YOGA - WEST OF THE NARROWS
STUDIO EXPERIENCE
Although I've been to several of the Yoga locations listed in the Directory, a goal I have is to visit as many as I can, paying respect to and delighting in the studios that make up our Yogic community here in this area of Washington. Join me, as I pop in for a class or workshop at each and share my journey there.
"Should I have brought my bathing suit?" texted my sister-in-law, being ever-so-kind to allow me to coerce her and another friend of mine to a Yoga event with a title that some may raise an eyebrow at. "No, not that kind of bath, silly," I replied. Exactly, what DID she think I was taking her to?
I was absolutely excited to head to this event, because not only would I get to visit yet another studio I hadn't previously explored, but I an event that I had also not been exposed to. Sure, I'd radiated in the glory of a short gong bath during Svasana at the end of a lovely Yoga class in the past, but a full 75 minutes of the crystal bowls was beyond intriguing to me.
We were the first to arrive, and this pleased me, as I had some questions and wanted to get my bearings in the studio. The co-owners, Kym and her husband Shawn, were inviting and gave us the low-down. The space had a cool undertone and was just as inviting in its presence as the owners were. Subtle colors that soothed, and plenty of props to go around, we settled onto our mats as people arrived, clearly, not all newcomers like us. There was a feeling of community there, and I sould sense it, even as an outsider.
Love.....acceptance......gratitude.
The class began with a reading to set the tone of our session's purpose and then the crystal bowl singing began. The time passed more quickly than I had expected and I couldn't wait to get back in the car to collectively share our 3 experiences to see what compared and contrasted. I, however, managed to say thank you to Kym and nab a lovely gluten-free snack provided and considered some of the apple cider there as well.
Driving home we realized we shared similar, yet unique experiences. The sound waves penetrated and moved us, sometimes like a freight train that you could anticipate in the distance as it grew stronger, other times playing throughout and within the body in audio and physical waves that were evolutionary and undeniable. One of us saw color-lit patterns dancing behind closed eyelids, and I have to admit - I had the urge to just sit up and watch the play of the bowls, curious as to HOW this was all happening.
We were relaxed on the way home, and I guess I should have expected that, given that I'd just got to lie down in peace for over an hour (not something a mom of 2 young kids gets to experience much of) but what happened that night was what stuck.
I slept. Man, did I sleep. Like, hibernation sleep. I woke up having the feeling that I'd slept for a year, but wasn't the slightest bit groggy. I felt renewed, restored...... in balance.
I have a feeling that each experience would yield a different result, but I cannot imagine that any result wouldn't be anything less than healing and ultimately lovely.
Shanti Living Wellness offers a wide range of services including Massage, Yoga, Sound Healing, Energy Healing, and Ayurvedic Care. Located in the adorable Poulsbo, easy to find and park. I would recommend visiting the studio for your choice purpose and I definitly see myself heading back there soon for another offering. Check them out at http://shantiliving-wellness.com/
Happy Trails, Yogis!
