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River Bend Yoga is partnering with Thundering Oak Highlands for the 3rd annual Goat Yoga Event!
Goat yoga is the fitness trend sweeping the nation. If you want to get a work out, find your center, laugh and hang out with some adorable goats come check this out!
Off site location: 8397 West B Ave, Otsego, MI 49078
$30/pp BYOM- (Bring your own mat and/ or towel)
This 6 week course has been a great beginning of a lifelong journey of health and wellness for many! If you have been thinking about it let this be your year!
Learn the basics of yoga, from breathing techniques to proper pose alignment. Great for all levels. If you are new to yoga, or maybe a little rusty, this class is for you! This class is for six weeks of Intro to Yoga only, for the dates and times specified. Please check dates and times carefully before signing up. One makeup class may be allowed with prior permission from the instructor.
Every Monday at 6pm
July 15th - August 19th
$80/pp
Are you interested in learning about bringing together yoga and recovery?
Combining the two creates a model that truly addresses addiction as the physical, mental & spiritual disease that it is.
Y12SR is a 12-step based discussion and yoga practice that is open to anyone and everyone dealing with their own addictive behavior or affected by the addictive behavior of others. This is an open and inclusive group. All A’s are welcome.
Join us for a special Y12SR workshop on June 22, 2019 from 12-2 pm.
*This workshop is by Donation
Join Sheila in a 6 week alignment lab working on 3 key poses a class. This class will be great for beginners of the practice as well as seasoned practitioners of yoga. She will also incorporate spring detoxing twists and folds to send you into your summer refreshed and revitalized.
Fridays at 6pm
Starting May 17th - June 21st
This is a fun 3 day Intro to Yoga for kids!! In the world we live in children need the opportunity to learn the skill of deep breathing, focus and having healthy bodies leads to healthy minds!
11-11:30pm 4-6 year olds - Learn yoga through storytelling by learning how to grow tall like a tree, flow like the river and shine like the sun!
Noon-1pm 7-12 year olds - This class will teach kids the basics of yoga such as deep breathing, finding focus through balancing poses, strengthening and stretching their body and mind.
$20/per student for the 3 days or $7/drop in
As the cold winter draws us inside, we tend to find ourselves spending more time in front of our computer screens and phones. When we sit with the shoulders slumped forward and a rounded spine, this shape then causes the heart center to close, blocking emotions and creativity from flowing. This may result in an unwillingness to forgive and let things go. To counteract these effects, join Ashton as she guides you though a flowing yoga series using breathwork and specific asanas (yoga poses) focusing on the heart and upper back, then ending with a guided meditation. This practice will help to expand your chest and ribcage making them more receptive, free, and help to relieve pain in the shoulders and upper back.
Join Teacher Ashton
$25/pp
Come with a partner or solo! Could be a fun date night or something you do with your friends. You will enjoy learning the basics of both partner yoga and a quick intro to Acro Yoga. Partner yoga and Acro Yoga are a fun way to foster communication, community and trust. This class will be a lot of fun! No experience necessary just an open mind and a willingness to try something new.
$20/ pp
Come, join in IGNITE, an immersive experience of meditative and healing sounds guided by Davin Youngs with the specific intention of moving you toward your highest vibration. Blending ancient and contemporary tools, Davin uses his voice, crystal bowls, tuning forks and various overtone-emitting instruments to transport you to an inward place of contemplation, restoration and change. What makes this journey truly special is the subtle integration of electronic beats and emergence of music that will reflect the unique light and intention within each person present.
To participate in IGNITE is to come, rest and receive. Davin will guide the sound to do the rest.Please wear comfortable clothing and bring mats, blankets and pillows to allow for maximum relaxation. (mats and props at the studio if you do not bring your own)
Davin Youngs is a Chicago based singer, teacher and sound guide, leading individuals and groups into elevated sonic experiences. He uses improvised singing and intentional sound in performance, workshops and private sessions to hold space for change. His performed sound experiences take participants on a mindful journey, incorporating the voice, traditional healing instruments, looping and electronic beats, none of which are ever the same. He has brought improvised singing and sound experiences to companies and organizations like Coca-Cola, Google and Chicago Public Schools and has worked in the private voice studio with prominent artists hip-hop, punk and gospel. Davin is also a Reiki level 2 practitioner and the music director at Grace Chicago Church.
$20/pp or $25/ at the door
Have you ever gone to a yoga class and wondered if you were "doing it right?" Well, the easy answer is yes, as long as you were breathing and trying to stay in the present moment. But the wonderful thing about yoga is that there are always opportunities to learn, grow and refine your practice.
I’m excited to offer an Alignment Lab workshop focusing on the Surya Namaskar, or Sun Salutation. The sun salutation is the foundation of any Vinyasa Yoga class. When done mindfully, it can strengthen and stretch the body in preparation for more demanding postures to come. We’ll examine proper alignment and possible modifications for the poses of Surya Namaskar A and B, including that pesky Chaturanga Dandasana, as well as looking at how to safely and smoothly transition between poses. Using creative and mindful movement, you’ll learn how to refine or modify them to work best for your body. Come prepared to learn and ask me ANY of your burning yoga questions.
These classes are great for those newer to yoga as well as those with some experience under their belts who want to take a closer look at their practice. 2-4 p.m., $20 per person.
About Jill:
About 14 years ago I was a full-time working mom with a career, husband, three stepdaughters and infant twin boys. As is the case with most new mothers, I was stressed-out and sleep-deprived. My first yoga experience involved a DVD player and a mat in my basement, super early in the morning so I could get it done before the babies woke for the day. That first class brought me an amazing sense of peace and focus, and I knew I had found something special.
In 2010, my partner Betsy Young and I founded Flow Yoga in Plainwell, which grew from a dream into a vibrant community of yogis which continues to this day as Riverbend Yoga.
After almost 10 years of teaching and study, I am a slightly less-stressed-out mother of high-schoolers, and I love to help others find that sense of balance that comes from a consistent yoga practice. I love to find a connection with my students and make yoga accessible and fun for all ages and ability levels. No judgement, no expectations and no competition. Yoga is not a game you have to win. It should feel good, not an added stress or obligation. I want to help you find that sweet spot where yoga is a complement to your already-full life.
I teach classes with movement, breath work, fun flows and poses that encourage us to tap into our inner strength, be more mindful, connect to our bodies and love and care for ourselves, not just physically, but in all aspects of our lives.
I now live in Portland, OR with my husband Aaron, twin boys, and our dog Dusty. I love being outdoors and in addition to yoga, consider hiking, cycling, SUP and kayaking to be forms of moving meditation. I am a registered yoga teacher E-RYT200 with the Yoga Alliance and have my 200hr certification through Yogafit, as well as a Lazy Dog Paddle Yoga Certification.
The hips are our center of stability & where we tend to hold emotions. Many things can contribute to tight hips whether we are standing or sitting for long hours a day, even running can cause tension & low back pain.
Come join Ashton as she guides you through as series of yoga poses to gain flexibility in the hips & create more core strength. We will blend movement & breathing exercises to help release tension & end with a guided meditation. Leaving you filled with a sense of clam throughout the body & mind.
$25/pp
Chakras are the energy centers of the subtle body. When they are in balance you can attain better health and function at your highest potential. Come join Ashton as she explains the seven major chakras, signs and symptoms of the chakras when they’re unbalanced. Ashton will guide you through a flowing yoga series of poses, breathwork, and meditation to open, cleanse, and balance the chakras.
$25/pp
As the holidays near, life becomes more hectic and stress can increase in the body and mind, leaving you feeling exhausted. If you feel you need to slow down, release stress, and restore your energy then come join Ashton. She will help you to release tension and feel rejuvenated as she guides you through a gentle yoga series, breathwork with restorative poses and meditation.
Come have fun learning the art of belly dancing while burning calories, gaining flexibility and muscle tone! Join Ashton as she guides you though a flowing yoga series, blending breath work and the graceful form and techniques of belly dance.
$25/PP
River Bend Yoga joins Plainwell Kayak Company to bring you a night connecting with yourself and nature. We will be meeting for a brief yoga session by the river's edge before we cruise for an hour long track down the Kalamazoo River. This will be a great adventure to be enjoyed solo or with some friends. Price includes single kayak and equipment. Wear comfortable clothes, suggested water shoes,and possible change of clothes. No prior kayak or yoga experience necessary.
*Rain date Sept 27th
*35/pp
Join yoga teacher Abbie Hanson and singer/ songwriter Roger Jaeger for a night of yoga and live music. Roger Jaeger is on tour all the way from Nashville. This night will be a blend of a yoga class accompanied by a sitar followed by an acoustic set of his latest songs. Roger has been playing music all over the world and we are so honored to have him for this special night in a unique blend of music and movement.
*mats provided
Join River Bend Yoga Instructor Abbie Hanson for an 'easy like Sunday morning' yoga practice.
We will meet on south beach in front of the kids playground. Please bring a mat, sunscreen and water. This class is by donation. No experience necessary.
Join singer and sound guide, Davin Youngs for this unique immersion in healing sounds. Blending ancient and contemporary tools, Davin will use his voice, crystal bowls, Himalayan singing bowls, tuning forks and various other overtone-emitting instruments to transport you to a place of deep rest, relaxation and elevation. What makes this journey truly special is the subtle integration of electronic beats and emergence of music that will reflect the wonder and beauty of the universe. No experience is necessary. Your only job is to let go and receive the healing vibrations of the sound and music. You will walk away feeling refreshed, revitalized and renewed.
*Please bring a blanket and pillow, and wear comfortable clothing. Eye masks may also be desirable and mats are provided.
What is a Sound Bath?
Think of a Sound Bath as an opportunity for extended rest (savasana) while intentionally using the ancient medicine of sound to invite therapeutic and restorative change. It is a subtle, yet powerful experience for the mind and body.
Typically a Sound Bath begins with participants lying down or finding a comfortable seated position, often with a blanket and eye mask. After a short guided meditation, sounds are slowly introduced and layered in succession, creating an ever-changing sonic landscape. Participants often find themselves move into a deep state of relaxation, self-exploration and discovery, stimulating alpha and theta brain waves.
Sound has been used for thousands of years as an aid in healing. Sound Baths, journeys and experiences create a container for participants to encourage personal vibrational change in the subtle and physical bodies. As the physical body is 60 percent water, humans are vibratory beings and incredible transmitters for sound. In these experiences participants utilize vibration and a process called entrainment to transform their emotional and physical landscape. The experience of entraining, or ’syncing up’ to healing instruments can slow heart rates and respiratory rates, leading participants into a restful and peaceful state, conducive for healing. This often leaves participants feeling lighter, clearer and more rested.
*Chicago based singer, sound guide and Somatic Voicework(TM) teacher, Davin Youngs is passionate about utilizing singing and sound to facilitate healing with individuals and groups. He has spent thousands of hours with individuals and groups helping them explore and find their voice as an instrument and vehicle for change. He has worked with companies and organizations like Coca-cola, Google and Chicago Public Schools, leading them into improvised singing experiences and has worked individually with prominent singers and performers in the music industry, stage and film.
$20/pre-register $25/at the door
Spring is a time for detoxing and new beginings. Come join Ashton as she guides you through a series of cleansing yoga poses, breath work and meditation to help detox the body and mind. $25/pp
Join Yoga Teacher Abbie Hanson and Singer Davin Youngs in this unique experience of movement and rest with the assistance of spontaneously created live music. What exactly is a sound journey? Think of it like live soundtrack to assist your yoga experience, creating tones and rhythms that aid in movement and restoration. One of our most ancient medicines, music and vibration have the ability to alter our interior landscape as well as reflect the beauty and mystery of the universe. Coupling these ancient traditions with modern technology, Davin will use his voice and crystal bowls to improvise music and sounds that will guide participants on a journey of joy and healing. You will leave refreshed and renewed. This class is open to all levels. Mats provided. Extended savasana and meditation.
A step-by-step process for identifying and releasing negative thoughts, feelings, and memories that interfere with us reaching our goals and dreams. Through the use of meditation and essential oils we can actually trigger a permanent shift in how we view ourselves and the world.
We will correlate asana with applying oils intentionally to bring about awareness and smell to the brain. With those two factors combined we can work towards emotional balance, dissolving negative thoughts and attitudes, and create a positive outlook so that you can move toward your goals and dreams.
Come and join us for an evening of self -love and mindfulness. Come and work with us to block out those negative thoughts that are holding you captive from receiving freedom to succeed.
Presenter Anne Heersink-Darby with Young Living and Yoga Instructor Abbie Hanson
$15 / pp
Learn how to combine your faith with the physical practice of yoga, we call it YogaFaith, We’ll explore the postures of prayer in the bible and discuss their relationship to yoga postures. You’ll leave changed as you learn to use your entire body for worship. We’ll practice yoga and do some bible study. No yoga experience necessary. Bring: your bible and a notebook, comfortable clothes to practice yoga, an open mind and heart. Mats provided.
Abbie Hanson is facilitating the class and is a certified Yoga Faith Instructor.
Take a night to pause during this busy summer season. Join Ashton as she takes you on a body, mind, spirit restorative 2hr class. Long holds, supportive poses, calming the nervous system and dropping into the silence where all is complete and all is well!
Facilitated by Ashton June Mastenbrook-CYT 200hr
$20/pp
11-12 Acro Fit Class - No experience necessary. AcroFit is the social fitness innovation that combines strength training, cardio endurance, and flexibility with the partner work of Acro Yoga. We will be working in groups so bring a friend but no partner necessary! $15/pp
12:30-2pm Beginner AcroYoga Class - Acro Yoga combines the elements of community, trust, balance, strength, acrobatics and yoga in a playful fun experience. Learn to fly or to support others as they fly! All experience levels welcome with open play from 2-3pm. $15/pp
In the workshop participants will be guided through the Spinal Awakening Series and From The Core workout. Shani Anne Blueford is a HoopYogini™ teacher at Emerge and Circulate in Kalamazoo. A short description for HoopYogini™ is "holistic fitness that merges hula-hooping, hatha yoga, and mindfulness meditation" This workshop is going to be a lot of fun! $30/pp
You are invited to join the amazing community at Riverbend Yoga on November 19th from 2-4pm to move through yoga asana and soak in the amazing privilege of Being....Being in this human form, Being with one another, Being with the mysteries of our aches and pains, our fumbles and follies, and our Joys. In this 2 hour workshop, we will be still and move and sweat and breathe and deeply relax. You are invited to bring a photo of a loved one who has passed, a photo or symbol of someone or something that brings you Joy, and your perfectly imperfect self.
Jen will be leading this class. $25/pp
In this lively workshop you will learn the mythic stories of the warrior Virabhadra, and keys to practicing the poses he has inspired. Through engaging storytelling, rejuvenating asana and reflective journaling you will learn how to align more clearly with your inner warrior. $25/pp
Molly Kitchen, E-RYT, is the director of Adhikara Yoga School in Western Massachusetts. Molly's yoga teaching is infused with clarity, humor and heart. Using precise alignment instruction and inspiring philosophy, she creates an environment that invites her students to connect with the wisdom of their heart. Learn more at MollyKitchen.com or AdhikaraYogaschool.com