My "Conscious Movement" classes have grown out of a lifetime fascination with dance, movement, yoga and Tai-chi. In my mid-twenties I began a morning exercise practice understanding that to be a potter I needed to build physical strength ~~~ that led me to various yoga teachers and through the years I've always maintained a morning practice which has morphed over and over again as I have studied with many different yoga teachers in classes and workshops. My personal practice has also been strongly influenced by years of studying Tai-chi with Heloise Gold and overlaid with the expansive flavor of a workshop, "My Body, the Buddhist," that I took from Deborah Hay. More recently, spending a year deep in the study of anatomy and physiology during massage school crystalized my awareness of the wondrous interplay of properly aligned bones, muscles and tendons. The scholarly aspect of my being can now articulate the purpose of each pose and invite total body awareness through attention to the subtle nuances of conscious movement.
The "Conscious Movement" classes are small ~~~ four or five students ~~~ and take place in the gallery. We usually begin with a quieting and centering moment, focusing on breath and becoming completely present, shedding the thoughts, worries, and responsibilities of our respective lives and connecting with that pure essence of being that each one of us possesses. Gradually we begin guided movement which builds strength in our bodies, lengthening and stretching, paying attention to the subtle interplay of muscles and bones while learning to breathe deeply and listen to our own body-wisdom. I enjoy weaving together yoga asanas, Tai-chi and free-form movement in my classes and also think it important to bring in classic back-strengthening exercises as well as calf-stretches that address plantar fasciitis. No two classes are ever quite the same, but after 75 minutes we begin a cool-down period lying on our mats and letting our utterly-stretched bodies rest in that special receptive state of total relaxation. We then share tea sitting in a circle and take a moment to read a short passage from a book of ancient wisdom which is complementary to most all spiritual traditions and religious paths.
Your first class is free of charge so you can find out if this class suits you and your schedule. After that, the classes are $15. each, and I prefer that you pay $60. on the first gathering of each month. A monthly commitment is important for all of us and in the event you must miss a class, I offer a free make-up class on the last Sunday of each month. Currently we have a Tuesday morning class from 8:00 - 10:00 a.m. and a Thursday evening class from 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. I'm planning on adding another class in the near future and welcome your suggestions...I'm considering whether it would be best to offer a Wednesday morning class from 9:00 - 11:00 a.m. or an evening class on Wednesdays from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. If you wish a private session either for yourself or for you and up to three friends, it can be arranged for $60. for a 2-hour session. This is a nice way to experience such a class for the first time in a safe and supportive environment and we always "start where you are". Please call if you'd like to participate in a class or create a private session. All are welcomed.
"Barbara's Conscious Movement class is a unique experience with tranquil surroundings, small intimate classes and Barbara's gentle voice guiding us through a moving meditation of body, mind and spirit. Combining breathwork, Tai-chi, yoga and free-form movement has increased my strength and flexibility while reducing stress. I truly love her classes and really look forward to them."
Sharynn (class participant for the last 12 months)
Barbara'a classes are wonderful! I am so glad Barbara is sharing her knowledge and helping each of us to be aware of our "total body". Each class is different and she always seems to have a sense of what our bodies need that day. Warm and Welcoming environment.
