Yoga Union & Yoga Union Backcare and Scoliosis Center

Three 8am Morning Meditations MLK DAY Monday Jan 18 - Wednesday Jan 20 Inauguration Be the Light, Be the Love, Be the Peace you want to see in the world. Link and password below ...Continue reading

Meditation TWO Tuesday January 19, Be The Peace, of THREE 8am EST Morning Meditations MLK DAY Monday Jan 18 - Wednesday Jan 20 Inauguration Be the Love, Be the Peace, Be the Light you want to see in the world. ...Continue reading

Happy 2021! May we be the light we want to see in the world. Padma Mudra: the mudra of the heart. Unconditional love.

Three 8am EST Morning Meditations MLK DAY Monday Jan 18 - Wednesday Jan 20 Inauguration Be the Light, Be the Love, Be the Peace you want to see in the world. Link and password below ...Continue reading

Be the light you want to see in the world! This evening, join me in an ALL LEVELS practice of asana, breath, Tratak (steady gazing) and a loving kindness Light Meditation to celebrate the light as we transition from the tumultuous teen years of the 21st century to 2021, our coming of age! 6-7:30pm ETA (log on by 5:45pm) Online New Year’s Eve class with Alison.... Register at link in bio. Please register by 5pm today, Thursday, Dec 31. The Zoom link will be sent out shortly after that. Register here https://bit.ly/3o7mhM0 for the candlelit joy of it. This class will with few interruptions, and will not be characterized by Alison’s usual feedback and alignment instruction. The poses will be familiar to you and you will modify them according to your needs. If you have spinal issues, please be ready to do your sun (light) salutations with a chair or kitchen counter or other suitable surface to keep your spine happy and healthy. Please have at least one candle, preferably a tall one in a candlestick. But not to worry, a tea light or two will do just fine. You will want to see a flame at eye-height for Tratak, or steady gazing, so check that out before class starts so that you can have what you need at hand: a stool to put the light on, for example. I use an overturned vase with a candle in a candlestick holder. That works just fine. If you can’t sit on the floor and need to sit on a chair, put your candle on the table or kitchen counter at eye-height. Just make sure you have figured that out before we begin at 6pm sharp. You will receive your Zoom link around 5pm. Please, please, please, log on no later than 5:45pm!, so that we can all start on time together. If you are having trouble registering due to waiver issues, send an email no later than 5:15pm to [email protected]. I will send you an invoice and put you on the roster.

Join Alison on New Year’s Eve for a candlelight class for a soulful yet joyful farewell to 2020 and an open-hearted welcome to 2021. We will conclude with a loving kindness meditation visualized as loving light for yourself and all beings everywhere. You will receive an email with your Zoom link about an hour before class as well as set-up information and what you might need--mat, blocks and blankets and, very importantly, at least one candle. You can of course have many cand...les. For tratak, a tall candle is best, but a tea light works just fine. Please register by 6pm on Wednesday, December 30. Special: $15.00 Register here https://bit.ly/3o7mhM0 for the candlelit joy of it. Check on Dec 31 if you haven't registered but are still interested, to see if there is still room.

Adventures in Alignment with an integrated Spine with Team YU4U! Sunday's featured teacher is Witold Fitz-Simon, who brings his seasoned Alexander Technique to his Yoga practice and teaching. . Vashisthasana is a favorite pose of mine because it's so tricky. It requires balance, control, and strength in the shoulders and torso. This sequence breaks down all the components you'll need for an effective Vashisthasana, along with an interesting way of getting into it (from Malasa...na) that requires mobility in the hips and spine. I particularly enjoy coming into the pose this way as it gives you an opportunity to establish the connection of the arm into the spine directly. It's also a great way to set you up for more advanced variations.. . Take online classes with Yoga Union's smart, dedicated, inventive and deeply informed and well-trained teachers! Insta @wvfitzsimon #yogaunionnyc #yogaunion #wvfitzsimon #alignmentyoga #flowyoga #vinyasa #vashisthasana #sideplank #malasana #squat #shoulderstrength #corestrength #lumbarflexion #shouldermobility #hipmobility #yoga #yogateacher #onlineyoga #alexandertechniqueteacher #teamYU4U

Adventures in Alignment and an Integrated Spine with the Yoga Union TeamYU4U: Saturday's featured teacher: Kaitlyn Hipple.. . Chair Pose with a Dowel.. .... Utkatasana is often called chair pose, because you could be sitting in a chair. But the name actually means awkward pose. I like this version because the wall and dowel (or broomstick) provide support and the dowel also provides traction for your spine while lengthening your front body, and without the normal awkward feeling in the regular pose.. . This is great for everyone. Therapeutically, wonderful for: . - Lumbar herniation, bulging discs, or disc degeneration because it unloads and decompresses the spine. . - Scoliosis (put the hand of the thoracic concavity on top). By lengthening the spine, you will diminish the lateral curves. The dowel also clarifies the ever elusive midline. . - Anyone who has been sitting too long or had too many zoom meetings and needs a break. This simple pose will lift and stretch your heart. . - Stress relief. Take some slow, deep breaths, relax your eyes, and notice how it feels to breathe.. . Practice Tips: . - Make sure the front of your body is as long as the back of your body. This is especially important if you have herniations. Check this in profile in a mirror. . - If you have tight lats, use a dowel with a bar across the top like a T, and hold the sides of the T so your hands are wider. This way, you can stretch them overhead without compromising your form. It will also give you a good lat stretch! . - Make sure the dowel is straight, and the top is not deviating to the side. This is especially important if you have scoliosis. . Post your own photo and #yuchairpose . . . . . . . #yudowelchairpose #kaitlynmhipple #kaitlynhipple #yoga #yogaunion #yogaunionnyc #yogaunionyoga #utkatasana #dowelutkatasana #dowelchairpose #chairpose #yogaforstressreleif #yogaforbackhealth #yogaforscoliosis #yogaforbackcare #alignmentyoga @kaitlynmhipple

All of Yoga Union's wonderful teachers welcome you to their classes! Take advantage of this collective expertise to enjoy inventive alignment classes, yoga classes inflected by the Alexander Technique or Body Mind Centering, Backcare, Yoga for Herniation, Yoga for Spinal Asymmetry and more! (Prenatal classes suspended till we are in-studio again.) First class $15. Reduced online class card:Five class card $120. Volunteer work available with class privileges and a small s...cholarship fund. Write to [email protected] if financial considerations are keeping you away from class. Register for classes two hours ahead through Wellness Living, via our Schedule page: https://www.yogaunion.com/classes on online schedule = suspended classes during quarantine We'll send you the zoom link no later than fifteen minutes before class! . . . . . #alignmentyoga #posture #backhealth #backpain #yogaprops #onlineyoga #yogaonline #bestyogateachers #yogaeveryday #iyengaryoga #inspireyourday #basicyoga #intermediateyoga #advancedyoga #pranayana #mudras #prenatalyoga #yogaformommies #yogatherapy #yogaforbackcare

Happy Thanksgiving from us all at Yoga Union. In spite of these trying times, the fundamental expression of gratitude that the day celebrates and also asks us to practice remains the same as ever: the true, deep, sincere, wholehearted, loving, joyful, unencumbered, generous giving of thanks, which may at times seem harder than one could imagine, but that practice reveals in all its beauty. May you celebrate this day in as rich a manner as possible, enjoying the giving of than...ks wherever your may be. With loving good wishes on this day of gratitude, From Alison and your Yoga Union Family. . . . . . . . .#yogaunionnyc #yogauniononline

TODAY 9:30 am NY time 6:30 LA 3:30pm Paris Balance day and night, as the the twenty-four hour cycle itself comes into almost perfect balance between darkness and light.. . .Let's join together at this very special moment to celebrate the still center between seasons and in ourselves with asana, pranayama, mudra and meditation. .... .Register for class by 8:30am! www.yogaunion.com/classes .. . .You will receive a link between 15-60 minutes before class. Check your spam folder if you haven't received your link by then. If you have a problem, call 2121 510 7404. See more

Alison teaches a free Post-Campaign Class Wednesday evening November 4 EST (NYC) 6-7:15pm 3pm LA For all levels. Asana Breathing Meditation for the Nation... The Zoom link is https://bit.ly/3epQ6DL We don’t really know when election results will actually be called because of the many mail-in ballots to be counted, but let’s at least start off the rest of the post-campaign year together with a deep breath and cleansing of the inner and outer atmosphere. Please pre-register by Wednesday 5:15pm. You will receive a link no later than 5:30pm.

CLASSES THIS WEEK @ YOGA UNION ONLINE Alison has resumed teaching! Make sure to sign up two hours ahead of time. You will receive your link no laer than 15 ninutes before class. If you don't receive an email, please check your spam folder!... MONDAY Andi’s 9:30am and Cat’s 5:30pm classes are cancelled for September 14 6:45 - 8:00pm Alignment and Posture Level 1 Jamison Steinke TUESDAY Sept 15 9:30 - 11:00am Alignment and Posture Level 2 Alison West 9:30 - 11:00am Herniation & Posture Level 1 Fran Dirks 12:15 - 1:45pm Yoga for Scoliosis Level 1 Judy Rosquete 4:15 - 5:45pm Backcare & Posture Level 2 Andreas Wirz WEDNESDAY Sept 16 12:30 - 1:30pm Herniation & Posture Level 1 Fran Dirks 2:00 - 3:30pm Alignment & Posture Level 3 Alison West 5:30 - 7:00pm Yoga for Scoliosis Level 2 Alison West THURSDAY Sept 17 9:30 - 11:00am Alignment and Posture Level 2 Alison West 12:15 - 1:45pm Yoga for Scoliosis Level 1 Alison West 4:15 - 5:45pm Alignment and Posture Level 1-2 Andreas Wirz 6:15 - 7:30pm Alignment and Posture Level 1 Jamison Steinke 6:15 - 7:45pm Herniation and Posture Level 2 Kaitlyn Hipple FRIDAY Sept 18 12:15 - 1:45pm Yoga for Scoliosis Level 2. Judy Rosquete 6:15 - 7:45pm Backcare + Restorative Jamison Steinke SAURDAY Sept 19 9 - 10:30am Scoliosis date TBD SUNDAY Sept 20 11:00 - 12:15pm Yoga for Scoliosis and Spinal Fusions. Kaitlyn Hipple 2:30 - 4:00pm. Yoga for Herniation. Christy Kokami www.yogaunion.com/classes

ELISE MILLER AUGUST 16! SOLD OUT but ON DEMAND. Alison West at Yoga Union Online is excited to be hosting Yoga for Backcare and Scoliosis educator ELISE MILLER on August 16 for a very special online workshop: WORKING WITH THE UPPER BACK AND NECK IN THE PRESENCE OF SPINAL ISSUES.... PACIFIC TIME/ LA: 9-11am EAST COAST TIME/NYC: 12-2pm FRANCE 6-8pm SOLD OUT for actual day of workshop. AVAILABLE and VIEWABLE ON DEMAND for one week after workshop (through Sunday August 23). In other words, not one week from the date of your purchase, but viewed by August 23. Purchase here: https://bit.ly/2XYmHcS. $40 Send your receipt to [email protected] to receive your link to the On-Demand Program. Many people come to yoga for relief of upper back pain, whether it is as minor as neck and shoulder tension or as major as degenerative disc disease. This workshop will emphasize poses to address poor posture, tightness, reversed neck curve, shoulder dislocation, scoliosis, and kyphosis of the upper back and explore movements that strengthen and bring flexibility to the neck, shoulders, and upper back. Let go of the burdens on your shoulders and upper back and fly high with new wings of freedom! Elise Browning Miller has studied in India with the Iyengars on numerous occasions, and is a Senior Certified Iyengar Teacher from Palo Alto, CA. She is a Founding Director of California Yoga Center in Mountain View, CA, and a faculty member at the Iyengar Institute in San Francisco. She teaches workshops and retreats throughout the US and internationally and specializes in scoliosis and other back issues. Elise has written numerous books and has recently released her new bookYoga for Scoliosis, A Path for Students and Teachers. Elise was one of Alison's principle Yoga for Backcare and Scoliosis Teachers and guided her first steps on the path of Yoga Therapy.

Alison teaches a free Post-Campaign (and perhaps Post-Election Results class) Wednesday evening November 4, 6-7:15pm for all levels. Asana Breathing Meditation for National Peace Register here: https://bit.ly/3mYQe0b... We don’t really know when election results will actually be called because of the many mail-in ballots to be counted, but let’s at least start off the rest of the post-campaign year together with a deep breath and cleansing of the inner and outer atmosphere. Please pre-register by Wednesday 4:30pm. You will receive a link no later than 5:30pm. REGISTER HERE: https://bit.ly/3mYQe0b

A wall, you and a block (or two). Several weeks ago, I posted an image of a wall, the floor and one block to my Instagram account, with the suggestion that one could go far with that alone. We went on to work with that in my online classes, using a block to create traction in the spine both externally and internally. I include in my next post an older image of a seated forward bend with a block on my thighs and under my ribs which is included in Poses for Lumbar Herniation... (Backcare Training pdf). .1. Pavanmuktasana/ Wind Relieving Pose variation. Starting on the back on the floor and with the feet at the wall. The sitbones can be at the wall, under the mid calf or under the knees at 90, each producing a slightly different result for you to explore. Press the hands into the blocks. Lengthen spine. Arm length will determine the thickness of the blocks (if you need them). .2 Urdva Prasarita Padasana/Feet Up Pose. Sitbones at wall if range of motion allows. Or sitbones away from wall with block between wall and sitbones, legs up the wall. Press hands into wall to develop awareness of spinal length in pelvic flexion. Do not let lower back flex. .3. Supta Konasana/Reclining Wide Angle Pose. Sibones at wall or a block between wall and sibones, depending on range of motion. Press hands into blocks.. .4. Jathara Parivartanasana/ Reclining Spinal Twist L (right not shown), pressing hands into wall and keeping sitbones at wall. Lift left waist off floor to keep sides of spine equal and de-stress SI joints. . Urdva Prasarita Padasana/Feet Up Pose Variation 2. Sitbones at wall, a vertical block behind each calf. Variation suitable for those with more than 90 range of flexion at the hip without flexing the lumbar spine. A blanket from head to lower lumbar spine helps me to gently retain a mild lumbar lordosis.Here, the action is to move the hip creases into the wall as the block supports and resists the legs away from the wall.. .6. Urdva Prasarita Padasana/Feet Up Pose Variation 2 with double blocks behind calves. .7, 8, 9. Traction at door w/ belt: Pavanmuktasana Variations 1&2, and tractioned Jathara Parivartanasana/Supine Spinal Twist R. Press the feet into the door to create pull on top of thighs as you stretch arm (and spine) away. Once you have done all this, enjoy a mild supported backbend over a block or two, or over a bolster. Adventures in Alignment with Alison Tuesdays 9:30-11am (Thursday suspended) Wednesday Level 3 2-3:30pm Www.yogaunion.com

"Racism against black people is not just a white thing, says Iman Gibson, 32, a dedicated meditation practitioner and founder of the wellness coaching brand Brocollete and one-half of the duo that released a trio of guided meditations for antiracism today. Tori Lund, 33, a yoga teacher, classically trained vocalist, and singer-songwriter in the country rock band Few Miles South is Gibson’s lifelong friend since the seventh grade and spiritual collaborator." Sincere, direct meditations with lovely, minimalist musical accompaniment.

Vote for Peace, Justice, Equality, Inclusion, Truth, Non-Violence. Vote for Positive Change. Visualize the Outcome. Meditate on the Outcome. And VOTE.... Vote.org for info on what, where, how. See more

The symbolism of Independence Day--freedom from the tyranny not just of foreign rule but of home-gown oppression as well--should apply to all humans, here and abroad. But in the land where we celebrate July 4th as a universal expression of freedom from oppression, we still have a long way to go. The Black Lives Matter movement exists because the "ruling white majority" has not honored the full meaning of our Declaration of Independence, nor made room for equal representation.... It should not just be the privilege of whites, but of all US citizens, to ensure that all peoples of the United States enjoy these"self--evident" truths: that all men [and women] are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.-That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, -That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness." These words from Tre Johnson in the Washington post of June 11, 2020, remind us that simply reading a few books and having well-meaning conversations and intentions will not redress the balance: "The right acknowledgment of black justice, humanity, freedom and happiness won't be found in your book clubs, protest signs, chalk talks or organizational statements. It will be found in your earnest willingness to dismantle systems that stand in our way - be they at your job, in your social network, your neighborhood associations, your family or your home. It's not just about amplifying our voices, it's about investing in them and in our businesses, education, political representation, power, housing and art." In other words, doing something tangible. I learned from expert activists when we were contending with the State over licensing of Yoga Teacher Trainings that one should never leave a meeting without an action plan: who would be doing what to accomplish what by when. And it is the same now: what is each one of us going to do by when to implement the change that must come. It is for each of us to figure that out. But it is imperative to remember that justice does not happen by itself. Justice is a verb. May this Independence Day open the door onto a future that invites every inhabitant of this land to the banquet of possibility and hope upon which this nation was founded. And may this Fourth of July also be a day of joyful celebration and reunion--in whatever safe form that may take!

Be the light you want to see in the world. Meditate starting today, Saturday June 20 at 5:43 through the full Summer Solstice tomorrow, via the greatest internet there is: consciousness. Guided Meditation below. . 5:43 marks the moment at which the sun is at its highest point in the sky and the start of the longest day of light in the year, the Summer Solstice. In many traditions, it is said to foster the ascent of spirit towards the light. . .... .THE SUMMER "SOUL"STICE gathers under its celebratory wing Juneteenth (6/19), the Summer Solstice itself (starting at 5:43 pm 6/20 NYC time), a new moon and a solar eclipse on the longest day itself (6/21), the International Day of Yoga (6/21), Father's Day, and, as a source of the rainbow, Gay Pride (6/30). During these momentous times, let us pause and inhale and exhale the light, and heal in every way. SUGGESTION FOR YOUR MEDITATION based on a visualized Loving Kindness practice, facing the evening sun: Inhale light through the crown down the spine Exhale, distribute light to the body-mind Inhale light through the crown down the spine Exhale, distribute light to a loved one Inhale light through the crown down the spine Exhale, distribute light to a person who is ill, or grieving and bereft Inhale light through the crown down the spine Exhale, distribute light to all those who are ill, or grieving and bereft Inhale light through the crown Exhale, distribute light to someone with whom you do not see eye to eye Inhale light through the crown Exhale, distribute light to the town or city where you live Inhale light through the crown Exhale, distribute light to the country in which you live or identify with Inhale light through the crown Exhale, distribute light to the planet Inhale light through the crown Radiate light universally and experience "source" light from the universe Inhale light through the crown Be the light Inhale light through the crown Live pure light consciousness Inhale and exhale as living light Rest in the light On Sunday June 21 at dawn, practice Twelve Rounds of Sun Salutations of twelve breaths each to honor the twenty four hours of the day.

Are you looking for a professional space to teach your online class from? Yoga Union has created "Room 2 Zoom" to accommodate your needs. Special quarantine rates. Discounts for committed renters. All times available. Three studio. ... You bring your computer. We provide the lights and a good mike. Direct your enquiries to [email protected]. Yoga Union 37 West 28th Street 4th floor NY NY 10001 www.yogaunion.com

SOLD OUT. If you are purchasing the program for viewing after each session, email Alison at [email protected]. Join Alison West this Saturday for the first session in her ONLINE YOGA FOR SCOLIOSIS BASICS SERIES Three sessions: Saturday, June 13, 20, 27... 12-2pm Are you confused about your spine? Are you in pain? Do you want to do Yoga but thought you couldn't? This 3-part workshop methodically covers the foundational skills for working with spinal asymmetry. You will develop a sound understanding of how your scoliosis works and how to modify your Yoga poses side to side so that you can work with your scoliosis, not against it. Committing to a series will allow you to build on the preceding classes and feel confident about participating in all of Yoga Union's Scoliosis Basics classes. Open to students of all levels and teachers wanting to know about the subject. Very special price of $99 Register her: https://bit.ly/30rsiuj Two scholarships available. Priority to LGBTQ2IA and BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) students. Please send email to [email protected]. Alison is director of Yoga Union and the Yoga Union Center for Posture, Backcare and Scoliosis. She is an internationally known backcare specialist, Yoga Journal Presenter and Teacher Trainer. She has been teaching for more than thirty years and has a right thoraco-lumbar curve. image: young student working with Alison . . . . #yogaforscoliosis #scoliosiswarriors #scoliosisawarenessmonth #scoliose #scoliosistherapy #backpain #mauxdedos #loveyourspine #spine #spineproblems #spinalproblems #scoliosiscurves

Please HELP us get 90-DAY RENT RELIEF on commercial leases by encouraging your community of customers, clients, and neighbors to sign the petition to Albany. Sign the petition!

Please HELP small businesses get 90-DAY RENT RELIEF on commercial leases by encouraging your community of customers, clients, and neighbors to sign the petition to Albany. Sign the petition!

Heroes come in every form. This year, in addition to remembering the valiant men and women who serve this country in the armed forces, we remember those who have given their lives in another battle, that against a tiny, invisible army that continues to invade our shores. Yoga Union salutes those who lay down their lives in the service of others, and honors those who continue to work to save the lives of fellow human-beings as though they were members of their own family. . . .... . #memorialday #memorialdayweekend #MemorialDay2020 #heroes #COVID19Heroes #fallenheroes #soldiers #warriors #doctors2020 #Nurses2020 #healthcareheroes2020

Join me FRIDAY MAY 22 at 8:30AM for this FREE offering on Yoga and COVID 19. I am happy and honored to be participating in this international program with wonderful colleagues across the ocean and yet so close. Registration: www.kyospaces.com/therapeutic-yoga Yoga & It's Therapeutic Approach for COVID19 When: 22 May 2020, Friday at 6:00 - 7:00 PM IST Where: Live on Zoom... Registration: www.kyospaces.com/therapeutic-yoga Webinar schedule as per different time zones: NYC (EST) 8:30 am LA (PST) 5:30 am LONDON (GMT) 12:30 pm PARIS (CEST) 2:30 pm Manila (PHT) 8:30 pm Russia (RST) 3:30 pm KYO Spaces Prashant Tewatia Gnosis Medical Yoga & Unnati Yoga-therapy Training Centre Gnosis Medical Yoga Pune Yoga Union & Yoga Union Backcare and Scoliosis Center #iyengaryoga #yoga #covid19 #corona #yogatherapy #yogaheals #onlineyoga #yogaonline #webinar #yogasession #yogateacher #yogainspiration #livetalk #yogaevent #yogatalk #yogalife #mindbodysoul #alisonwestyoga #yogaunionnyc

ONLINE THIS WEEKEND and available on-demand. Yoga for Hypermobility/Hyperextension w/ Alison West Sat May 16 9am-12pm Ankle, Knee, Hip Sun May 17 9am-12pm Wrist, Elbow, Shoulder... London 2-5pm, Paris 3-6pm, Moscow 4-7pm Manila 9-12pm Discover how to center the joints through proprioception (spatial self-awareness) exercises and supported Yoga poses. Learn how to moves that awareness into your asana practice, maintaining balance in the joints. You will leave with new tools and discover a new serenity in your practice and clear lines of energy through the body. Sign up here: http://bit.ly/HyperYU $125 for full weekend. $70 for one session Level: one year of sustained practice and teachers. If Wellness Living, our registration platform, does not take your credit card, we will forward our PayPal link so that you can register that way. If you miss the workshops, you can get the program on-demand.

Study with world-class Backcare experts online at YogaUnion.com in New York City (EST) LA 6am NY 9am London 2pm Paris 3 pm Moscow 4pm Manilla 9pm... For all the issues that we address, visit www.YogaUnion.com Class schedule at www.yogaunion.com/classes New student special: $15 first class or $45 first three classes. Please register a minimum of two hours before any class of your choice. You will get the Zoom link no later than 15 minutes before your class. If for any reason you don't see it, check your spam folder. Email [email protected] if you are having a problem. We may be able to help you in a timely fashion if you are read to sign in a full 15 minutes before the start of class. Witold FitzSimon Judy Rosquete Kaitlyn Hipple Jamison Steinke Frances Geiser Dirks Christy Kokami Kristen Woods

Yoga Union has ONLINE SCOLIOSIS BASICS and Scoliosis Level 2 classes just for you! Today, Scoliosis Basics with Alison West at 12:15-1:45. Sign up by 10:15am for the 12:15 class. We ask that you register a minimum of two hours before class, but we check registration again fifteen minutes before class (in case you missed this announcement.) You will get the registration link about an hour before class. ... Go here https://www.yogaunion.com/classes and click through to Wellness Living to register. Take advantage of the new-student special if this is your first time. If you can't sign the waver, just click continue. That will constitute your agreement for now, Send us an email to [email protected] to let us know if you had a problem with the waiver. Alison demonstrates using a dowel at the hip crease to help the spine stay neutral while flexing laterally into Trikonasana. The blue tape indicates the location of Alison's right thoracolumbar curve. In the next moment of class, she bent her right elbow a little and pulled down on the dowel not only to get the top thigh to move down but also to help knit the curve together. Join us and discover how to work with your curves. If you have never done Yoga for Scoliosis, you might ant to schedule a one-on-one with Alison: [email protected].

YOGA WITH DOWELS ONLINE Alison West, Ph.D., E-RYT, international Yoga for Backcare & Scoliosis specialist and innovative alignment Yoga educator, teaches YOGA WITH DOWELS, a 2 x 3-hour training (6 hours total): Sat & Sun morning, April 18-19, 9am-12pm (NYC, USA time) London 2-5pm, Paris 3-6pm, Moscow 4-7pm ... The wonderful and slender dowel can create a strong sense of alignment, develop range of motion, offer support, challenge your strength, enliven your practice by becoming an extension of the limbs, aid balance, create space in the joints, and offer leverage. Join us online to explore this light, versatile tool, which you can easily add to your daily practice. Use a broom, or a paint pole, or a rake--or a dowel if you actually have one! It should be 5-6ft long (2 meters). Level: at least one year of sustained practice Cost: $125 Register here: http://bit.ly/DowelsYU If you have trouble registering, email us at [email protected]. You must register at least 2 hours before all YU workshops and classes, so that we have time to send you your registration link and other necessary information. ****** YOGA WITH DOWELS by ALISON WEST YOGA JOURNAL https://www.yogajournal.com//this-one-little-tool-you-can-

Yoga Union is Online! Here, Mar Arango Orozco energizing the back leg in this challenging standing backbend, using a chair under the front foot. Alison is continuing the exploration of the chair weekend in class this week. ... Connect with all your favorite teachers by registering online as usual. You will get a link, follow it and be promted to download Zoom.us. It takes one second and voilà. www.yogaunion.com NY NY Eastern Standard Time Mar Orozco Arango

YOGA UNION ONLINE You know online classes are going well when a cat pays this much attention! (Alison getting a setup together; demonstrating a pose) Chair Weekend, 3/21-22, with Mariana Orozco Arango's feline friend.

Chair modified for lumbar support. 1 If you have a chair that slants down towards the back, you might want to prop the back legs. You ca of course place a blanket at the sitbones, but the incline of the chair here is pleasant, and offers an even surface to work on. . My (Alison) pelvis is guided lightly towards a natural lordosis (or forward arc, into the body). As I lift my arms overhead, the spine is lengthened and space is made for the organs of the trunk.... (I am recovering from a serious right-shoulder injury, so my arms are not yet in full flexion.) . . .2 Block support 2. . .3. Block support 1. . .4 Regular chair . Photo 2020 Alison West . . . . #chairyoga #chariyogatraining #yogawithchairs #yogatherapy #propyourpose #yogaprop #yogaprops #yogaunionnyc #yogaunion #yogany #alignmentyoga #outsidethebox @ Yoga Union & Yoga Union Backcare and Scoliosis Center

Chair weekend slowly coming to end. Ten minute break before the last hour and a half. Blessed rest! . . .... #chairyoga #alisonwestyoga #yogaunionnyc #yogaunion #yogany #yogatherapy #backcare #restorativeyoga #yogatraining #yogateachertraining

Online Yoga +Chairs workshop underway.so much fun to be with beloved students and guests from afar, Seattle, Alaska, Israel... This setup reminds me of getting ready for the Yoga Journal Backcare shoot--all props ready and waiting. I have notes in front of me to remind me of different critical points over the three hours of each session. They aren't visible online. . .2. All the blocks we might need in various sizes to allow for different body proportions. . .3.Two Chairs Wit...h Bolster If you're tall, wide, or have hip flexion issues, or just because, this is a lovely set up. As I so often say, you don't have to have the problem to enjoy the solution! . .4.How I give backless chairs their back back. . .Photo 2020 Alison West . . #yogaunionnyc #yogaunion #yoganyc #chairyoga #yogawithchair #alignmentyoga #propyourpose #iyengaryoga #onlineyoga #yogateachertraining #yogatraining #chairtraining @ Yoga Union & Yoga Union Backcare and Scoliosis Center

YOGA + CHAIRS ONLINE w/ ALISON WEST, ERYT Ph.D. This weekend 3/21-22 9-12am &2-5pm What better time to study how to use that chair you're sitting on? From basic and beginner to more advanced and complex, this weekend offers not just poses but also principles of practice that will guide you towards your own creative solutions when working with chairs or chair-like supports.... This Online Course is suitable for beginners and valuable for teachers wanting to learn a braod spectrum of possibilities and how to modify with purpose. Alison West, Director of Yoga Union and international Yoga presenter, is the featured presenter of Yoga Journal's on-Demand Yoga for Backcare 6-part series. Explore all kinds of idea and possibilities on a chair (even two, and if you don't have two, then a chair and a table, chair and sofa and so on--you get the idea). Read more here and register: https://www.yogaunion.com/workshops--events

Savasana! End of the first Online Wednesday 2PM Level 3-4 Class. I loved teaching and was grateful for the warm support of all those who came. Here: Two ways for head and neck in this first part of Savasana with a tiny blanket support under the trunk. Mini Viparita Karani. The blanket was then put over the abdomen. The block under the head brought the neck into tractioned flexion releasing the vagus nerve. Once the block is removed, the neck is lengthened and quiet. Do not d...o if you have certical issues such as herniation. @ Yoga Union & Yoga Union Backcare and Scoliosis Center

In case you were wondering about wearing masks. Of course they help. "Third, of course masks work maybe not perfectly and not all to the same degree, but they provide some protection. Their use has always been advised as part of the standard response to being around infected people, especially for people who may be vulnerable. World Health Organization officials wear masks during their news briefings. That was the reason I had bought a few in early January I had been conducting research in Hong Kong, which has a lot of contact with mainland China, and expected to go back. I had studied and taught about the sociology of pandemics and knew from the SARS experience in 2003 that health officials in many high-risk Asian countries had advised wearing masks." https://www.nytimes.com//opin/coronavirus-face-masks.html

You can sigm up for classes through Yoga Union's regular online registration at Living Wellness. You can get there through the Yoga Union website here: https://www.yogaunion.com/classes Please pre-register no later than two hours before each class! You will receive a link to the online session. We look forward to seeing you there.

Stretch your lungs for lung health with deep breathing. . When you breathe deeply, the little air sacs in your lungs where oxygen and carbon-dioxide are exchanged with your blood expand. . But to expand well, they need a good dose of surfactant, something that decreases surface tension. Stretching the lungs is one of the ways to help with production of surfactant and that is one of the most important things we do in yoga--deep, conscious breathing.... . Here, I’m showing how to do it with the help of a bolster. It could be rolled towels or a blanket or pillows. . .Do the exercise on both sides, then on your back and you can even lie on your front and open the back of the lungs, although the abdomen can sometimes feel a little too compressed. . .Exhale fully to prepare. .Inhale fully. .Lightly suspend the breath, expanding the chest a little more. .Exhale. . .While doing this, you can stretch your upper arm and leg to help the top and the bottom of the lung to expand further. . .Together with Kapalabhati, the kriya or cleansing action I showed a few days ago and steaming the lungs over a bowl of hot water with a few drops of eucalyptus oil, these are excellent ways to help maintain lung health and resilience. I have been doing all three every day! . . . . . . #deepbreath #deepbreathing #steambath #healthylungs #lunghealth #lungs #yogaunionnyc #yogaunion #yoganyc #alisonwestyoga #staystrong See more

Good news is being spread.

Alone at hOMe. Yoga Union is closed. We are moving classes online, starting tomorrow/Tuesday

De-congesting the lungs effectively the old-fashioned way--over a bowl of hot steam with a towel over the head and a few drops of a clarifying essential oil like Eucalyptus. Breathe in both through the nose and the mouth to get that lovely, oil-laden steam throughout the breathing apparatus. And continue until you feel you have absorbed what the hot water has to give. (The bigger the container and the more water in it, the longer the steam will last.) Take a few deep full bre...aths afterwards to expand the lungs. Deep breathing helps to coat the alveoli, the smallest part of the lungs, with a protective surfactant, or coating. Be well and safe! . . . . . #deepbreath #deepbreathing #steambath #healthylungs #lunghealth #lungs #yogaunionnyc #yogaunion #yoganyc #alisonwestyoga #staystrong See more

A Gong Bath for Well Being and Peace at Yoga Union, where we follow all recommendations for a healthy environment. This will be wonderful!

A timely, deeply restful and healing GONG BATH! Rest. Release. Resonate Spring Sound Bath with Kaitlyn Hipple and Mar Orozco at Yoga Union, a spacious, deeply cleaned and lovely studio at 37 West 28th street 4th floor... Sunday, March 15. 5-6:15p Sign up here: http://bit.ly/SpringSound Enter into a timeless space of pure awareness full of magnificent vibrations that have the power to alter the conditioned mind of the ego, make visible solutions to unsolvable problems, dissipate physical, mental, and emotional tension, and help eliminate patterns that cause dis-ease. One often emerges from a profound experience that words cannot fully describe. Gongs have existed for thousands of years, and have been used for a variety of purposes, including the healing of physical, mental, and emotional ailments. Their vibrations can cause subtle shifts inside the listener, which allow for a freer energy flow and this in turn allows natural healing to occur. As is known to multiple traditions, the world is composed of vibrations and these instruments provide some of the most powerful harmonics known to man. Mar and Kaitlyn will bring their personal collection of these ancient instruments in order to create a powerful sound scape where you will experience a wide variety of tones. Come vibrate with the voice of the gong, accompanied by bowls, chimes, bells and other inspired sounds. Rest and rise to a new level full of potential. Where will the gong take you? KAITLYN and MAR are graduates of Master Don Conreaux's Gong Training. Kaitlyn is a seasoned YU teacher who specializes in a holistic approach to a broad range of back issues and mentors teachers. Mar has studied various forms of Yoga, Qi Gong, and Ayurveda for several years, is an experienced Kundalini Yoga teacher, and regularly leads sound meditations. We gong because we love to share the power of holistic resonance, and look forward to bringing it to the Yoga Union community. $40 in advance / $45 same day Sing up here. http://bit.ly/SpringSound Beautiful Butterfly and caterpillar image: A gong bath is the voice of a caterpillar’s cocoon. The layers of living tones embrace you in a powerful sound hug, much like a cocoon embraces a caterpillar. In a deep state of physical and mental repose, these special harmonies invite you to rise to another level of awareness where resolution and healing can occur.

In this time of coughs, flu and the CV, the sharp exhalations of the breathing practice known as Kapalabathi is the perfect lung cleanser for the season. . .Like blowing your nose multiple times, it spares you the throat-destroying effects of coughing while letting you move whatever you need to move out of your lungs. . .Start with 10 pumping at about 1 sec a pump. Build up to 30. You can increase the speed up to 2 pumping a second, but not more. .... .Keep the spine long. The chest high and wide. Avoid "gripping" the ribs and flexing the spine with each pumping. . .You can even do this lying in bed. Do it several times a day, rinse your sinuses with a Neti pot, rest, take plenty of Vit C, Zinc, B12, D3, K2 and all those good things to keep you strong. . .And let me know how it goes. . . .. . #kapalabhati #yogaunionnyc #yogaunion #alisonwestyoga #pranayama #breathingpractice #healthylungs #stayhealthy #covid19 #covid-19 #staystrong . See more

COVID-19 and what to do at Yoga Union May all beings be safe, healthy and happy! And to that end, Yoga Union has instituted safe practices for you * Wash your hands on arrival and before you do anything else. ...Continue reading

SALE Special Harmony Jade Mat sale! ONLY $64.95 + tax. Save $15.00! Normally retail at $79.95. 68" long. Studio pick up only.

Foundational Scoliosis Workshops: Weekend I with international back specialist, Alison West, assisted by Kaitlyn Hipple, specializing in Backcare and Scoliosis as well. Fri-Sat February 21-23 Open to everyone, from beginners to teachers. ...Continue reading

Class Pass and other third party platforms are killing Yoga studios, the way a parasite damages and even destroys its host. Yoga Union has never used Class Pass and never will. Read on!

BACKCARE WEEKEND Workshops February 7-9 with Alison West, Yoga Journal author and online presenter of Yoga for Backcare, a six part, on-demand series. Vew more here: https://www.yogaunion.com/workshops--events . Save 10% by registering for 3 or more workshops!... - Anatomy of the Spine and Sagittal Issues of the Back Friday February 7, 1-4pm - Posture and Tadasana (important for scoliosis as well) Friday, February 7, 5-7pm - Poses for Acute Pain Saturday, February 8, 9:30-11a - Lumbar Pain and Herniation Saturday, February 8, 2-4:30pm - Spondylolisthesis and Stenosis Sunday, February 9, 9:30-11am - Hyperkyphosis and Hyperlordosis Sunday, February 9, 2-4pm (important for Scoliosis as well) Scoliosis Weekends Scoliosis I: February 21-24 Scoliosis II: March 6-8 + Core for Herniation, Core for Scoliosis May 2-3 Alison Westm Ph.D.,is director of Yoga Union and the Yoga Union Backcare & Scoliosis Center, 37 W 28th Street NY NY 10001

On MONDAY FEBRUARY 10, 6-9pm, Laurel Beversdorf presents her popular and empowering workshop. Yoga for the Pelvic Floor, Core and More. Does the pelvic floor confuse or intimidate you? Do you want to learn practical tools to help enhance your connection to this area? * Learn about pelvic floor anatomy and physiology * Build your internal awareness of this area using therapy balls and resistance bands. * Discover the pelvic floor's connection to breathing and abdominal bracing.... * Practice ways to instill relaxation, fluidity, and control to our innermost core. Laurel Beversdorf is an E-RYT 500 international yoga educator. Creator of Yoga with Resistance Bands and Body of Knowledge Anatomy Series, she is also an integrated Yoga Tune Up teacher and trainer and a senior teacher, trainer and mentor at YogaWorks. Sign up here: http://bit.ly/PelvicFloorYU $60 Early bird 2/3 $50

Yoga Union House Elves painting lines on our new green Jade Mats! Mar and Kiiran are both in the 500TT, and have still found time to do this painstaking work. We're so grateful for this wonderful gift of time and care.

A very sad tale. I knew Julie Salter a little from the time of my second Sivananda training as well as a visit to Paradise Island in the 1980's. She was tireless and selfless. It is painful to hear of her suffering.

From an ancient Indian text--hanging Yoga (in what we might call "bat hang"; cf New Yorker cover!), and Charles Ray in an art work in which a plank does the work of a rope. From the Mysore Palace ms: Yogi in "plank" on a rope and Alison West in same pose. (Ropes weekend Sold Out)

Even the current edition of The New Yorker tells us that you can "hang" anywhere. And indeed, as you will learn during Yoga Union's classic Ropes and Slings Weekend (Jan 24-26 SOLD OUT) with Alison West, there are many way to put yourself in traction and use suspension for range of motion, strength, release, rest, alignment, and more. Find out more here: https://www.yogaunion.com/workshops--events

Yoga Retreat for Spinal Asymmetry with Alison West, Ph D. near Malaga, Spain, June 20-27, 2020 . Deadline March 20. Join innovative international back expert and Yoga Journal presenter, Alison West, director of Yoga Union and YU Backare & Scoliosis Center, for a unique experience of Yoga for Spinal Asymmetry. This is a rare opportunity to develop a sound practice for your back in an intimate and uplifting setting. Spend a refreshing week addressing your spinal asymmetry, lear...Continue reading

"I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: 'We hold these truths to be self-evident: that all men are created equal.' On this day commemorating MLK, it is inspiring to read his great speech and feel the weight of those words and the radiance of that hope. Non-violence was MLK's creed and it is the first principle of the Yoga Sutra: Ahimsa. A Plan for Peace A beautiful and simple practice is to start each day with a "peace plan"--plan one thing you will do physically, mentally or emotionally to promote peace, and at the end of the day weigh where you have succeeded and where you might do better, and keep the door open to peace.

Down Dog on a Door part II Use the door to put the spine in traction for Down Dog And if you want to learn more, join me for my Ropes and Slings weekend, Fir-Sunday January 24-26 at Yoga Union, 37 w 28 St 4th fl NY NY 100001 Read more and sign up! https://www.yogaunion.com/workshops--events... This was filmed in the bathroom of my little camp in Maine. I learned this method from Elise Browning Miller, one of my esteemed Yoga for Scoliosis teachers and a dear friend. Caution: Your door and your belt must be strong enough to bear your weight. Yoga Union is in no way responsible for any injuries which might arise from improperly using a door or a belt in performing this door Down Dog.

A door can be a rope wall! This is one way to prepare for Down Dog on a door. I learned this method from Elise Browning Miller, one of my esteemed Yoga for Scoliosis teachers and a dear friend. And if you want to learn more, join me for my Ropes and Slings weekend, Fir-Sunday January 24-26 at Yoga Union, 37 w 28 St 4th fl NY NY 100001 Read more and sign up!... https://www.yogaunion.com/workshops--events This was filmed in the bathroom of my little camp in Maine. Caution: Your door and your belt must be strong enough to bear your weight. Yoga Union is in no way responsible for any injuries which might arise from improperly using a door or a belt in performing this door Down Dog.

About 80% of adults suffer back pain at some point and is the single most common reason for which doctors send patients to Yoga. It's also the most common reason doctors tell patients to not do Yoga--because most teachers are not trained to address the most common back problems. Join world-renowned Yoga for Backcare specialist and Yoga Journal Presenter Alison West for YOGA UNION's 150 HOUR BACKCARE & SCOLIOSIS CERTIFICATION PROGRAM FEB 6-MAY 3 2020... Registration deadline Jan 24 Add longevity to your own practice and expand the scope of your teaching by becoming a certified Yoga Union Backcare & Scoliosis Specialist. PHOTOS: TRACTION is wonderful for the back! Here, Alison shows four ways (and there are many more) to traction the spine using a door, a chair, a yoga belt and some blocks. It reminds us that your door can be rope wall. Registration deadline January 24. Audition ASAP and write your application. Save big with early bird price by Jan 15: $700 off full price! Read full requirements and prices. https://www.yogauniona.com/full-backcaare-scoliosis-certifi See all the workshops that are part of this Certification at https://www.yogaunion.com/workshops--events Do the Yoga Union Ropes Certification Weekend (Jan 24-26) as well at the BACKCARE & SCOLIOSIS CERTIFICATION Program and leave with amazing tools in your toolbox. Yoga Union offers the most complete certification program in the world. And yes, there are pre-requisites as well as assisting and other requirements. Wouldn't you want that from someone taking care of your back? We ask a whole lot of PTs. Join our growing community and help those who come to you with lumbar herniation, or osteoarthritis of the spine, or scoliosis. It is possible to do only the Backcare Portion (weekend 1 and May 1). Weekend 1 - General Backcare (February 6-9) *First two weekend start on Thursday! Thursday 2-5, Friday 1-8 Saturday 8:30-5:30 Sunday 8:30-5 Weekend 2 - Scoliosis I (February 20-23) Thursday 2-5:30 Friday 1-8 Saturday 8:30-6 Sunday 8:30-5:30 Weekend 3 - Scoliosis II (March 6-8) Friday 1-8 Saturday 8:30-6 Sunday 8:30-6 Weekend 4 - Integration, and Review (May 1-3) Friday 1-8p Backcare review and Core for Herniation Saturday and Sunday 9a-5p Scoliosis Review and Core for Scoliosis

Yoga Union's classic Slings and Ropes Weekend with director Alison West is coming up! January 24-26 Friday, January 24, 2020, 5:30-8:30p Saturday, January 25, 2020, 9a-12p & 2-5p Sunday, January 26, 2020, 9a-12p & 2-5p... Register here: http://bit.ly/SlingsYU This unique Weekend Ropes Certification Program is open to both 200-Hour + Teachers and seasoned students. This is a rare opportunity to methodically discover the wonderful world of wall-ropes and wall-slings as well as ceiling slings. You will learn how a door can be a rope-wall and continue this work at home. Working with slings and ropes is one of the surest ways to enjoy effortless inversion, release the back and other joints, increase range of motion and develop strength, and practice restorative Yoga. But working safely and knowledgeably requires training and practice. This weekend will develop these fundamental concepts beginning with Adho Mukha Svanasana (Down Dog) and its variations. Certification Program: You must have been practicing for three years and have either done a 200 TT or be in the process of getting your 200 TT certification. To register as a non-certification participant: You must have at least two years of regular practice. If you have never had alignment based Yoga, please consider taking a minimum of five Alignment 1 or 1-2 classes at YU in preparation. Please tell us in advance if you have any injuries, so that we may determine if this workshop is appropriate. Working with the ropes can help with injuries, but this workshop may not be the right time. Cost: $325 for the full weekend. Early bird by 1/11 $295. Saturday Only: $140 Saturday is essential if you would like to participate in Alison's Level 3-4 class. Priority given to those doing the full weekend. Registration for Saturday Only will open if space allows.

May 2020 be a peak year of perfect (in)sight! 20/20 offers a perfect metaphor for the clear (in)sight and deep vision of a fully realized year, a year of both focus and broad, receptive openness, just as these sacred mountains in the early morning light reveal one-pointedness at their peaks and a broad base from which they rise. They are the source of the foundational standing Yoga pose: Tadasana, or mountain pose. The one-pointedness of the ultimate Yoga practice is like the... one-pointedness of mountain peaks, the summit of achievement, so to speak. Both Mt Meru and Mt Kailash represent two of the most important centers of spiritual geography in Hinduism, Buddhism and other traditions. In one ancient Yoga text, the Uttara Gita, the "meru," or spine, our physical axis and the spiritual axis of Yoga, is compared to [the] Meru Danda or the axis of Mount Meru. Although Mt Meru in Hindu mythology is a golden mountain standing at the centre of the universe and serving as the earth's spiritual axis, an actual peak bears its name. Mt Meru (see image above), which has been called a "21,850-foot jagged monster," one of the highest if least known Himalayan peaks (Gharwal Himalayas, India), has almost never been summited, although three mountaineers accomplished the rare feat of scending the forbidding Shark Fin face in 2011 (click here to know more). This "non-Everest" (no Sherpas, no amenities) remains one of the most challenging climbs on the planet, a metaphor for spiritual ascent as well. Mt Kailash, "abode of the gods," is a 21,778 ft high peak in the Kailash Range of Tibet. Forbidden to all and never summited, it has, in a number of spiritual traditions, also taken the mantle of spiritual center of the planet. Standing on a plateau, it allows devotees to engage in pradakshina, or the circumambulation (walking around) of a sacred place to imbibe its energy and stimulate the vital center within. The fresh, early light on both Mt Meru and Mt Kailash helps to burn the silhouette of these majestic forms into our retina. We can't help our eyes from being drawn to the clean outline of the peaks and of having our own vision sharpened by that focus. In fact, steady unwavering gazing is a cleansing practice known as Tratak used to remove "dust" from our inner sight, illustrating the nature of reciprocity at the heart of the practice--do it, and it will do you. Asana, pranayama, meditation, being kind, speaking truth, practicing non-violence, selflessly helping others--the paths are many on the way to clear understanding. May your vision be fully realized, and may 2020 be a "peak" year! From your Yoga Union family.

SEE THE YEAR OUT/SEE THE YEAR IN! Two special classes at Yoga Union 12/31 and 1/1 New Year's Eve morning Dec. 31 10-11:30 am Asana, Pranayama, Meditation ... Open Alignment and Backcare w/ Fran Dirks Enter 2020 with clarity, purpose and ease! Smooth the transition from the old year to the new with a balanced asana, pranayama and guided meditation practice. This Alignment class will use simple, effective asana to prepare the body, pranayama to calm and strengthen the nervous system, and a guided loving kindness meditation to ready the heart and mind for a brand new year. Back care students welcome. Cost $25 Register here: http://bit.ly/NYEYU New Year's Day January 1, 4-6pm Reset, Restore, Renew: A New Year's Day Class! w/ Witold Fitz-Simon Start the New Year by creating ease and expansiveness in the body and mind in this relaxing restorative workshop. Using gentle, supported poses, guided meditation, breath work, and chanting, we will shed the residue of the past year and take the first steps along a path of resilience and openness. Cost $25 . Register here: http://bit.ly/NewYearYU

One of our great sages has died. Ram Das, whose "Be Here Now" summed up presence, stillness, and transcendent joy for so many, chose a perfect day to change his configuration--the shift from darkness to light that the Winter Solstice represents. I can till remember him at the Art of Dying so many years ago cheerfully talking about relationship beyond the confines of body and time. Long live Ram Das in our hearts and minds. ... Om shantih, shantih, shantih. See more

The Winter Solstice (Sun Standing Still) celebrates both the longest hours of darkness and the "rebirth" of the sun. A little after 11pm last night, we shifted to the lengthening of days, which has long been celebrated in various traditions in different guises and most particularly as the early Pagan Yuletide, which begins today, December 22. The great and mysterious druidic site, Stonehenge, is itself aligned to the sunset of the Winter Solstice while another site not far a...way, Newgrange, lines up with the winter solstice sunrise. These times of transition have long been considered fruitful periods for transformation. And our practice of Savasana, or Corpse Pose, can be seen as part of that practice, a symbolic entering into that long night which gives rise to a rebirth into the light as we arise from Savasana into a new state of being, however small the shift. While today is the real New Year, the return to the lengthening of days and preparation of the earth for Spring, we will celebrate it on December 31 and January 1 with two special classes to bring the 2019 to an end and prepare for New Year's Eve, and to start 2020 with a delightfully restorative class. Read more at https://www.yogaunion.com/workshops--events And to all you have diligently pre-registered for classes, thank you for helping to make sure you classes take place. If you haven't signed up for Monday classes, you still have till noon today, Sunday. And again, a loving reminder to please pregregister for all classes through January 2 at least 48 hours ahead of time. If the class is still on the schedule after the deadline or on the day of the class, that means it's taking place. And for those of you traveling, enjoy a few holiday Yoga tips in Yoga Union's latest newsletter. If you aren't receiving it, sign up through the home page. www.yogaunion.com 37 West 28th Street 4ht floor NY NY 10001 212 510 7404 [email protected]

! YOGA UNION HOLIDAY SCHEDULE THROUGH JAN 2 ! PLEASE READ! We really want you to be able to take your classes. To that end, please pre-register for all classes a minimum of 48 hours before the class you would like to take, so that your beloved teachers know they are teaching. Preregistration deadlines for all classes are listed....Continue reading

Don't miss out! HOLIDAY SALE! YU Holiday Books and Prop Sale is on through Saturday, December 14, 7pm. 20% of books, blocks, belts, blankets, bolsters, mats And this one time: 15% off slings (limit of 2 per YU student).

SATURDAY DECEMBER 14 5-7pm Join us for a seasonal party with hot cider, treats and lovely holiday singing with our very own Catherine Forbes and Rachel Barker-Asto. Sing along and get cozy with your YU family. And bring your own family, friends, and children. We want to see you and as many of your friends as you would like to bring. Share in the celebration! Do bring a favourite food to share if you feel so moved, or something to drink. AND....Please RSVP! at this link ht...tp://bit.ly/YUHoliday And don't forget Yoga Union's annual Holiday Prop Sale! 20% off blocks, belts, blankets, boslters and mats 15% off slings--the only time we'll do this!

The New Year will soon be here, and with that Alison's classic ROPES AND SLINGS CERTIFICATION WEEKEND (You can also do it without certification!) JANUARY 24-26 Space is limited. Register early!... Slings and Ropes Basic Certification Program Friday, January 24, 2019, 5:30-8:30p Saturday, January 25, 2019, 9a-12p & 2-5p Sunday, January 26, 2019, 9a-12p & 2-5p This unique Weekend Ropes Certification Program is open to both 200-Hour + Teachers and seasoned students. This is a rare opportunity to methodically discover the wonderful world of wall ropes and slings, one of the fastest-growing Yoga props in the world. Don't be left behind! You will learn how even a door can be a rope-wall and continue this work at home or with private students in their homes. Working with slings and ropes is one of the surest ways to enjoy effortless inversion, release the back and other joints, increase range of motion and develop strength, and practice restorative Yoga. But working safely and knowledgeably requires training and practice. This weekend will develop these fundamental concepts beginning with Adho Mukha Svanasana (Down Dog) and its variations. Certification Program: You must have been practicing for three years and have either done a 200 TT or be in the process of getting your 200 TT certification. To register as a non-certification participant: You must have at least two years of regular practice. If you have never had alignment based Yoga, please consider taking a minimum of five Alignment 1 or 1-2 classes at YU in preparation. Please tell us in advance if you have any injuries, so that we may determine if this workshop is appropriate. Working with the ropes can help with injuries, but this workshop may not be the right time. Cost: $325 for the full weekend. Early bird by 1/11 $295. Saturday Only: $140 Register here: http://bit.ly/SlingsYU Saturday is essential if you would like to participate in Alison's Level 3-4 class. Priority given to those doing the full weekend. Registration for Saturday Only will open if space allows. Yoga Union 27 West 29th Street 4th floor NY NY 10001 212 510 7404 . www.yogaunion.com

Join experienced prenatal yoga teacher Hess Kim for Yoga for Pregnancy and Menstruation Sunday December 8, 2-5pm. Hess will provide important information for practitioners and yoga teachers on how Yoga can be applied to Women's Health and how to adjust the yoga practice accordingly. ... (PS--that little baby is now out in the world!) Men welcome too! Hae Soo (Hess) Kim began her yoga practice well over a decade ago and it has evolved from a physical curiosity to a grounding way of life. She finds yoga an eternal lesson on mental flexibility, strength and compassion and teaches her classes with that in mind. Hess received her Prenatal/Postnatal certification with Deb Flashenberg and Nikita Maxwell at the Prenatal Yoga Center and Alison West for her 300 hour Teacher Training. She holds a degree in Child Development and American Studies from Tufts University.

Although seldom taught in depth, Mahamudra, or the Great Seal, is discussed in the seminal Hatha Yoga Pradipika. It is one of the most profound poses through which to awaken inner energy. Asana transforms into pranayama with the powerful retentions, both internal and external, of Mahamudra. You will practice preparations for this pose both in terms of asana and inner and outer breath retentions. Join Alison West in an exploration of this pose on Saturday, December 7, 9:30-11...:30am DO NOT EAT for at least two hours before the workshop. A little tea or coffee on the way in is OK. Contraindications: high blood pressure, recent abdominal surgery, pregnancy. Required: Level II regular, sustained practice+ teachers Cost: $45 . Register here. http://bit.ly/MahamudraYU