photograph "women washing in the Ganges" © H. Leibowitz 2012
“Spring is more than blooms and new shoots…it is an affirmation that anything is possible” J Merideth
THE SPACE SUIT
One of my favorite authors, Ram Dass, in his lecture Cultivating The Heart Of Compassion, describes the ego-body complex as a space suit. Much like astronauts who need space suits to walk on the moon, the ego acts like our space suit for our awareness or soul or pure-mind, while we are exploring this plane of existence. I have always found this analogy to be useful since it clearly contrasts the functional, utilitarian side of the ego, with the detrimental aspect that creates a barrier between us and experience, happiness, god, etc. Everyone's space suit is different. Some models are new, some fast, some strong and so on. From the moment we become aware of being in our space suit we are rewarded for being in it and using it. People acknowledge how attractive it is and encourage us to dress it up and use it to its full potential. In short we become so good at using our space suit that we can't differentiate ourself from our space suit. We believe that who we are inside is a direct reflection of how others see and experience our space suit. The problem with this predicament is two fold. Sometimes we don't feel comfortable in our space suit or we feel limited by what it isn't capable of. More dramatic for most of us, the awareness animating the space suit remains constant while the suit itself ages, wears out, and eventually stops functioning. Despite our best efforts dissonance emerges between the timeless awareness within each of us and the entropically trapped ego-body complex housing it. The ego is a like a beautiful shell housing a much more beautiful jewel - the self. The struggle is to find the spaciousness within to locate that jewel and lose the self's identification with the space suit.
Enjoy The Spring
John Merideth - Spring 2012
Enjoy The Spring
John Merideth - Spring 2012
Winter Schedule • April - June 2012
monday
6- 7:30pm - Primary Series Level 2 - John:
An intermediate Ashtanga yoga class that builds on the principles introduced in our Intro and foundation level classes. Yoga Chikitsa, yoga therapy, is the foundation of Ashtanga yoga. Each class moves fairly rapidly and covers all standing, seated and closing postures. By practicing the Ashtanga Yoga primary series in the traditional way, using the rhythm of the breath and the continuous flowing movements of vinyasa between poses, we integrate the body, mind and spirit, allowing for a full and complete experience. These classes are intended for students familiar with the primary series through navasana. Students should also have familiarity with the Ashtanga Closing sequence, i.e. shoulder stands, head stands, etc. New students should consider taking 1- 5 Intro classes, followed by 5 - 10 Level 1 classes. In Level 2 classes many postures are called and the breaths are counted - with little or no discussion of how to get into or out of the posture. However, more difficult or advanced postures are described in detail. (intermediate)***7:30 - 9pm - Primary Series Level 1/2 - John:
An intermediate Ashtanga yoga class that builds on the principles introduced in our Intro and foundation level classes. All standing postures and most seated postures are covered covered with the inclusion of a full closing sequence. Emphasis remains on learning to move fluidly with the breath (vinyasa). Some knowledge of the Ashtanga yoga system is helpful. Vinyasa (breath coordinated movement) will be emphasized as students investigate the primary series in greater detail. Students should have an understanding of the Ashtanga Sun Salutations A/B, as well as exposure to the standing and seated sequence. This class is tailored to intermediate students but everyone is welcome! New students may want to take 1 - 5 Ashtanga Basics & Practice Fundamentals. (intermediate)tuesday
***11am - 12:30pm - Primary Series Level 1/2 @ Ember - John:
An beginning - intermediate Ashtanga yoga class that builds on the principles introduced in our Intro and foundation level classes. All standing postures and most seated postures are covered covered with the inclusion of a full closing sequence. Emphasis remains on learning to move fluidly with the breath (vinyasa). Some knowledge of the Ashtanga yoga system is helpful. Vinyasa (breath coordinated movement) will be emphasized as students investigate the primary series in greater detail. Students should have an understanding of the Ashtanga Sun Salutations A/B, as well as exposure to the standing and seated sequence. This class is tailored to intermediate students but everyone is welcome! New students may want to take 1 - 5 Ashtanga Basics & Practice Fundamentals. (intermediate)5:15 - 5:45pm - Meditation - John:
(peaceful abiding) is the most basic form of sitting meditation. By continually returning to the breath, we train the mind in stability, clarity and strength. All welcome. Donation only. (all levels)6- 7:30pm - OY Prana Flow - John:
At onlYoga our prana flow classes are built around the concept of moving fluidly and continuously with the breath from one asana to another. Take your muscles and your inner warrior to a whole new level in this class designed with swimmers, runners, bikers and athletes of all types in mind - this is an endurance focused practice. The class will open with a series of sun salutations designed to heat up tight muscles and loosen the joints. The remainder of the class will move through a series of postures that target the major joint/muscle complexes in the legs and hips and sometimes the upper back and shoulders. Classes may contain inversions and arm balances - posture variations are provided for beginning students. (all levels, beginner - experienced)7:30 - 9pm - OY Basics & Practice Fund. - John:
Suitable for all levels, these foundation classes offer new students a thorough and safe introduction to learning the Ashtanga Vinyasa method. New students will build the strength and confidence necessary to move into more advanced classes in the studio. For more experienced practitioners, the course provides a tool for reviewing and strengthening the fundamental concepts that make the Ashtanga form so dynamic. Postures are held in an effort to build strength, develop muscle memory and generate proper alignment. Invocation, Vinyasa, many standing and some seated/closing postures are introduced. (new students welcome!)wednesday
9:30 - 11am - Wednesday Flow - Liz:
A light hearted practice designed to restore energy and balance the spirit - a great morning practice! All levels welcome and no previous yoga experience is required.***12 - 1pm - Vinyasa Flow @ Exhale Spa - John:
The class This class will dive deep into all asanas with a moderate pace. This class is open to all levels, but due to the slower tempo it is appropriate for beginners as well. The class is held at Exhale Spa in Midtown at 12th and Peachtree in the Lowes Hotel in Midtown. (new/intermediate)6 - 7:30pm - OY Hip Opening - Sava:
An onlYoga original. These challenging but fun classes focus on building strength and flexibility in the low back and hips. Although a basic knowledge of yoga is helpful, it's not required. In each class a unique sequence of asanas are blended in an effort to reach toward the full expression of more intricate postures such as pigeon or eka pada sirsasana (one leg behind the head). All levels welcome. (all levels)***6:30pm - Prana Yoga Flow @ Ember - John:
Prana Yoga Flow is a sweaty, challenging vinyasa flow yoga class set to up tempo music. A creative and energetic set of yoga poses will explore the edge of strength, flexibility, concentration and balance. Vinyasa, the coordination of movement with the breath, creates an intense heat in the body, producing sweat and melting mental and physical resistance (you also burn tons of calories!). This class is designed to push muscles toward greater endurance through long, deep sets of postures. Students of all levels should come prepared for an original class designed to challenge on a multitude of levels! All levels are welcome but students new to yoga should be aware that some previous experience with yoga will be helpful. Please note that this class is not held at onlYoga. The class is held at Ember in Woodstock. (intermediate)***7:45pm - Flight Club @ Ember - John:
You are not that button down...break out of the mold. Hands to the ground and feet to the sky...we will learn to fly. This 75 minute class will focus on a creative sequence of postures designed to tone, tighten and test your balance. Handstand - check. Forearm balance - check. Headstands - check. You will sweat and you will find your edge. Everything you need is already inside!Yes you can...slowly, slowly. The class is held at Ember in Woodstock. (intermediate)
thursday
6 - 7:30pm - OY Basics & Practice Fund. - Sava:
Suitable for all levels, these foundation classes offer new students a thorough and safe introduction to learning the Ashtanga Vinyasa method. New students will build the strength and confidence necessary to move into more advanced classes in the studio. For more experienced practitioners, the course provides a tool for reviewing and strengthening the fundamental concepts that make the Ashtanga form so dynamic. Postures are held in an effort to build strength, develop muscle memory and generate proper alignment. Invocation, Vinyasa, many standing and some seated/closing postures are introduced. (new students welcome!)7:30 - 9pm - Primary Series Level 2 - Liz:
An intermediate Ashtanga yoga class that builds on the principles introduced in our Intro and foundation level classes. Yoga Chikitsa, yoga therapy, is the foundation of Ashtanga yoga. Each class moves fairly rapidly and covers all standing, seated and closing postures. By practicing the Ashtanga Yoga primary series in the traditional way, using the rhythm of the breath and the continuous flowing movements of vinyasa between poses, we integrate the body, mind and spirit, allowing for a full and complete experience. These classes are intended for students familiar with the primary series through navasana. Students should also have familiarity with the Ashtanga Closing sequence, i.e. shoulder stands, head stands, etc. New students should consider taking 1- 5 Intro classes, followed by 5 - 10 Level 1 classes. In Level 2 classes many postures are called and the breaths are counted - with little or no discussion of how to get into or out of the posture. However, more difficult or advanced postures are described in detail. (intermediate)friday
9:30 - 11am - Friday Flow - Tracy:
A light hearted practice designed to restore energy and balance the spirit - a great way to start the weekend! All levels welcome and no previous yoga experience is required.***12 - 1pm - Slow Flow @ Exhale Spa - John:
This class is open to any student with a previous introduction to yoga. Set your own pace and enjoy a great music set as you build strength and flexibility. Class will focus on dynamic postures: get ready to open your heart, engage your practice, and discover new possibilities. The challenge is up to you.Please note that this class is not held at onlYoga. The class is held at Exhale Spa in Midtown at 12th and Peachtree in the Lowes Hotel in Midtown.***5:15 - 6:30pm - Music Yoga Flow @ Exhale - John:
This class is geared for students looking to have a great time in a consistent flow from pose to pose. Set to great music, including rock, reggae, hip hop, blues and world beats, each flow class offers an inspiring message and a deeply relaxing finish. Please note that this class is not held at onlYoga. The class is held at Exhale Spa in Midtown at 12th and Peachtree in the Lowes Hotel in Midtown. (intermediate)The Spring Schedule goes into effect Monday, April 2nd, 2012.
Evening classes begin at 5, 6 & 7:30pm.
For the most up to date class and eVent information, visit the schedule page.
*** = New Class/time
Evening classes begin at 5, 6 & 7:30pm.
For the most up to date class and eVent information, visit the schedule page.
*** = New Class/time
Be sure to check out the outdoor classes in Piedmont Park!
Quarterly Specials
12 Classes $139
Regularly $174
Save $35
20 Classes $212
Regularly $250
Save $38
3 Month Unlimited $350
Regularly $412
Save $62
saturday
9 - 10:30am - Ashtanga Blend - John:
An intermediate Ashtanga class that blends the first and second series. The class will consist of the traditional Sun Salutations and standing sequence followed by a blend of forward folds and backbends. Some familiarity with the primary series will be helpful but is not required. Students new to yoga should consider taking 1 - 3 intro level classes or the foundation series before taking this class. (intermediate)11 - 12:30am - OY Basics & Practice Fund. - John:
Suitable for all levels, these foundation classes offer new students a thorough and safe introduction to learning the Ashtanga Vinyasa method. New students will build the strength and confidence necessary to move into more advanced classes in the studio. For more experienced practitioners, the course provides a tool for reviewing and strengthening the fundamental concepts that make the Ashtanga form so dynamic. Postures are held in an effort to build strength, develop muscle memory and generate proper alignment. Invocation, Vinyasa, many standing and some seated/closing postures are introduced. (new students welcome!)***1:30 - 3pm - Ashtanga Primary Series @ Ember - John:
Yoga Chikitsa, yoga therapy, is the foundation of Ashtanga yoga. Each class moves fairly rapidly and covers all standing, seated and closing postures. By practicing the Ashtanga Yoga primary series in the traditional way, using the rhythm of the breath and the continuous flowing movements of vinyasa between poses, we integrate the body, mind and spirit, allowing for a full and complete experience. These classes are intended for students familiar with the primary series through navasana. Students should also have familiarity with the Ashtanga Closing sequence, i.e. shoulder stands, head stands, etc. New students should consider taking 1- 5 Intro classes, followed by 5 - 10 Level 1 classes. In Level 2 classes many postures are called and the breaths are counted - with little or no discussion of how to get into or out of the posture. However, more difficult or advanced postures are described in detail.sunday
9:30 - 11am - Sunday Flow & Hip Opening - John:
An onlYoga original. These classes focus on building strength and flexibility in the low back and hips. Although a basic knowledge of yoga is helpful it's not required. In each class a unique sequence of asana's are blended in an effort to reach toward the full expression of more intricate postures such as pigeon or eka pada sirsasana (one leg behind the head). These practices are particularly beneficial for athletes or individuals recovering from injury. All levels welcome.***4 - 5:15pm - Slow Flow @ Exhale - John:
This class is open to any student with a previous introduction to yoga. Set your own pace and enjoy a great music set as you build strength and flexibility. Class will focus on dynamic postures: get ready to open your heart, engage your practice, and discover new possibilities. The challenge is up to you.Please note that this class is not held at onlYoga. The class is held at Exhale Spa in Midtown at 12th and Peachtree in the Lowes Hotel in Midtown.***6:30pm - OY Hip Opening @ Ember - John:
These challenging but fun classes focus on building strength and flexibility in the low back and hips. Although a basic knowledge of yoga is helpful, it's not required. In each class a unique sequence of asanas are blended in an effort to reach toward the full expression of more intricate postures such as pigeon or eka pada sirsasana (one leg behind the head). (All levels)
Upcoming events and activities
2012 onlYoga Retreat
(October 27th, 2012 - 31st)
You are invited to join onlYoga and John Merideth for an invigorating 5 night stay at the Haramara retreat center on the Pacific Ocean of Mexico. Haramara is located in the breathtaking coastal region of Nayarit, Mexico (known as Riviera Nayarit) near the town of Sayulita. It is situated on 12 private acres of land between the Sierra Madre Mountains and the Pacific Ocean. The retreat is nestled into the tropical jungle vegetation on a hillside above the magnificent rugged coast of the Pacific Ocean and its own private and pristine beach.
Start and end each day with an invigorating flow style yoga class and meditation…spend the time between relaxing, surfing or exploring. Retreat information page
Date: Saturday October 27th - 31st
Cost: $1029+
Instructor: John Merideth
Everyone is welcome - register now
min 12 - max 25
Start and end each day with an invigorating flow style yoga class and meditation…spend the time between relaxing, surfing or exploring. Retreat information page
Date: Saturday October 27th - 31st
Cost: $1029+
Instructor: John Merideth
Everyone is welcome - register now
min 12 - max 25
108 Sun Salutations
(Monday May 21th, 2012 6 - 7:30pm • onlYoga)
Instructor: John • Cost: $10 (Free unlimited students)
This very special class is offered four times each year in recognition of the changing seasons...and is a long standing onlYoga tradition. Part endurance, part meditation - completely empowering. Utilizing the magic of Vinyasa we will continually move through many Sun Salutations and end with Kirtan. Stay after for healthy nibbles and conversation. I hope you can attend. All levels welcome! Knowledge of Surya Namaskara A is helpful but not required.
The number 108 is a mala (Sanskrit for garland) and is a tool used in meditation. Used to count the number of mantra repetitions completed per sitting, repetition using a mala is an effective way of keeping your mind focused, and can make meditation more relaxing and soothing. Historically, malas have been used as a part of an integrated spiritual practice that may also contain hatha yoga. A mala contains 108 beads and a larger "meru" bead. The tassled "meru" bead is symbolic of the transcended state, and indicates the beginning and end of a cycle. The significance of "108" is related to the Brahmand (universe), which is said to be made up of 108 elements so 108 represents the universe.
The number 108 is a mala (Sanskrit for garland) and is a tool used in meditation. Used to count the number of mantra repetitions completed per sitting, repetition using a mala is an effective way of keeping your mind focused, and can make meditation more relaxing and soothing. Historically, malas have been used as a part of an integrated spiritual practice that may also contain hatha yoga. A mala contains 108 beads and a larger "meru" bead. The tassled "meru" bead is symbolic of the transcended state, and indicates the beginning and end of a cycle. The significance of "108" is related to the Brahmand (universe), which is said to be made up of 108 elements so 108 represents the universe.
onlYoga In Piedmont Park
April - June 2012
Instructor: John Merideth • Cost is $10/class - Free for unlimited students.
- Thursday April 12th 6:15pm
- Thursday April 26th 6:15pm
- Thursday May 10th 6:15pm
- Thursday May 24th 6:15pm
- Thursday June 7th 6:15pm
- Thursday June 21st 6:15pm
- Join us on the following Mondays for an ALL LEVELS onlYoga Ashtanga class in Piedmont Park. All classes will be taught by John Merideth. Classes will meet on the steps leading down to the active oval at the 14th street entrance. In the event of inclement weather, classes will move indoors at onlYoga. Please note that we use our Facebook page to alert students to venue changes as well as the onlYoga website.
John's Spring Fling Juice Blend
Aprox. (4 glasses)
Ingredients
1 large red beet
1 cucumber
1 lemon - remove rind
1 lime - remove rind
5 large carrots
1 Bartlett pear
2 bunch kale, trimmed, and washed
salt, to taste
4 jalapeño peppers
1 green pepper
5 spicy radishes
Several fingers of ginger
Preparation
1. Wash the fruits and vegetables - I only use organic fruits and vegetables but it is still a good idea to wash them well. Remove rind as needed.
2. Add the fruits to the juicer. I prefer the Breville juicers, they work very well and are commercial grade.
3. Combine the juice into a large pitcher and chill for 30 minutes, mix and enjoy.
The jalapeño and ginger give this concoction a serious kick that will release endorphins into your system and make you feel great!
Fresh juice will do your soul good!
a Spring mix 2012
To preview or download the songs in this playlist, FOLLOW JOHN on PING in iTunes. You will also find a selection of other studio playlists on ping
poem
Any Time
(1999)
W.S. Merwin
How long ago the day is
when at last I look at it
with the time it has taken
to be there still in it
now in the transparent light
with the flight in the voices
the beginning in the leaves
everything I remember
and before it before me
present at the speed of light
in the distance that I am
who keep reaching out to it
seeing all the time faster
where it has never stirred from
before there is anything
the darkness thinking the light
William Stanley Merwin (New York City, September 30, 1927) is an American poet, credited with over 30 books of poetry, translation and prose. During the 1960s anti-war movement, Merwin's unique craft was thematically characterized by indirect, unpunctuated narration. In the 1980s and 1990s, Merwin's writing influence derived from his interest in Buddhist philosophy and deep ecology.
Residing in Hawaii, he writes prolifically and is dedicated to the restoration of the islands' rain forests.
Merwin has received many honors, including the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry (in both 1971 and 2009) and the Tanning Prize, one of the highest honors bestowed by the Academy of American Poets, as well as the Golden Wreath of the Struga Poetry Evenings. In 2010, the Library of Congress named Merwin the seventeenth United States Poet Laureate. more...
Residing in Hawaii, he writes prolifically and is dedicated to the restoration of the islands' rain forests.
Merwin has received many honors, including the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry (in both 1971 and 2009) and the Tanning Prize, one of the highest honors bestowed by the Academy of American Poets, as well as the Golden Wreath of the Struga Poetry Evenings. In 2010, the Library of Congress named Merwin the seventeenth United States Poet Laureate. more...