Align: AUTUMN

Align: Autumn

Saturday, 10.07.23 or Saturday, 10.21.23

Teacher:
Kelsey Carrasquel

Dates:
Saturday, 10.07.23
OR
Saturday, 10.21.23
Time:

2PM – 5PM

Investment:
$125
Early Bird $100


Supportive Seasonal Practices with Kelsey
The Align workshop series is a combination of conversation & practicum, in which a small yet diverse group of participants are given the opportunity to develop their own practices that are in alignment with the season of life they are in, and to engage in intimate and expansive conversations with one another about how they each uniquely resonate with those seasons. This particular workshop focuses on the season of Autumn, both as a season of the earth that influences us and our wellbeing, and also as a reflection of a season of letting go one might be experiencing in their personal life.

Autumn is a season of gratitude and release. Autumn reminds us that the abundance that comes from tending to ourselves and our inner work is best shared with our community & loved ones. This season is an opportunity for us to honor our hard work that we’ve completed in the previous seasons, and to start to hope and dream for the future. That might be by celebrating our symbolic harvest, or by respectfully letting go of what did not come to be, so it may be fertilizer in the next season of growth. This workshop focuses on practices that facilitate an easeful process of release & letting go, and honoring the emotions that come with that process.

Students who register for the workshop will receive a seasonal workbook and can expect to explore the following:

  • Learn about the seasonal resonances of Autumn from the perspective of Eastern philosophy & medicine systems.
  • Explore how Autumn uniquely resonates with you.
  • Learn about rituals and practices that support and balance the energy of Autumn.
  • Work in a seasonal workbook (provided) that prompts putting these concepts into practice.
  • Be in a brave space together for discussion on these topics.

This workshop is limited to 5 students per weekend to create an intimate and comfortable environment for conversation amongst participants.

Charles MacInerney at MGY in July!

Friday, 07.28

6-8pm

Meditation and the 7 Chakras: Understanding Consciousness and Spiritual Growth

The concept of the 7 Chakras has been around for thousands of years and offers a deep understanding of human consciousness. By familiarizing ourselves with this system, we can gain valuable insights into our own behavior and the behavior of those around us. Moreover, the Chakra model serves as a guide for our spiritual development and progress.

In this workshop, we will provide a comprehensive overview of the psychological aspects underlying the chakras. We will explore how modern psychology and medicine have drawn from this ancient model to shape their practices. Additionally, we will teach you meditation and pranayama techniques, enabling you to experience and regulate your creative energy as it flows through the subtle channels of your body and ascends through the 7 chakras.

By participating in this workshop, you will have the opportunity to deepen your understanding of consciousness, enhance your spiritual journey, and gain practical tools for self-exploration and self-mastery.

 

Saturday, 07.29

10am-1pm

Understanding Spirals, Loops, and Bhandas in Traditional Asanas

Delve into the intricacies of alignment within a range of classic yoga poses, such as mountain, triangle, warrior I & II, cobra, downward dog, and many others. In this workshop, we will thoroughly explore the application of three fundamental principles: spirals, loops, and locks. By incorporating these principles, you can elevate your yoga practice to new heights, both physically and mentally, while also harnessing a deeper energetic connection.

Drawing inspiration from renowned practitioners such as Rama Vernon, Iyengar, and Swami Rama, we will examine how spirals, loops, and bhandas (locks) enhance the alignment and integrity of each pose. By consciously integrating these techniques, you will develop a heightened awareness of your body, refine your poses, and tap into a more profound energetic experience.

This workshop offers an opportunity to expand your understanding of yoga alignment, refine your practice, and cultivate a deeper mind-body connection. Whether you are a seasoned practitioner or new to yoga, embracing these principles will empower you to take your practice to the next level.

 

2:00pm – 5:00pm

Yoga and the Art of Setting Goals

The practice of setting goals is a crucial skill that brings numerous benefits. When done effectively, goal-setting eliminates boredom and fear, improves focus, and boosts performance.

Goals serve three primary purposes. The first purpose, which is the most obvious, is to enhance the overall quality of our lives. By setting “destination goals” skillfully, we can transform our dreams into reality. These goals serve as the initial steps towards achieving our aspirations, motivating and guiding our actions. The second type of goals, known as “process goals,” help us maintain focused attention in the present moment, even when faced with changing external or internal circumstances. When used skillfully, process goals support destination goals by improving concentration and performance. The third role of goals, often overlooked, is their influence on our consciousness. Instead of perceiving concentration solely as a means to pursue goals, we come to understand that the skillful use of goals can be used to achieve specific states of consciousness.

Athletes often talk about being “in the zone,” corporations strive for peak performance, and psychologists describe states of flow and peak experiences. In the context of yoga, we refer to this as dharana, the sixth limb. Through practice, we can learn to shift our mental state from boredom or anxiety towards deeper states of flow. By learning to appreciate the present moment and engage fully in the process of our yoga practice, the desired results naturally follow. This session will involve hands-on activities, so come prepared to move and have an enjoyable experience!

 

Sunday, 07.30

1:00pm – 4:00pm

Fascia: The Interconnected Web of Our Body

As we journey through life, many of us experience stiffness and a decrease in flexibility as we age. However, this process is not inevitable. The key lies in the health of our fascia, as it determines the condition of our body over time. Fascia, the intricate network that spans throughout our entire body like a dense sweater, requires movement, warmth, and proper hydration to remain vibrant and functional.

The significance and complexity of fascia have only recently gained recognition within the yoga community. This workshop aims to delve into the latest scientific understanding of fascia, encompassing its anatomy and physiology. By embracing this knowledge, we can enhance our yoga practice and optimize its benefits.

Join us in exploring the remarkable world of fascia and discover how it affects our overall well-being. Learn how to keep your fascia happy and healthy through the integration of this newfound understanding into your yoga practice. By doing so, you can enhance your body’s resilience, flexibility, and vitality, allowing you to age with grace and maintain a vibrant physical state.

  • Individual Workshops $65
  • Saturday Full Day $125
  • Full Weekend Workshops $215.00

Early Bird Discount (before 07.21) Full Weekend Workshops $195.00. Register today and save!

Charles MacInerney, E-RYT-500, C-IAYT,

Charles has practiced Yoga since 1971, and taught since 1989. He is known for his fun and playful teaching style as he leads students into a deeper understanding and appreciation for yoga. Charles is a gifted generalist and as one studio owner put it, “the most out-of-the-box thinker that I know.”

Charles was recently recognized by the Consul General of India for his work helping yoga to gain acceptance in Texas by introducing yoga to school teachers, administrators, and eventually directly to students. In addition, Charles has introduced yoga to 4 hospitals, and has taught at 5 universities.

At the University of Texas Charles worked with students, faculty, administration, dormitories, Women’s Athletic Program (Track, Golf and Volleyball teams), and Departments of Dance, Music, Art, Architecture, and Kinesiology. In the business world Charles offered workshops and started yoga programs for IBM, Motorola, Apple, 3M, Sematech and dozens of smaller companies.

He teaches ongoing yoga classes in Austin, offers yoga workshops at studios around the country, and leads Yoga & Meditation Retreats as well as Yoga & Writing Retreats throughout the US, Mexico, Costa Rica and Guatemala. He is the founder of Expanding Paradigms through which he regularly presents at National and International Conferences, including the International Association of Yoga Therapy conference. He has written for numerous magazines including the Yoga Journal and is the author of Toxic Goals, Flow, and the Pursuit of Excellence.

Charles is the Founder of the Free Day of Yoga, Living Yoga Teacher Training Program, and the Texas Yoga Retreat. Please visit his primary website at www.YogaTeacher.com, contact him by email: [email protected], or call or text Charles at 512-459-2267.

Align: Summer

Align: Summer

July 15, 2023 OR July 22, 2023

Teacher:
Kelsey Carrasquel

Dates:
Saturday, 07.15.23
OR
Saturday, 07.22.23

Time:
2PM – 5PM

Investment:
$125
Early Bird $100


Supportive Seasonal Practices with Kelsey
Summer is a season of sowing and nourishing.  During summer, we are invited to be in the joy of doing our inner and outer work, and leaving ample time to restore ourselves so we may stay motivated and nourished by our efforts.  Summer is an ideal time to be actively tending to your intentions and goals, and you might notice some of your seeds might be growing exactly right, just how you planned.  Other seeds might need some extra support to make it all the way to harvest.  This workshop focuses on practices that support you on your journey to manifesting your intentions, especially when the going gets tough.

Students who register for the workshop will receive a seasonal workbook and can expect to explore the following:

  • Name & define the season of Summer from the perspective of Eastern medicine systems.
  • Learn the seasonal resonances of Summer from the perspective of Eastern medicine systems.
  • Explore how Summer uniquely resonates with you.
  • Learn about rituals and practices that support and balance the energy of Summer.
  • Work in a seasonal workbook (provided) that prompts putting these concepts into practice.
  • Be in a brave space together for discussion on these topics.

This workshop will be offered twice in July. Space is limited to 5 students/workshop.

Summer Solstice Somatic Flow & Restorative Class

Summer Solstice Somatic Flow & Restorative Class

Sunday, 06.25.2023

Calm down and connect breath & body with this slow somatic practice and restorative yoga class with Kelsey Carrasquel.
Calm down and connect breath & body with this slow somatic practice and restorative yoga class with Kelsey Carrasquel.

The term “somatic” means “embodied” and refers to slow movements that allow you to feel into your body from an awareness within.  This allows the muscles to relax fully and rewires any habitual patterns that lead to pain.

Restorative Yoga is a gentle practice that relaxes the body through fully supported, long held postures and brings the mind into a quiet & restful state.
During the heat of summer, our mind’s and emotions can become hot, too.  The faster pace of life in summertime leaves less time for respite and restoration.  Carve out a little time on the afternoon of Sunday, June 25th to find some peace and coolness from within.

Place: 409 East Main Street
Date: Sunday, 06.25.2023
Time: 2-3:15pm
Teacher: Kelsey Carrasquel
Investment: $25

Ashtanga Yoga Immersion with Tara Mitra

Ashtanga Yoga Immersion with Tara Mitra

05.19-05.21.2023

Ashtanga Yoga Immersion with Tara Mitra
FRIDAY

7:00am-7:45am – Pranayama & Chanting
8:00am-10:00am. – Mysore Practice (Primary Series Only)
10:00am-2:00pm – BREAK
2:00am-4:00pm. – The 8 Limbs in Daily Life

Ashtanga Yoga or 8-limbed yoga is an 8-part method as referenced in the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali. Discussion on these eight limbs of ashtanga yoga and how to integrate them into your daily life.

SATURDAY

7:00am-7:45am – Pranayama & Chanting
8:00am-10am – Mysore Practice
10:00am-11:30am – BREAK
11:30am-1:30pm. – Opening & Closing Chants of Ashtanga

Chanting at the beginning of our practice helps focus our attention and bring ourselves into the present moment preparing the space to practice yoga, reminding us we are practicing something precious and sacred.

This workshop will explore the history and significance of these two chants. Sharing correct pronunciation, its importance as well as a clear translation bringing deeper meanings behind these sacred words.

The ancient practice of chanting works at a subconscious level and can be used to purify mental and physical blockages within the body. Through continual practice of mantra (vibrational sounds) one can become energized and peaceful helping to maintain equilibrium within the self. From a scientific aspect it has been said that chanting holds several calming, therapeutic, psychological, and spiritual benefits.

2-4pm – Fundamentals of Ashtanga

The Fundamental Asanas are the postures that we do after the Surya Namaskara (Sun Salutations) and before whichever series we are working on.

The course will review:
* the six fundamental postures
*tristana; three points of focus
*vinyasa count for each posture
*alignment cues and information to understand and deepen your experience of the postures while helping to uncover the ashtanga method as a moving meditation.

SUNDAY

7:00am-7:45am. – Pranayama & Chanting
8:00am-10:00am – Mysore
10:00am-11:30am – BREAK
11:30am-1:30pm. – Understanding Our Mind throughYoga

We will explore several ideas from the shastras (sacred texts) to help us understand what influences our actions, ideas, responses, triggers, and our decisions. Helping us to understand how we interact with the world outside through inside. The concepts shared are mainly coming from the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali. We will end with a meditative Practice.

1:30-2pm – Q&A – Closing


Investment:

  • Entire Weekend MYSORE & WORKSHOPS: $300
  • Entire Weekend Mysore Only: $150
  • Entire Weekend Workshops Only: $200
  • Individual Workshops: $60

About Tara Mitra

Tara has been a dedicated practitioner of yoga for over 19 years and is a Certified Yoga Therapist in the T. Krishnamacharya Lineage.

Apprenticing with certified teachers for 1.5 years and R.Saraswathi Jois for 4 years in Mysore, India. Tara has a special bond with Saraswathiji and is one of the first few students authorized by her to teach. She also continues to study Pranayama, Philosophy, Ayurveda and Vedic Chanting in depth for over 8 years and is a long time Vipassana Meditator.

Tara teaches in a playful yet traditional manner.

See full bio and learn more at taramitrayoga.com

Ashtanga Yoga Immersion with Tara Mitra
Ashtanga Yoga Immersion with Tara Mitra
Ashtanga Yoga Immersion with Tara Mitra

Align: Spring

Align: Spring

Teacher:
Kelsey Carrasquel

Dates:
Saturday, 04.15.23
OR
Saturday, 04.22.23

Time:
2PM – 5PM

Investment:
$100
Early Bird $85


Spring is a time of birth and rebirth, both in nature and within. After a long winter, you may recognize that there are some things you have outgrown and no longer resonate with. The same way that a garden needs to be cleared out to reveal fresh soil, so do our minds, bodies, and emotions. Once you’ve done the work of clearing space for what is new, you can start planting seeds for how you want your life to feel through the rest of the year. And sometimes, the wind blows in unexpected seeds that volunteer themselves throughout the year. Spring is an ideal time to set your intentions and goals for the year ahead, and this workshop will cover practical and meaningful rituals that will support you during the season of Spring.

Students who register for the workshop will receive a seasonal workbook and can expect to explore the following:

  • Name & define the season of Spring from the perspective of Traditional Chinese Medicine & Ayurveda.
  • Learn the seasonal resonances of Spring.
  • Learn about rituals and practices that support and balance the energy of Spring.
  • Gather together in a Springtime group ceremony.

This workshop will be offered twice in April. Space is limited to 5 students/workshop.