July, 2008

Happy Summer Everyone!

I hope the longer days and warmer weather are filling you with energy and finding you healthy and happy. Even though group classes are winding down for the summer, the Wavelengths office is busy getting the fall schedule together with lots of new classes to choose from. You can find the full schedule online at www.wavelengthsyoga.com/register_online.htm. You will notice that you can now register for classes online by secure credit card payment. However, if you qualify for any discounts (seniors discount and returning student discount), you will need to register the "old fashioned" way by cash or cheque.

Pricing Increases
As of September, pricing will be increasing for Thai Yoga Massage and Yoga Therapy sessions (Toronto only) and Group Yoga Classes (Norwood only). The increase in Toronto is due to rising transportation and rent costs and will be as follows: 1 hour - $80, 90 minutes - $115, 2 hours - $150. Pricing for in Peterborough and Norwood remains the same for Thai Yoga Massage and Yoga Therapy Sessions ($70/hour in Peterborough and $65/hour in Norwood, also reflecting rent and transportation costs for each location). Yoga classes in Norwood will go from $10/class to $11/class, bringing the pricing closer to market value ($13 - $20 class, depending on location).

Why is the price so low in Norwood anyway?
When I began teaching in Norwood, I had one small class and the bulk of my teaching was taking place in Toronto, which was subsidizing the Norwood class. Since then, I have discontinued my Toronto classes, and the Norwood classes have increased to six classes a week as of September. Demand has been high for classes in Norwood, and most sessions have had a waiting list. With the increase in classes, I hope to accomodate all levels and all people who are interested. However, in order to run a viable business, keep pricing near market level and in-line with my 16+ years of teaching and continuing education as a yoga instructor/therapist and Thai Massage Therapist, I have had to raise prices slightly. Pricing in Norwood will always be slightly lower than in other locations due to lower transporation costs and as a service to community in which I live.

Returning Student Discount
Students in Norwood who are currently registered in the spring term of classes (May to July) can register and pay for the fall session before July 14 and receive the old pricing of $10/class, which works out to $120 for the 12 week session beginning September 8, 2008. This discount only applies until July 14 and can be paid by cash or cheque.

New Class Highlights (Norwood)
Yoga Therapy - Restorative yoga for those looking to maintain or regain a healthy body and mind. Focus in this class is on gentle stretching to aid in circulation and flexibility, as well as working with the breath to ease the mind. This class is suitable for those who may have restrictions in movement or are recovering from injuries. Please consult your doctor or health care provider to determine if practicing yoga is appropriate for you. The class can be done seated in a chair and/or standing.

Tuesdays from 10:45 - 12:00 p.m.
September 9 - December 9 (12 weeks - No classes on October 7, 14), All levels - wheelchair accessible
$120 / 12 weeks (seniors 65+ $96)
Pine Street Centre, Norwood

Moms and Babies - Whether you're new to yoga or an experienced practitioner, this class will help you recover your pre-baby body, while having some quality time with your little one. Meet other new moms while stretching and strengthening your body, mind and spirit. Come until your baby can crawl away from the mat. Please bring blankets and toys, as well as a yoga mat and/or blanket to practice on.

Tuesdays from 2:00 - 3:30 p.m.
Session 1: September 9 - October 28 (6 weeks - No classes on October 7, 14), All levels
Session 2: November 4 - December 9 (6 weeks), All levels
$66 / 6 weeks
Norwood Public Library

Intermediate Hatha - Explore body, mind and breath in a more challenging class where we hold poses longer and discover the sublte changes that occur as a result. Students should be familiar with basic yoga positions and breath work. Along with movement and breathing, we will also explore seated meditation and chanting for a deeper experience. Group discussions and yoga philosophy will also make up a part of this class.

Thursdays from 7:00 - 8:30 p.m.
September 11- December11 (12 weeks - No classes on October 2, 9), Intermediate
$132 / 12 weeks
Location to be announced

Retreat at The Robins Nest, November 7 - 9, 2008, Norwood, Ontario
What does peace of mind have to do with yoga?
Astanga Yoga literally means Eight Limbs of yoga (asta = eight; anga = limb), which refers to the eight essential practices of yoga. Of these eight practices, the yoga postures that we tend to think of as "yoga" are only one aspect. The other limbs include breathing techniques (which includes chanting), three levels of meditation, control of the senses and several lifestyle recommendations. According to Patanjali, the author of yoga's definitive text called "The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali," the continuous and dedicated effort towards these practices brings about a state of peace in the mind.

Patanjali offers us hope by promising a reduction in the suffering that he admits is part and parcel of the human condition. Through the practice of yoga there is a reduction of harmful emotions such as clinging, aversion, fear, ignorance and self-importance. This results in a contented state of mind that brings about great happiness and joy.

Discover the ancient wisdom of the yoga sutras of Patanjali through the practical exploration of the eight limbs. Special attention will be given to the lifestyle recommendations as well as breathing and meditation, however yoga asanas (postures) will also form a significant portion of each session. There will be three sessions a day with ample free time to receive a healing Thai massage, private yoga therapy session, go for a walk in the woods or soak in the hot tub. Pre-registration is required. Plan ahead and register now!

$318 - includes workshop, 5 meals, accommodation in a unique Straw Bale Retreat Centre

Have a safe, happy and fun summer.
Namaste,
Caroline