East Bay Yoga's topics - tribe.net

Weight on the hand in Trikonasana

2008-01-30T04:23:41Z

This has been an area of interest to me. I even did a survey bringing a scale to yoga classes.
My understanding is that in Iyengar Yoga there is a "small" amount of weight in the hand in Utthita Trikonasana.
I have noticed that in Iyengar Yoga all of the side extended standing asana have a connection to the ground.
So the question is what is the nature of this connection. Try this. Without looking down, place your hand or block on a scale.
When doing your normal Trikonasana, look down to see the
weight in your hand. Do the second side. Note your weights.
Mine were not what I thought they would be.
Anyone take measurments, have comments, insights?

(I know in some yoga you pull up, still a connection)

posted in East Bay Yoga - 7 replies

Lakulish Yogasan Championships 2008: Feb. 22; 23; & 24th, - City of Surat, Gujarat State, India

2007-12-10T11:45:52Z

For details and application forms, please refer to: http://www.lifemission.org/ and under "New" go to item #4 and click on "World Open Yogasan Championships".

Please note, to optimize your India trip and your experience of Lakulish Yoga you could attend or participate in the Yogasan Championships and also take in the 3 week Certificate Yoga Training Course being offered at Swami Rajarshi Muni's Malav Ashram from January 30 -February 20th. For details on the training go to http://www.lifemission.org/ and under "New" click on item # 5 " "Overseas Students Annual Yoga Certificate Training Program"

posted in East Bay Yoga - 0 replies

Vasistha's Yoga

2007-09-04T21:19:53Z

Folks--

--When I first started a Hatha Yoga practice, it was merely to have some kind of physical discipline to balance out my busy mental life, and to keep myself healthy.

--Recently, I've become fascinated with the deeper meaning of Yoga as a method for knowing the Self, for moving toward enlightenment. I'm wondering how many people out there consider their practice as more than just a great workout, or a satic way of "keeping in touch" with their spiritual side?

--Right now, I'm reading "Vasistha's Yoga" (trans. Swami Venkatesananda) and feel surprised by some of the statements in it. Especially in light of how ritualistic and almost religious some forms of Yoga can be. Or how "touchy-feely" our West Coast sensibilities can be. It's not easy reading, but the book is very practical in a certain sense, with straight-forward language, unapologetic certainty on its points, and a complete lack of ritualism. I'm not sure where this text 'fits in' to the larger picture of Yogic practices. It's certainly not the Bhakti path, however!

--My wife, who is Catholic, has some big problems with Vasistha's view. Especially of concern to her is the seeming self-centered-ness of it (no pun intended!), the lack of importance placed on Love and Charity. Here's a quote I wanted to share, and see what people think:

"Austerity or penance is self-inflicted pain. Of what value is charity performed with wealth earned by deceiving others--only they derive the fruits of such charity! Religious observances add to one's vanity. There is only one remedy for ignorance of the Lord--the firm and decisive renunciation of craving for sense-pleasure."

posted in East Bay Yoga - 2 replies

Best East Bay Studio

2007-07-09T19:41:32Z

I'm curious which studio you think is the BEST in the East Bay, and why you're drawn to that specific studio instead of the others.
My vote is on Piedmont, but I teach there, so I'm totally biased. I love the teachers, the history, and the even the vibe.
I also really dig 7th Heaven in Berkeley ... (pretty painted walls)
I'd love to hear your opinions on the best studio in the East Bay!

posted in East Bay Yoga - 2 replies

Non Secular Yoga?

2007-07-04T02:09:05Z

Folks, I'm curious:

Do you prefer your Yoga class to be completely non-religious?
Non-spiritual?
No mention of spiritualitiy or energy?

--As a teacher, I regularly encounter students looking for the enercise and healing benefits of Hatha yoga, yet shy away from anything out of the ordinary, even a simple mantra like "Om". Perhaps this more common than I thought?

--Here in tribe, the conversations often go 'way out' in terms of spiritual stuff. I'm curious if any of us here feel a bit squeemish about it?

posted in East Bay Yoga - 1 reply

I'm looking for Yogi(s) to collaborate with for music and yoga classes/events

2007-05-27T21:55:00Z

I'm a musician that is looking to explore and produce events incorporating live music+yoga. I'm looking fro a teacher that would like to co-create an event/class that does this.
here's a taste of my music:
http://www.joshbrill.com

posted in East Bay Yoga - 0 replies

Anyone wanna teach me yoga?

2007-05-05T03:19:27Z

I am 35 yr old married male looking to learn any form of yoga. I am not financially able to pay for any professional instruction at this time. I have tried a video in the past but it was just to difficult to try and see the screen while also attempting to get the poses correct. I am available every weekday from 1pm til 5pm. I would very much appreciate and respect any offers to teach me.
Thanks,
Aaron

posted in East Bay Yoga - 0 replies

Yogi / City Planner Looking for Home in Berkeley or N Oakland (Aug 1st Start)

2007-05-02T18:02:25Z

I'm a 26 year old female who currently lives in SF and works in west Berkeley at a participatory city planning firm. I love what I do so much that I will begin a master's program in City and Regional Planning at UC Berkeley in August. Thus, I am finally giving in and moving to the east bay. (and yes, I already have a job lined up so finances will not be an issue)

I am looking for east bay housing starting August 1st or 15th but I want to know where I am going to live before I leave for my summer travels in early June.

In terms of living situation I am open to many different options. I think I’ll know the right one when I see it. In no particular order I am open to living in my own place (studio or 1 bed) OR renting a room in a house OR taking over the lease of a 2-4 bedroom home.
My building is on SE part or campus but Im open to living in a variety of neighborhoods so long as it has good transit access (I don’t have a car), nice neigh shops/amenities, and is within a 20 min bike ride of my building. These are some of the neighborhoods I’m open to: Near North Berkeley BART (as far west as San Pablo), D’town Berkeley, Rockridge or North Oakland/Temescal.
I am a vegetarian who loves to cook delicious whole foods so it is very important to be near a good source of produce such as Monterey Market, Berkeley Bowl or farmer's market. (or some other east bay secret store that I don’t know about yet)

In terms of my cleaning habits, since I like to cook, I very much appreciate and need a clean kitchen. For me, the kitchen is the most important room to keep clean. Although it is preferable if common spaces and bathrooms also reach this level of cleanliness.
My room is usually neat and clean, although since I will be a student, I can imagine a couple day stints where laundry may go unfolded surrounded by stacks of books and papers…but this would all stay in my room.

I practice Mysore style ashtanga yoga in the mornings at a studio near the n Berkeley bart so I am an early to bed early to rise type of gal (during the week).

In terms of fun on the weekends, I usually like to go on nice hikes or long walks though a new neighborhood, go out dancing or see live music at night, go to art parties, host or attend potlucks, or cuddle up on the couch and watch a good film.
I am planning to travel this summer and I would like to start a lease August 1st not June 1st. I have a storage unit reserved for the summer, but if someone wanted a furnished sublet, I would be just as happy to let them use my bedroom set.

Please contact if you have any leads or want me to be your next roommate
Thanks,
Beth

posted in East Bay Yoga - 0 replies

East Bay Studios?

2007-05-02T18:00:11Z

Folks--

--Please list/share studios you know of and/or recommend in the East Bay! Let's explore!

posted in East Bay Yoga - 15 replies

Check out Yoga Mandala in Berkeley

2007-03-17T21:29:30Z

I love Yoga Mandala. There is a variety of interesting yoga classes as well as regular weekend workshops that are perfect for practitioners who long to explore more deeply the history and philosophy of yoga. The yoga studio itself is a warm and welcoming oasis. They always have delicious tea and soothing music playing. I particularly love their selection of malas, incense, and yoga matts/meditation cushions. But my favorite thing is their amazing yogic book store, which spans spiritual traditions and includes a multitude of references from ayurvedic health to astrology to womens needs. Check it out!

posted in East Bay Yoga - 1 reply

The Secret

2007-02-10T03:48:40Z

Folks--

--I'm wondering if anyone on this tribe has read "The Law Of Attraction" or seen the movie "The Secret"?
--A friend of my wife's lent her a copy of the movie and the audio series. It's interesting.

--Here are some links that were given in another tribe where the movie is being discussed:
video.google.com/googleplayer.swf
video.google.com/videoplay
and if that doesn't work, you can get a download at: googlesystem.blogspot.com/2006/...s.html

--I watched the movie and listened to most of the audio series. It's compelling stuff, claiming you can manifest anything you want if you adjust the way you think. Happiness, health, wealth, power.
--What troubles me is what is NOT being said, especially in terms of Karma and Satkarmas. It's also very odd to me so many people are willing to unquestioningly accept teachings from other-realm beings, a collective calling itself "The Abraham".

--Another thought: If the Abraham is an enlightened being, I am puzzled why there is no mention of a cessitation of desire. Or perhaps merging with the divine and experiencing (as Alx put it) 'divine desire'.

--Normally, I might disregard this material, but it's important to my wife, and I would like to discuss it with her in a reasonable way that won't cause her to feel defensive.

posted in East Bay Yoga - 0 replies

punk rock yoga?!

2007-01-18T18:13:11Z

saw this on tribe: http://blog.tribe.net/thread/3de111e0-20e7-4db9-8b87-9e53f63e6194

and then saw THIS!

WANTED: SF/Bay Area yoga teachers to teach Punk Rock Yoga: http://www.punkrockyoga.com/world_domination/index.php

someone please step up and do this, because i for one would be WAY more motivated to go to yoga if it were more experimental and less traditional.

posted in East Bay Yoga - 0 replies

CMT would like to barter bodywork for yoga classes & teacher training in SF East Bay.

2007-01-12T02:22:28Z

Hi all East Bay Yoga Tribe members.
I hope this type of posting is suitable to post in this area? If not, let me know and Ill delete it and post in listings section. Just seems the listings section may be a bit ignored in some tribes.?

I am interested in bartering my services as a Certified Massage Therapist and Yiquan & Tai Chi Qigong practitioner, with an interested yoga instructor for on-going yoga classes & yoga teacher training & certification in the SF East Bay.
Preferably somewhere near Berkeley, Oakland, Albany areas as I live in this area.

I prefer a slower paced practice where postures are held for a while to sink more deeply into, integrating a meditative approach. I'm not interested in the "hot yoga", talkative or speedy yoga class styles so much.
And I'm not looking for a "master" or guru, other than my own inner being - which i already am and am exploring.
I used to practice yoga ( mostly Hatha & Vinyasa ) regularly for between @ 1993 - 98.

My main practice is Yiquan, Wuji & Tai Chi Qigong, which i have been practicing since 1989. And would like to exchange on-site bodywork sessions for on-going classes with a compatible style and practitioner / instructor in the East Bay. I live near Berkeley, so a studio / school close to Berkeley would be best.

If you are interested in this sort of exchange, contact me describing your specific experience, yoga training & "style", where you teach,times of classes, any questions, etc..

Below is a copy of a posting for my bodywork practice -

Professional, relaxing & therapeutic bodywork brought to you in the convenience & comfort of your own location. I bring my own chair or table, music (if requested) & heartful skill to offices / workplaces, events and homes within the San Francisco Bay area, including Marin & the East Bay.

Modalities I am trained & certified in include -

Swedish Massage

Deep Tissue Massage

Reflexology Massage

Thai Massage

Shiatsu Massage

On-Site Chair Massage
Reiki

Pranic Healing.

I am also a Wuji & Tai-Chi Qigong & Yiquan practitioner since 1989, which I offer excercises and classes in as a self-care supplement to bodywork.

I offer on-site / outcall sessions in the convenience & comfort of your own home, event or business location. ( No hotel, motel sessions. )
I am available for on-site sessions in the East Bay, Marin and San Francisco.

I have provided on-site massage for -

* The 4th Annual Yoga Journal Conference, January 18-21, 2007 at Hyatt Regency Embarcadero in San Francisco.

* Coop America Business Network & Green Festival Conference Nov. 9, 2006.

* The Spice of Life Celebration attendees, October 8, 2006 in Berkeley.

* Mill Valley Film Festival 2005 & 2006.

* EarthDance Festival 2006 attendees, in Laytonville, Ca.

* At the Techno Tribal Dance at the Harmony Festival 2006 in Santa Rosa.

* Accentures Escape from Alcatraz Triathalon in San Francisco, June 2005.

* Provided massage therapy to dancers, musicians & instructors at Kosmos Dance Camp in Saratoga Springs, June 2-5, 2005.

* To passengers and crew, on Amtrak trains during Rider Appreciation days 2004 & 2005.

* At the end of the Winter, 2004 session to Napa Valley College students & staff during their Health & Wellness event.

* November 2004 - November 2006, every Sunday from 4:00 pm - 8:00 pm, I provided chair massage to customers & staff at Whole Foods Market in Berkeley.

Among other events, businesses and for individuals in the SF Bay area.

Regular rates - $60 / hr., $90 / 1.5 hrs., $120 / 2hrs.

Aaron Irons, C.M.T.
aaronironscmt@yahoo.com

posted in East Bay Yoga - 0 replies

Tibetan Yogas of Dream & Sleep - Maui - Jan 25-28, 2007

2007-01-03T04:39:14Z

Free Public Talk
Thursday, January 25, 2007 6:00 PM
Location: Jan 25 Kahului Borders Maui

3-Day Workshop
Jan 26-28 Ko`lea`lea Retreat Center
1120 Kaupakalua Road, Haiku, Maui, Hawaii
Haiku, Maui, Hawaii 96708 view map

More Info: www.DreamYogaMaui.com

"We spend a third of our life sleeping. No matter what we do, however virtuous or non-virtuous our activities, whether we are murderers or saints, monks or ibertines, every day ends the same. We shut our eyes and dissolve into darkness,. We do so fearlessly, even as everything we know as "me" disappears. After a brief period, images arise and our sense of self arises with them. We exist again in the apparently limitless world of dream. Every night we participate in these most profound mysteries, moving from one dimension of experience to another, losing our sense of self and finding it again, and yet we take it all for granted. We wake in the morning and continue in "real" life, but in a sense we are still asleep and dreaming. The teachings tell us that we can continue in this deluded, dreamy state, day and night, or wake up to the truth."

If we cannot carry our practice into sleep, if we lose ourselves every night, what chance do we have to be aware when death comes? Look to your experience in dreams to know how you will fare in death. Look to your experience in sleep to discover whether or not you are truly awake.

In order to fully travel the path to enlightenment, all of life must be recognized and engaged as spiritual opportunity. Tibetan yoga has, from ancient times to the present, used the dream and sleep states both as aides to the path and as complete paths in themselves. During this teaching, Tenzin Wangyal Rinpoche will explain the dream yoga and give instruction and transmission for its practice.

Dream yoga is not only a practice to be done in the dream state. Its understanding and methods work with all moments of life, waking and sleeping. Preliminary practices are engaged to bring greater awareness to each moment and to turn the practitioner's mind from engagement in dualistic preoccupations to integration with the boundless view of the non-dual path. Concentration practice steadies the mind, and yogic practices done during waking periods in the night carry awareness into the sleep state. Eventually the practitioner develops the capacity for lucid dreaming--knowing during the dream that one is in a dream. Once lucidity is stabilized, the dream state is used for tantric practice, for healing, for the development of insight, and finally for the direct penetration into the truth that underlies both the dreams of night and the dream of our waking life.

The focus of dream yoga is integrating with the clear light state of our natural mind. By following precise instructions, the practitioner develops awareness of the onset or presence of dreams; having recognized the dream experience as a dream, the advanced practitioner is able to experience its nature with clear non-conceptual awareness. For less advanced practitioners, becoming lucid in the dream allows one to work with the various manifestations--one can overcome fears, perform actions normally beyond one's capacity, and gradually increase dreams of clarity. In this system, ordinary dreams are understood to be caused by habitual propensities ssociated with previous actions and experiences conjoined with the energy of the mind. Eventually these emotional dreams can be transformed, liberated, or brought to the path by the accomplished practitioner.

Tenzin Rinpoche will talk about the practice of dream yoga both from the point of view expressed in the text as well as from his own unique experiences.

people.tribe.net/TenzinWangyalRinpoche
www.DreamYogaMaui.com
www.ligmincha.org
posted by:

posted in East Bay Yoga - 0 replies

TOOLS FOR CHANGE AND HEALING: WEEKLY ONGOING GROUP,SUNDAYS(2-4PM) AND REIKI SESSIONS(12-2PM) IN THE EAST BAY

2006-12-29T19:19:25Z

The group will be led by a Reiki master
teacher,shamanic practitioner,massage therapist and life counselor
of 15 years;meditation and intuition teacher;and health and nutrition consultant.
This will be an ongoing group. There is no
pre-requisite for this group,
only a short interview and a desire to learn.

Learn about or become more skilled at
REIKI,WORKING WITH INTUITION,MEDITATION,
CREATING A SPACE,HEALING,ENERGETICS,INTENTIONING,CHAKRAS,JOURNEYING,VISUALIZATION
AND OTHER TOOLS FOR GROWTH,HEALING, CONNECTION,CONSCIOUSNESS AND COMMUNICATION.

Class fee $30

ALSO EVERY SUNDAY: 30 MINUTE REIKI SESSIONS
between 12 and 2 - appointment required. COME ONE TIME(for
Reiki sessions) OR COME WEEKLY FOR
DE-STRESSING,HEALING,GROUNDING AND RELAXATION.
(30 minutes/$30)

Reiki is a tool that you can use everyday and can
be used at will for the rest of your life. Reiki is a
healing energy that may be used by anyone for
physical, emotional, or spiritual change or healing.
Once you are attuned by a Reiki master you can use
it any time you wish. It is known for its complete
simplicity.
Reiki speeds healing time, lowers blood pressure,
reduces stress, and helps manage pain. Reiki has
been reported anecdotally to cure serious illnesses.
Reiki can be applied to another, to oneself or to
animals.
Reiki increases the health of the body, enhances
happiness and fulfillment and helps create a
peaceful mind. Reiki has been found to create calmness,
restore health, increase intuition, restore clarity, and
aid in rejuvenation and recovery. It works
synergistically with and enhances any other healing modality,
including western medicine, and never interferes
with their workings or effectiveness.
Reiki requires no change in your belief system.
Separate from Reiki energy, Reiki principles help
you focus, gain clarity, appreciate your life, work
toward your goals and create the life you want to live.

ALSO AVAILABLE: Reiki attunement classes,
holistic healing sessions, counseling,professional massage
therapy, shamanic healing, chakra balancing, nutrition
and fitness consulting,personal training, and 75 minute reiki sessions.

Please message me or call with any questions or to schedule sessions.

Chris Diaz is a holistic practitioner,teacher,guide,counselor,coach,mystic,health and nutrition consultant,activist,culture healer and proprietor of Unicornsong Healing and Wellness Services.

Welcome,

Chriss B
510-830-5836

posted in East Bay Yoga - 0 replies

New Members, please check in!

2006-12-26T21:04:16Z

Folks--

--A whole lotta new people have joined! Welcome!

--What's your practice. Do you have a home studio, and if you do, what types of Yoga are taught there? I love to explore, and it would be helpful to have folks make recommendations. I'll start.

I have a daily Asana, Mantra, and Meditation practice. I teach part-time, and am quickly moving toward teaching full-time!

My 'home studio', where I took teacher training and currently teach Youth Yoga is Yoga Mandala in Berkeley. It's located on Telegraph (near Stuart St. and Willard Jr High). They specialize in Tantrik Hatha Yoga, and also have classes in Kundalini, Vinyasa, Pre-Natal, and Kushti styles. They also offer workshops in Ayurveda and philosophy, as well as message and Ayurvedic consultations. And they have the biggest collection of hard-to-find books on Yoga anywhere I've seen!!! Yoga as a spiritual practice is taken very seriously here, adn the main studio is a consecrated temple to Shiva! www.yogamandalastudio.com

I teach adult classes at Life Stretch Yoga in Fremont. It's a small studio located at the corner of Fremont Blvd and Peralta. They have Hatha, Ashtanga, Kundalini, Pre-Natal, and Hot Yoga styles. Occasionally, they also have weekend workshops. So far as I know, it is the only public studio offering traditional Yoga Asana classes for quite a distance. Very sweet group of people, and a 'family' vibe. www.lifestretchyoga.com

posted in East Bay Yoga - 0 replies

Prenatal classes?

2006-12-06T07:52:30Z

I'm dropping my current Pilates class in Berkeley and would love to find a good prenatal Yoga class closer to home. I'm in Moraga, and will probably be looking in Lafayette and Orinda.

Although I work in Berkeley, and it seems like *all* of the studios are there, I'm not liking having to go to a class right after work (I'm starving and tired after work). I'd rather go on the weekends or at my own convenience later in the evening. I'm considering just getting a DVD and practicing at home, but I live in a tiny apartment with not a lot of open space for exercise.

Anyway, of the studios I've checked out, all of the prenatal classes seem to be during weekday mornings and early afternoons. Am I the only one who is working full-time here? Who are these pregnant woman that are free on a Tuesday at 10am? I'm jealous!

Any tips would be much appreciated!

posted in East Bay Yoga - 1 reply

Gathering of Yoga Teachers & Studios

2006-10-23T04:31:36Z

Folks--

--I just picked up a copy of this flyer at the studio where I teach. Sounds cool!

~~~~~~~~~~
Yogi Times
and the East Bay Yoga Collective present:

Autumn Gathering of Yoga Teachers & Studios

Sunday, Nov 5, 11:00am-2:30pm.
@Berkeley Yoga Center
www.berkeleyyoga.com
2121 Bonar St., Studio C, Berkeley.

11:30-1:00pm: Kundalini Yoga with Iris Castle (Swaran Kaur)
1:00pm-2:30pm: Potluck. Please bring a vegitarian dish to share. We will provide drinks and paper goods.

FREE!

posted in East Bay Yoga - 0 replies

christian yogis

2006-10-10T04:36:21Z

Anyone else do hatha yoga and follow JC? How do you feel about chants and mantras? I'm not so sure I want to join in with some of the chants at the beginning of some classes. I mean, Ganesh is adorable and all, but I don't know if I want to go any further than that.

posted in East Bay Yoga - 0 replies

For the Peaceful

2006-09-19T17:17:43Z

"To the peaceful a house is like a forest and to the restless even a forest is like a crowded city." --Vasistha's Yoga.

--Before I began to practice yoga, I would get 'stircrazy' or a certain kind of 'wanderlust' a few times a year. I'd have to jump on a sailboat or surfboard, or go on a road trip or a long hike to shake off this feeling of stagnation and/or claustrophobia.

--After practicing for a couple years, I realized that I wasn't taking so many trips, wasn't getting this 'boxed-in" feeling, had no need to escape.

--When I saw this quote, it really resonated with me. Anyone else have this experience?

posted in East Bay Yoga - 0 replies

Weekly Ayurvedic Massage Class in SF

2006-09-15T01:59:09Z

Prana Touch Ayurvedic Massage meets weekly at Medicine Buddha Tea House in the Mission district of SF.
We are a short block from Rainbow grocery and 3 blocks to BART.

We meet every Wednesday from 6-9 pm. Learn Ayurvedic massage and 4 Handed massage in a relaxed and supportive environment.

The whole series is covered in 12 classes. We repeat the series 4 times each year. Every class is held on a drop-in basis so if you miss a class you can come back in 3 months and take it then.

We meet weekly to give you the chance to practice and integrate the information, no intensives here.

Your instructor trained in Kerala, India, this class remains true to those teachings.

www.pranatouch.com

First class is $30, each additional class is $45

posted in East Bay Yoga - 1 reply

Favorite East Bay Teachers

2006-09-09T05:17:36Z

Wow! There's over one hundred of us in this tribe! Why aren't we chatting?

Okay, here's a juicy question:

--Please list your favorite East Bay yoga teacher(s) and WHY.
--If you don't write WHY they are your favorite, I'll exercise my immese moderator powers and delete the post!

posted in East Bay Yoga - 0 replies

yoga suggestions in San Ramon/Dublin

2006-07-16T18:30:06Z

Does anyone have any information about a good yoga place in San Ramon/Dublin. We are new to the area and I am a new mom. I am looking for a peaceful sanctuary!

posted in East Bay Yoga - 0 replies

Yoga Teacher Training Issuing I-20 Forms

2006-06-04T18:32:41Z

I really need to find yoga teacher training within the bay area (east bay would be best) that issue I-20 forms as part of their teacher training program. Any ideas?

If this is too big an ask, please fill me in on where the hatha and sivananda yoga teacher training schools are, preferably in the east bay area.

posted in East Bay Yoga - 0 replies

Yoga and McDonald's...

2006-05-31T15:52:31Z

---So I'm curious what people think... McDonald's has animated characters doing Asana to promote their new salads. AND they're offering fitness DVD's, including one for Yoga.

--Has anyone seen the DVD? The commercial? What do you think?

posted in East Bay Yoga - 1 reply

Ayurveda and Asana

2006-04-23T21:48:28Z

Folks--

--As part of a Hatha Yoga teacher training I took, we were taught some fundamentals of Ayurveda. I've found it has helped my practice tremendously! The more I learn and practice, the more it makes sense and helps me understand the whys and hows of Asana. In fact, understanding the doshas helps teaching, too!

--I've been a bit shocked, while surfing around on tribe.net, at how many people in various yoga tribes appear to have had no exposure to Ayurvedic principles.

--One of my teachers claimed that a basic understanding of Ayurveda is practically a necessity to reach enlightenment through the practice of Hatha Yoga.

--I'm curious, does anyone else on this tribe share this view? What influence does Ayurveda have on your practice?

posted in East Bay Yoga - 3 replies

Yoga in Oakland near 19th St BART?

2006-04-20T03:46:12Z

hi all!

is there a yoga studio near 19th and Broadway in Oakland that YOU are stoked on? if so, let me know, cause i wanna join!

thanks!

posted in East Bay Yoga - 0 replies

Massage?

2006-04-13T19:20:04Z

My ayurvedic consultant has recommended massage for me. I'm curious what other folks think...

Is regular massage a necessity for yogis? Nice if you can afford it? Or frivolous luxury?

posted in East Bay Yoga - 0 replies

Yoga In Fremont

2006-04-12T23:33:25Z

Folks--

--Just want to let you all know about a wonderful little studio in Fremont. Most of the people I've chatted with don't know about it yet.

http://www.lifestretchyoga.com

--Much much more than just a yoga-flavored workout gym. The teachers are skilled and emphasize traditional practice.

--An energetic new owner just bough the studio and has big plans to include more styles of yoga, more workshops and activities.

--I started going there after visiting my relatives nearby. Now I teach two Vinyasa classes a week, on Mondays and Thursdays from 5:45-7:00. There's lots of parking nearby. Please stop by and say hi!

posted in East Bay Yoga - 0 replies

Yoga's not helping me!

2006-04-09T21:34:29Z

I think I have finally figured out why I've been struggling with this:

I've been trying Yoga for a while now, and while I do enjoy the quiet time for myself, it hasn't seemed to make a difference in my life the way people claim it does for them. I am just as stiff, achy, and my back hurts just as before. I even find it difficult to do sitting meditation, as I do not feel comfortable at all sitting in a half lotus or even a half assed position seated on the floor. It hurts to keep my back straight, and I end up with a headache.

So I went to the doctor. I was concerned about the back aches that I experienced daily as well as the fact that Yoga didn't help me all that much. I knew that I had been diagnosed with Scoliosis in middle school, but nothing came of it. Now I'm diagnosed with Lordosis, a curvature of the spine that is different from (and often misdiagnosed as) scoliosis.

So my issue is this: it is harder for me than for the average person to sit up straight to meditate and hold yoga positions, due to a swayback (if I lie on a hard floor, there is a space between my butt and my upper back) and uneven rib cage.

No wonder Yoga didn't feel as amazing to me as is does for other people! I was so excited to start classes just to find that I still didn't have all this energy and flexibility that everyone claims they get from it. My body was still fighting gravity and Yoga just felt like a chore. Once I found out about the Lordosis, everything made sense.

So do any of you have any advice on Yoga poses or classes that are designed for people with scoliosis/lordosis or something similar? Surely I can't be the only one with limited posture?

What a bummer.

posted in East Bay Yoga - 6 replies

Noontime community yoga in richmond view/el cerrito area

2006-04-03T04:51:12Z

I have room for up to 4 folks to practice, Thursdays, noon - 1, at my house in Richmond View. All levels welcome, including aspiring teachers such as myself, who are interested in gaining experience leading classes. My practice is primarily, vinyasa flow, and am influenced by iyengar, ashtanga and anusara.

Send a message if you're interested and I'll forward more info.

posted in East Bay Yoga - 0 replies

3/10-3/12 Kirtan Concerts/ Naad (Yoga of Sound) Workshops with Sat Kartar

2006-03-07T18:02:46Z

I am a BIG fan of Sat Kartar's...and have personally experienced her Naad Workshops...and her concerts and I have always had quite a cosmic experience...She has several CD's out but I heard that she waitied 30 years to make this one....it is very dear to her heart and you can hear it in the Naad..

Sat Kartar Kaur has performed, taught, and recorded sacred music worldwide for over 30 years. Her muti-faith chant gatherings range from ethereal devotion, to groove-driven mantra dance anthems; she and her band garner audience participation, from chant meditations with breath and mudra, to ecstatic call and response kirtan with an invitation to dance...Come experience the Naad.

OK here's what her flyer reads:
Kirtan/ Chant:

Friday 3/10 7:30pm to 9:30pm @ Open Secrets Bookstore $15
923 C St, San Rafael, CA 94901 info: 415-457-4191

Sat 3/11 8-10pm Piedmont Yoga $15
3966 Piedmont Ave, Oakland, CA info : 510-652-3336

Yoga of Sound Workshops:/ Naad Yoga

Sat 3/11 1-4pm, @ Yoga Tree (Hayes)
519 Hayes St, San Francisco, CA 94102
$40 Advance / $50 @ door
info: 415-626-9707

Sun 3/12 1:30pm -4:30pm Piedmont Yoga
3966 Piedmont Ave, Oakland, CA
$40 prepaid week in advance/ $50 after
info: 510-652-3336

see you there..> Sat Kartar Kaur is really a totally Groovy and inspiring woman!

posted in East Bay Yoga - 0 replies

Message Recommendations?

2006-02-14T15:34:09Z

Folks--

--Just got back from a Message. It was done by Jeffrey Cope, at Yoga Mandala. It was great! He specializes in injuries, and is very attentive and precise. But honestly, I've gotten so few messages, it's tough to compare!

--One of my teachers told me that getting a message, for a yogi, is like getting a tune-up for your car. It should be done regularly. So I'm going to try and "get over" the idea that message is an indulgence, but rather a "occupational requirement". LOL.

--Does anyone else feel this way? Who are your favorite messeuses?

chaz

posted in East Bay Yoga - 1 reply

west oakland yoga open house thurs 2/9

2006-02-07T19:04:22Z

if anyone is interested in checking out West Oakland Yoga hhttp://www.westoaklandyoga.com/studio.html , they are having an open house this Thursday from 6-9:00 p.m.

no class - just go to check out the space and meet the teachers. 1725 Peralta St. - near Mandela / Grand Ave.

posted in East Bay Yoga - 0 replies

What kind of Yoga?

2006-01-04T07:07:38Z

Folks--

--Membership of this tribe is slowly but steadily increasing. Welcome!

--I'm curious: what kind of Yoga do each of us practice? And where?

posted in East Bay Yoga - 8 replies

Diego Del Sol Yoga Teaching Intensive

2005-12-28T23:47:17Z

Diego Del Sol Yoga Teacher Training Intensive in San Francisco
January 9th to February 10th
9am to 4pm
Limited Space available!
Call 415.503.1100 for more information.

Morning sessions (9-12pm) is available as well!

$2100- Intensive only
$2600- Intensive with meals (Lunch and Dinner)
$4000- One Taste Immersion Program

Come join SF Magazine's Best Private Yoga Teacher (2004) as he starts his first intensive at One Taste. For more information, please visit www.diegodelsol.com and www.onetastesf.com.

Intensive Description
The Tantric Yoga Flow teacher training has the intention of creating meaningful, insightful, and lasting benefits for students. It will be an opportunity to deepen one's practice and understanding of yoga. We will be learning the art of cultivating vitality, power, and contentment. Students will learn and practice ancient movement and meditation techniques that are adaptable to all levels of ability, as well as the art of teaching these gifts to others.

Over the course of the training we will continue to expand our familiarity with many ancient and modern practices that flow with and reinforce each other into a comprehensive system of health and vitality. By the end of the training, students will have experienced new levels and dimensions of self and have practical and enjoyable ways of creating mindfulness and insight with their practice, their teaching and their lives. Students will experience a significant improvement and boost in strength, stamina, fluidity, patience, balance and light. It is these seeds of well being that keep one's practice connected to our daily reality and sprout into an inspired self.

The teacher training will provide what is most helpful, meaningful and insightful from a vast array of different sources and branches of yoga. Yoga is alive and breathing and adaptable to each person every time they practice. Students will be learning, practicing and teaching ancient and modern techniques for ultimate health in an intuitive and balanced way that maximizes the benefits of our practice. We will explore both new and ancient t vinyasa, kundalini, Sun Salutations, pranayama, bandhas, asaanas, concentration techniques, meditation, yoga nidra, mantra, dance of shiva, yoga sutras of Patanjali, principles of alignment and other elemental practices for health and wellness

posted in East Bay Yoga - 0 replies

Purna Avatara?

2005-10-04T05:29:21Z

Folks--

--Here's an interesting event, that I pulled off the "Goddessence" tribe. The moderator, who posted it, seems like a very sweet person and dedicated practitioner.
http://goddessence.tribe.net
--I don't have much experience with "purna avataras", but it is a local event , and FREE, so I figured I'd check it out!

chaz

~~~~~~~~~~~~~
so at long last all you Bay Area buddies and Los Angelenos (or LA-adjacent, like Mexico City -- *grinning* and waving at Rasa!), Denveristas and Maui Wowees can check out Sri Sai Kaleshwara Swami, the beautiful & extraordinary teacher from South India with whom I've studied over the last seven years, for yourselves.

www.kaleshwar.org/usa for information -- and what's particularly cool (there are so many cool things but I'll confine myself to a few) is that on the flyers they're sending out -- the second page of which is on the kaleshwar.org/usa site, under a 'second page' link, it's explained now that his lineage, his guru parampara, includes such massive spiritual figures as Sri Ramakrishna, Ramana Maharshi, Jesus and Shirdi Baba.

(I'm relieved there's no need to keep quiet about those connections any more.)

the second cool thing is that he rarely visits the US. unlike other saints, he doesn't come to give three-day retreats, he doesn't linger to spend time with people over weeks -- he comes in like a bullet, gets his work done, boom, boom, boom, utterly efficiently and with maximum efficacy -- and then he's gone in a flash. plus the events are free! yippee!

the third and wholly personally cool thing -- and shamelessly thrilling, from my point of view -- is that The Mystic JAMMS Band, our very own homegrown bhajan/kirtan/sacred song band here in Santa Cruz, CA, will be leading bhajans with the audience participation, before the events in San Francisco and in Los Angeles. never imagined it would be possible.

if you have the chance to see him, or if you're interested in what being around a purna avatara feels like, if you need healing on any level (emotional, physical, psychological, spiritual), or if you're just bizarrely curious about his energy for no definable reason -- it's a rare opportunity. my feeling: jump on it. you won't be disappointed.

Alx

posted in East Bay Yoga - 0 replies

Mysore Class

2005-10-04T05:23:34Z

Folks--

--Took the Mysore-style Ashtanga class this morning at 7th Heaven in Berkeley. It's VERY different from a conventional Vinyasa class or 'Power Yoga' class. Each student proceeds at their own pace, and most of the instruction is silent. The teacher, Vance, is terrific. If you have any interest in Ashtanga, or have taken Vinyasa-style classes but have never done an actual Mysore class, I HIGHLY recommend it, in spite of the 7am start time.

posted in East Bay Yoga - 3 replies

New to Yoga

2005-09-30T23:49:48Z

While I've taken basic Hatha Yoga courses in early college, it's been a while. I've really been craving yogic exercise lately and am planning on signing up for classes. I work near downtown Berkeley and live in Moraga: does anyone know of any good studios in either area? Preferably in Berkeley, but weekend drop-ins might be a nice thing closer to home.

Also--I am a novice and a little nervous about not knowing what classes to sign up for. What are the differences between Astanga yoga, Bikram yoga, etc? I'm interested in yoga for stress-reduction, exercise as well as spiritual reasons.

any help would be great!

posted in East Bay Yoga - 2 replies

partner yoga

2005-05-11T00:56:33Z

hi,
has anyone seen any partner yoga workshops offered in the east bay? Thanks!

posted in East Bay Yoga - 5 replies

Teacher Training

2005-04-22T00:55:07Z

I'm now in week 3 of a four-month teacher training program at Yoga Mandala.
For anyone out there who is a regular practitioner that hasn't taken a teacher training course or a similar type of immersion, I con't recommend it highly enough. Some things (heck, MANY things) cannot be tought in a regular asana class.
Specifically, Yoga Mandala's program (so far) is very heavy on the cultural, historical, and spiritual information. It may not be for everyone, but it's been a delight for me to find out the reason for so many seemingly insignificant teachings. Why, for example, does the Ashtanga series have you start each posture on the right side, and why is that not always appropriate? Why do so many yogi's have such negative feelings toward Bikram Yoga? Why does Iyengar give dire warnings and so many teachers avoid teaching pranayama?
Also, unless you have a bunch of friends who also practice yoga, it is a joy to have a group of people to discuss the ideas, the changes you go through, the impact of a yoga practice on one's daily life.

posted in East Bay Yoga - 0 replies

Ashtanga Primary Series

2005-04-16T23:36:57Z

I want a t-shirt that says:

"I survived the Primary Series!"

barely.

That was a freakishly difficult experience!

But so very valuable. Sri Patthibi Jois will be visiting SF in April, and I wanted to see if I my practice was strong enough for me to attend one of his classes. A teacher suggested I go this Sunday to a full Primary class and find out.

So I took an Ashtanga class at 7th Heaven this morning. It was a 'Led' Primary Series class meaning we all moved together in a set order in a set rhythm, as opposed to 'Mysore Style', which is silently conducted at your own personal pace.

7th Heaven is, of course, a fantastic space to practice. It looks like a file-cabinet warehouse from the outside, but it's warm and colorful and clean inside, with three large studios, lots of resources, and many many classes.

The instructor, Vance Selover, was much more patient with me that I thought possible. He doesn't normally conduct classes this way, but wanted to give his students a chance to test the experience, and practice for Jois' visit. What's odd is that I've seen video of Jois teaching, and Vance not only emulates the style of teaching, but the actual tone of Jois' voice!

I've taken many 'Ashtanga' style classes, 'Power Yoga' classes, and 'Vinyasa' classes. So I was familiar with most of the poses. But the full Primary is in a whole different league from a regular level 1-3 class.

That said, if you've been thinking about it, and you can hang tough in an 'intermediate' vinyasa class, then go for it. Even if you don't think you can pull off all the poses. There's a certain power to the group dynamic. I did many postures for the first time today.

But keep in mind you CAN'T guess how hard this is from looking at a book. Memorizing the poses is helpful, but doesn't make it easier. There's so much going on with the pace of class, the transitions, the half-vinyasas, and the internal heat you build that can't be conveyed in a book.

Oh, and if you haven't done this style of yoga, wait. Take some classes in this style first.

If you're struggling in an intermediate class, try taking a "Half Primary" class. Or you can always sit out the second half of class. At least four students did today. In Ashtanga, if you can't do a pose, you aren't allowed to skip ahead to the next one... you must pick up your mat and move to the other side of the room and observe the rest of class.

Most of the students in class had very muscular physiques, some looked like crazy comic book characters they were so ripped. But there was also a couple skinny folks like me and one 62-year-old lady in front who was kicking ass throughout class. She encouraged me to come back, "This is a very nice group!"

So I think I'll sign up to take a "Half Primary" class with Jois. I don't think anyone expects to get a lot of attention in a 200-person class from the legendary gurji. I'd just like to see him in the flesh, to experience the group dynamic, remind myself that this morning's experience wasn't a dream or a nightmare but something I can remember and improve upon.

And I'll probably come back to 7th Heaven for a Mysore class.

Oh, and next time, I won't forget to BREATHE!

posted in East Bay Yoga - 2 replies

Copyrighting Yoga?

2005-03-30T06:00:30Z

I'm a regular at Funky Door in Berkeley. I think the Bikram sequence is terrific for what it is good for... Leg strength, back strength, and de-tox. That said, it sometimes seems like Bikram is his own worst enemy:

www.motherjones.com/news/dis...h/2005/03/Money_Pose.html

~~~~~~~~~

And here's an article in the LA Times Magazine...

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Bikram goes to the mat
By copyrighting a sequence of yoga poses, a guru upset the discipline's harmonic balance. Now he's in court.
By Hilary E. MacGregor
Times Staff Writer

March 21, 2005

If yoga has been around for 5,000 years, can a 21st century businessman claim to own a piece of it? Bikram Choudhury says yes.

The flamboyant Beverly Hills yoga mogul, who popularized his style of yoga and then franchised a chain of studios bearing his name, has long rankled traditionalists, who dislike his tough business tactics and brash outspokenness. Now Choudhury is facing a challenge in a San Francisco courtroom, where a federal judge is hearing arguments in a lawsuit that some legal experts say could define a new frontier in intellectual property. At issue: Can Choudhury take a sequence of two breathing exercises and 26 yoga poses from an ancient Indian practice, copyright it and control how it is practiced?

The legal protection he is allowed may depend on whether yoga is defined as an exercise regimen, a sport, a spiritual practice or a choreographed form of expression, like music or dance. The case, says UCLA law professor Neil Netanel, "really depends on an issue that isn't covered in the law: What is the nature of yoga?"

Some legal experts believe the case could have broader implications, not just for yoga but for many forms of physical exercise.

Stanford University Law School professor Paul Goldstein said a decision in Choudhury's favor would have "clear implications for any other activity that entails a combination of movement and environment," such as choreography or martial arts. "It could also have implications for basketball plays, or football plays, if it were decided that way."

Adds Jim Harrison, a Sacramento attorney representing a group of yoga teachers and students who filed the lawsuit against Choudhury challenging his copyright claims, "If Bikram is successful, people will run to copyright bench-pressing and stepping."

Choudhury's yoga is made up of a sequence of 26 postures (each of which is performed twice during a single class) and two breathing exercises. These postures are culled from 84 classical postures and more than 10,000 combinations.

In Bikram classes, the room is heated to more than 100 degrees, he says, to work bodies like a blacksmith.

Choudhury says his sequence, practiced exactly the way he instructs, has medical, mental and spiritual benefits. He claims it can lower blood pressure and cholesterol, cure arthritis, and heal reproductive and spinal problems.

He also claims to have revived the athletic careers of Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and John McEnroe and to have cured former President Richard Nixon of phlebitis.

While legions of lithe practitioners swear by the health benefits of his yoga, Choudhury offers no more than anecdotal evidence that his sequence of poses, performed in a sweat-laden room, offers any of the benefits he claims.

There are currently more than 1,300 Bikram Yoga studios around the world (about 1,200 of them in the United States), taught by certified Bikram Yoga teachers. Choudhury estimates that 400 of them teach their classes correctly —that is, according to the way he prescribes. The rest offer modified versions of his program, with various levels of adherence to his sequence of poses, room temperature and other rules. Also, many gyms and studios offer hot yoga, sometimes calling it Bikram yoga, with teachers both certified and not.

Choudhury doesn't like it when others mess with his system.

"My system works, as long as people let me do my job my way," he said. "It is not just the sequence, it is how you do it: the timing, the mirrors, the temperature, the carpet. But if people only do it 99% right, it is 100% wrong. When someone tries to mess with it, the people won't get the yoga benefits. Then it is just calisthenic exercise, like running, jogging or swimming."

Many in the yoga world contend that Choudhury has done nothing more than take 26 yoga moves and put them in sequence. Many classic and modern yoga styles involve sequences. But no one's ever claimed exclusive ownership of them and tried to control their practice through copyright.

Choudhury has tried various legal maneuvers to protect what he considers his intellectual property. For example, teachers at his franchised studios are supposed to follow an approved text, or "dialogue," that he has copyrighted. He has also copyrighted the name of his studios (Bikram's College of India) and the name of his yoga program (Bikram Yoga).

John Marcoux, an intellectual property lawyer who runs two Bikram studios in Chicago and who advises Choudhury on various legal issues, says Choudhury is trying to "keep the yoga pure."

"What he is doing is like copyrighting a song," Marcoux said. "It is not the notes, but the way you sequence the notes, that distinguish Beethoven from the Beatles."

In 2002, Choudhury began to crack down on those who tinkered with his teaching formula. His attorney sent out cease-and-desist letters to numerous studios teaching Bikram yoga, accusing them of violating his rules. In February 2003, according to court documents, Choudhury posted a notice on his website that he had obtained a copyright registration for his asana sequence. The notice warned of possible legal action against violators.

"Virtually all modifications or additions to the sequence will constitute copyright infringement, including: the unauthorized use of even a small number of consecutive postures; the addition of different postures or breathing exercises to the sequence or portions of the sequence; the teaching or offering of the sequence with or without the Dialogue; or by addition of extra elements to the sequence, like music." The posting also said Choudhury would seek damages up to $150,000 for each infringement.

After he sued an Orange County yoga studio for copyright and trademark infringement in 2002, a small group of yogis went on the counterattack. Taking a page from the "open source" movement in the computer software world, they called themselves "Open Source Yoga Unity."

The group is headed by Vanessa Calder, 28, a yoga teacher who learned the 26-pose Bikram sequence from her parents without getting formal certification. (Her parents, who own four Yoga Loka studios in Northern California, received one of Choudhury's cease-and-desist letters in 2002.)

Open Source Yoga has about two dozen members, mostly teachers or students of Bikram and other styles of yoga. Most choose to remain anonymous because they are afraid that Choudhury may sue them if their identities are known, said Calder, the group's chief executive.

In July 2003, Open Source filed a suit in U.S. District Court in San Francisco, asking the judge to declare that Bikram could not use his copyrights to stop others from practicing or teaching classes that used the Bikram sequence of poses.

At a hearing in January, the attorneys finally stood before Judge Phyllis Hamilton and argued the main issue in the case: What is the scope of Choudhury's copyright protection?

On one side of the courtroom sat Choudhury, self-proclaimed yogi to the stars, in pinstriped suit, a diamond-studded watch on his wrist, a pink silk handkerchief peeking out of his breast pocket. On the other side, dressed in a flowing Indian print skirt, sat Calder, surrounded by several supportive yoga students and teachers.

As the lawyers for both sides argued their cases, Hamilton struggled with Indian names and yogic concepts, and with what exactly was at stake. "This is a very unusual case," Hamilton began. "I don't even know what is being sought. Am I pronouncing this correctly? Bikram?"

"Your honor, we are looking for a judgment that yoga teachers may teach the sequence described in this book ["Bikram's Beginning Yoga Class"] without infringing on Mr. Choudhury's copyright," said Open Source's lead lawyer, Elizabeth Rader, a Palo Alto attorney specializing in intellectual property cases. "My clients want to be able to teach the exercise, the method of fitness, described in this book."

Representing Choudhury, Palo Alto attorney Susan Hollander —also an intellectual property specialist —sought to persuade Judge Hamilton to force the Open Source members to reveal their identities and explain how they are interpreting the "Bikram's Yoga" sequence so the court could determine whether that interpretation is "significantly similar" to Bikram's.

"To this day we do not know what the members of O.S.Y.U. are doing," Hollander told the judge. "So we can see if one pose has been altered, or two …. We want them to tell us."

"I imagine they were reluctant to say who they are if he [Bikram] only sues people who are doing that," Hamilton responded.

Hollander contends that yoga is no different from music or any other form of expression.

"There's nothing special about yoga which should make it special or in some way removed from copyright law," she said. "In my view it is just a form of expression that has public domain elements to it."

That view is a stretch to some yoga enthusiasts. "To say that, basically, a tradition of working with the body can be somebody's intellectual property —no matter how they put them together —seems pretty bizarre," said Deborah Willoughby, founding editor of Yoga International, a magazine that focuses on the spiritual aspects of yoga. "It's a violation of the spirit of yoga."

Copyright law does not extend to an idea or process; it only addresses the way an idea is actually expressed. That means a book, video or photograph can be copyrighted, but teaching a recipe written in a cookbook, for example, could not.

Athletic movements, such as a basketball star's signature slam-dunk, cannot be copyrighted because sports games are unscripted and have unanticipated occurrences.

"I'm not aware of anyone who has successfully done what Bikram is trying to do," said Netanel, who has discussed the case in his law classes. "Which is, through the guise of copyrighting photographs or descriptions of an exercise method, to control the practice of yoga."

Hamilton is expected to rule on the copyright issue this spring

Some of Open Source's executive board members studied with Choudhury but have since struck out on their own, creating new sequences and styles of yoga —with a definite Bikram influence. They are among the most outspoken of his critics.

Ted Grand studied with Choudhury in 1999 and started four Bikram studios in Canada. Grand built studios with radiant heating panels, reclaimed hardwood floors from old gyms, and nontoxic paint. "Bikram was very upset with us for not putting carpet down in the yoga room, and threatened to sue," he said.

Rather than fight, Grand came up with his own sequence of about 40 poses —done in a hot room —and created a small chain of studios. He called his new style Moksha Yoga.

Jimmy Barkan, of Fort Lauderdale, Fla., also teaches yoga based on his experience with Choudhury. He calls his classes "Hot Yoga With Jimmy Barkan" but has not changed the sign outside his studio, which reads "Yoga College of India."

"Bikram brought this style of yoga to this country, and for that I will be forever grateful," said Barkan, who says a phone call from Choudhury forbidding him to teach at certain yoga conferences and vacations prompted him to break away from the franchise. "He is extremely passionate and charismatic. And when he is on, he is extremely inspiring."

Added Barkan: "We just didn't want to be looking over our shoulders all the time. We want the freedom to be able to do whatever we want. We did not want policemen to come into the studio and say, 'This is an illegal class; you are not allowed to do this triangle at this time.' "

posted in East Bay Yoga - 0 replies

New Member Here...

2005-03-10T18:16:40Z

so, i thought i would introduce myself to you. i moved up to the East Bay in October from San Diego and helped to start up an ashram for Tantra Yoga International (www.tantrayogainternational.org). We're located in Oakland, near Lake Merritt. Most of us are new to the area and yoga world up here and would love to meet people.

We're hosting an event this Saturday night called the Shiva Lounge...I will post more information in the events section since I'm not sure if this is the place for that.

Namaste.

posted in East Bay Yoga - 2 replies

Yoga Studios in Berkeley.

2005-03-02T22:28:49Z

Yoga Studios in Berkeley.
(There are many listings for instructors, these are just public studios I could find online. These are not recommendations! Just listings.)

Downtown Berkeley YMCA Berkeley
("Yoga", Restorative, Pre-Natal, Intermediate, TriYoga, Water Yoga, Raja Yoga, Kundalini)
http://www.baymca.org/index.php
2001 Allston Way
Berkeley, CA 94704
510.848.9622

Berkeley Yoga Center Berkeley
(Ashtanga, Iyengar, Vinyasa, pre-natal.)
http://www.berkeleyyoga.com/
1250 Addison Street, Suite 209
Berkeley, CA 94702
(510) 843-8784

Flow Like a River Yoga
(Kripalu/Kundalini, Sivananda, Gentle Yoga, specializing in Beginners, Seniors, Parent/Child, Pre-Natal)
http://www.flowlikeariveryoga.com/
2718 Telegraph Ave
Berkeley, CA. 94705
510.841.0651

Fourth Street Yoga Berkeley
(many Inyengar instructors, Hatha, ashtanga vinyasa)
http://www.4thstreetyoga.com
1809C 4th St.
Berkeley, CA 94710
(510) 845-YOGA

Funky Door Yoga
(Bikram)
http://www.funkydooryoga.com
2567 Shattuck Ave.
Berkeley, CA 94704
510-204-9642

Inner Heat Yoga
(Shadow Yoga, Ashtanga Yoga)
http://www.innerheatyoga.com
64 Shattuck Square.
Berkeley, CA.
510-540-YOGA

Mandala Yoga
(Hatha, Vinyasa, Kundalini, Hanuman Yoga/Wrestling, Ayurveda, Tantric studies, Philosophy classes, Sanskrit, as well as Qi Gong/T'ai Chi and Kung Fu)
http://www.yogamandalastudio.com
2807 Telegraph Ave.
Berkeley, CA.
(510) 486-1989

Sacred Space Yoga Sanctuary
(Kundalini, Hatha)
http://sacredspaceyogasanctuary.com
510-486-8700

7th Heaven Body Awareness Center
(Hatha, Ashtanga, Mysore-Style Ashtanga, Vinyasa, Anusara, Yin Yoga, Kundalini, Pre & Post-Natal, Vipassana Meditation, Advanced Ashtanga)
http://www.7thheavenyoga.com
2820 Seventh Street
Berkeley, CA 94710
510-665-4300

Tantric College of America, Berkeley
(Kashmir Shaivite Tantra)
http://www.tantriccollege.org/
Campus opening soon.
Classes at Mandala Yoga.
(323) 244-7480

Vishnu-devananda Yoga Vedanta Center
(Sivananda-style Yoga, Meditation, Odissi Dance)
http://www.vishnuyoga.org
1034 Delaware St. (near San Pablo & University)
Berkeley, CA 94710
(510) 273 - 2447

The Yoga Room
(Iyengar)
http://www.yogaroomberkeley.com
2640 College Avenue/Julia Morgan Center
Berkeley, CA 94704
510-273-9273

Yoga Kula
(Anasura, Tai Chi, Sanskrit, Meditation, Philosophy)
http://www.yogakula.com
1700 Shattuck Ave
at Virginia, 2nd Floor
Berkeley, CA 94710
510 486 0264
1 866 YOGAKULA

The Yoga Source Berkeley
(closed?)

Yogalayam
(General Yoga, Master classes, Nutrition, Philosophy)
http://www.yogalayam.org
1717 Alcatraz Av
Berkeley, CA 94703
(510) 655-3664

posted in East Bay Yoga - 3 replies

New Studio in Albany ~ Vara Healing Arts

2005-03-01T21:04:13Z

I forgot to post the address...

Vara Healing Arts
850 Talbot Avenue @ Solano
Albany, Ca 94706
510-526-YOGA (9642)
www.HealingArts.us
vara@healingarts.us

posted in East Bay Yoga - 1 reply

Yoga Kula

2005-01-11T08:06:52Z

Went to Yoga Kula the other day. This month, they are offering any and all classes for just $10 each. What a deal!
http://www.yogakula.com/

Classes at the studio are mainly Anasura, though other movement arts, philosophy classes, and other events are also scheduled.

If you haven't tried Anasura, I suggest giving it a shot. It seems to be a blend of several traditions, with a greater emphasis on alignment and 'internal rotation' than most Ashtanga or flow classes, and more movement and flow than most Iyengar classes. A proactive positive attitude seems to be an intrinsic part of the Anasura tradition. This is a new style of Yoga, and very trendy. But it does not appear (to me) to be mere hype. It's legit.

I took a 'lunchtime' class that lasted only an hour, went downstairs and ate at the Himalayan restaurant. They gave me a discount when I mentioned I took a class upstairs!

They are located in the 'Gourmet Ghetto' district of Berkeley, North of University on Shattuck Ave. It's a very clean, pleasant, upstairs room with white walls, lots of windows, and a small altar to Shiva in the corner. Synthetic wood floors. Dressing rooms. Attached is a small office and gift store.

posted in East Bay Yoga - 0 replies

Yoga Haiku

2004-12-30T00:21:40Z

Sitting in Lotus:
wallet in my right pocket
makes me unbalanced.

posted in East Bay Yoga - 0 replies

Berkeley Yoga Center

2004-12-15T23:11:47Z

Berkeley Yoga Center

It was tough getting up out of bed at 6:30 after a late night working. I'm thankful for my Wife and her internal clock! Grabbed a glass of water, brushed my teeth, got dressed, and got moving with little time to spare. This was a 7:15 class with a specific instructor that a friend had recommended highly. Due to my schedule, this was only class of hers I could try.
The bike ride downhill to Strawberry Creek Park, where the studio is located, was a joy because of the thick fog. I love fog! I love how it transforms familiar landscapes and makes houses seem mysterious, though I should have known to dress more warmly! The studio is upstairs in an old brick building, above a bakery and overlooking the park. The studio itself is gorgeous, in a brick-and-beam polished wood floors kind of way. I was very impressed upon entering. One large room with high ceilings. Low lights, Eastern-sounding instrumental music playing, and candles burning. First thing the instructor said to me, by way of explaining, was she wanted "to honor this morning's light", which I thought was cool. I love fog. The huge old windows overlooking the park were like paintings of foggy dreamscapes and shadowy redwoods. Mmm. The drop-in rate for a first class was just $13, and no paperwork to fill out.
The instructor, Ada, is beautiful (yeah, I said it) and strong, with wide shoulders and a gentle touch. Most of the time her instructions are confident, precise, plain, and matter-of-fact, though occasionally a "New Agey" tone may creep into her voice. She teaches in the Iyengar style, using lots of props and careful consideration toward alignment and symmetry. The class was held at a slow pace, as most of us were beginners. I was in the awkward position of being a little stronger and more flexible than most, yet unfamiliar with many poses and props.
Ada is informative, helpful, and quick with adjustments. Being a small class (8), we all got personal attention. It was really great getting major corrections for postures I do all the time! This class focused mainly on shoulder-opening exercises, though there was also plenty of Down Dog, Warrior variations, and gentle hip openers. There was no time spent on esoteric teachings or whatnot. No mention of charkas or mantras, and no chanting of Om. She was very careful to guide breathing while we held Asana, but there were no Pranayama exercises.
In the final Savasana, she encouraged the use of blankets, bolsters, blocks, and eye covers to ensure everyone was perfectly comfortable and aligned. After a silent period, she asked us to put our hands in prayer position, pause for a moment, then thanked us and ended with a simple "Namaste".
I enjoyed the teacher's guidance, appreciated the more challenging variations she offered, and got a decent sweat on, in spite of the leisurely pace. This is not a class for those seeking spiritual guidance per se, and not a sweaty experience like a Bikram or vigorous Ashtanga class. This is a very simple yet challenging class where calm precision is the focus. Ada encourages advanced students to try tougher variations, so long as they have a solid (and precise!) foundation, and folks felt comfortable enough together to laugh once in a while. This is a class my wife (who dislikes the mystical stuff) would enjoy, and I hope to bring her next week.

posted in East Bay Yoga - 0 replies

new to the area

2004-11-29T07:39:05Z

hi there! my name's yasmin and i am new to the area. i live in berkeley and am looking for a nice place to do yoga. i graduated recently so don't have much cash to throw around (those damn loans!), but would like to get involved with iyengar yoga somewhere in berkeley.
i have been to elephant pharmacy a couple times but they don't have their regular schedules thanks to the holidays :(
ideally it would be nice to have a small-medium sized classroom where there is a chance to get some attention from the instructor.
any suggestions?

thanx

posted in East Bay Yoga - 1 reply

First series DVD for beginning home practice and DVD for sale

2004-11-28T19:50:55Z

Namaste,

I hope someone on this list can give me a few tips. I live in Berkeley and am extremely frustrated by the lack of lead classes offered to *beginners* in Astanga. There are Mysore classes and garden-variety Vinyasa classes, but no affordable basic lead Astanga classes in my area (west Berkeley).

So because of lack of classes and of funds, I decided to get a DVD of the First Series. I bought David Swenson's DVD, which was highly recommended. But I am frustrated yet again! It is indeed the first series, but it is not a video for beginners. David moves at a very quick pace and does things like going in to a handstand directly from a sitting position during his transitions. Who as a beginner can do that?? The DVD is perfect for someone who has been practicing for some time and wants to challenge themselves in the first series.

Can you suggest a beginning Astanga DVD that's actually for beginners? Any tips would be very much appreciated!

Also, if you are interested in purchasing a used Astanga DVD, please let me know. It is a very good video, it's just not for me.

Thanks!

posted in East Bay Yoga - 0 replies

Mysore-style Ashtanga yoga

2004-11-25T20:02:59Z

Hi there,

Does anyone know of a good place that offers Mysore-style Ashtanga yoga near Lake Merritt?

Thanks
-sho

posted in East Bay Yoga - 0 replies

Field Trips

2004-11-10T00:01:05Z

Folks--

--I'm still new to Yoga, and having fun exploring studios that I haven't been to yet. I would like to take at least one class from every studio in Berkeley, and even go further abroad.

--There is a phenomenal number of studios in our area. Even more, each studio has many teachers! I would love if people on this list would recommend their favorite teachers/classes! Even if they aren't in Berkeley, I'd love to visit!

--Is anyone else interested in exploring?

posted in East Bay Yoga - 1 reply

The Yoga Room

2004-10-13T03:42:32Z

--The other night, my wife and I rode our bikes uphill to The Yoga Room. It's a venerable Berkeley studio that has had classes since the 70's, and appears to specialize in the Iyengar tradition.
--It's located in a stunning old Craftsman building, the Julia Morgan Center, on College Ave. Finding the studio was a little confusing at first, since the studio is around the back of the building and the only sign was quite small.
--Once inside, it took a second to get our bearings. There is no central office or front desk. You enter a hall/stairway. There are several studios, some used by other groups, such as ballet. I found a Yoga schedule on the wall, walked upstairs to Studio C where our class was to be located, and accidentally walked in another class that hadn't finished yet. So we sat and waited, since none of the young ballet students knew anything about the Yoga classes.
--Once the other class had finished, we entered the class and waited. The teacher from the last class told me our instructor was probably going to be late, since she drives in from the city. Luckily, a couple regular students were there early and explained things to us, told us to wait and pay the new teacher personally, and direct us toward a good spot.
--The room itself is lovely. All wood, with a high beamed ceiling and a view of trees and houses through many large windows. Apparently it's nicknamed "The Treehouse" because of the view. It was a hot night, so all the windows were open, letting in a gentle breeze and the sounds of children outside. There are LOTS of props, including Yoga mats to use for free.
--I really enjoyed the physical location. The light, the wood floors, the ventilation, the feeling of being in a space where Yoga had been tought for decades. And we got to listen to a muffled pianist play "Nutcracker" through the wall during class!
--It seems that the classes are arranged so that you buy them in blocks, with one teacher, rather than paying for a membership to the studio itself. Perhaps the teachers operate as Independant Contractors? We just wanted to try it out, so paid the $14 drop-in rate for one class.
--The class was a level "1-3", but my wife and I found it very easy, mostly because of the slow pace. This was our first Iyengar class, so we figured we should take a beginners' class, but this class posed little challenge for us, even though we've only gone to classes for a year. It was useful to receive such precise corrections, but I personally like to sweat a little during class. For at least three of the students, however, it appeared to be more than they could handle. My guess is that this would be an excellent place to take your first Yoga class. Next time, however, I'm going to a "2-4" class and see if it's a little more challenging.
--Our teacher, Deirdre Carrigan, was very pleasant, patient, and helpful. Her knowledge of anatomy was deep, her movements precise, and because there were only 6 of us, we all got lots of individual attention. I would like to take a class with her that gave her more liberty to share advanced postures and some in-depth lessons in anatomy.
--There was no "Om" or mantras. It was a very meditative, breath-focused class, yet with no discussion of Pranayama or anything like Chakras and the more esoteric aspects of Yoga. For most of the class, each posture was demonstrated, then folded into part of a slow flow-like sequence. Each posture was held for one inhilation or exhilation. Only a couple postures were challenging, such as Pigeon (Rajakapotasana), and those were held longer.
--Overall, we enjoyed the experience. The individual attention was great. My wife and I are curious about attending a more advanced class, and will probably go again in the future. But it IS expensive compared to the many studios offering discounts for new students, or month-long rates that allow you to check out more than one instructor. It would be a very expensive task to investigate their many teachers, and the website has no bio's to help with the decision-making. For now, we're going to move on and explore other studios.

The Yoga Room
(Iyengar)
www.yogaroomberkeley.com
2640 College Avenue/Julia Morgan Center
Berkeley, CA 94704
510-273-9273

posted in East Bay Yoga - 0 replies

Hi, everybody!

2004-10-13T02:46:40Z

Welcome!

--I'm still new to yoga study, having taken classes for less than a year. Yet I'm completely hooked! So much so, I feel like I'm remembering poses as much as learning them. It's amazing feeling my body transform.

--I've found that talking to other practitioners, and "lurking" in on Tribe forums during these changes has helped me a great deal to enjoy, rather than fear them. My hope for this tribe is not only to continue these conversations, but to give these conversations a distinctly East Bay flavor.

--We have so many studios and teachers here! If nothing else, I would love input from more experienced students, as I am in a time of exploration and interested in trying different studios. Perhaps we could organize "field trips" through this tribe and go to new studios together? Or members could invite us to their favorite class?

--Unlike some other tribes, where they appear to have been created, then abandoned, this tribe will get regular input and ideas and questions from yours truely. And hopefully everyone else! There will be a little something new here on a regular basis.

--So welcome. Please have fun!

charles ellik, moderator.

posted in East Bay Yoga - 2 replies

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