mindfulness & MOVEMENT series: spring 2021
"The body benefits from movement, and the mind benefits from stillness." - Sakyong Mipham
WEEK 1: BEING PRESENT
March 9, 2021
5:00 - 5:45 PM PST
We exist in a fast-paced, goal-oriented society. This constant need to get somewhere special and do something unique orients our whole framework into future thinking. The humble task of yoga and mindfulness is not to get anywhere, but to stay on the sensation of the breath, posture, and gazing point to experience the reality of what is.
Rather than just dictating actions to the body, week one will teach the mind how to listen to the body in the pure light of awareness without judgement or expectation.
WEEK 2: LETTING GO
March 16, 2021
5:00 - 5:45 PM PST
The inability to forgive manifests as discomfort that can appear almost anywhere in your physical body. By focusing on the breath, we become aware of where we’re holding pain. And by releasing tension in our muscles, we can let go of that discomfort.
Week two will focus on connecting your breath, mind, & body to let go of preconceived notions or expectations of your journey.
WEEK 3: BUILDING COURAGE
March 23, 2021
5:00 - 5:45 PM PST
In week three, we will explore unfamiliar territory applying mental fortitude to challenging postures. This practice may bring to light self-imposed limitations and fears while you take chances on your mat both mentally and physically. Practicing through fear has the power to transform the way you experience your life and align your needs with your authentic nature.
WEEK 4: EXPRESSING GRATITUDE
March 30, 2021
5:00 - 5:45 PM PST
Gratitude is the root of happiness. It provides a feeling of fullness by focusing on what you have and accepting that as enough.
In addition to focusing on the abundance in your life, week four will explore positive thinking, changing your perspective, and the power of love. Staying present, being attentive to others and appreciating all we have—just as we work towards all that we want—can help us get to the finish line of the pandemic stronger and more unified than ever.
WEEK 5: FINDING BALANCE
April 6, 2021
Along with improving focus, concentration and memory, practicing balance reminds us of our capability to simultaneously achieve empowerment and ease.
As your body’s balance is reinforced in week five, you’ll notice the strengthening of your muscles, improved flexibility and overall muscular control. By cultivating greater body awareness, we become increasingly aware of our strength, agility, emotions, and needs. Root down to rise up and flourish in your potential.
WEEK 6: FORMING CONNECTION
April 13, 2021
5:00 - 5:45 PM PST
What would we be without human connection and a sense of belonging?
In our final week together, we will become aware of the shared movement in yoga that increases our connection to one another and the world around us. Acknowledging the presence and support of external forces highlight the importance of making connections outside the self. We will hone in on the humbling understanding that we are a part of something larger than ourselves and serve a unique purpose in this world. In a culture often tending toward isolation, this understanding is indeed a precious gift.
As the world continues to mostly remain closed to travel, we invite you to come with us on a journey of exploring, discovering, and connecting with the self to cultivate inner strength and serenity. As we have realized in this past year—the only way out is to go within.
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What it is: A six-week modular program covering different mindfulness and movement topics led by Katie and Monica, our resident certified yoga and mindfulness practitioners.
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How it works: Each module is kicked off in a live, instructor-led, 30 minutes yoga session followed by 15 minutes of guided meditation. You will receive a link to the Zoom meeting after registering.
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Who can attend: Although this series is geared towards teens and young adults, people of all ages can join and benefit from this offering.
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What to bring: A mat and 45 minutes free of any distraction.
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Cost: All our programs are always offered free with the intent to spread mindfulness and its benefits globally. However, we welcome donations and pledge to commit 100% of all proceeds to Students Rising Above—a nonprofit foundation providing direct-service College and Workforce Success Programs to low-income, first generation high school students in the Bay Area.
Please read the Disclaimer before registering for the Mindfulness and Movement series.
Apart But Not Alone's founders, Riyana (L) and Aayush (R) practicing The Sitting Sun meditation and offering gratitude to the sun.