Mindfulness is the state of true awareness of present time, present body and present mind with the goal of creating inner peace. The goal of inner peace in this state has no action. It is just “Being”.
Mindfulness helps develop and deepen our Meditation practice. Meditation is the connection with the true self; it helps you accept who you are and connects you to yourself, others and the world.
-Rachel Gonzalez, Sama Tree
“We have the power to wake up, to touch enlightenment from moment to moment, in our very own ordinary and yes, busy lives. So let’s start right now. Peace is your every breath. ” – Thich Nhat Hanh
See “Programs & Classes” for details of sessions available.
Private and group programs include secular mindfulness activities that help students respond to the challenges of life with presence and resilience.
Hatha Yoga
The word hatha means willful or forceful. Hatha yoga refers to a set of physical exercises (known as asanas or postures), and sequences of asanas, designed to align your skin, muscles, and bones. The postures are also designed to open the many channels of the body—especially the main channel, the spine—so that energy can flow freely.
Hatha is also translated as ha meaning “sun” and tha meaning “moon.” This refers to the balance of masculine aspects—active, hot, sun—and feminine aspects—receptive, cool, moon—within all of us. Hatha yoga is a path toward creating balance and uniting opposites. In our physical bodies we develop a balance of strength and flexibility. We also learn to balance our effort and surrender in each pose.
Initially, the discipline of hatha yoga—the physical aspect of yoga—was developed as a vehicle for meditation. The repertoire of hatha yoga prepared the body, and particularly the nervous system, for stillness, creating the necessary physical strength and stamina that allowed the mind to remain calm.
Hatha yoga is a powerful tool for self-transformation. It asks us to bring our attention to our breath, which helps us to still the fluctuations of the mind and be more present in the unfolding of each moment.
(source: Yoga Journal)
Before taking up a yoga practice you should seek advice from a doctor and discuss the suitability of these practices for your personal health. We do not offer medical advice. Those suffering from high/low blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, vertigo, nervous disorders, heart conditions and other chronic conditions or disabilities should always consult a doctor before taking up the practice of yoga and other exercises mentioned in this site.
Please see the “Programs & Classes” tab in the top menu for more information on classes available.
Adult group yoga classes available at The Community Center of La Canada Flintridge and at Spiral Path Yoga Center in La Crescenta. Please inquire for private yoga classes.
