- Erie-area Jazzercise instructors will offer a free Jazzercise Open House on Monday, May 21 at the Erie and Fairview locations. Class times at the Jazzercise Fitness Center, 20 Millcreek Square, are 5:30 a.m., 9:30 a.m., 4:30 p.m., 5:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Class times at the Jazzercise Fitness Center, 7561 West Ridge Road, Fairview, are 5:45 a.m., 9:30 a.m., 4:30 p.m., 5:30 p.m., 6:30 p.m. Attendees will receive information on the Jazzercise program and can take part in a free workout. Admission is free. Prizes will be awarded, and special class pass discounts will be available. For more information, contact the Erie center at 340-1202 or the Fairview center at 474-3005.

- Joseph Barber, M.D., will present a series of presentations on topics relating to autism at the Barber National Institute. The programs are free; however, registration is appreciated. Free baby-sitting is available with advance registration. For more information and to register, call 480-6831 or visit www.BarberInstitute.org.

– “Upcoming Changes in the Diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorders,” Tuesday, May 22, 6 to 7:15 p.m., will address common issues experienced by children with autism spectrum disorders and associated medical and mental disorders, and the effects that proposed changes in the diagnosis definition will have on children and parents.

– “Medication Intervention Options of Autism Spectrum Disorder,” Wednesday, July 11, 6 to 7:15 p.m., will discuss medication for individuals with autism and when medication is necessary, as well as risks and benefits.

– “Roles of Regulation, Reactivity and Flexibility in Autism Spectrum Disorder,” Wednesday, Sept. 12, 6 to 7:15 p.m., will discuss the effects of autism spectrum disorder on developmental stages and progression.

- Join Eric Brozell and Richard Sheasley Tuesday, May 22, 6 p.m., for Cycling 101, Whole Foods Cooperative, 1341 W. 26th St. Learn the basics of riding and repair. Free; reservations required. Call 456-0282, Ext. 111.

- The Glenwood Y Holistic Center, 3727 Cherry St. is offering the following classes. For more information, call 868-0867, Ext. 271.

– Entering Stillness, Tuesdays, 7:15 to 8:30 p.m. Meditation and discussion of the principles of the course in miracles. Free.

– Prenatal Yoga: Tuesdays, May 22, 29 and June 5, 12, 19, 26; 5:40 to 6:55 p.m. Members, $24; nonmembers, $48. Members $5 per class; nonmembers, $8 per class.

– Qigong, Fridays, 2 p.m. Gentle movement, meditation, and breathing exercises that promote health, well-being and mind-body integration. Free.

- Lunch Learn: What is a Continuing Care Retirement Community?, Wednesday, May 23, noon to 2 p.m., Springhill Senior Living Community, 2323 Edinboro Road. Free, but RSVP by May 18 by calling 860-7042 or (800) 755-6784. For more information, visit www.SpringhillErie.org.

- Saint Vincent Beautiful Beginnings Classes are held in the Women’s Center Classroom, 311 W. 24th St., except as noted. Call 452-5664 to register.

– Working Mother and Breastfeeding, Thursday, May 24, 7 to 9 p.m. $15 per couple.

– Breast-feeding for New Parents, Thursday, June 14, 7 to 9 p.m.; $15 per couple.

– Newborn Care Class, Thursday, June 7, 6:30 to 9 p.m.; $15 per couple.

– Sibling Preparation Class, Tuesday, June 5, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.; Saint Vincent First Floor Conference Room, 232 W. 25th St. $10 for one child; $5 for each additional child.

– Weekday Preparation for Labor Classes, Mondays, June 4, 11, 18, 6:30 to 9 p.m.; $30 per couple.

– Saturday Prep for Labor, June 2 and 9, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. $30 per couple.

- Lifeworks Erie, formerly Erie Center on Health Aging, offers “Healthy Steps for Older Adults” workshops, a falls risk-reduction program for adults age 50 and older, in Erie County during May:

– Wednesday, May 30: Camp Sherwin, 8600 West Lake Road, Lake City, 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. Call 882-5033.

For more information or to schedule a workshop for your group or organization, call Nancy Adams at 453-5072.

- “The Next Step” Lunch Learn Program, Wednesday, May 30, noon to 2 p.m., Springhill Senior Living Community, 2323 Edinboro Road. Hear from a real estate agent about preparing your home to sell and hear from Springhill’s move-in coordinator about the services she can offer to make your move as stress-free as possible. Free; RSVP by May 24 by calling 860-7042 or (800) 755-6784. For more information, visit www.SpringhillErie.org.

- National Senior Health Fitness Day, Wednesday, May 30, 10 a.m., at the Rotary Pavilion, Presque Isle State Park, includes Tai Chi and Zumba exercise classes, walks around Presque Isle. Presented by UPMC for Life. Free for persons 65 and older. For more information, call 833-6633.

- Plasha Yoga Summer Classes: June 4 to Aug. 30 (no classes the weeks of July 2 and 9). $120 for one class per week, during a session. To register, call 864-1114 or send e-mail to rhadeya@plashayoga.com. Registration fee of $120 due by June 4. Married couples or partners, $210. Payment plans are available. Multiple class discount: Take two yoga classes a week at beach, park or yurt for $190. Drop-in class (please call ahead): $15. For more information, visit www.plashayoga.com.

– Yoga on the Beach: Classes are held on Barracks Beach between beaches 1 and 2 on Presque Isle State Park. Park in the Stull Interpretive Center/Nature Store parking lot. Bring a blanket, water, sunscreen and bug repellent. Call 864-1114 after 4 p.m. if it looks like it might rain. A message will direct you to the studio or the beach. Beyond Beginners, Mondays, 5:30 to 7 p.m., or 7:15 p.m. to sunset.

– Yoga at Liberty Park: Basic and Beyond, Wednesdays. 5:30 to 7 p.m. (for new students); and Beyond Beginners, Wednesdays, 7:15 to sunset. (no classes the weeks of July 2 and 9). Park near the playground at Liberty Park off the Bayfront Highway. Classes on the lawn or in Pepsi Amphitheater if it rains.

– Yoga in the Yurt, 4508 Zuck Road: Mondays, Beyond Beginners, 9 to 10:30 a.m.; Tuesdays, Gentle Beginners, Restorative and Mindfulness Yoga, 5:30 to 7 p.m. (for new and experienced students); Wednesdays, Basic and Beyond, 9 to 10:30 a.m.; Thursdays, Beyond Beginners, 5:30 to 7 p.m.

- The ABCs of CPR, Saturday, June 9, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Saint Vincent Health Center Educational Services Classroom, 224 W. 26th St., rear entrance. $40 per person. Call 452-5664 to register.

- Yoga for Kids, Plasha Yoga Studio, 4508 Zuck Road. For ages 5 to 10. All classes are at Plasha Yoga Studio except Wednesdays at Liberty Park. To register, call Michael Plasha at 864-1114 or send e-mail to rhadeya@plashayoga.com. For more information, visit www.plashayoga.com/classes or http://kiddingaroundyoga.com.

– Saturdays, 10 to 11 a.m., June 9, 16, 23 and 30; $35 by June 2

– Saturdays, 10 to 11 a.m., Aug. 4, 11, 18 and 25; $35 by July 28

– Wednesdays, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., June 13, 20 and 27; $25 by June 6 (Liberty Park)

– Wednesdays, 5:30-6:30 p.m., July 25, Aug. 1, 8 and 15; $35 by July 18 (Liberty Park)

– Kids Yoga Camp: Tuesday, June 26, 9 a.m. to noon; $30 by June 19.

– Kids Yoga Camp: Sunday, Aug. 12, 2 to 5 p.m.; $30 by Aug. 5.

- Kristen Bires, education and outreach manager, Alzheimer’s Association of Greater Pennsylvania, will present “Memory Loss, Dementia, and Alzheimer’s disease: The Basics,” a community education program, 10 to 11 a.m. on the second Wednesday of each month, in the Citizen’s Bank Building, 1128 State St., Suite 301. Dates for the program are: June 13, July 11, Aug. 8, Sept. 12, Oct. 10, Nov. 14 and Dec. 12. There is no cost to attend, but registration is requested. For more information or to register, call 456-9200 or send e-mail to Kristen.Bires@alz.org.

- Casting for Recovery will host a weekend retreat Aug. 24-26 for women of western Pennsylvania who have or have had breast cancer. Open to women of all ages and in all stages of breast cancer treatment and recovery, the weekend retreat will be held at The River Village, located at the confluence of Spruce Creek and the Little Juniata River, in the southern region of central Pennsylvania. Offered at no cost to participants, the retreat uses the sport of fly-fishing to promote physical and emotional healing. Of those who apply, 14 breast cancer survivors will be randomly chosen to participate in the retreat. Women interested in participating in the retreat are encouraged to submit their name by June 15 by either contacting CFR at (888) 553-3500 or by visiting www.castingforrecovery.org to download an application form or apply directly online.

 

Exercise

- Lifeworks Erie, formerly the Erie Center on Health Aging, 406 Peach St., offers the following fitness programs for adults. For more information or to preregister, visit www.lifeworkserie.org or call 459-4132.

– Breakfast Bunch Walking Program for adults age 18 and older, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. Walk outdoors or at the Gannon Recreation Center. Enjoy a healthy breakfast after the walk.

– Breakfast Bunch Tai Chi Strength Training classes with instructor Jim Montgomery, Monday, Wednesday and Friday, 9:30-10:30 a.m. Open to adults age 18 and older. Call 453-5072.

– Fit for Life Fitness, Tuesdays, 9:30-10:15 a.m. with fitness instructor Nancy Adams. Call 453-5072.

– Cardio Fitness, Thursdays, 9:30-10:15 a.m. with fitness instructor Nancy Adams. Call 453-5072.

– Yin Yoga, Mondays, 5:30 p.m. Members, $8; nonmembers, $10

– Multilevel Yoga, Tuesdays, 5:30 p.m. Members, $8; nonmembers, $10

- Cardio/Strength Workout, Tuesdays, 6:15 to 6:45 p.m., Chiropractic Solutions, 1277 E. Grandview Blvd. Call 825-1102 or visit www.HealthyErie.com.

- Dance Vibe Studio Inc., 2307 W. 12th St., offers Zumba classes, Latin inspired fitness dancing, on Tuesdays and Thursdays 10 to 11 a.m. For more information, call 455-2250.

- Eberle’s Physical Therapy, 103 Walker Drive, Edinboro, offers an aquatic exercise program Tuesdays and Thursdays for people with fibromyalgia. Classes are run by a licensed physical therapist. Call 734-7444.

- Saint Vincent Health Happenings classes:

– Graceful Fitness, Mondays, 12:30 to 1 p.m., room L-60 of the Hardner Building, 2315 Myrtle St. $50 for 10 classes. Buy $50 10-class pass at the Saint Vincent Gift Shop.

– Zumba, Mondays, 4:30 to 5:30 p.m., room L-60 of the Hardner Building, 2315 Myrtle St. $50 for 10 classes. Buy $50 10-class pass at the Saint Vincent Gift Shop.

– Boot Camp and Core, Tuesdays, 4:30 to 5:15 p.m., room L-60 of the Hardner Building, 2315 Myrtle St. $50 for 10 classes. Buy $50 10-class pass at the Saint Vincent Gift Shop.

– Piloxing, Wednesdays, 4:30 to 5:30 p.m., room L-60 of the Hardner Building, 2315 Myrtle St. $50 for 10 classes. Buy $50 10-class pass at the Saint Vincent Gift Shop.

- North East Arts Council offers winter exercise classes upstairs at the North East Cultural Center, 25 Vine St., North East. Use the back entrance.

– Winter yoga with Deb Phillips, Wednesdays, Feb. 1, 8, 15 and 22; Basic Yoga, 9:30-10:45 a.m.; Gentle Yoga, 11 a.m.-noon. NEAC members, $25; nonmembers: $30 (or $10 per class). Register by calling 725-4757 or sending e-mail to tlv.ltd@verizon.net.

– Zumba with Shelly Miller, Wednesdays, Feb. 1 through May 30, 6:15-7:15 p.m. NEAC members, $30 for seven weeks (when prepaid in full); nonmembers, $30 for six weeks. Register by calling 490-9385 or idocrw2@yahoo.com.

- YMCA Camp Sherwin, 8600 West Lake Road, Lake City, is offering the following Wellness Classes Family Programs. Classes are free to members; guests, $5 per class. Visit www.ymcaerie.org/camp for more information.

– Zumba, Mondays, 5:30-6:30 p.m.

– Family Zumba, Fridays, 5:30-6:30 p.m.

– Tai chi for Health, Mondays and Wednesdays, noon to 12:45 p.m.

 

Ongoing

- Qigong, Fridays, 2 p.m., Glenwood YMCA Holistic Center, 3727 Cherry St. Gentle movement, meditation and breathing exercises that promote relaxation and mind-body integration. Free. For more information, call 868-0867, Ext. 271.

- “Successful Aging,” a 30-minute video hosted by geriatrician James Lin, D.O., is available at www.LECOMtotalhealth.com. In the program, Dr. Lin explains resources available in Erie to diagnose, treat and prevent physical and mental health problems associated with aging. Guest physicians include geriatrician Danielle Hansen, D.O., orthopedic surgeon Anthony Ferretti, D.O., neurologist Blake Hoppe, D.O., and psychiatrist Max Gottesman, D.O. The video was produced by the LECOM Institute for Successful Aging, which is located in the LECOM Medical Fitness Wellness Center at 5401 Peach St. For more information on the Institute’s services for seniors, including geriatric assessments, call 868-7850.

- Barber National Institute offers the following special water-based exercise classes at the Barber National Institute Swimming Pool. A movable floor allows for easy entry and exit. For more information, call 878-4071.

– Deep Water Exercise Classes every Monday, Tuesday and Thursday, noon to 1 p.m., May 7 through June 29. The class is geared toward stretching, muscle toning and low-impact exercise. Cost is $4 per class. Discount cards are available.

– Arthritis Foundation Aquatics Exercise Program, Monday through Friday, 1 to 2 p.m., May 7 through June 29. Benefits individuals who suffer from arthritis pain and immobility. Cost is $4 per class. Discount cards are available.

- Lifeworks Erie, formerly the Center on Health and Aging, 406 Peach St., is offering the following classes. For more information, visit www.lifeworkserie.org or call 459-4132 to register.

– Yin Yoga, Monday and Wednesdays, 5:30 p.m. $10. This yoga is kind to the aging body, although the practice is for anyone at any age. It targets bones and joints and is healing for the supportive connective tissue particularly in the hips, pelvis and lower spine.

– Beginners Yoga, Monday and Wednesdays, 4 p.m. $10.

– Multi-Level Yoga, Wednesdays, 5:30 p.m. $10.

- The Sisters of St. Joseph offer several water aerobics programs at the Villa Maria Campus Athletic Center. Programs include Aqua Aerobics, Arthritis Aquatic Exercise, Deepwater Aerobics, Shallow Water Walking and Deepwater Widths. Costs are between $4 and $6 per class, or $35 and $50 for 10 classes or 10 swims. For more information, call 838-5452, Ext. 229.

- The Meadville YMCA MAKO Swim League is an eight-week recreational program for children to learn how to swim, improve their swimming skills and receive an introduction to competitive swimming. It is open to all levels of swimmers between the ages of 5 and 12. Flotation belts may be worn if needed. Entry-level swimmers will compete and practice in shallow water. Everyone will receive a T-shirt, awards and a pool/pizza party. The program will take place at the Meadville Area Recreational Complex. Call 336-2196 for more information and to register.

- UPMC Hamot Health Connection’s registered dietitians are offering personal nutrition coaching for adults and kids 5 years and older to help address clients’ specific needs to adopt a healthier lifestyle. Cost: $60 for initial consult, $35 for follow-up consults; no charge for eligible Highmark, Gateway, and UPMC Health Plan members. Call 877-6145 to make an appointment.

- The Meadville Family YMCA, 356 Chestnut St., Meadville, offers swim lessons for all ages, all abilities, all year. Aqua Babies is for children 6 months to 3 years old; Tadpoles is for those ages 3-5 who still need mom and dad but are ready for lessons. There are five levels of preschool classes, five levels of youth classes, plus adult beginners, stroke work class, and a conditioning class for adults. An Adaptive class has a lower ratio of students to instructor. All classes are for members and nonmembers. Aqua Babies is free for members; nonmembers may join for the lesson price. Stop by or call (814) 336-2196 to register.

- Glenwood Park YMCA, 3727 Cherry St., offers personal nutrition coaching, a one-on-one program designed by a registered dietitian to address the needs of individuals seeking nutrition counseling relating to weight management, heart health or diabetes. Counseling is available by appointment. Initial appointment fee: Highmark members, free; YMCA members without Highmark, $60; non-YMCA, non-Highmark members, $70. Follow-up appointment fee: Highmark members, free; Y members without Highmark, $30; non-YMCA, non-Highmark members, $35. Call 868-0867 Ext. 258.

- Healthy Rhythms, a drumming and imagery class, continues Thursdays, 10 a.m., Mercy Hilltop Center, 444 E. Grandview Blvd. Class leader Karen Narusewicz is certified in this new method of relaxation. Cost is $3. Call 824-2214.

- Saturday Yoga with Betty Amatangelo, 10 a.m., Mercy Hilltop Center, 444 E. Grandview Blvd. The classes take place inside or outside, depending on the weather. All age groups welcome, at a cost of $7.50 per class. Call 824-2214.

- T.O.P.S. (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) Chapter #1652 meets Wednesdays from 11:15 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. at the East Erie Moose Lodge, 6060 Iroquois Ave., Harborcreek. Annual membership, $26, plus $1 per week. For more information, call 725-5079.

- -Health And Safety Classes: The Greater Erie County Chapter of the American Red Cross, 4961 Pittsburgh Ave., offers a variety of health and safety classes. Advance registration and payment is required for all classes. For information or to register, call 833-0942, Ext. 245.

- AARP offers safe-driving classes for seniors. Fee is $12 for AARP members and $14 for nonmembers. Proof of having taken an 8-hour course is needed to register for the four-hour refresher course. Discount given on auto insurance for three years after successful completion of course. Call Lois at 866-2072.

- T.O.P.S. (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) Chapter #1440 meets Wednesdays at the Immanuel Lutheran Church, 1002 Powell Avenue. Weigh-in time is 9:30-10 a.m.; a meeting follows from 10 to 11 a.m. Annual membership, $26; $1.50 per week. For more information, call 838-2222.

- MS swim program, Dr. Gertrude A. Barber National Institute pool, 100 Barber Place. Participants have choice of two of four classes offered at various times throughout the week. Free. Doctor’s note required stating that person can participate in an aquatics program. Call 878-4071.

- Learn how to quit smoking and/or using smokeless tobacco. Free programs available. For telephone-based help, call (800) QUIT-NOW (800 784-8669). For online help, visit www.quitnet.com. For information about local programs, call the Erie County Department of Health at 451-6709.

- Seniors for Safe Driving offers highway-safety programs for seniors 55 and older. Under Pennsylvania State law, if you are over 55 years of age and have successfully completed a senior education driving program, you can receive a 5% discount on your insurance premium for three years. If you have taken a class in the past, you only have to attend a one-day refresher course to renew your insurance discount. If you have never participated in a Senior Driver Improvement Program in the past, you must attend a two-day seminar to earn your automobile insurance discount. Proof of having taken an 8-hour course is needed to register for a four-hour course. Tuition for all Seniors for Safe Driving Classes is $15 per person. For information, including a list of scheduled classes, or to register for a class, call (800) 559-4880 or visit www.seniorsforsafedriving.com.

Peter DaSilva for The New York TimesJustin Rosenstein, standing left, and Dustin Moskovitz of Asana, with an engineer, Bella Kazwell. Mr. Moskovitz was a founder of Facebook.

Facebook founder Dustin Moskovitz, who was responsible for making sure the computers straining to run Facebook’s expanding network never went down, has designed a new workplace management software, Quentin Hardy writes for The New York Times.

The software’s name? Asana, after the Sanskrit word meaning “easeful posture,” Mr. Hardy writes.

Yoga practitioners think of it in terms of complex poses done effortlessly. “You should read a lot into the name,” Mr. Moskovitz said.

Tasks can be named and assigned across the company, then shut down or subdivided as the work progresses. People can rank, or have others rank, which of their jobs need attention soonest. If a company wants, anyone can look in on anyone else’s work, offering help and criticism. “We think of e-mail, in-person meetings, and whiteboards as our competition,” said Justin Rosenstein, Mr. Moskovitz’s co-founder at Asana.

Like Mr. Moskovitz, Mr. Rosenstein came from Facebook, though he stopped first at Google where he built an early system for engineers to organize their work. At Facebook, he helped invent the “like” button and ran Facebook’s Pages project, which is a way for brands and celebrities to build networks. He was frustrated, he said, building “an enormously ambitious project, and losing a lot of time around coordination.”

Read full article here.

Brightly colored yoga mats covered the second floor of the IU Art Museum atrium Saturday morning. Barefoot participants twisted into different poses on the mats.

Music playing from Angles Café nearby mingled with the voice of a yoga instructor, directing the group in a series of stretches.

The Art Museum offers a weekly program called Yoga in the Atrium. It began April 7 and runs 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. Saturdays until October 27 on the second floor of the Thomas T. Solley Atrium. This program is sponsored by the Orthopedics of Southern Indiana and IU Health Southern Indiana Physicians. The Museum partnered with Lynda Mitchell Yoga Studio and Vibe Yoga Studio to start the program.

Haley Gluesenkamp, yoga instructor at Lynda Mitchell Studio and Btown Gym in Bloomington, directed the session Saturday. Although accustomed to the comfort of a studio, Gluesenkamp said she enjoys the museum’s environment with natural sunlight.

The program attracts 20-50 participants from a broad age range every week. Many people are regular attendees. Mallory Trescone, Bloomington resident and IU graduate, attended her third session Saturday.

“I liked it because it flowed more than other beginners courses I’ve taken,” Trescone said. “(Gluesenkamp) adapted it based on the crowd that was there.”

Rachel Mehringer, IU sophomore and first-time attendee, also said she enjoyed the
session’s pace.

“It was really good, especially for a beginner class,” she said. “It had a cohesive flow and didn’t have a lot of down time.”

The only negative aspect Mehringer pointed out was the noise in the museum due to chatter of people walking in and out of the museum, which grew especially loud near the end of the session. Mehringer found herself straining to hear Gluesenkamp’s intructions over the noise.

Trescone said she liked the location but also noticed the noise during the end of the session.

Gluesenkamp acknowledged this aspect of the location but viewed the situation positively.

“It’s a good opportunity for people to use the real concept of yoga, channeling out the noise and distraction,” Gluesenkamp said.

Gluesenkamp, a yoga instructor for about a year, just started teaching at Btown Gym, a brand-new fitness facility. Btown Gym implements Gluesenkamp’s You Only Live Once  Method, a program designed to teach people about health and fitness.

The YOLO Method takes a holistic approach to health and fitness. Gluesenkamp created this six-month project to help her clients implement changes in lifestyle and food choice to achieve greater energy, balance and health.

Gluesenkamp will continue leading the yoga sessions in the museum’s atrium for the duration of the program.

Several yoga tattoos exist, and many yoga instructors have tattoos as well. They all have meanings, and the instructors that chose to be inked with such beauty did so for a reason. I will point out the top four yoga tattoos, pointing out the meaning behind each one.

#1 Peacock tattoo

The peacock tattoo is beautiful, and there is a yoga pose (asana) called the peacock pose. This interesting bird is a symbol of an esteemed status in Chinese symbolism. In Buddhism the peacock symbolizes extensive awareness. Furthermore, in Christianity the peacock’s circles or “eyes” within the feathers of the tail stand for the eyes of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit watching over faithful believers.

Carol Tessitore, a yoga instructor, displays her peacock tattoo and says that it is representative of personality — at once “showy” and “skittish.” Believe it or not, this work of art cost over 2,000 dollars and took more than 25 hours to complete.

#2 Lotus flower tattoo

First and foremost, the lotus is a plant within the water lily family, and in Greek mythology the lotus flower is said to cause a marvelous and bewitching forgetfulness upon eating it. The lotus flower also represents purity and divine birth. Different colors have different meanings. The white lotus is symbolic of a complete purity of ones mental state, as well as spiritual completeness. The red lotus stands for love and passion. The blue lotus is said to represent control over the senses and the ability to comprehend. The pink flower is the greatest of all lotuses, usually kept for the most godlike in Buddhism. Last but not least, the purple lotus is considered mystical.

Lula Trainor, another yoga practitioner, has the lotus tattooed on her chest and says, “It attracted me because it grows in muddy dark water and emerges into the light, and I thought that would be kind of cool.”

#3 Yin Yang tattoo

In Chinese Yin Yang stand for flattering forces of nature, such as fire and water, representing how one is not supreme over the other. There are several varieties of Yin Yang tattoos that one can choose to get.

#4 Elephant tattoo

What do elephants have to do with yoga? Elephants are very flexible creatures just as those who practice yoga are. Elephants also symbolize power since they are one of the most weighty and whopping animals that live on the land. The elephant also stands for good luck, long life and blissfulness.

More from Rebecca Bardelli:

Top Yoga Poses to Beat Summer Heat

Join the Yoga Rave

Five Reasons to Perform Yoga on the Beach

What is Holy Yoga for Christians?

Rebecca completed courses in Medical Terminology, Administrative Medical Assisting, and Coding and Billing. She is recognized by the National Healthcareer Association as a Certified Billing and Coding Specialist (CBCS) and Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA). In addition, Rebecca is a former gymnast and is avid about yoga, swimming and other athletic activities. Follow her on Twitter @RebeccaBardelli.

YOGA QUITTER: WHY I COULDN’T NAMASTAY IN CLASS With a grouchy, tight feeling akin to heartburn mounting in my chest with each pose, I was thinking hard about walking out of the yoga class.

In 11 years of yoga, I’d never walked out of a class. I was hating this class, but I also hated the idea of leaving: What could be less namaste than bolting out in a stress-ball flurry? And the message to the yoga teacher — your yoga class sucks — is selfish slap I didn’t want to perpetrate.

This was the discourse that ran rampant in my head after I’d rushed to my usual noon class with my joyful teacher Steph and discovered upon arrival that Steph wasn’t there.

“Who’s teaching the class?” I’d asked the woman behind the front counter when I walked in. My eyes squinted in suspicion.

“I am,” the woman stated, looking back at me blankly after scanning my card.

Hrmph. I didn’t know who she was. She was the blank yogi. What mattered was that she wasn’t Steph, and she didn’t have Steph’s happy-yogi energy.

This made me pissy.

I unrolled my mat anyway. But poor blank yogi didn’t stand a chance. I’d already made up my mind about her, and though my body bitterly down-dogged and up-dogged, my head and heart were already out the door.

There might be a 12:30 class at the Yoga Pod, I thought, and maybe if I left now, I could catch it. And when I should walk out? After a sun salutation? Could I sneak out when blank yogi isn’t looking?

Also: Could I stop my internal bitching for just one yoga pose, or cut her some slack?

Like most fantasies, this one ended better in my head than in reality. Blank yogi was in the back of the room when I stalked out. Ashamed, I couldn’t look her in the eye. I just forged ahead for the door.

Outside, I still felt pissy, and there was no 12:30 class at Yoga Pod. Blank yogi wasn’t my kind of teacher, but I couldn’t shake the feeling that I should’ve been a big enough yogi to namastay in her class anyway.

–Jenn Fields

Dahn Yoga Health Centers, Inc,. a national leader of health and wellness, is thrilled to announce its Brooklyn Heights studio as the Center of the Month for May. Students at this diverse Dahn Yoga location have been actively fostering a sense of togetherness while balancing their bodies and minds.

Gilbert, Arizona (PRWEB) May 18, 2012

Dahn Yoga Health Centers, Inc., a national leader in health and wellness, is proud to highlight the accomplishments of its Brooklyn Heights, New York, Dahn Yoga studio. Located in one of the most diverse boroughs of the Empire State, the center features a number of creative, high-energy participants.

 

Center manager, Amy Long decided to become a Dahn Yoga master after attending a Young Earth Human Alliance (YEHA) camp. She finds the atmosphere of the center refreshingly different from her career trajectory, having worked as a public school teacher and having attended Harvard Divinity School. Besides the joy of being an instructor, she likes how “Brooklyn Heights center members are very diverse and really supportive of each other.” She feels Dahn Yoga classes are a good fit locally because “people in this community are looking for a way to meditate, a way to reach greater heights of experience,” she says.

Amy also explains how impressed she is with the dedication of her members, who provide unsolicited help with everyday activities, such as washing teacups, watering plants or feeding the studio’s pet turtle. In the end, she maintains that it’s their generosity that truly make the center outstanding and memorable.

 

Many members second that emotion. “The Brooklyn Heights center is a collective and supportive community,” said Rhonda Michelle, as she discusses the endless Dahn Yoga benefits she enjoys. “The instructors share limitless love and opportunities to be a part of something cosmic. To me, the Brooklyn Heights center is home.”

About Dahn Yoga:

Dahn Yoga is a dynamic mind-body practice originating in Korea. Dahn Yoga classes combine stretching, flowing movement, deep breathing exercises and meditation in a simple and easy to learn format. Dahn Yoga is often taught alongside Tai Chi, QiGong and Meditation classes.

In the United States, Dahn Yoga classes are offered at Dahn Yoga Health Centers, Inc., a national leader in health and wellness. Dahn Yoga classes are also offered at Body Brain franchise, affiliate and community-based locations.

For the original version on PRWeb visit: http://www.prweb.com/releases/prwebdahn_yoga_community/May_center_of_the_month/prweb9501856.htm

Former Marine and instructor Anu Bhagwaiti re-discovered yoga while seeking treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder and physical injuries related to her military service. She become a certified yoga teacher in 2008 and founded Yoga for Veterans soon after. She’s also the head up of a non profit called the Service Women’s Action Network.

She said the program is designed specifically for vets dealing with injuries or trauma but anyone who has served is welcome, regardless of age or previous yoga experience.

Air Force veteran Garrett Philips treks down from the Bronx to attend the class in the West Village. He said he’s come to rely on it and really appreciates that it’s free.

“I’m on a kind of low budget right now so especially as a veteran it feels really good that there’s something like that out there for us and particularly because we are taught by a couple of veterans.”

Garrett said he also likes the feeling of camaraderie he gets beings around other vets in the class.

Another instructor, Sarah Wolf, said yoga also helps service members unlearn the “no pain no gain” mentality.

“In the military people are taught you know, you have to do what you’re told to do; whereas in yoga we encourage people first of all to listen to their bodies and if we’re instructing a pose that’s uncomfortable or causing discomfort, really learning to listen to your body and say I’m going to sit this one out.”

The Wednesday and Thursday evening classes are offered at no charge to vets at the Integral Yoga Institute.

CHICAGO — Ingrid Yang turned to yoga a dozen years ago as a way to deal with injuries she suffered as a distance runner.

“When I started stretching and doing some strength training — not with weights, but with my own body weight — I noticed I was becoming injured less and less,” Yang says of her introduction to yoga.

Soon after, she started teaching yoga. Eventually she opened a studio and began teaching classes on both coasts. With coauthor Daniel Dituro, Yang recently released the book “Hatha Yoga Asanas” (Human Kinetics, $15.95).

“Coming from my background — a Type A, looking ahead, pushing ahead, wanting to achieve things — I charge into the future, have to succeed,” she says. “That often puts you in a position where you’re never satisfied or happy as you are. Yoga for me is very appealing because it’s very healing emotionally. I realized I was complete and whole as I am. There’s nothing wrong with me. It’s OK to have goals, but yoga allows a sense of well-being.

“That’s what sets it apart from all other physical exercises, that sense of well-beingness, enoughness.”

Yang recommended six poses, with a flexible regimen.

“It’s up to the individual,” Yang says. “Consistency will offer more results, as with anything.”

She suggests doing the poses daily — some or all, depending on your needs and ability.

Do them daily, and you should notice a difference in less than a week.

Downward-facing dog

Start on your hands and knees.

Lift the hips up and back to straighten your legs.

Keep your arms straight with your chest relaxing back toward your feet and head between your arms.

“If you’re sitting at a computer all day, downward-facing dog is good because it stretches your legs and back,” Yang says. Downward-facing dog is a great stretch for your calves and hamstrings.

Warrior two

From standing, lunge the feet apart and turn the back foot out at a 90-degree angle.

Extend the arms out to the sides and gaze over your front hand.

Warrior Two opens the hips, strengthens the legs and arms and keeps you balanced and breathing.

Chair

With feet hip-width apart, sit back into the hips and bend the knees.

Reach the arms overhead with the shoulders relaxing down.

Chair pose strengthens the quadriceps and gluteus maximus.

Pigeon

No yoga routine would be complete without a hip-opener, Yang believes.

With the right foot forward in a low lunge, walk the foot to the left and relax your knee and shin to the mat.

You may immediately feel a stretch in the outer hip, but if it is too intense or bothers your front knee, roll a blanket under the right hip. Switch sides for balance.

“If you run a lot, pigeon is a good one because it stretches the outside of the hips,” Yang says. These poses are great for right after you wake up in the morning, or as part of your workout stretching, Yang says.

Pigeon stretches the gluteus muscles and iliotibial band.

Triangle

From Warrior Two, straighten the front leg, reach the upper body forward and stretch the front hand down to the ankle.

Reach the other hand up to the sky with opposing force and keep the hips tucked under so they are in line with the legs and torso.

Triangle strengthens the core, especially the back and sides of the body, and challenges your balance.

Boat

Starting from seated, bend the knees into the chest and extend the feet forward.

Reach the fingers alongside the knees and keep the belly in and chest lifted.

Boat strengthens the abdominal muscles.

Age: 35

Employer: She is co-owner of Embrace Yoga and is a registered yoga teacher.

Describe your job: “I run the day-to-day operations and I also teach classes and workshops. I teach classes around twice a week and workshops probably once a month.”

Why’d you pick this job? “I love it! It’s portable. … I’m an Army wife and a mother of two, so it’s an easy schedule for me.”

How long have you been doing yoga? “I’ve been doing yoga for 12 years. I’ve co-owned the business for two, and I’ve been teaching for five.”

What’s something about the job that may surprise people? “Teaching yoga is fun. We’re fun. People are scared at first, but this is a really laid-back atmosphere, and we all have a sense of humor. It’s an important thing to be relaxed, that’s just an important part of life.”

What’s the hardest part of your job? “The hardest part, with this being a military town, is seeing people leave. You never know when people are going to go. The hardest part about the day-to-day operations is probably just scheduling. Finding last-minute substitute teachers and things like that.”

What’s a question you’re asked often about your job? ” ‘If I’m not flexible, can I still do yoga?’ That’s why most people come, to learn how to get flexible. It’s like any other form of exercise movement, with discipline, practice and patience, you can get stronger and more flexible.”

What should someone consider if they want to be a yoga teacher? “Being a people person. You’re in the spotlight, talking in front of other people. They should also have a basic knowledge of anatomy, to keep the practitioners and students safe from injury.”

What was your first job? “I worked at a mall in New Jersey selling suits. I didn’t see myself as a yoga teacher back then. … In the back of my mind, I’ve always known that I wanted to help people. I went from working at the mall to doing software development for 10 years, and after I got out of that, I started doing yoga, did more of it and decided to share the practice.”

- Eric Guzman

What: Gaiam Gripping Nonslip Yoga Socks

The pitch: Keep your feet firmly planted on the floor with these nonslip yoga socks from Gaiam. The soft cotton socks cradle your toes, while the rubber grip bottoms keep you securely in place while you pose.

Cost: $9.99

Where available: Target and other major retailers

The test: As the tester of the yoga socks, I was happy to use my 20 years of yoga practice to test doing yoga with socks. These socks have a really nice arch support built in, and the sticky bumps on the bottom of the sock (including under all of the toes) seemed to support poses while on a hard surface, such as a hardwood floor. The minuses of these socks are that it seems the sticky bumps would wear away over time, especially if the socks are being used in lieu of a yoga mat. In addition, it’s somewhat annoying that all the toes are individually articulated by the socks (like a glove vs. a mitten), making it difficult to really stretch out the toes individually.

However, I could definitely envision these socks coming in handy if one was traveling and wanted to do some yoga poses without schlepping around a yoga mat.

By Allison Behan, parent of a 4 and an almost-3-year-old