photograph "water trees" © J. Merideth 2012
“Summer is a kiss, sangria, splashing and the laughter of children” J Merideth
We are the change we seek
Metallurgy is a process whereby metal is treated in various ways, often with heat, to remove impurities and alter the physical properties of the metal itself, making it stronger or less susceptible to stress and corrosion, etc.
Like most longterm thought movements, yoga has never been static. Yoga has been redrawn countless times over the centuries to suit the needs of the moment. Practitioners alter rituals in small or large ways to suit individual needs. The needs and focus of a culture can change substantially over time much in the same way that the needs of an individual practitioner may change over the course of their life. The experience we seek to have through ritual at 25 might be markedly different from the one we seek to have at 65. Should the ritual, in this case yoga, be invalidated because it has changed to suit the needs of the end user? Some would argue yes and some no. All I can say with certainty is that rituals will change, they do not remain fixed or static and some of the most potent rituals have been the most transmutable. Life is change, why would ritual be any different?
Yogis, teachers and students alike, can be a very fickle and judgmental group. We become easily distracted by the idea that one teacher or practice style is better than another. We substitute the hard work of self-reflection for the self-serving belief that we have found the secret elixir in a person or a studio or even in a practice. Of course there is no secret elixir, nothing can replace hard work in reshaping how we experience and frame our world. I believe WE are the architects of our own personal sense of wellbeing, health and success. Secret elixirs, all knowing teachers and magical thinking are great plot devices for movies but they don't have a place in my world view. The power for positive change lies within the practitioner and has been there all along, much in the same way that the strength or pliability of metal was there from the start. The metallurgist understands how to inspire transformation within the metal but ultimately it is the metal that must undergo the transmutation. Teachers and their methods are important tools on our road of transformation but they are not responsible for the change itself...We are. To paraphrase Gandhi, we are the change we seek. Finding the best teacher or the right practice is a lifelong endeavor that may change as you face new challenges and opportunities. The idea that there is only one method for transformation is a distraction that serves only to limit our ability to mature into ever greater awareness.
John Merideth - Summer 2012
Like most longterm thought movements, yoga has never been static. Yoga has been redrawn countless times over the centuries to suit the needs of the moment. Practitioners alter rituals in small or large ways to suit individual needs. The needs and focus of a culture can change substantially over time much in the same way that the needs of an individual practitioner may change over the course of their life. The experience we seek to have through ritual at 25 might be markedly different from the one we seek to have at 65. Should the ritual, in this case yoga, be invalidated because it has changed to suit the needs of the end user? Some would argue yes and some no. All I can say with certainty is that rituals will change, they do not remain fixed or static and some of the most potent rituals have been the most transmutable. Life is change, why would ritual be any different?
Yogis, teachers and students alike, can be a very fickle and judgmental group. We become easily distracted by the idea that one teacher or practice style is better than another. We substitute the hard work of self-reflection for the self-serving belief that we have found the secret elixir in a person or a studio or even in a practice. Of course there is no secret elixir, nothing can replace hard work in reshaping how we experience and frame our world. I believe WE are the architects of our own personal sense of wellbeing, health and success. Secret elixirs, all knowing teachers and magical thinking are great plot devices for movies but they don't have a place in my world view. The power for positive change lies within the practitioner and has been there all along, much in the same way that the strength or pliability of metal was there from the start. The metallurgist understands how to inspire transformation within the metal but ultimately it is the metal that must undergo the transmutation. Teachers and their methods are important tools on our road of transformation but they are not responsible for the change itself...We are. To paraphrase Gandhi, we are the change we seek. Finding the best teacher or the right practice is a lifelong endeavor that may change as you face new challenges and opportunities. The idea that there is only one method for transformation is a distraction that serves only to limit our ability to mature into ever greater awareness.
John Merideth - Summer 2012
Summer Schedule • July - September 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 - 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 - Staff:
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. - Staff:
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 Summer Schedule goes into effect Monday, July 2nd, 2012. The new Sunday classes start in late July or early August.
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
8 Classes $99
Regularly $124
Save $25
16 Classes $184
Regularly $216
Save $32
6 Month Unlimited $632
Regularly $731
Save $99
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
10 - 11:30am - 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.***4 - 5pm - Aerial Yoga - Tracy:
Please note this class requires pre-registration and pre-payment. Beginning is late July or Early August. These small classes utilize a soft, fabric, yoga inversion swing that is used to relieve compressed joints and to bring greater alignment to the spine. Every class will explore a series of postures meant to elicit a sense of weightlessness while forming new relationships with gravity. Classes are small and pre-registration is required. Only 4-6 students per class. (All levels) Please note this class will run in 4 week intervals beginning July 15th.***5 - 6:15pm - OY Basics & Practice Fund. - Liz/Tracy:
Beginning is late July or Early August. 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!)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)
SPACES ARE STILL AVAILABLE!
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
108 Sun Salutations
(Monday September 24th, 2012 6 - 7:30pm • onlYoga)
Instructor: John • Cost: $10
Free unlimited students • OY Teachers • OY Teachers in training
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.
Partner-Acro Yoga Workshop
(Sunday August 26th, 2012 1 - 3pm • onlYoga)
Instructor: John • Cost: $25
Free unlimited students • OY Teachers • OY Teachers in training
Join us for an afternoon of partner yoga, acro yoga, thai yoga therapy, laughter and lots of fun.
You do not need a partner to participate!
onlYoga In Piedmont Park
July - September 2012
Instructor: John Merideth • Cost is $10/class - Free for unlimited students, OY studio teachers & OY teachers in training
- Thursday Juky 19th 6:15pm
- Thursday August 30th 6:15pm
- Thursday September 10th 6:15pm
Feta & Quinoa Salad with Fresh Herbs
Aprox. (8 cups), Serves 4-6
Quinoa
3/4 cup quinoa (white, red, black, or a combination)
1 1/2 cups water
Dressing
3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon of coarse grain mustard
3 - 5 tablespoons fresh basil finely chopped
2 teaspoons flat leaf parsley finely chopped
1 teaspoon fresh garlic, minced
salt, to taste
pepper, freshly ground, to taste
Salad
1 cup zucchini, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup red onion, diced
1 cup kale - coarsely chopped
1 cup red bell pepper, diced
1 cup yellow bell pepper, diced
1 cup feta cheese
Directions
1. Rinse and strain the quinoa to remove the bitter coating. Most quinoa today are pre-rinsed, so check the package, but even so, I prefer to give it one more rinse. Bring the quinoa and water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Cover, reduce to a simmer, and cook for 10 minutes. Turn the heat off and leave the covered saucepan on the burner for another 4 minutes. Remove the lid and fluff the cooked quinoa with a fork. Set aside to cool.
2. Whisk the vinegar, olive oil, mustard, oregano, garlic, salt, and pepper together in a small bowl.
3. Combine the salad ingredients in a large bowl; pour the dressing over the vegetables and thoroughly mix. Add the quinoa, and mix until evenly combined.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 3 days.
a Summer 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
In Those Years
by Adrienne Rich - 1991
In those years, people will say, we lost track
of the meaning of we, of you
we found ourselves
reduced to I
and the whole thing became
silly, ironic, terrible:
we were trying to live a personal life
and, yes, that was the only life
we could bear witness to
But the great dark birds of history screamed and plunged
into our personal weather
They were headed somewhere else but their beaks and pinions drove
along the shore, through the rags of fog
where we stood, saying I
by Adrienne Rich - 1991
In those years, people will say, we lost track
of the meaning of we, of you
we found ourselves
reduced to I
and the whole thing became
silly, ironic, terrible:
we were trying to live a personal life
and, yes, that was the only life
we could bear witness to
But the great dark birds of history screamed and plunged
into our personal weather
They were headed somewhere else but their beaks and pinions drove
along the shore, through the rags of fog
where we stood, saying I
Adrienne Cecile Rich (May 16, 1929 – March 27, 2012) was an American poet, essayist and feminist. She was called "one of the most widely read and influential poets of the second half of the 20th century", and was credited with bringing "the oppression of women and lesbians to the forefront of poetic discourse."
Her first collection of poetry, A Change of World, was selected by the senior poet W. H. Auden for the Yale Series of Younger Poets Award; she went on to write the introduction to the published volume. Rich famously declined the National Medal of Arts, protesting the United States House of Representatives and Speaker Gingrich's vote to end funding for the National Endowment for the Arts. more...
Her first collection of poetry, A Change of World, was selected by the senior poet W. H. Auden for the Yale Series of Younger Poets Award; she went on to write the introduction to the published volume. Rich famously declined the National Medal of Arts, protesting the United States House of Representatives and Speaker Gingrich's vote to end funding for the National Endowment for the Arts. more...