With the onset of shorter days and cooler nights, here on the West Coast we feel that hint of change. Energetically, it’s wise to prepare the body and its system for the fall and winter ahead. Practices such as cleansing the diet, moving the body through Hatha and Yin yoga, and partaking in regular chanting sessions are all stellar for optimizing our energetic flow. For some, it seems quite obvious that diet and exercise will move blockages from our system. But chanting? Even a committed and well seasoned yoga student may not be aware of these benefits.
After we talk, sing, chant, laugh, cry or scream we usually feel better. This happens because of our physiology. Technically speaking, sound from the larynx is produced when air passes through the vocal cords causing them to vibrate and create sound waves. These sound vibrations can be felt moving from the larynx at the base of the neck, down through the vertebrae. In stillness, the central nervous system will stimulate a parasympathetic response, transmitting a sense of ease and peace to the entire body.
During Kirtan (call-and-response chanting) sacred Sanskrit mantras are used to make the sound experience especially powerful. Sanskrit is the purest form of speech, sometimes known as “the language of the Gods.” So with these high vibrations moving out around us creating a positive butterfly effect, there are so many reasons to give it a whirl!
Try it yourself. The next time you sing a positive or inspirational tune, notice how you feel. Better yet, heighten your awareness the next time you chant OM in yoga class and enjoy the vibes. For those intrigued about chanting with live musicians, please join us Friday September 28th from 7pm-8pm. This special evening will be dedicated to removing obstacles in our lives. All are welcome, so please see below in the newsletter for more information. As well, all are welcome to indulge in our Simplicity Sale. Simply find clarity through yoga. 10 Classes with a 10 week expiry for $100 plus HST. Sale ends September 10th/12.
Blessings and clarity to all!
Namaste
Lori
Btw, Have a lovely long weekend and please check the schedule for holiday class changes.
Student Of The Month
Congratulations Bonnie Morgan! September’s student of the month. There are so many amazing things we can say about Bonnie. She is a strong, compassionate woman with a loving attitude and adventurous character that infuses those around her, with happiness and life.
When asked to share a few words about her experience here at the studio she said, “Deep cleansing breaths of sea air and mindful poses at Yoga on the Beach captured my body and soul a number of summers ago. After moving indoors to Body Harmony, I have appreciated the range and scheduling of classes, the quality of instruction and peaceful atmosphere of the studio.”
Kirtan to Ganesh
Kirtan returns to Body Harmony! This time, we will bring our voices together in love and harmony as we offer up a chant to Ganesh, the remover of obstacles. Accompanied by live musicians using instruments such as the harmonium and tablas, join us in this exquisite practice that combines the power of sacred mantra with the powerful energy of sound in dedication to the manifestation of your new Body Harmony Yoga Space. No professional training required just your unique voice, an open mind and a passionate spirit.
Friday, September 28th (7:00pm – 8:00pm. Doors open at 6:45pm)
To attend, please bring a small donation for the musicians.
An Evening with Deva Premal
Enjoy the yoga music scene at this fabulous concert sponsored by conscious living radio! Deva Premal and Miten are an inspiration in the world of music and mantra. Meeting in India in 1990, they began on a journey that resulted in several CD’s and numerous fans worldwide with concerts and workshops on four different continents. They are a must see for anyone wanting to expand their musical or chanting experience.
Wednesday, September 12 (7:00pm – 10:00pm)
Massey Theatre, 735 8th Ave, New Westminster
SAVE $20 of most ticket prices (limited time offer)
Mom & Baby Yoga with Lori Charko
Motherhood involves the challenge of incorporating fitness amongst naps, feedings and all the responsibilities associated with having a child. Enjoy learning yoga poses while spending time with your baby (4 weeks to 12 months). We will rebuild those inner core muscles, create endurance in the body, as well as stretch and relax!
Mondays: Sept. 10 – Nov. 26 (10 classes/ 11 weeks)
Wednesdays: Sept. 12 – Nov. 28 (10 classes/ 12 weeks)
11:00am – 12:00pm (Tea and cookies after class)
$129.60 + HST – Preregister Now!
Yoga From The Core with Lori Charko
If you have never done yoga, you will learn fundamental back and abdominal conditioning asanas, appropriate positioning for sun salutations and improve your awareness of the core. If you have done yoga, you will benefit from clarifying the detailed anatomy of the core, as well as pick up fine tuning techniques and core visualizations. The yoga postures will be taught with adjustments to work safely with the physical conditions and postures of the individual students.
Maximum 12 students.
Saturday September 15th
12:30pm – 2:30pm
$20 + HST – Preregister Now!
Conscious Shopping
Come and browse the new selection of yoga shirts in the 8 Limb Yoga Shirts Boutique (located in our Wellness Space).
These stylish shirts are wonderful to practice in and also look fantastic as one of a kind street –wear with a message! They now carry tanks for men as well as long sleeved women’s burnout shirts.
Doors are rarely open to the public, so take advantage of this pre-yoga conference sale!
Open Sunday September 9 through Tuesday September 11
Green Tip
This year, as you get ready for fall, try to do so with an environmentally conscious mind. Not only will you be saving the planet, you will be saving money too! One way to do this is with your children’s trek to school. Have a carpool schedule with the neighborhood families, or encourage your kids to take the bus. You can also take the opportunity to ride your bike to work or walk while the weather is still good. For more tips on how to keep your autumn commute environmentally friendly, click here.