-24T22:36:00.003-06:00

The Doug Swenson Workshop was a very educational and a fun experience for all who attended. Everyone seemed to enjoy Doug's easy going and approachable attitude.

As you can see there were many smiles throughout the weekend. Thank you to those of you who supported the workshop. There will be many more pictures to come.

Thanksgiving Week Schedule

2008-11-24T21:48:00.003-06:00

As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them. --John Fitzgerald Kennedy

All of us at The Yoga Studio of Corpus Christi wish you and your loved ones a very happy holiday! Here is the Schedule for the week of November 24th-November 29th, 2009.
Monday 11/24 Normal Class Schedule
Tuesday 11/25th Normal Class Schedule
Wednesday 11/26th One class 9a.m.- 10:30 Hatha Flow with Elizabeth Hofman
Thursday 11/27th Closed in observance of Thanksgiving. Enjoy your Tofu Turkey!!
Friday 11/28th One class, Restorative Yoga with Michelle at 12:00. Come in and find some relaxing and peaceful moments stepping away from the hectic holiday schedule. Enjoy a few hours of 50% off any and all clothing merchandise (includes re-sale items!). Studio open 11-2 only.
Saturday 11/29th Classes resume as normal. One level 2-3 Hatha Flow class with Armando 9:30-11:00.

Let's Go To India!!

2008-11-11T16:22:00.003-06:00

Pilgrimage to the Origins of the Gange

Presentation

For the Hindu, a pilgrimage to the Himalayan mountain town Gangotri and the origins of the Gange represents a meeting with the Mother Goddess, there where all things began. In the Indian tradition, the Gange is seen as having a feminine, maternal nature and believed to be the sacred river of Paradise capable of purifying one of sins. According to the millennial vision of Yoga, the Gange also flows symbolically together with two other rivers, the Jamuna and the Saraswati, inside of the human body by way of an intricate system of invisible canals called Nadi that carry Prana, “life force” or “cosmic energy”, throughout the body. For the passionate of India and it’s philosophies, the Himalaya and the origins of the Gange make up part of that magical, almost dreamlike, world that surrounds the life and teachings of numerous Indian masters and that has been reinforced over the decades by literature half imaginative half truthful.

From Hell to Paradise and back
One who departs in the late Spring with Gangotri as their destination, leaves behind the suffocating heat of the Indian flatlands where the Monsoon rains are anxiously awaited. On the way, one usually stops at the densely populated mountain village of Uttarkashi. As the overcrowded and swaying buses struggle along the steep climb and around endless turnabouts towards Gangotri, the pilgrims aboard repeatedly sing devotional chants, off-key and in a sort of collective delirium, with increasing volume as they get closer and closer to Gangotri. Upon arriving, one hears a persistent roar that vibrates in the fresh crisp mountain air and notices how even the forest trees seem to bow towards the foaming and rumbling Garurikund waterfall that drops off into the depths of the Himalaya valley.

Somewhere between Nature and mythology
At dawn, pilgrims and hiking enthusiasts alike begin along the easy, wide mountain trail that hugs the Bhaagirathi Torrent, the principal source of the Gange that was named after a wise man who is believed to have once meditated, prayed and lived in poverty along it’s shores for thousands of years so as to redeem his ancestors who had been incinerated by the glare of ascetic divinity Kapil. Legend has it that the god Brahma, struck by the perseverance of Bhaagirathi, thereby consented that the purifying waters of the Gange descend upon the Earth and cleanse the souls of the sage and his ancestors. The legend goes on to say that, in order to avoid that the world be destroyed by the destructive force of the powerful billows of the Gange, the god Shiva dammed them with his thick head of hair thus reducing their deletory power. Eighteen kilometers of trail, at times level and at others slightly climbing, penetrate a narrow, suggestive valley offering many an occasion of crossing characteristic and sometimes even extraordinary personages; those devoted to the divinity Shiva, distinguished by the three white lines painted on their foreheads, while those inspired by the divinity Vishnu with a sort of “U” or “V” drawn just above their nose.

The “Gange Maa” Cult
Chirabasa is the ideal location where to catch one’s breath. Proceeding along the trail, after many hours of hiking, the grayish glacier Gangotri suddenly appears, almost as if a mirage. Inside of a kind of ice-cave called Gaumukh, or “Cow’s Mouth”, the dark capricious waters of the Gange Ma, the “Mother Gange”, are born. At a higher altitude, another trail snakes over the glacier’s moraine leading to Tapovan, a small plain at the base of the pointed mountain Shivling that pops out of the ethereal mist that continually surrounds Gangotri. The sacred mountain of Shivling is worshipped by the Hindu who consider it a phallic symbol representing Shiva. In India, the god Shiva is adored both in it’s anthromorpomorphic aspect as in the form of linga, a stone carved into a phallic symbol and placed on a circular base thereby graphically reproducing the symbolic union between the male and female genital organs.

(Article written by Andrea Alborno and published by the Yoga Journal; translated in English by Kathleen DerDerian)
Pilgrimage to the Origins of the Gange

Itinerary

Departure from Italy is scheduled for Monday, the 25th of May, 2008 with return on the 7th of June. Roundtrip airfare was deliberately excluded from the trip cost in order to enable participants to lengthen their stay in Indian if desired. For who plans on traveling independently to India, the meeting is planned in Delhi on May 27th. It is possible to request that Hari-Om take care of the flight arrangements upon payment of the communicated cost. Since ticket prices tend to increase the closer one books to the departure date, we advise the interested participants to book their flights as soon as possible.

The trip itinerary is as follows:

Day 1: Departure from Italy.

Day 2: Arrival in Delhi. Visit to the Hare Krishna temple. Overnight stay in Delhi.*

Day 3: Bus transfer from Delhi to Rishikesh. Evening and overnight stay in Rishikesh.*

Day 4: Visits to the temples and Ashram of Rishikesh. Overnight stay in Rishikesh.*

Day 5: Bus transfer from Rishikesh to Utterkashi. Day in Uttekashi with visit to the famous temple Vishwanath. Overnight stay in Uttrekashi.

Day 6: Bus trasfer from Utterkashi to Gangotri. Visit to the Gangotri Temple with evening prayer
dedicated to the Goddess Ganga. Overnight stay at Gangotri.

Day 7: After breakfast, visit to the Gangotri Temple. Hike from Gangotri along the Bhagirathi
River to Bhojwasa (4-5 hours). Reservation at Guest House. Afternoon free to explore the
area and to enjoy a suggestive sunset among the Himalayan mountain tops.

Day 8: Hike towards Gomukh and the origins of the Gange (3-4 hours). Return to Bhojwasa in the
evening.

Day 9: Hike to Tapowan and the origins of the Gange (2-3 hours). Return to Bhojwasa in the
evening.

Day 10: Hike from Bhojwasa to Gangotri (2-3 hours). Bus transfer to Utterkashi. Overnight stay.

Day 11: After breakfast, bus transfer to Haridwar. Participation in devotional rituals on the shore
the Gange. Overnight stay in Haridwar.

Day 12: Bus transfer to Delhi. Visit of the Delhi markets. Dinner and overnight stay in Delhi.

Day 13: Return to Italy/USA

THE ITINERARY MAY BE MODIFIED AS THE RESULT OF
UNFAVORABLE WEATHER CONDITIONS OR OTHER UNFORSEEN FACTORS.

Pilgrimage to the Origins of the Gange

Trip Cost
The total trip cost comes to $780 and includes the following:
> Tour guide;
> All noted bus transfers in rented tourist coaches (not on public transportation);
> Hotel accommodation, with breakfast included, in double rooms except for the nights in Bhojwasa where only dormitory accomodation is available.**

**Considering that the trip takes place during the Pilgrimage season, interested participants should keep in mind the available sleeping accommodations will be modest.

Additional expenses that are excluded from the total trip cost:
> Overnight accommodations on the days starred with an asterisk (*);
> Roundtrip airfare to and from India.***

***Roundtrip airfare from Italy usually costs around 700 euros. Hari-Om is willing to make flight reservations upon request.
***Roundtrip airfare from USA usually costs about $1,800.00 US dollars. Yoga Studio of Corpus Christi is willing to make flight arrangements upon request and payment.

********Payment of $780.oo U.S. Dollars must be made to The Yoga Studio of Corpus Christi before February 28th, 2009******************* This is non-refundable and you are responsible for your own flight and flight arrangements. Be sure you arrive in New Delhi by very early morning on May 27th in order to be on the tour bus with the group. (I had to change my flight once because I booked the arrival time too late about 11 a.m. This is why I am getting there a day ahead and it will afford me a chance to rest before our journey). Just a little F.Y.I.

TRIP GUIDES
Marco Mandrino was born and raised in northern Italy where he runs his own yoga insitute “Hari-Om” located in Alessandria in the state of Piemonte. Yoga “Master” and trained in Ayurveda and aroma-therapy, Marco is the principal instructor of numerous teacher-training courses of Tantra Yoga; is a regular contributor of articles for various Yoga magazines; has published his own works on Yoga; and attempts to encourage personal growth in others by way of his yoga seminars and retreats organized in Italy, the United States and Australia. Marco’s personal sadhana includes pilgrimages to sacred sights belonging to different spiritual traditions throughout the world. Marco has his point of reference in the Tantric tradition and thereby promotes an integral approach to Yoga combining Hatha, Bhakti and Jnana Yoga in his practice and teaching during his retreats and travels.

Michelle Acebo has been practicing yoga since 2001. She has completed two R.Y.T. 200 courses and a Jivamukti Yoga Teacher Training @ 300 hours. Michelle has had the honor to study with numerous yoga masters of various traditions. She has studied, Ashtanga, Iyengar, Power Vinyasa, Vinyasa Krama, Anusara and was certified in Jivamukti Yoga with it's creators Sharon Gannon and David Life. She has served as a personal assistant to Sharon Gannon and David Life at the 2008 Southwest Yoga Conference in Austin, Texas. Michelle is one of only two teachers in Texas to be Jivamukti Yoga Certified. Michelle opened The Yoga Studio of Corpus Christi in January of 2005. This was the first and largest yoga studio and boutique in South Texas. The studio has evolved to "the yoga hub" of South Texas which is dedicated to education, improving the understanding of what yoga is and making sure that yoga is available for all to study.

Here are Michelle's travel arrangements from the U.S. I suggest you book your flight as early as possible. This is a peak travel time for tourist and the flights will more than likely get very expensive. I used expedia.com to book this. Total for flight with insurance was $1593.40. This was the best price available. As you can see, I have to change planes often but it saved me a lot of money!

Traveling to Delhi
Sun 24-May-09
Corpus Christi (CRP)Depart 2:50 pm
to
Dallas (DFW)Arrive 4:10 pm
355 mi(571 km)Duration: 1hr 20mn
AA Flight: 3702 Operated by: AMERICAN EAGLE
3Economy/Coach Class

Dallas (DFW)Depart 5:30 pm
to
London (LHR)Arrive 8:35 am
"Flight arrives on Mon 25-May"
"The arrival date for this flight is one day after the departure date."

+1 day
4,747 mi(7,640 km)Duration: 9hr 5mn
BA Flight: 192
3Economy/Coach Class Boeing 777
Mon 25-May-09
London (LHR)Depart 9:55 am
to
Delhi (DEL)Arrive 11:00 pm
4,169 mi(6,709 km)Duration: 8hr 35mn
BA Flight: 143
3Economy/Coach Class Boeing 777
Total distance: 9,271 mi (14,920 km)
Total duration: 19hr 0mn (21hr 40mn with connections)

Traveling to Chicago
Sun 7-Jun-09
Delhi (DEL)Depart 8:15 am
to
London (LHR)Arrive 1:10 pm
4,169 mi(6,709 km)Duration: 9hr 25mn
BA Flight: 256
3Economy/Coach Class Boeing 777
London (LHR)Depart 3:35 pm
to
Chicago (ORD)Arrive 6:05 pm
3,953 mi(6,362 km)Duration: 8hr 30mn
BA Flight: 297
3Economy/Coach Class Boeing 777
Total distance: 8,122 mi (13,071 km)
Total duration: 17hr 55mn (20hr 20mn with connections)
Mon 8-Jun-09
Chicago (ORD)Depart 6:00 am
to
Dallas (DFW)Arrive 8:20 am
799 mi(1,286 km)Duration: 2hr 20mn
AA Flight: 2301

Dallas (DFW)Depart 9:05 am
to
Corpus Christi (CRP)Arrive 10:20 am
355 mi(571 km)Duration: 1hr 15mn
AA Flight: 3565 Operated by: AMERICAN EAGLE

Jivamukti Yoga~Focus of The Month~November 2008

2008-10-29T11:16:00.011-05:00

Compassion, Diet, Strength and Happiness

Compassion is an essential ingredient in the practice of ahimsa (non-harming), the first of the five yamas (ethical restraints) in Patanjali's Yoga Sutras. Through compassion, you begin to see yourself in other beings. This helps you refrain from causing harm to them. But developing compassion does something else that is of special interest to the yogi: It trains the mind to see past outer differences of form. The yogi begins to catch glimpses of the inner essence of other beings, which is happiness, and begins to see that every single creature desires happiness.
To develop compassion, examine the motives for your actions. Are they selfish or unselfish? Proclaiming that it is acceptable to eat meat because it makes you healthier, for example, is a himsic, or "harmful," attitude because the action of eating meat stems from a selfish motive - your concern for your own personal health or enjoyment. When you realize that cows and chickens want happiness just as you do, you see them as kindred souls: the distinction between you and other beings wears thin as awareness begins to dawn.
In truth, we all share consciousness, and harm inflicted upon one being, be it animal or human, is felt by all sooner or later. Some meat eaters like to argue that vegetables have feelings too, so what difference does it make if we eat chickens or carrots? The answer is simple: Patanjali gives ahimsa as a practice, meaning that you do your best to cause the least amount of harm. And it is clear that a vegetarian diet causes the least amount of harm to the planet and to all creatures.
Generally speaking, the "disease of disconnection" plagues the human condition. As a species, we are not at ease with ourselves - with our bodies, with our minds or with our feelings. We are not at ease with others - with other human beings as well as other animals. We can be nervous, competitive, fearful and worried; we crave respect and approval while simultaneously seeking dominance and power. We certainly aren't at ease with our environment, and are constantly altering it to suit our needs or wants with little regard for how our actions impact others or the earth. This dis-ease causes all sorts of problems. We are destroying ourselves, as well as other animal species and the planet, in a misguided quest to find happiness, or ease of being.
By enslaving and abusing other animals in order to feed and clothe ourselves, we deprive them of freedom and happiness. How can we hope to be free or happy when our own lives are rooted in depriving others of the very thing we say we value most in life - the freedom to pursue happiness? If you want to bring more peace and happiness into your own life, stop subjecting others to violence and unhappiness. We tell our children that "might does not make right," and yet we throw this high-minded idea out the window when it comes to the everyday reality of using might to humiliate, torture and kill the animals we raise for food.
Maitri-adishu balani PYS III.24:Through compassion, strength comes.
This sutra expresses a radical concept because it challenges the message of our enculturation, which is that strength comes from weakening another. The fork can be a powerful weapon of mass destruction or a tool to lead a movement of peaceful co-existence. Eating a compassionate, vegetarian diet will stop war and create peace in one's body, peace with animal nations and peace on earth.
Besides, it is very radical to be a vegetarian during these times! As Ingrid Newkirk, founder of People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), reminds us: "Never be afraid of seeming radical. All the best people in history have always been radical." The word radical, like the word radish, derives from rad, meaning "root." A radical is someone who attempts to dig to the root of a situation. Yogis have always been radical. Yogis search for root causes because they understand that effective change can occur only if you change a course of action from the causal point. Failure to understand this is why so many "liberating" revolutions of the past never elicited long-lasting, positive change. They dealt only with surface symptoms, not the root causes of social and cultural problems.
Yoga means "liberation." Slavery is contrary to liberation. We can never become free by taking away the freedom of others. Through the practice of yoga, we begin to recognize ourselves as not separate from the whole, and we realize that what we do to others, we ultimately do to ourselves.
Yoga is said to be the perfection of action by the removal of selfish motivation. The yogi uses the world we live in, and the way we interact with the world, as a vehicle for transformation. A vegan diet offers an informed, intelligent, conscious and yogic way to act perfectly each time we make a choice about how we consume the world, rather than focusing on how to consume the world.
As we become more Self-confident, we become less fearful. We become less self-absorbed, and our ability to feel life all around allows us to hear what life is trying to communicate to us through nature. Through the animals and trees, water and air, the message is simple yet profound: All of life is interconnected. What we do to others affects us all. When we begin to feel this, we can free ourselves from the false idea that the earth belongs to us, and instead use our lives to benefit others. In turn, we will become happy as we discover that the best way to uplift our own lives is to do all we can to uplift the lives of others.

- Adapted from Yoga and Vegetarianism, by Sharon Gannon, November 2008

Chakra and Tantra Yoga Workshop with Marco Mandrino, E-R.Y.T. 500

2008-10-15T13:58:00.006-05:00

February 28-March 1, 2009

The Yoga Studio of Corpus Christi proudly announces a Chakra and Tantra Yoga Workshop with Marco Mandrino! Many of you have expressed interest in this subject so Marco has taken the time to come back to Corpus Christi from Italy.

ABOUT THE WORKSHOP:
This is a rare opportunity to be introduced to an in-depth Tantric perspective of the seven chakras in a format both theoretical and experiential. The two day workshop begins with an explanation of the concept of Sukshma Sharira (energetic subtle body), followed by an exploration of each chakra's meaning, position, element, symbolism (number of lotus petals, animal and Divine qualities), sense and action organ, imbalance diagnostics, rajasic, tamasic and sattvic aspects and practice suggestions to re balance and purify chakra energy. Participants will also learn a Kundalini Shakti awakening techniques.

Both Days will start with a component consisting of about 3 hours of Asana, pranyama and Dharana (concentration) techniques specific to each chakra. The practice is followed by theoretical component complemented by Kriya Yoga, Mantras or pranyama practice.

ABOUT MARCO MANDRINO:
Marco is registered as E-R.Y.T. 500, Experienced Yoga Teacher above 500 hours by Yoga Alliance. He studied and practiced different kinds of Yoga both in Tantric Tradition and others. He leads Yoga Teacher Training Programs, workshops and retreats for the development of the potential within and for personal growth through Yoga in Italy, Australia, India and The United States. Marco is also an Ayurvedic practitioner, classic and Ayurvedic Aromatherapy expert. He is author of several publications and collaborator of different Italian Yoga Magazines (similar to our Yoga Journal here). Through workshops and retreats he teaches an integral way to Yoga in Tantric Tradition with a consistent Hatha Yoga practice with Asana, Pranyama, Dharana (concentration), Dhyana (meditation). He is a strong supporter of Ayurveda to purify and cleanse the body. He gives practical advice that allows you to bring Yoga into your daily life routine through Karma Yoga teaching, Jnana Yoga approach in the Advatita Vedanta Philosophy which will allow you to burn out the veils of ignorance, Bhakti Yoga practices to bring love, joy and light into the present moment.

Yoginos Classes for kids starts November 2008

2008-10-13T22:12:00.004-05:00

Yogiños classes will engage and connect your minds, hearts and bodies as you become animals, plants, birds, reptiles, bugs, yogis, yoginis and so much more. Yoga helps participants of all ages with stretching, strengthening, integrating senses, focusing, digesting, breathing, relaxing and sleeping. Classes for younger yogis includes literacy games while classes for older youth address self-esteem, focus, as well as stretching and strengthening for sports such as baseball, volleyball, tennis, swimming and more.Classes contain many of the following aspects: yoga and kids' music, singing, basic Pranayama, theme classes, Spanish, Asanas, story telling, games, focusing and visualization activities, relaxation techniques, meditation, and lots of laughing and fun. Come prepared to play and be present! Help you and your child grow into your unlimited power through the gifts of yoga!

Yogiños classes are facilitated by Elizabeth Reese, Ph.D. Reese is a teacher with over 20 years of experiences leading learners of all ages in creative problem solving, self-reflection and empowerment through skiing, windsurfing, arts education, and art museum activities. She is the author of several articles and book chapters as well as co-author of the book, Experience Art: Teaching and Learning through Works of Art. She has practiced yoga for over 10 years including Hatha, Ashtanga, Anusara, power yoga, and most recently Jivamukti. Reese is working towards certifications through Aerobics and Fitness Association of America and RYT 200 in Anusara. She is the mother of 3 yogiños under the age of 10.

The schedule will be as follows:

Tues., 10:45-11:10, ages 18m-3 years

Tues., 11:20-11:50, ages 3-5 years

Thurs, 2:45-3:15 ages 4-6 years

Thursdays 3:30-4:15 ages 7-12

This is the perfect way to compliment your pre/post Natal classes and The Mommy and Baby Classes. Now, we have your entire family covered! Join us. The best way to keep these wonderful classes coming your way is by attending them.

Join us in India!

2008-10-08T09:29:00.003-05:00

The Yoga Studio of Corpus Christi is busy planning a trip to India!

Dates for the trip will be 5/26/2009 thru 6/6/2009. I am currently looking into transportation options. Once the transportation is arranged I will have a basic idea of the cost. We will be meeting up with my Mentor/friend Marco Mandrino and his students from Italy. Marco travels to India often and is very familiar with the areas we will be visiting. This will be the perfect trip for someones first time in India. You can find out more about Marco by visiting www.hari-om.it

"About India . There will be 6 nights in hotels with bed and breakfast(5 nights in twin rooms and 1 on dormitory) plus all the transport on personal excursion bus plus organisation and escort service. There will be around 6 more nights to pay as the trip will be of 12 days and all lunch and dinner and the flight. From Italy the cost is around 700 euro (950$).
Just some important advise. Gomukh and Gangotri are really high mountain ( Himalayas ) so people who come must to be in a good health condition. Second and maybe most important the accommodation in India in general but up there in particular are really basic, never really clean and you have always many people around. So people who want to come must to be ready for sure for an amazing, deep and mystic experience but also for a not easy condition and environment. In this you must to be really have a clear understanding. To have an idea about the place you can give a look on Internet using as keywords “Gangotri”."

I hope this answers some of your questions for now. Marco will be back in Corpus Christi the last weekend in February for a workshop. It will be a two day workshop on opening the chakras. Each day is about 8 hours with 30 min for lunch and maybe small little breaks in between. He is awesome. It would be a great time to meet him and have an idea of what things will be like for us in India. Let me know if you want more details as they come. Please contact me via comments on the blog or at our e-mail address yogastudioofcc@yahoo.com .

Infant Massage Workshop

2008-10-06T15:46:00.009-05:00

Thank you to all the parents and parents to be who joined us for the Infant Massage Workshop. Stacy Wooster, R.M.T. and RYT 200 did a fabulous job of presenting us with information on the benefits of infant massage, the studies on infant massage therapy, the homeopathic uses, and the techniques used for infant massaging.

Please watch the live TV interview and please leave comments http://www.kiiitv.com/news/local/30463659.html

The concepts of infant massage will be integrated into our Mommy and Me classes starting October 21st with Jennie Woelpern, RYT 200 Tuesdays October 21st.

Here are some pictures for all to enjoy!

Baby Massage Workshop October 5th

2008-09-29T21:03:00.002-05:00

Baby Massage Workshop, Sunday October 5 from 2-3:15pm. Stacy Wooster, R.M.T. and R.Y.T, 200 will be holding this Baby Massage Workshop at the Yoga Studio of Corpus Christi. This will tie into our Baby and Momma yoga classes that Jennie Woelpern, R.Y.T. 200 and Pre and Post Natal Certified Instructor will be teaching starting October 21st, 2008.
Space is limited for the workshop. Only two more spaces available as of September 29th.

Due to popular request there will be another Baby Massage Workshop scheduled November 15th, 2008. Contact Maria at The Yoga Studio of Corpus Christi to register early!

Be sure to schedule your massage with Stacy for this weekend, October 5-6th, 2008. There are only two more spaces for these as well. As a special treat Stacy will be teaching our Friday Restorative Yoga class with some Yoga Nidra. It would be silly to miss this experience. Be sure to register early (either by phone or on line). This class is on a first come, first serve basis. Your pre-registration saves your spot!

Jivamukti Yoga ~ Focus of The Month~ October '08

2008-09-29T20:42:00.005-05:00

Halloween and All Saints' Day
During the equinoxes, the fabric of space and time becomes thinner and the atmosphere becomes more porous. And, of course, Halloween (also known as All Hallows' Eve) and All Saints' Day occur at the time of the time of the fall equinox, when the boundaries between dimensions are more transparent and disembodied spirits can move more freely between the world of gross and subtle forms. We know that many disembodied souls exist in other dimensions only looking for an opportunity to find a body to possess.
It is a great privilege to have a body because it is easier to work out karma when you have one. With only an astral, or etheric, body, it is much more difficult to resolve your karmas. All disembodied spirits know that life in a physical body is precious, something to value, unlike some of us who take our lives for granted, neglecting or not appreciating the body. In some traditions, these disembodied souls are referred to as "hungry ghosts." They are hungry for a body and want the experience of life, which offers the means to resolve their karmas, so they can be at peace.
On All Hallows' Eve, these hungry ghosts can be seen in the world of the living, as they are able, on that night, to pierce through the boundaries that normally separate the dimensions. They can make mischief as only hungry spirits looking for bodies to possess can. They want to feel what living beings feel, and they can be demanding about it, saying, "I want this, I need this, give me this."
In the past, people anticipated the arrival of these ravenous ghosts by preparing food offerings for them. They wanted the food to be so delectable that the ghosts would be completely sated and forget about trying to possess their bodies, so they made sure their offerings were very tasty, that they would be a treat for the spirits. This tradition is still practiced in many parts of the world. In India and Ireland, for instance, people leave food on their doorsteps for spirits at certain times of the year. In India and parts of Indonesia, people also hang scary, demon-faced masks above their front doors to scare away unwanted guests. It is best to choose a mask that is scarier than the demons, so that it scares them away and they leave you alone.
When you know the origin of this particular holiday (holy-day), you can see how it evolved into what it is today. For example, when delectable offerings were left on the doorstep of every home in every village, some people who might have been hungrier than they were afraid ventured out to steal their neighbor's food. To ensure that they weren't caught or recognized, they might have thrown a cloak over themselves or masqueraded as a demon or ghost. If someone happened to hear a noise and peered out a window, that person would think he or she had seen a hungry ghost taking the delicious food that had been left for just that purpose.
Nowadays, the tradition on Halloween night has become one of going out dressed in costume rather than staying home and praying to the saints for protection. There are basically two camps of masquerade: the demons and the saints. You see lots of vampires, ghosts and headless corpses, as well as fairies, nuns and winged superheroes. Millions of kids dress up and go door-to-door asking for candy, or treats.
In the old days, no sane individual would have gone outside on that night. People would probably have spent all of Halloween night locked up inside their houses praying to the saints, gods and goddesses, or their ancestors to protect them from possession by hungry spirits. If someone survived the night of being harassed by the hungry ghosts, and in the morning still retained the familiar form of his or her own body, it was because he or she had had the protection and help of holy beings-saints, angels and ancestors. That person would then spend the whole rest of this next day in gratitude, thanking those saints for protection the night before. This is why the day after All Hallows' Eve is set aside for remembrance of the saints and is called All Saints' Day.-Sharon Gannon, October 2008

Jennie's Back!

2008-09-29T19:42:00.003-05:00

Jennie will be back teaching Gentle/Pre-natal Yoga on Monday's 1:30-2:45. We will also introduce our new Mommy and baby class Tuesdays 1:30-2:30. We will be watching the attendance of this new class because we would love to have it on Thursdays too (same time, same place)!

2008-09-15T16:35:00.003-05:00

The Yoga Studio of Corpus Christi would like to thank everyone for their support. Over the past 3 1/2 years we have developed a family feel in the studio and are always excited about welcoming new faces to the studio (as practitioners and teachers). It is very exciting to be able to share yoga with someone and to watch them go through the process of self discovery. This is the reason the studio exists. With our library, workshops, teacher training, and availability to talk with your teachers on a personal level we are promoting your personal growth. My friend Pamela Walsh from my Teacher Training at Yoga Yoga and Immersion with Christina Sell had such a beautiful blog the other day which summed up the studio's intent perfectly. I would like to share it with you and you should take a look at her site (http://potentialwithin.wordpress.com/). My past training experiences have been amazing and I have met the most wonderful people. I am grateful for yoga and believe yoga has changed us all and for the better. Here is that quote:

“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, “Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous?” Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won’t feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It’s not just in some of us; it’s in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.”

by Marianne Williamson from A Return To Love: Reflections on the Principles of A Course in Miracles

May many miracles come your way. Don't be afraid to go out and let your light shine. While you are at it help someone else discover theirs. Serve the greater good!

Much Love To You All!
Michelle

Pre-Natal massages at the studio for a limited time

2008-09-07T17:38:00.005-05:00

Stacy Wooster, R.M.T. and R.Y.T. 200 will be in town September 7-September 11th. She specializes in Pre and Post-Natal yoga and Pre-natal massages. We will be offering pre and post natal, Swedish, Deep tissue and myofascial release massages on an appointment only basis. Massages will run $65/hour or $90 one and one half hours. You are guaranteed to feel fabulous. Don't miss this amazing opportunity to experience one of Austin's finest!

Be sure to sign up for the infant massage workshop soon. Space is limited and this is a popular workshop. Also, look for information on the Yoga Nidra class soon. Stacy will be teaching these as well.

Welcome Abigail! Our newest member of the Studio Family

2008-09-07T17:24:00.006-05:00

Jennie and Ryan announce Abigail's arrival.

Abigail Rose has arrived...
Our beautiful Abigail Rose arrived September 5th, 6:44am 6lbs. 11oz, 19" long and most important in perfect health. She gave her mom a quick labor & delivery, even though it was quick still not easy, but I did it all natural. I feel it is the number one accomplishment in my life that I have ever done!! It is hard to describe in words how it feels to give birth, it is very powerful and amazing! I still can't believe I did it!!So here is my birth story:I went to bed at 9:30pm on Thursday 4th, woke up at 10:30pm with bad hip pain and light crampy back pain. I thought oh great another night of no sleep, but then I realized that I was contracting pretty regular, so I started to time them and they were about 10 minutes apart. Still not convinced I was in labor I called Stacy (my good friend in Austin, who is also my doula) and she said sure does sound like it, I am leaving now. She lives in Austin so she had about a 3 1/2 hour trip to make. Now it is about 11:30pm. Then I had to call Ryan, because he was away at a hotel for work. He didn't first believe me. After convincing him this is the real deal, he called work and they released him to be sent home, but he was still about 3 hours away. The contractions were coming quicker and I was having lots of back pain, at this time it is about 12:30am. I called my friend Tiffany to come over and sit with me until Ryan and Stacy got her, I didn't want to be alone at home. When she got to my house a little while later, my contractions were then about 4-5 minutes apart and very regular and I was feeling the pain. I was so worried that Ryan and Stacy were not going to make it in time before I had to go the hospital, it was getting to the point that I was going to ask Tiffany to take me, but I kept waiting it out, and using yoga breathing and poses to get through the contractions. Finally Ryan arrives about 3:30am, and I said we need to go now, but he was like no I think we should wait and make sure, I was like I am sure! So he went and got his stop watch and my contractions were 3 minutes apart, so he said yes we better go. Stacy was still in route at this time. So we left for the hospital, got checked in at 4:10am, Stacy arrived just as I was getting in the labor room. Nurse Mary (she was the best nurse, well actually all the nurses were very wonderful while we were there) checked me and I was 8cm dilated, I said thank God! So then I knew it shouldn't be too long and thought at this time I think I will be able to do this. I really got in a zone, I just kept a gaze or shutting my eyes and meditating, relax, relax, relax. I had one hand in Ryan's and one in Stacy's hand. Ryan was keeping a cold wet rag on my head and telling me to relax, and Stacy was doing the breathing and it helped me concentrate on my breathing, she also used some oils/herbs for relaxation and energy. I really didn't even notice the nurses or the doctor in the room. About an hour of being there it was time to push and I was so thankful! When I started the pushing process, I was in a zone, didn't even know what was going on around me. I just focused on my breathing and mediating internally. Ryan and Stacy did a wonderful job doing the counting. Too me it was like a game/a goal. So about an hour after pushing, Abigail arrived. I was very lucky and didn't tear or need an episiotomy. I know it was the yoga that got me through the labor and delivery and also my wonderful husband and friend Stacy. I did though break a blood vessel in vagina and am also sore and bruised, but that is to be expected. So like I said even though it was a fast labor & delivery, I wouldn't call it easy. But it is all well worth it to finally have our wonderful perfect daughter in the world. She is the most amazing thing on earth to me. I can't believe the feelings I have for her. I can see in Ryan's eyes too, that he feels the same way for Abigail too.So now we are home, we were released Saturday afternoon. Since we have been home, I have finally been able to get a few hours of sleep, but no complaints at all. Ryan has been super dad and super husband!! He has so far changed all her diapers, burbs her and gets her to me for her feedings. Since right now it is a little hard for me to get around, but I should be back on my feet in know time at all.Our first night home went very well, Molly is like mother hen watching Abigail. She has this look in her face that she wants to help. Junior hasn't adjusted yet, he is distant, but hopefully he will come around. Our first morning home, well up early, but when you have a new baby, you really don't operate on a normal schedule/time. We gave Abigail her first bath, Ryan has done two loads of laundry and already been to the grocery store in back. So now we have the day to enjoy our family time together.Posted are a couple pictures taken right after she was born, we have tons of cute pictures of her, but right now being a new mommy, all my priorities, responsibilities, worries, and concerns have changed and all focus in on Abigail; Ryan and I's number one and most important person. As I have more time, I will get more pictures for you all to see and enjoy.Also I want to say thank you to everyone that has helped us, been here for support, and giving us gifts. You area all very important and very dear to me!!
Posted by A Journey For Life at 6:49 AM 1 comments
Saturday, September 6, 2008

Be sure to look for more information at http://ajourney4life.blogspot.com/

Much Love and Happiness to the Woelpern family.

2008-08-29T20:29:00.004-05:00

Free Yoga Classes, Sept. 1st (Labor Day)

2008-08-29T20:23:00.002-05:00

In honor of Yoga Month http://www.yogamonth.org/The Corpus Christi Yoga Studio http://yogastudioofcc.blogspot.com/will be offering FREE yoga classes on Monday, September 1st. Gentle Yoga will be offered at 12:00pm with Michelle and Hatha Yoga with Renee will be offered at 6:30pm. So please spread the news and come support Yoga Month.

If you should have any questions, please free to contact Michelle Acebo at Yoga Studio of Corpus Christi 513 Clifford StreetCorpus Christi, TX 78404Phone: 361-883-1052 or email us at:
yogastudioofcc@yahoo.com

Jivamukti Yoga ~ Focus of The Month~ September '08

2008-08-28T17:29:00.002-05:00

Nadi Shodhana

Nadi shodhana pranayama is a hatha yoga practice that purifies the nadis (energy channels in the subtle body) through alternate-nostril breathing. Shodhana means "to purify." The practice balances the flow of vital energy, or prana, through the ida (the left, or moon) and pingala (the right, or sun) nadis, as well as the flow of breath through the right and left nostrils.

This pranayama practice begins and ends by breathing through the left nostril. Some pranayama practices can create heat in the body, but concluding the practice by exhaling through the left nostril neutralizes any excess heat that may have accumulated. We can also investigate this practice on another level by taking a deeper look at why one should begin and end nadi shodhana with the left nostril. In pranayama practices, the left nostril provides access to the ida nadi, the right to the pingala. One purpose of nadi shodhana is to restore balance to the flow of prana through these nadis. Once balance is restored, the practitioner may have the means to practice hatha yoga, which focuses on resolving one's past karmas with others as well as one's own perception of his or her ego-bound self.

The aim of all yoga practice is enlightenment. What is realized in the enlightened state is the Oneness of being. The biggest obstacle to that realization lies in misperception of oneself and others. So the practices must address this misperception of self and others if they are to aid in giving rise to enlightenment.

One of the primary aims of hatha yoga practices is to facilitate the movement of prana into the sushumna nadi (the central energy channel in the subtle body), which would cause consciousness, or kundalini, to rise, ascend, expand or evolve toward the realization of the Oneness of being. In order to do this, balance must first be brought to the ida and pingala nadis.
Everything we do creates karmas. The body we have now is made up of all of our past unresolved karmas. The Sanskrit word karma is derived from the root kr, which means "to act." Karma means "action." An action can be a thought, a word or a physical function (like breathing).
Through avidya, "mis-knowing," we mistakenly view others not as who they really are, and we also mistakenly perceive ourselves as separate and disconnected from others. Avidya is really a case of mistaken identity. We can be unkind to someone only when we are deluded through avidya and perceive him or her as not part of ourselves. When we are unkind to others, energy that could be moving into the sushumna nadi, and bringing about enlightenment, is instead drawn into the pingala nadi, or sun (surya) channel. When we are unkind to ourselves, energy is drawn away from the sushumna, away from enlightenment, and into the ida, or moon (chandra) channel. Nadi shodhana resolves this energy imbalance. How we treat others determines how others treat us; how others treat us determines how we see ourselves; how we see ourselves determines who we are.

Nadi shodhana, a practice of balancing the sun and moon, is a metaphoric way of describing the transformation of our perception of self and other. Through yoga practices, we discover who we are. So we begin our pranayama practice with who we think we are, by inhaling through the left nostril, and we conclude by exhaling through the left, where we began, but hopefully with the perception of ourselves somewhat transformed. Through abhyasa and vairagya (consistent and detached practice), we begin to melt away the avidya that keeps us separate from others, from nature, from God, separate from the realization of the Oneness of being, and the truth about ourselves and the reality in which we live, and share, with others.

For best results, nadi shodhana should be done before asana practice, or after shavasana, and before meditation, but never in the middle of a sequenced practice of asana. Use Vishnu mudra to facilitate the passage of air through the nostrils: Bend the first two fingers of the right hand into the palm, using the thumb to control the passage of breath through the right nostril and the ring (or third) finger to control the passage of breath through the left nostril. At the beginning, it is important to equalize your ability to inhale and exhale, using a ratio of 1:1, without retention. Exhale through both nostrils. Block the right nostril and inhale slowly through the left. Block the left nostril and exhale slowly through the right. Slowly inhale through the right, block the right nostril and exhale slowly through the left. That is one round. Practice five to ten rounds every day for at least one month. This is a safe practice level for beginners if all other prerequisites have been met, including the adherence to a vegetarian diet and mastery of asana (the ability to sit comfortably).

The next step would be to add retention using the ratio of 1:1:1:1. Exhale through both nostrils, block the right nostril and inhale through the left, block the left nostril, retain, exhale through the right, block the right nostril, retain, inhale through the right, block the right nostril, retain, exhale through the left, block the left nostril, retain. This is one round of samavritti (equal breathing) nadi shodhana pranayama.

--Sharon Gannon, September 2008 NOTE: For further reference, see the Hatha Yoga Pradipika, Chapter 2, Verses 1 to 20, by Swami Muktibodhananda of the Bihar School

November 21st -23rd~ Doug Swenson Workshop

2008-08-12T22:32:00.003-05:00

About Doug Swenson

Doug Swenson began his study of yoga in 1969. He has had the fortune of studying with many great teachers including Dr. Ernest Wood, K. Pattabhi Jois, David Williams, Nancy Gilgoff, Ramanand Patel, Ann Barros and others. Doug is a master yoga practitioner, philosopher, poet and dedicated health advocate. He has incorporated influences from several different yoga systems along with his passion for nutrition and the environment to develop his unique approach. Over the years he has authored several books; "Yoga Helps", "The Soothing Touch of Yoga", "The Diet That Loves You Most" and "Power Yoga for Dummies". Doug travels extensively offering workshops, retreats and teacher training courses around the world. Don't miss the opportunity to study with one of the worlds top instructors. Doug's classes are always invigorating and inspirational and his supportive style of teaching and keen sense of humor send his students home with a smile on their face and a softness within their heart.

http://www.dougswenson.net/

Friday, November 21st 6:00 p.m. -8:30 p.m. :
Sadhana Yoga Chi ( First portion of class andYoga Sequencing /Building a Personal Practice

Saturday, November 22nd, 2008 morning 9-12
Vinyasa Yoga Cross Training

Saturday, November 22nd, 2008 2-5:
Yin Yoga Class with discussion on Eight Limbs of Yoga

Sunday, November 23rd, 2008 9-12
Ashtanga with Extra Spice

Doug Swenson Workshop at The Yoga Studio of Corpus Christi

2008-06-18T17:48:00.006-05:00

Coming November 21, 22, and 23rd, 2008 to The Yoga Studio of Corpus Christi........Doug Swenson!!

About Doug Swenson
Doug Swenson began his study of yoga in 1969. He has had the fortune of studying with many great teachers including Dr. Ernest Wood, K. Pattabhi Jois, David Williams, Nancy Gilgoff, Ramanand Patel, Ann Barros and others. Doug is a master yoga practitioner, philosopher, poet and dedicated health advocate. He has incorporated influences from several different yoga systems along with his passion for nutrition and the environment to develop his unique approach. Over the years he has authored several books; "Yoga Helps", "The Soothing Touch of Yoga", "The Diet That Loves You Most" and "Power Yoga for Dummies". Doug travels extensively offering workshops, retreats and teacher training courses around the world. Don't miss the opportunity to study with one of the worlds top instructors. Doug's classes are always invigorating and inspirational and his supportive style of teaching and keen sense of humor send his students home with a smile on their face and a softness within their heart.

http://www.dougswenson.net/

Friday, November 21st 6:00 p.m. -8:30 p.m. :

Sadhana Yoga Chi ( First portion of class and
Yoga Sequencing /Building a Personal Practice

Saturday, November 22nd, 2008 morning 9-12

Vinyasa Yoga Cross Training

Saturday, November 22nd, 2008 2-5:

Yin Yoga Class with discussion on Eight Limbs of Yoga

Sunday, November 23rd, 2008 9-12

Ashtanga with Extra Spice

Jivamukti Yoga Comes to Corpus Christi

2008-05-26T15:04:00.006-05:00

What is Jivamukti Yoga?
Jivamukti means “liberation while living.” This modern style of yoga emerged in 1984 from one of New York City’s best-known yoga studios. Founders David Life and Sharon Gannon incorporated their study of ashtanga yoga with Shri K. Pattabhi Jois with spiritual teachings, placing special emphasis on how to apply yogic philosophy to daily life.

Michelle has just returned from a month long training program in Rhinebeck, New York. She trained directly with Sharon Gannon and David Life to obtain a 300 hour teaching certificate from the Jivamukti method. Michelle received mantra initiation from Tripura Sundari (Sharon Gannon) and Deva Das (David Life) in May of 2008. As Jivamukti Yoga makes it's way into South Texas you can be looking for workshops from other Certified Jivamukti Teachers soon. Be sure to attend The Southwest Yoga Conference October 24th-26th, 2008. Sri Sharon Gannon and Sri David Life will be in Austin as presenters for this conference. This will be the first trip back to Texas since 2005. What a wonderful way to start your Jivamukti experience! http://www.southwestyoga.com/ for more details.

What to Expect from a Jivamukti Class
Jivamukti is a vinyasa style practice and classes can be quite physically intense. Each class has a theme, which is explored through yoga scripture, chanting, meditation, asana, pranayama, and music.

KRISTV.COM~ Another way to save at The Yoga Studio of Corpus Christi

2008-04-03T20:39:00.004-05:00

http://freemoney.kristv.com/
Click on the above link to purchase gift cards to The Yoga Studio of Corpus Christi! It's a great way to save money and they make excellent gifts. Enjoy!

Christina Sell returns to Corpus~ Mark your calendars!

2008-03-27T20:30:00.003-05:00

Christina Sell was back for a workshop June 13-15th. Of Course everyone loved it! Here are some pictures. We can't wait until January when Christina returns! Hope to see YOU at the Teacher Training.

Mat Pilates added to schedule!

2008-03-27T20:08:00.002-05:00

Mat Pilates has been added to the schedule!

You can now take a Mat Pilates class with Patricia Bates on Wednesdays @ 1:30-2:30. The benefits of Pilates are:

A refreshing mind-body workout
Pilates gets your mind in tune with your body. By emphasizing proper breathing, correct spinal and pelvic alignment, and complete concentration on smooth, flowing movement, you become acutely aware of how your body feels, where it is in space, and how to control its movement. The quality of movement is valued over quantity of repetitions. Proper breathing is essential, and helps you execute movements with maximum power and efficiency. Last but not least, learning to breathe properly can reduce stress.

Build strength without "bulking up" - gain long, lean muscles and flexibility
Conventional workouts tend to build short, bulky muscles - the type most prone to injury. Pilates elongates and strengthens, improving muscle elasticity and joint mobility. A body with balanced strength and flexibility is less likely to be injured.

Develop a strong core - flat abdominals and a strong back
Building on the principles of Joseph Pilates, Pilates exercises develop a strong "core," or center of the body. The core consists of the deep abdominal muscles along with the muscles closest to the spine. Control of the core is achieved by integrating the trunk, pelvis and shoulder girdle.

Create an evenly conditioned body and prevent sports injuries
In conventional workouts, weak muscles tend to get weaker and strong muscles tend to get stronger. The result is muscular imbalance - a primary cause of injury and chronic back pain. Pilates conditions the whole body, even the ankles and feet. No muscle group is over trained or under trained. Your entire musculature is evenly balanced and conditioned, helping you enjoy daily activities and sports with greater ease and less chance of injury.

Learn efficient patterns of motion
Pilates exercises train several muscle groups at once in smooth, continuous movements. By developing proper technique, you can actually re-train your body to move in safer, more efficient patterns of motion - invaluable for injury recovery, sports performance, good posture and optimal health.

Be confident and safe
This exercise system is so gentle to your body while giving it a challenging workout. Many of the exercises are performed in reclining or sitting positions, and most are low impact and partially weight bearing. Pilates is so safe, it is used in physical therapy facilities to rehabilitate injuries.

And be challenged
Pilates is also an extremely flexible exercise system. Modifications to the exercises allow for a range of difficulty ranging from beginning to advanced. Get the workout that best suits you now, and increase the intensity as your body conditioning improves.

Teacher Training coming to Yoga Studio of Corpus Christi

2008-03-11T12:12:00.003-05:00

This 200-hour Training meets all of the requirements outlined by Yoga Alliance for becoming a Registered Yoga Teacher at the 200 hour level, (R.Y.T. 200). Additionally, this program fulfills the Immersion completion requirement and the Level 1 and Level 2 Teacher Training requirements for Anusara Yoga and Anusara Yoga Teacher certification requirements, please visit www.anusara.com .

Technique of Anusara Yoga
PHASE ONE of this unique program is a 108 hour Anusara Yoga Immersion. The Anusara Yoga Immersion program is for dedicated students who wish to begin a structured exploration of Anusara Yoga to enhance their own practice and experience, as well as students and teachers who may wish to enter the Anusara Yoga Certification Process. The Immersion is a comprehensive study designed by John Friend, the founder of Anusara Yoga. The curriculum looks at the essence of Anusara philosophy, alignment principles and practice. The in-depth program invites you to expand your mind and heart, while providing a rich and transformative experience. The focus of Phase One is highly experiential and focuses on self-development, practice and personal inquiry as the foundation of good teaching.
PHILOSOPHY: (30 HOURS): History of yoga, The Bhavagad Gita, Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras, Introduction Tantric Philosophy, Tattvas, and Anusara Yoga Philosophy and vision.
UNIVERSAL PRINCIPLES OF ALIGNMENT (48 HOURS): Opening to Grace, Muscular Energy, Expanding Spiral Contracting Spiral, the Seven Energy Loops and General principles of the Major categories of postures.
PRANAYANA: (10 HOURS): Ujayi Pranayama, Nadi Shodhana Pranayama, Viloma Pranayama
MEDITATION/CONTEMPALATION AND JOURNALING (10 HOURS): Open, closed and focus techniques.
ANATOMY (10 HOURS): Anatomy of respiration, Introduction to the skeletal system, general overview of the structure and function of the spine, pelvis and hips, esoteric anatomy.
THE ART AND SKILL OF TEACHING ANUSARA YOGAPHASE TWO of this program is a Teacher Development Program. These 92-hours will be aimed at developing the teaching skills required to effectively and safely introduce people to the practices and principles of Anusara Yoga. For both new and seasoned teachers, this program is highly experiential and will focus on hand-on teaching practice with feedback and peer support.
ANATOMY- (10 Hours): Anatomy of the lower and Upper Extremities, continued work on the spine, pelvis and hips.
TEACHING METHODOLOGIES- (25 HOURS): Sequencing, developing heart-based themes, modifications, observation, adjustments, language skills, demonstration skills, use of props, class composition, special populations, progressive teaching methodology.
PRACTICUM (20 HOURS): ***THESE HOURS MUST BE COMPLETED OUTSIDE OF THE CLASSROOM.***
YOGA THERAPY (25 HOURS): Ayurveda and Yoga Therapy including mantra, pranayama, pratyahara, dharana and dhyana. Therapeutic applications of Universal Principles of Alignment.
BUSINESS AND ETHICS- (12 HOURS):

IMMERSION DATES TEACHER TRAINING
JANUARY 2-4, 2009 SEPTEMBER 18-20
FEBRUARY 20-22, 2009 OCTOBER 16-18
MARCH 20-22, 2009 NOVEMBER 13-15
APRIL 10-12, 2009 DECEMBER 11-13
MAY 15-17, 2009
AUGUST 21-23, 2009

*Dates may change slightly prior to program commencement due to workshop date set by John Friend for Austin, Texas in 2009.

Fees:
Immersion Only: $1650/ ($1550 if pd in full by September 2008).
Anusara TT Only: $1650/ ($1550 if pd in full by September 2008).
For Yoga Alliance R.Y.T. 200 YOU WILL NEED TO COMPLETE BOTH SECTIONS. $3000. OR $2,800. if paid in full by September 2008.

Contact Christina Sell by visiting:
http://christinasell.com/
Or Michelle @ Yoga Studio of Corpus Christi by visiting:
http://yogastudioofcc.blogspot.com/
or yogastudioofcc@yahoo.com

Deep Tissue Massages offered at The Yoga Studio of Corpus Christi!

2008-03-11T11:57:00.004-05:00

People have been asking and we are listening! Now offering Deep Tissue Massages on Tuesday afternoons with Olivier Jalvais, R.M.T. Just give us a call at (361)883-1052 to schedule your massage. $30/30 minutes. The Benefits of a

Deep Tissue Massage
A deep tissue massage consists of techniques that focus on the massaging the deep layers of muscle tissue. This process releases the continually patterns of tension in the body. This type of massage requires the use of slow strokes and deep pressure from the fingers on specific areas of the body. A deep tissue massage not only reduces tension in the muscles, it can eliminate scar tissue.

Getting a deep tissue massage feels great and it does wonders for your health. This is because oxygen and nutrients become blocked due to stress, resulting in inflammation and a build up of toxins in the muscle tissue. This type of massage will loosen the muscle tissues, release the toxins, and improve the circulation of blood throughout your body.

A deep tissue massage will help the body relax as tension and toxins leave the body. As a result, the muscles will be soothed as they relax. What feels good for one person may be too rough for someone else.

Pressure that is applied too hard and too fast can lead the muscles to tighten up in an effort to protect the area. This can be painful as well as result in a serious injury. This type of massage is often used to assist in sports related injures. The depth of the massage can be a great way to relieve pain and strain in the deep areas of muscle tissue.

A deep tissue massage is also beneficial for the treatment of injuries to muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Crippling diseases can benefit from this type of massage as well. Skeletal fractures deep in the body generally can’t be reached with most massage techniques. However, this one does the trick very effectively. It is known to break down the scar tissue and crystallization. The result is muscles that are restored with the proper balance and bone structure.

Children's Yoga and Yoga for Teens Classes at The Yoga Studio of Corpus Christi

2008-02-17T21:52:00.006-06:00

The Yoga Studio of Corpus Christi will begin a Children's Yoga class on Thursdays. Classes will be every Thursday 4:00-4:30 for kids ages 5-12. Classes are only $5 per student/class. Megan Grime, R.Y.T. 200 will be the instructor and we are very excited to offer this class!

Yoga For Teens. This is a class filled with energy. Sun Salutations will be done to warm the body up. The class will explore many balancing asanas such as crow, side crow, firefly, etc. We will have a great time challenging the body but still keeping things safe by learning the basics of asanas including alignment and breath. This would be a great class to develop focus and to expend excess energy. The class is not limited to teens only. Notes: Any age may attend as long as they are able to follow directions and do not cause disruption to the class. Parents are welcome to attend. Michelle Acebo, Registered Jivamukti Teacher 300 hr. and R.Y.T. 200 will be the instructor for this class.

call the studio (361)883-1052 or e-mail us at yogastudioofcc@yahoo.com. We are so pleased to bring these classes to you.

Workshop Time @ The Yoga Studio of Corpus Christi!

2008-02-03T22:38:00.000-06:00

Christina Sell's workshop Feb. 1st-3rd @ The Yoga Studio of Corpus Christi

2008-02-03T22:35:00.000-06:00

More Pictures from Christina Sell's Workshop @ The Yoga Studio of Corpus Christi!

2008-02-03T22:32:00.000-06:00

2008-02-03T22:29:00.000-06:00

2008-02-03T22:26:00.000-06:00

2008-02-03T22:24:00.000-06:00

2008-02-03T22:16:00.000-06:00

Yoga & Your Heart Kick-Off Celebration- FREE CLASS-Jan.18*

2008-01-09T18:52:00.000-06:00

"Take Yoga to Heart"

Ring in this New Year with a Hearty Glow. The Yoga Studio of Corpus Christi is teaming up with The American Heart Association's GO RED campaign in an effort to increase Vitality, Raise Health Awareness, & Lower Stress through the Gift of Yoga.

The Yoga & Your Heart Kick-Off Celebration- *FREE CLASS*-Jan.18~ Was a HUGE Success!

In Celebration of this great event, The Yoga Studio hosted a "Go Red"-Yoga & Your Heart Kick-Off on Friday, January 18th from 4-7 PM. During the celebration, the studio offered a FREE All Levels Heart-Centered Yoga Class taught by Lindy Burns (THANK YOU LINDY!) who did a fantastic job with the class filled to the brim with new and seasoned yogis starting the new year in a heart smart way! Action Ten's news Jennifer Fairbanks also attended the class while Edward filmed the class (THANK YOU ACTION 10 NEWS CREW!) Afterwards, the studio hosted a diverse reception including, heart healthy tips and resources, live acoustic music from Johnny Dango of Austin (THANK YOU JOHNNY!), served up heart-healthy refreshments provided by Jason's Deli (THANK YOU JASON'S DELI!), and showcased "Go Red" Artworks from various local artisans.

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In addition to the Kick-off Party:
We are also offering
A Heart-Centered Approach to yoga!
From Now through February 15th--
Mention the phrase "Take Yoga to Heart"
And Receive 25% off any Yoga Class Package!!!
As an added bonus The Yoga Studio will donate 25%
of the proceeds to the
American Heart Association!
T-shirts commemorating this annual event will be on sale with part of the proceeds going to the American Heart Association as well! Come by to get yours today. (THANK YOU TIFFANY SCHRIENER!).
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Contact Information:

The Yoga Studio of Corpus Christi
361/883.1052
yogastudioofcc@yahoo.com
http://yogastudioofcc.blogspot.com

Very informative video on yoga.

2007-12-23T16:32:00.000-06:00

http://vids.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=vids.individual&videoid=24520868

Living Yoga Trailer (long Version) Sri Swami Satchidananda. Check out the interviews with Dr. Dean Ornish, Dr. Mehmet Oz,

Click on link below for discounted gift certificates. One month of unlimited yoga $52.50 regular price $80.00. Limited quantities available. http:/

2007-12-13T19:20:00.000-06:00

http://dollarsavershow.com/dollarsaver/index?stationId=3

Anusara Yoga Weekend Workshop-Opening to Grace with Christina Sell-February 1-3, 2008

2007-11-25T19:31:00.000-06:00

Needless to say, Christina left students at The Yoga Studio of Corpus Christi begging for more!

It Was an incredible weekend of exploration and learning to listen to our bodies.

From what I could see, everyone in attendance loved my teacher as much as I do!  Thank you Christina

for once again opening our eyes and our hearts to our limitless potential.

I have posted some incredible pictures so that you all can be part of the "Kula" Corpus Christi is forming.

Yoga hopefully will be our union, our opening to Grace!

Weekend with Christina Sell~Opening to Grace: February 1st-3rd, 2008.  All


levels workshop exploring Anusara Yoga techniques. Explore alignment

principals along with celebration of heart and spirit.  Advance

practice on Sunday.

Friday, Feb 1^st 6-8 p.m.

Opening to Grace: This all-levels flow based practice will introduce students to the philosophy and practice of Anusara Yoga. Anusara Yoga is a unique method of Hatha yoga that incorporates biomechanical principals of alignment with the celebration of heart and spirit.

Saturday Feb. 2^nd 9-12

Cultivating Inner and Outer Strength: This dynamic class will use standing poses, hip openers and basic arm balances to help students develop strength, confidence, and courage.

Saturday, Feb. 2^nd 3-5 p.m.

Effort and Surrender: This class will use more hip opening work to assist students with forward bends, twists, and to explore the balance between effort and surrender in the asana practice.

Sunday, Feb. 2-5 p.m.

Upside down and Inside out: This advanced practice is for experienced students who want to explore inversions and back bends in an uplifting, challenging and fun environment. Students attending this class should be free of injury or illness and will have attended at least one other class during the weekend as the principles covered in previous classes will inform the advance work.

Questions call 361-883-1052 or email yogastudioofcc@yahoo.com

Check Christina’s web site Christina Sell for more information on Anusara Yoga

Prenatal and/or Postnatal Yoga Comes to The Yoga Studio!!

2007-07-09T11:38:00.000-05:00

Yoga Studio of Corpus Christi will offer Prenatal and/or Postnatal Yoga Classes for those interested. If you would interested in one of the following classes, please leave your name, phone number/email, and also the best times for you to attend class. As soon as we have enough participants interested we will add a class to the schedule.

¬Prenatal Yoga uses postures, breathing, and meditation to help ease pregnancy discomforts, while strengthening your body, mind, and soul for labor and the after effects of birth. The classes create flexibility, strength, focus, and awareness through a gentle practice that is designed especially for the pregnant woman’s needs. Prenatal Yoga classes provide a safe and supportive environment for expectant mothers and are a wonderful way to connect with other mothers-to-be. There will be pregnancy related discussions and laughter within the class to help you make sense of the many ways pregnancy transforms your body. The classes are appropriate for both new and experienced yoga students.
¬Postnatal Yoga class is a great way to support the body’s recovery after birth. Use postures, breathing techniques, and meditation to offer a practice that helps to regain overall body healing and strength, abdominal/pelvic toning, and relaxation. Mothers may bring their babies for an experience that incorporates yoga and bonding with the baby. These classes are a wonderful way to connect with other new mothers to share information, parenting tips, and offer support.
¬Postnatal Classes are appropriate for women from about three weeks postpartum and up until about six months, or when baby begins to crawl.
Overall Prenatal & Postnatal Benefits:
•increase flexibility and muscle tone
•connect your mind, body, and spirit
•builds endurance and better breathing
•inner awareness for conscious pregnancy, birth and parenting
•reduces stress and muscle tension
•help sooth the discomforts of pregnancy and reclaim your post-pregnancy body
•strengthens the body's physical, mental, and emotional preparation for labor and birth
•supportive environment with other expectant mothers, new moms & babies, and community resources

Ashtanga Comes to Corpus Christi

2007-06-05T22:06:00.000-05:00

Two teachers from the Yoga Studio of Corpus Christi have been fortunate enough to complete a Teacher Training Intensive with David Swenson. Ashtanga Yoga Ashta= Eight, Anga= Limb, Yoga= Union. "The Eight Limbs of Yoga" The particular system of yoga that Jeff Van Cott and Michelle Acebo studied with David Swenson is derived from the teachings of K. Pattabhi Jois. He is the director and founder of the Ashtanga Yoga Research Institute in Mysore, India. He learned this dynamic method form of yoga from his teacher, Krishnamacharya. David Swenson studied directly with K. Pattabhi Jois. This approach is based on a specialized sequencing of postures and focused breathing techniques. Ashtanga may be utilized as a method of keeping physically fit or it may be traversed as a pathway to explore the subtle realms of spirituality.
This description was taken from David Swenson's book Ashtanga Yoga "The Practice Manual"

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