Posts Tagged ‘Community’

Yoga on the Wine Trail at Hiddencroft Vineyards

Journey to the Heart on the Loudoun Wine Trail

Yoga on the Wine Trail at Hiddencroft Vineyards

Meet the wine maker, also the owner, in his beautiful open air barn, tasting house, and vineyard deep in the heart of Loudoun County, Virginia. Rich with history, you can feel the strength of spirit here. It is with heart, love, and passion his wines are aged and hand crafted to perfection. This wine matches our practice, carefully combined to engage the deepest
human sense of smell, touch, taste, giving and energy that surrounds the dedication to what we love. This Natarajasana, Prana sequenced practice is a beautiful barn dance with the wind blowing through our bodies…

There are those moments when we get in our own way blocking us from seeing, feeling, doing, saying, and breathing. There are those moments when we get out of our own way unblocking us to see, do, say, breath, love, grow, give, create, live, smile, spread our feathers and FLY riding the breath of the universe…

Erin started students in a bound meditaion with Mexican blankets to prop up the back and allow the ribs and lungs to open in Supta Baddha Konasana. Breathing openly, fresh air lets the mind freely re

lease thoughts while beginning to remove gravity from shoulders in a reclined and relaxed meditation. We all rise to the sound sounds of the singing bowl making the path led by vineyard staff through the apple orchard to the vineyards, row after row of lush vines. Deep in the summer, the heat and humidity fills our lungs while travelling slowly through the grapes, soaking up the sunshine.

Yoga – Heart Opening Practice

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♣ Chakra: The Forth Chakra, the Anahata Chakra, is physically positioned at the heart region. Traditionally, this Chakra is represented as a green flower with twelve petals which match the vrittis of lust, fraud, indecision, repentance, hope, anxiety, longing, impartiality, arrogance, incompetence, discrimination and defiance.

♣ Element: Air

♣ Color: Green

♣ Animal: Antelope (deer)

♣ Body Parts: Heart, Skin, Lungs, Thymus, Blood, Lymph, Immune System

♣ Planet: Venus

♣ Focus: “When energy is not flowing freely from the heart there is a disruption of love, balance, harmony, peace, brotherhood, hope, growth or healing. When blocked there can be an inability to express or share any deep emotions including joy, fear, sadness or serenity. This Chakra is fed by finding your passion and following your heart. Having faith, find ways to express yourself and practicing appreciation, balancing giving and receiving ,and forgiveness of yourself or others.”

We return to our mats for a heart opening practice with Lara that begins in Utthita Balasana (extended child’s pose). When the knees are apart, allowing the rib cage to sink deeper, the arms are extended forward to help length in the spine and begin opening shoulders and chest. Our peak asanas, stages, or modifications are reached through poses placed in sequences to repeat, build, and open the heart, chest, and shoulders allowing for absolute freedom of breath and body movement. Natarajasana (King Dancer or Lord of the Dance), Urdva Danurasana (upward bow), Ustrasana (camel), and Salabhasana (locust) is the family of asanas.

Yoga 4 Life at Hiddencroft Vneyard Practice

Opening dedication is mind and body opening wave through hearts center. Making our way through Moon Salutations breathing in the warm summer air to progressive sequence including balance. As the birds fly through the barn doors each inhale and rise to Tadasana brings the gaze upward. Visual movement through air allows each moment to be present.

And the day came when the risk it took to remain tight inside the bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom.”

– Anais Nin

Wine at Hiddencroft Vineyards

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Hiddencroft is located in the far corner of Lovettsville, Virginia. From our Purcellville Yoga Studio on East Main Street, a short drive down 287 taking a left turn down a scenic dirt road seems like a journey back in time. We sampled a large tasting menu with the winemaker and owner. Our light fare lunch was provided by South Street Under in Leesburg, Virginia and the carefully prepared selections were paired with wine following the tasting.

Clyde ages his wine between 22 and 42 months! The blueberry and cherry fruit wines were not something many of our yogis have tried before. Such a nice treat captured in the bottles of Grandma’s Love Potion ties up the knot of love with blueberries – absolutely delicious! The Sweet Cherry was purchased by many this time around to enjoy with cool desserts of the summer. We sold almost 30 bottles of wine to our yogis returning to their homes to share with their family & friends.

The Wine Selection

Here are the wines offered by Hiddencroft. A “hidden gem” tucked far out of the way of highway noise, clutter of visual distractions, and full of warmth to share. Walking through the path to the 1830′s tasting house feels like passing through time to a unique piece of history now captured and enjoyed with the wonderful wine country we are so lucky to call home. We are all grateful for the hospitality and custom vineyard tour during our meditation walk. Yoga and Wine in Loudoun County & Yoga on the Wine Trail is so pleased to have experienced the heart of the people that create wine here on a farm now cherished for generations past, present, and future. Cheers!

Purcellville Virginia Yoga Studio at Hiddencroft Vineyards

Rose

Chambourcin Rose (2011) – $19Wine

Flavors of strawberries and tart summer plums. Lovely mauve color. Dry and crisp. Excellent served as an aperitif or wine cocktail.

White Wines

Traminette (2011) – $18 (Dry)
Traminette (2011) – ~~$18~~ On Sale for $15! (1.5% res. sugar)

Two versions available: one dry and crisp; the other semi-sweet. A nose of old fashioned roses and honeysuckle. Ap

ple at the mid-palate and a spicy tingle on the finish. Excellent when served with spicy, ethnic cuisine.

Vidal Blanc (2010) – $20 (1.5% res. sugar)
Subtle notes of pineapple and grapefruit. Excellent with grilled chicken, ribs, seafood and tropical salsas.

Red Wines

Chambourcin (2009) – $23 Released December 2012

Cellared for tree years, this 100% Chambourcin wine epidimizes the saying “No wine before it’s time”. Swish this deep, dark beauty in your glass to release the palate of chocolate and black cherries, followed by a dry, but smooth, finish. A true showcase of the Chambourcin grape!

Cabernet Franc (N/V) – $23 Released December 2012

Cellar aged in a combination of French and American oak barrels for 3 and 1/2 years. This blend of Cabernet Franc and Merlot is a great balance of fruit, oak and tannins that will blossom in your cellar for years to come.

Dutchman’s Creek Blend – $23

Our red blend displays a complex palate with a smooth finish. Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot and Tannat have been blended for a great balance of fruit, oak and tannan. The perfect wine to complement your favorite dish of beef, lamb or wild game.

Tannat (2008) – $40

Barrel-aged for 42 months. This wine has a firm tannic structure, dense purple-red-color, a nose of tobacco, smoke, ripe berries, and a long angular finish. Enjoy it now or lay it down in your cellar to be enjoyed in 5-7 years.

Fruit Wines

Sweet Cherry (2011) – ~~$23~~ On Sale for $20! (750ml)

One of our most popular wines and a unique treat. Intense cherry flavor and sweet at the front and tart on the finish. Made fromMontmorency cherries…the quintessential pie cherry. Enjoy it by itself or with desserts; especially delicious with dark chocolate and almond pastries.

Grandma’s Love Potion – $24 (500ml) Our 2011 Vintage!

The dictionary defines love potion as “a magic drink supposed to arouse passion for a certain person in the one who drinks it.” While we make no such claim, we are certain you will passionately enjoy this unique wine with pate, game, or port, and for dessert with ice cream, creme brulee, and bread pudding or plum pudding with hard sauce.

This charming winery was started in 2008 by Clyde and Terry Housel. Please visit them at http://www.hiddencroftvineyards.com/- browse the current calendar of events, future summer wine & music in the barn, and learn about the family owned and operated farm.

Yoga 4 Life - Yoga and Wine Retreats Virginia

Please feel free to leave comments to our post. We enjoy hearing your experience and love for both yoga and wine! LoveLocalLoudoun

Namaste & Cheers!

Yoga on the Wine Trail Yogis

Wed November 21, 2012

9:00 am Flow – Beginner Jessi Hughes Main Street STUDIO
10:30 am Gentle Christie Haran Main Street STUDIO
1:00 pm Flow Yoga Carolyn Connell Main Street STUDIO
5:00 pm Hatha 2 Christie Haran Main Street STUDIO
6:30 pm Vinyasa/Prana Flow Erin Dewey Nursery Avenue STUDIO

Fri November 23, 2012

7:30 am All Level Yoga Lawrie Vick Main Street STUDIO
8:30 am Pilates Brandy Greenwell Nursery Avenue STUDIO
9:15 am Hatha Lawrie Vick Main Street STUDIO
9:30 am Vinyasa/Prana Flow Lara Ward Nursery Avenue STUDIO

See everybody this weekend plus FREE Community Class followed by a Flow this Saturday!! Sunday we are all candle lit to relaxxxxxxxx! It will be a nice treat after the feast and holiday shopping!

- Namaste & Happy Thanksgiving

from all of us at Yoga 4 Life

Season of Giving and Thanks

Workshop: Friday, November 16th – 7 pm

As we enter the season of giving and the celebration of Thanksgiving this month we offer a unique Drum Meditation combined with the Chakra Yin Practice candle lit at Sundance. John Drury & another special guest will play large drum rhythms that will flood music and smooth rhythm into your mind, body, and spirit. It will be a fantastic evening!

This is an ALL LEVEL class and children over the age of 9 are welcome to come. There is an additional cost and we are asking for donations after class for our drum leaders. Feel free to respond to us with questions or call. Walk-ins welcome or register online if you are a regular client with Yoga 4 Life & This Body Yoga on Mindbody.

Feel free to invite friends along!

Words on the Website

The inspiration for our website clean up and clarity soon with Wicked Design, Dave Levinson, working his magic. We hope to make rates, teacher bios, and very important information right at your finger tips. Stay tuned for beautiful changes…

Community Yoga

We offer a Community Yoga Class on Saturday mornings at the Shala on Main Street. This class is designed to meet new instructors and explore yoga, even if for the first time. Please join Jessi, Lawrie, Erin, Lara, and Carolyn for a warm beginning to the weekends throughout December.

Our Saturday mornings are filled with goodness starting at 8:30am with 3 hours of yoga to choose from and a once a month vineyard practice…

Class Packages

Bundling up classes and new rates for the winter season!

Drop In $15
Student Drop In $10 OR 2 for $20.00
5 Class Package $50
10 Class Package $100(savings of $50 vs. buying equivalent drop ins)
25 Class Package $245 (savings of $130)
Monthly Unlimited $85
Student Monthly Unlimited $75
6 Month Unlimited $450 (savings of $60 vs. buying month to month)
Annual Membership $875(savings of $145 vs. buying month to month)

Suggestions?

We want to hear from you! Here are some topics we are working on…

Next year, which vineyards in Loudoun County do you want on our journey?
What are your favorite classes and if we could offer them twice weekly what fits your schedule best?
What types of Yoga Mats would you like available to you? We offer a fine Manduka mat and a basic introduction mat but is there something else you wish for your practice this holiday season?
What type of Friends and Family package would you like to see?
We want to offer “Friends of Friends” for January. Would this be of interest?

We so appreciate your feedback. The success and keeping our Shala and Studio doors open is about YOU and all of our community…Namaste

“Today we have gathered and we see that the cycles of life continue. We have been given the duty to live in balance and harmony with each other and all living things. So now, we bring our minds together as one as we give greetings and thanks to each other as People….” A Haudenosaunee “Thanksgiving” Poem

Namaste from Yoga 4 Life & This Body Yoga!

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving Celebration!

Yoga & Wine at Fabbioli Cellars

Yoga and Wine Fabbioli Cellars

Journey with Yoga on the Wine Trail…

A day, event, moment, week, or year is not a stage set up by a shining sun, ideal weather, or another. Movement, choice, acceptance, and trusting the universe to let us find ourselves when we let go is where we not just find life, but come alive…

See clearly, hear with acceptance, flow with connection, sing by vibration and move with evolved rhythm.

“See” shines the Sun, for the light bleeds colors into your world.

“Feel,” whispers the Moon,“my energy is near and dear.”

“Speak,” sings the birds, “our songs create waves upon which you can dance.”

“Fly,” buzz the bees, “hope is to continue on our flight to help, give, and grow.”

“Breath,” blows the wind, “into the rhythm of time that leads you to your destiny.”

“Flow,” water beckons, “let go, wash it new; ride my current of collected drops and dew.”

Our July journey on the wine trail is a cozy day of introspection. The clouds in the gray skies claim and capture heat from the sun allowing a peaceful entry to meet together not only in body, but ourselves in mind. The mats quietly go down one at a time until the space is completely filled. Closed eyes for meditation, we create space in the room, body, and self.

The quiet entry to the vineyard and calm canvas painted sky is the backdrop release in the vines. Dispersed throughout the rows, some take the path alone. Sweeping through the vines in the freedom of moving meditation or finding peace in the slow rhythm of walking one foot in front of the other – simplicity.

The cool drizzle and gentle blades of grass give way to our bare feet and rise again as each pass slowly letting go to enjoy the deep red grapes hanging gracefully below the leaves that nourish them. The roots below offer strength and a sturdy foundation of life flowing into the ground into a world only they can see. In our practice, it is that place of sacred self that we meet to heal and connect. Like the center of the earth, getting there is a process of entering layers and sometimes shedding them to the pureness of who we are and where our true soul energy lives.

The slow and steady walk onto our mat begins with linking to that soul center as we find our rhthym with breath and body loosing space, time, temperature with journey through asanas…loosing connection to everything and everyone around us allows the space for true self to rise up and then out to make deeper and truer connections with all souls.

“Dance the dance, sing the song…our shadows may may look similar but voice, touch, tone, and spirits are their own. It is that beautiful moment when they flock together, flow, and harmonize… IdentifyInterlinkInhale to riSE…”

Yoga

Our practice focus is the Solar Plexus Chakra, Manipura or Third Chakra, and the Root Chakra, Muladhara or First Chakra. The combination is one of combining Fire and Earth elements. Fire is not only heat energy but light as well and the grounding element of Earth replants roots of self.

The heat fills the room as we flow through Moon Salutations (Chandra Namaskara) and a Dancing Warrior heart opening sequences. The three wave flow is based on crafting an intelligent sequence to peak asanas (poses) allow the body to open fully. The kramas (stages) to Parsva Utthita Hasta Padangusthasana and variations as the main peak asana(pose). The following sequences all lead to working on the navel region through twisting and opening asanas such as Salabhasana (Locust), visiting Uttanasana between sequences, Supta Virasana, and Dhanurasana. Working on balance and twisting the upper region we grew through twisted lunges within Chandra Namaskara and the evolution to a revolved variation of Anjaneyasana – Revolved, Standing Crescent Lunge Chandrasana.

The journey is not over but our asana practice ends in a Savasana with Tribal Winds, a Native American selection, with flutes, power animals, and soft words. Surrounded by foggy windows and the sweet singing crystal singing bowl that vibrates through the air and right into the core of our being to quiet and calm every last movement of mind. Savasana assists visit each of our students with hand blended chakra oils from Blue Moon that have simmered in stones and crystals. The reading follows and reflects directly on our earth connection, growth, giving and sharing…now we drink wine!

Wine

Fabbioli is known well not just for the fabulous wine, but also for their tastings as food and wine pairings. Our tasting was a really fun and energetic presentation by vineyard staff at our own tasting bar. The room still filled with the flowers hand selected for their color relation to the chakras, we tasted and enjoyed the changes that occurred when food was introduced. My favorite is the pear wine with ginger cookie and the Raspberry Merlot paired with locally made chocolate. The detailed description and very thorough presentation of the wine’s own journey to the bottle was so well presented; like taking a food and wine class.

2011 Rosa Luna

Rose’ is a wonderful new summer favorite. Many vineyards are creating them dry which also makes this a nice, crisp, and chilled summer selection. I have really enjoyed tasting the different variations throughout the county this summer. This one is 100% Sangiovese grapes, fermented in stainless steel preserving a crisp acidity with flavors of summer peaches. Their food and wine suggestion is to pair with poultry, white fleshy fish and herb based rubs and sauces.

Light Fare lunch is presented and each student selects their favorite wine to enjoy with fruit, mini hand made sandwiches, and delicious desserts prepared and delivered by South Street Under in Leesburg, Virginia. Please visit their location downtown below Tuscarora Mill or website at: http://www.southstreetunder.com/.

As you well know, our mission is to support local agriculture, business, and farms right here in Loudoun County, Virginia. We were honored to be invited to this vineyard and even more so because Fabbioli Cellars and Yoga 4 Life/Yoga on the Wine Trail’s philosophy is very much lined up – Doug says it best…

“One of my little catch-phrases has been “Get the train going down the track and decorate it while it is moving.” With that is mind; we have started to define the ideals we make in business. Some of these ideals should be obvious for any business and are as follows: good quality products, sound business practices, and the building of great relationships. However an ideal that makes Fabbioli Cellars unique is that this business will continually strive to do a little more for the community, the youth and the Earth. So this brings me to the last of the three “E”s: economics. Some may question the economics point, but I want to make it clear that that is what makes things function. A strong rural economy will slow down land sales to developers and maintain our green community.”

Taking it back to where we began, time after time and it is still the right start…that is what leads you forward, sideways – North, South, East and West – always coming back to center.

Fabbioli Cellars has over 20 years of winemaking experience, their award-winning wines have earned medals at some of the country’s most prestigious competitions, including double gold at the Indy International Wine Competition. The experience of ”Real People, Earth Friendly, Fabulous Wines” is just the beginning of the hospitality you will enjoy stepping into the tasting room. They offer food and wine classes and many others. They are open DAILY from 11-5pm and can be found down Rt. 15 past Leesburg going North towards Lucketts off of the beautiful country, dirt path by turning right onto Limestone School Road. http://www.fabbioliwines.com/

Their wines can be found around the region. The link to the list can be found at their website here: http://www.fabbioliwines.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=44&Itemid=71.

Our journey has continued throughout the summer and into the fall. Kim Sullivan is a Wine Passionist who helps to coordinate our Yoga on the Wine Trail events. We welcome you to join us at the following vineyards coming up soon.

All Photographs from this day can be found here: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.412783768758020.88989.252543858115346&type=3

“Human giving and trust is the greatest gift of freedom, carefully placing your feet on the earth and a path to be proud of…”

♥ Namaste

Yoga on the Wine Trail – 868 Vineyard / Grandale Farm

When: October 20, 2012 9:15 am – 12:30 pm

Where: 868 Estate Vineyards

14001 Harpers Ferry Road

Neersville, VA 20132

540-668-6000

Cost: $59

Yoga on the Wine Trail – The Barns at Hamilton Station

When: November 10, 2012 9:15 am – 12:30 pm

Where: The Barns at Hamilton Station

16804 Hamilton Station Road

Hamilton, VA 20158

540-338-5309

Cost: $59

Photos by: L. Ward & Kassia Lee Photography

Fabbioli Cellars, Leesburg Virginia in beautiful Loudoun County

Clear Eyed, Open Heart

Yoga is Samadi

Power yoga is the experience of boundlessness. People that practice yoga develop an awareness, and a circle of compassion that expands, outside our inner circles, growing wider and wider, to encompass all beings. All we have to do in yoga is pay attention. By paying attention to the breath, transformation happens.

Letting life energy flow through us, coordinating the breath with a series of postures, one flowing into another.

As we flow into the fall season, in our practice we create heat with the body, providing purifying sweat to cleanse the muscles, organs and mind, resulting in improved circulation, strength and a light body and mind… bliss.

A time for redirection of energy, activating the healing energy within the body/mind. Quietly turning inward, hearing the breath, noticing how engaging the bandhas keeps your mind present, and how this practice becomes a meditation as we build the heat, slowly breathing in and slowly breathing out. Lifting the energy upwards, breathing through the shorter, darker days, enjoying the warmth, the fire that peacefully burns inside of you. This slow, steady burn will guide you, both mind and body, keep you present, aware, open and quiet. Beginning your day with a yoga practice that builds the heat, sheds the darkness, awakens the mind, body and spirit.

Mula Bandha

Is the root lock, the first of the three interior body “locks” used in asana and pranayama practice to control the flow of energy. Prevents the outward flow of energy to lock and interconnect inner systems. It increases flexibility and stimulates heat. It is an objectless meditative state and inner supportive energy flows necessary to create synchrony with and enter into Samadhi. When mula bandha occurs there is less effort and more energy so it is not a contraction. It provides a pathway for spiritual reconnect.

Mula bandha consists of the contraction of the perineum (zone between the genitals and the anus) accompanied by a breath control technique. It can take years of practice to cultivate and is essential for good concentration and more advanced yoga postures. By bringing awareness to the core of the body, mula bandha helps prevent injury. It guides you to move from your center, you will become lighter and flow more with your yoga practice.

Using the asana practice to go deeper inside the mind… entertaining the possibility… that is how we grow.

Moving from the outer to the more subtle, energetic, inner, where the course of breath leads us to the energy (prana) awareness and then to communion with the implicate integrating intelligence at the source of this energy,

BLISS….

Namaste,

Carolyn

Power Ashtanga at Yoga 4 Life with Carolyn:

Tuesday Nights – 6:30pm
Thursday Mornings – 9:30am
Thursday Nights Power to Bliss – 7:30 – 8:30pm (following Pilates)

Yoga While Recovering

(Links to Restorative, Hatha, and Yin Yoga classes in Purcellville, Western Loudoun County: see below)

The month of August has been tough for me, because somehow I’ve injured my left knee. I’m not sure how I did it, but there’s a bit of pain and some swelling. The doctor suggested rest, and then when the symptoms didn’t go away I had an MRI taken. I’ll know the results tomorrow.

What this also means is that I haven’t been able to go to any full practices of my beloved yoga. This isn’t the first time I’ve had to take time off to recover from an injury (I had to take a month or so off due to a foot problem) but this is more frustrating. I can walk around fine, seem to have almost full range of motion, but there are certain poses that I simply can’t do or cause discomfort if I do. It’s surprising, when you think about it, how many yoga poses require you to bend your knee. All of those poses might cause problems and I have to be careful.

The challenge was to find a way to stay connected to the yoga practice while letting my body heal. What could I do? How could I continue doing “yoga” while giving my knee a rest?

One of the first things that came to mind was to continue my pranayama breathing routine. I do a set of three pranayama breathing exercises most mornings, and I continued doing these. In those first weeks I had to adjust how I was sitting so as not to strain my knee, but I continued with the breathing just as I had before. I would end with some meditation or even laying down in savasana. This was only 10-15 minutes of time, but it was a great way to keep connected.

As the pain and swelling went down, I tested my knee by doing some simple sun salutations. These went well so long as I was careful stepping back into plank, and then stepping forward into the forward fold position. I began adding three sun salutations after the pranayama breathing after three weeks.

Over the last week, as the swelling and pain decreased further, I re-started my normal morning yoga workout routine. This consists of the three sun salutations, and then warrior 2, parsva konasana, prasarita padottanasana, tree pose, and then a forward fold, both sides, before savasana. I modified the poses to reduce stress on the knee. My first two poses weren’t deep knee bends, tree pose was me just putting my foot on my ankle on the one side, and again I otherwise just took things slowly and carefully. So far it is working well.

Had this not worked I was going to check into doing chair yoga. This wouldn’t have been ideal but it would have kept me engaged in a yoga practice. That’s the most important thing. While I’ve continued doing some workouts, such as water-walking and free weights for the upper body, finding a way to continue with my yoga practice has helped me to keep my mind sane as my body heals.

I’m hoping that I can get back to full practices soon if the MRI is negative. In the meantime, I can still practice in some way. Don’t let life get in your way of practicing. Even a little bit makes a positive difference.

Namaste

John

Yin and Restorative Yoga Classes in Purcellville:

Yoga 4 Life is becoming two studios effective September 15th. You can find these Yin and Restorative practices helpful in recovering from injury and maintaining your practice. Please contact or e mail with questions regarding your condition or stop by Yoga 4 Life & This Body Yoga. Right on Main Street in Purcellville, Virginia at 850-B E. Main Street, Purcellville, Virginia 20132 (across from the new Rite Aid).

Registration and packages can be found here: https://clients.mindbodyonline.com/ASP/home.asp?studioid=19257

Mondays – 10:45 am Gentle Christie Haran 1 hr & 15 min

Mondays – 7:00 pm Yin Yoga Jessi Hughes 1 hr & 15 min

Tuesdays – 9:15 am Hatha Christie Haran 1 hr & 15 min

Wednesdays – 10:30 am Gentle Christie Haran 1 hr & 15 min

Thursdays – 7:00 pm Yin Yoga Jessi Hughes 1 hr & 15 min

Fridays – 9:15 am Hatha Christie Haran 1 hr & 15 min

Fridays – 4:30 pm Hatha Christie Haran 1 hr & 15 min

Sundays – 6:00 pm Gentle Hatha Christie Haran

Purcellville & Loudoun County Yoga

Photographs by Jeremy Lee & L. Ward – Pennsylvania & Pataskala, Ohio

The Gratitude Project

Commit to yourself…

August 1 this year is going to be busy. First, it’s a full moon on that night. (As an aside, we’ll have two full moons in August, with the second one

on the 31st, which means we have 13 full moons this year). Second, August 1 marks the halfway point for Summer. We’re halfway through the Summer season in 2012 already!

Something I’ve been doing for years now that also starts on August 1 is called the Gratitude Project. It was started by an on-line friend named Julie McCord. The feeling was that we take all of the blessings that we have for granted. Most of us would agree with that, but what do we do to change it? The Gratitude Project is an attempt to make that change. Between August 1 and the start of Fall, which is September 23, you have to think of one thing per day for which you are grateful.

The project entails you being mindful of whatever brings you Joy and you journal “the something” you are grateful for each day between those dates. No repeats – you can be grateful for your spouse/kids/job/friends, but the reason for the gratitude needs to be different for each entry. It can BIG or not, your journal/blog entry can be long or short. It can be on paper or in pixels and public or private.

Some days are easy, others are not. Inevitably, there are days where everything’s going wrong and the last thing you’re considering is gratitude. Those are the days when this project is most important. You have to think, consider, really look at your life and find the positives that dwell within your life despite the crappy nature of a day. It can be done. Every year that I’ve done this project has seen some bitter and sad days, and yet there is always something for which I can be grateful and state it as such.

Commit to gratitude this year. Commit to yourself. Adopt the project and be grateful. I think you’ll see just how much positive change it can affect for you.

-Namaste

John

Purcellville Yoga

Loudoun County, Virginia

Benefit Classes for Michael Joel Hall

Alone we imagine, dream, shine, create.

Together we spark, fuse, flow, grow, transform

…and change the world…

Join heart & hand – mind, body, and soul…

“The meeting of two personalities is like the contact of two chemical substances. If there is any reaction, both are transformed” – C. G. Jung

Contact

Connect

Collide

August 5th MJH fundraiser – putting kindness into action. via – Peg – Please join together as we practice giving on and off our mats. Please join us as we celebrate community coming together in times of need – join forces in the great unity and spirit of YOGA…pass it on…

More information can be found at these links: (please scroll down for a complete list of classes offered)

http://www.elephantjournal.com/2012/07/michael-joel-hall-how-you-can-help-update-michael-graglia/

http://blogs.yogajournal.com/yogabuzz/2012/07/yoga-community-rallies-after-attack.html

http://pegmulqueen.com/about/2012/07/25/it-takes-a-community/

http://pegmulqueen.com/about/mjh/

The following classes are being offered around the area to support the cause…please join our event on August 4th at Hiddencroft Vineyards and any of the other wonderful studios who have offered a donation class to help.

Hiddencroft Vineyards ad Yoga 4 Life Present:

Yoga on the Wine Trail, Saturday August 4^th, 9:15am-12:30pm

(Lovettsville, VA)

https://yipdeals.com/products/dealDisplayExt/864

August 5th – 108 Sun Salutations

with …

Tova Steiner
Pleasance Lowengard Silicki

Marshall Sanders
Mimi Rieger

Gail Harris

Kevin Waldorf-Cruz

Luke Lukens

Keith Moore

Derek Waddy

Augusta Zoe Hemann

Betsey Poos

Mike Graglia

Complete List of Benefit Classes for Michael Joel Hall:

(past event) Sunday, July 22^nd

DC Shri advanced practice with Mike Graglia

Upcoming events:

Astanga Yoga Studio DC (AYSDC):

Sunday July 29^th, Yin Yoga Workshop with Sookie, 3-4:30pm

Balance Gym Thomas Circle location, on the Roof top

Friday July 27^th, 5:30pm with Kristen Krash

Capitol Hill Yoga:

Saturday July 28^th, 9am Open Yoga with Betsy

Sunday July 29^th, 9am Level 1 with Stacey

*Dana Hot Yoga (Glenside, PA):

Saturday, July 28^th 4:30-6PM

Down Dog Yoga, all 3 locations (Georgetown, Bethesda, Herndon):

Friday July 27^th 6pm

Down To Earth Yoga, Bozeman MT:

4:30 – 6:30 Friday night, July 27^th, Rocket III w/Peg Mulqueen

Embrace Yoga, DC:

Embracing Michael: Weekend Fundraisers & Practice for Michael Joel Hall

Rocket Embrace for Michael Joel Hall
Saturday, July 28
11am-12:30pm
Teacher: Augusta Hemann
Rocket EMBRACE for Michael Joel Hall is a spirited asana class led Augusta Zoe Hemann. This inspiring heart-centered practice will offer flowing postures back bends, hip opening and balancing. Students are also have the freedom to express their giving spirit through inversions like handstands and forearm stands for the first time.

Spiritual Embrace for Michael Joel Hall
Sunday, July 29
1pm-2:15pm
Teacher: Faith Hunter
A Spiritual EMBRACE for Michael Joel Hall guided by Faith Hunter will be a flowing vinyasa class infused with expansive heart openings and a loving expression of devotion. Towards the end of the class, Faith will guide you a Compassion Meditation in honor of Michael Joel Hall.

EPIC, DC:

For the month of July, all proceeds from the commUNITY classes– Thursday, 4pm and Sunday, 11am

extendYoga (North Bethesda):

Friday, June 27, 5:30pm with Allison Rose

Flow Yoga Center, Friday July 27^th:

8:15-9:45pm - Radiant Heart Prana Flow – asana led by Rob Hess with hands on assists plus closing pranayama and meditation led by Greg Marzullo A transformative prana flow heart-centered practice including mantra japa, tantric sutras, heart salutations, a liberating back-bending vinyasa flow and meditation to liberate our natural, healing alchemy of love.

8:15-9:45pm – Rocket to the Heart – asana led by Mimi Rieger closing with hands on assists plus closing pranayama and meditation led by Brittanie DeChino The playful and upbeat Rocket systematically promotes heart-felt spirit & freedom within your yoga practice. It works the whole body creating inner and outer balance. You will leave Rocket feeling completely rejuvenated & inspired. All you need is love!

Flow Yoga Leesburg:

Saturday July 28^th, 4 pm vinyasa flow class

Fuse Pilates:

Sunday July 29^th, 3:30pm with Mariska Breland

Georgetown Yoga:

Saturday July 28^th, 9:15am with Molly Dunn

Hiddencroft Vineyards – Yoga 4 Life Presents:

Yoga on the Wine Trail, Saturday August 4^th, 9:15am-12:30pm

(Lovettsville, VA)

https://yipdeals.com/products/dealDisplayExt/864

Happy Soul Yoga (Leesburg, VA):

Sunday August 12^th, 3-4pm

It’s Yoga Puerto Rico:

Wednesday August 1^st with David Kyle

lil omm, DC:

Thursday night, July 26th 730 yoga flow happy hour with Paige Lichens

Little River Yoga:

Friday August 3^rd Teen Yoga (5-6pm) and Power Yoga, 6:30-7:45pm with Carson Calhoun

Saturday August 4^th, Intro to 2^nd Series, 2pm with Tova Steiner

Prana Vibe (Chantilly, VA):

Friday August 10^th, 6:30-8pm Rocket 3 Series with Virginia Lung

Class to be held at 3656 Centerview Drive Suite #6, Chantilly VA 20151

Pure Yoga (East Side), NYC:

Sunday August 12^th, 3-4pm with Isuaro Fernandez

Results Gym (Capitol Hill):

Sunday August 5^th, 2-3:15pm with Kristina (Karuna) Maze

(non-gym members are welcome, as well as members of Results)

Stroga:

Sunday July 29^th, 11am with Scott Westbrook Simpson

Sunday July 29^th, 6:30pm “Flow for a Cause”

Tranquil Space:

The Soul of Yoga is Love (2 Benefit Workshops for Michael Joel Hall)

Saturday July 28^th, 5-6:15pm with Jodi and Anu at Arlington location

Sunday July 29^th, 3:30-5pm with Kevin, Melissa and Dave at the Dupont location

Yoga Chai:

Saturday July 28^th, 9:30am with Naomi Gottlieb-Miller

Yoga District, Bloomingdale location:

Monday 7:45pm

Wednesday 6:30pm

(these are the classes that Michael Joel Hall usually teaches at Yoga District. They will be offered as benefit classes until he is back teaching them.)

Proper Topper:

Friday August 24^th, 10% of all sales at this retail store will be donated to Michael Joel Hall

108 Sun Salutes in Meridian Hill Park, taught by 12 DC Yoga teachers sponsored by Lululemon

Sunday, August 5^th, 5pm

~Namaste

Lara posted earlier about the benefit practice that Yoga4Life had for Michael Joel Hall. I attended a different practice this past weekend that was also a benefit practice for Mr. Hall. If you haven’t heard, Michael Joel Hall is a popular yoga instructor in Washington DC that was attacked while walking home with his partner a couple of weeks ago. He has no health insurance and lost his apartment to a fire a couple of months ago as well. He has to have some reconstructive surgery for his face and, of course, has huge medical bills to pay from all of this.

I’ve never met Michael Joel Hall and, in fact, had never heard of him before. In many respects he is just another person who had some bad luck come his way. Yet, the outpouring of support for this human being has been enormous. Yoga studios around the country have set up benefit practices to raise money. There is going to be a big benefit practice outdoors on August 5, with twelve people teaching a 108 sun salutation class. Hundreds, if not thousands, are expected to show up. I’ll be going for sure.

It warms the heart to see this kind of support. Still, one question that comes to my mind is: why? Why does THIS person’s misfortune move so many people to help? Lots of people have terrible things happen to them, but we don’t hear about it. So what makes this situation different?

I know two people who know Michael Joel Hall personally. Both of them practice yoga with me and both are good people. They were moved by this person, so much so that when this happened and the call went out for help, they jumped in to help without hesitation. Universally, I’ve heard that Mr. Hall is a kind soul that tries to help people genuinely. It would seem that he has touched many, many people simply by being who he is, and by sharing his time and energy with others.

I can’t say that everyone who practices yoga is going to be the best human being in the world. I know I certainly have my flaws. But I think this entire incident shows that those who commit to yoga, for more than just physical exercise, are special people too. The asanas that we practice are just the start of a deeper philosophy and attitude towards life that, while complex at times, seeks to find a way towards enlightenment. That’s a pretty profound purpose but you get a sense that what is happening around Michael Joel Hall holds some valuable lessons for all of us in that quest. It’s not just that another human being needs help, or that it’s the right thing to do. It appears to go to an essence of yoga somehow, and I think a lot of people want to embrace that. To me, it’s certainly worth embracing, and certainly the right thing to do.

If you cannot attend any of the benefit practices, there is a location to make a donation. I’ve put the link below:

https://www.paypal.com/us/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_flow&SESSION=nhDJBpE3ZiF0j6G66zWhjyIGzqrfLPJGJ-xD3iB4o0H8m9ZUSCSXTi0mIqq&dispatch=5885d80a13c0db1f8e263663d3faee8d7283e7f0184a5674430f290db9e9c846

Blessings to you for your yoga practice and life journey.

Namaste.

John

Posts Tagged ‘Community’

Yoga on the Wine Trail at Hiddencroft Vineyards

Journey to the Heart on the Loudoun Wine Trail

Yoga on the Wine Trail at Hiddencroft Vineyards

Erin started students in a bound meditaion with Mexican blankets to prop up the back and allow the ribs and lungs to open in Supta Baddha Konasana. Breathing openly, fresh air lets the mind freely re

Yoga – Heart Opening Practice

_______________________________::

♣ Element: Air

♣ Color: Green

♣ Animal: Antelope (deer)

♣ Body Parts: Heart, Skin, Lungs, Thymus, Blood, Lymph, Immune System

♣ Planet: Venus

And the day came when the risk it took to remain tight inside the bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom.”

– Anais Nin

Wine at Hiddencroft Vineyards

_______________________________::

The Wine Selection

Rose

Chambourcin Rose (2011) – $19Wine

Flavors of strawberries and tart summer plums. Lovely mauve color. Dry and crisp. Excellent served as an aperitif or wine cocktail.

White Wines

Traminette (2011) – $18 (Dry)

Traminette (2011) – $18 On Sale for $15! (1.5% res. sugar)

Two versions available: one dry and crisp; the other semi-sweet. A nose of old fashioned roses and honeysuckle. Ap

ple at the mid-palate and a spicy tingle on the finish. Excellent when served with spicy, ethnic cuisine.

Vidal Blanc (2010) – $20 (1.5% res. sugar) Subtle notes of pineapple and grapefruit. Excellent with grilled chicken, ribs, seafood and tropical salsas.

Red Wines

Chambourcin (2009) – $23 Released December 2012

Cellared for tree years, this 100% Chambourcin wine epidimizes the saying “No wine before it’s time”. Swish this deep, dark beauty in your glass to release the palate of chocolate and black cherries, followed by a dry, but smooth, finish. A true showcase of the Chambourcin grape!

Cabernet Franc (N/V) – $23 Released December 2012

Cellar aged in a combination of French and American oak barrels for 3 and 1/2 years. This blend of Cabernet Franc and Merlot is a great balance of fruit, oak and tannins that will blossom in your cellar for years to come.

Dutchman’s Creek Blend – $23

Our red blend displays a complex palate with a smooth finish. Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot and Tannat have been blended for a great balance of fruit, oak and tannan. The perfect wine to complement your favorite dish of beef, lamb or wild game.

Tannat (2008) – $40

Barrel-aged for 42 months. This wine has a firm tannic structure, dense purple-red-color, a nose of tobacco, smoke, ripe berries, and a long angular finish. Enjoy it now or lay it down in your cellar to be enjoyed in 5-7 years.

Fruit Wines

Sweet Cherry (2011) – $23 On Sale for $20! (750ml)

One of our most popular wines and a unique treat. Intense cherry flavor and sweet at the front and tart on the finish. Made fromMontmorency cherries…the quintessential pie cherry. Enjoy it by itself or with desserts; especially delicious with dark chocolate and almond pastries.

Grandma’s Love Potion – $24 (500ml) Our 2011 Vintage!

This charming winery was started in 2008 by Clyde and Terry Housel. Please visit them at http://www.hiddencroftvineyards.com/- browse the current calendar of events, future summer wine & music in the barn, and learn about the family owned and operated farm.

Please feel free to leave comments to our post. We enjoy hearing your experience and love for both yoga and wine! LoveLocalLoudoun

Namaste & Cheers!

Yoga on the Wine Trail Yogis

Happy Thanksgiving!

“At times our own light goes out and is rekindled by a spark from another person. Each of us has cause to think with deep gratitude of those who have lighted the flame within us.” ~ Albert Schweitzer

Wed November 21, 2012

Fri November 23, 2012

See everybody this weekend plus FREE Community Class followed by a Flow this Saturday!! Sunday we are all candle lit to relaxxxxxxxx! It will be a nice treat after the feast and holiday shopping!

- Namaste & Happy Thanksgiving

from all of us at Yoga 4 Life

Yoga & Drum Meditation

Season of Giving and Thanks

Workshop: Friday, November 16th – 7 pm

Words on the Website

The inspiration for our website clean up and clarity soon with Wicked Design, Dave Levinson, working his magic. We hope to make rates, teacher bios, and very important information right at your finger tips. Stay tuned for beautiful changes…

Community Yoga

We offer a Community Yoga Class on Saturday mornings at the Shala on Main Street. This class is designed to meet new instructors and explore yoga, even if for the first time. Please join Jessi, Lawrie, Erin, Lara, and Carolyn for a warm beginning to the weekends throughout December.

Our Saturday mornings are filled with goodness starting at 8:30am with 3 hours of yoga to choose from and a once a month vineyard practice…

Class Packages

Bundling up classes and new rates for the winter season!

Drop In $15

Student Drop In $10 OR 2 for $20.00

5 Class Package $50

10 Class Package $100(savings of $50 vs. buying equivalent drop ins)

25 Class Package $245 (savings of $130)

Monthly Unlimited $85

Student Monthly Unlimited $75

6 Month Unlimited $450 (savings of $60 vs. buying month to month)

Annual Membership $875(savings of $145 vs. buying month to month)

Suggestions?

We want to hear from you! Here are some topics we are working on…

Next year, which vineyards in Loudoun County do you want on our journey?

What are your favorite classes and if we could offer them twice weekly what fits your schedule best?

What types of Yoga Mats would you like available to you? We offer a fine Manduka mat and a basic introduction mat but is there something else you wish for your practice this holiday season?

What type of Friends and Family package would you like to see?

We want to offer “Friends of Friends” for January. Would this be of interest?

We so appreciate your feedback. The success and keeping our Shala and Studio doors open is about YOU and all of our community…Namaste

Namaste from Yoga 4 Life & This Body Yoga!

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving Celebration!

Yoga & Wine at Fabbioli Cellars

Vidal Blanc (2010) – $20 (1.5% res. sugar)
Subtle notes of pineapple and grapefruit. Excellent with grilled chicken, ribs, seafood and tropical salsas.