GUIDELINES FOR GROUP MEDITATION

Ø  To minimize disruptions and distractions please follow these guidelines:

1. *** Turn cell phones completely off***

2. Arrive at least 5 minutes prior to start of session

3. Latecomers will not be admitted

4. Please do not come if you cannot stay for the entire hour

5. Do not apply perfumes or any scented skin products prior to arrival

6. Have tissues within reach for use during Pranayama

7. If you begin to cough or sneeze excessively, rise quietly and go to the restroom to attend to your needs

8. If you are having difficulty sitting still, or are experiencing physical pain, remain seated and move and stretch slowly and quietly. Lie down if you need to. Speak to the group leader after class for ways to increase your comfort while sitting.

Ø  A bell will signal the transitions during the session

Ø  Pranayama instruction will only be given before the start of the session, not during. If you are having difficulty during the session return your breath to normal and talk to the leader after the session ends. In depth Pranayama instruction is available at Yoga in Bay Ridge as part of the Meditation lecture and practice classes.

Ø  Chanting is done in both the Sanskrit and English translation. Follow along as best as you can. Over time you will become familiar with them. They are widely used in many Yoga studios. Take the page home with you for practice and use in your home meditation routine. Ask the group leader for help with pronunciation if necessary.

Ø  At the end of the session please remain silent or talk in whispers until everyone has risen.

Be mindful that some people will prefer to remain in silence as they are leaving.


REIKI
On February 16, 2007 Dr. Mehmet Oz was a guest on "Oprah" and had this to say
about energy medicine and Reiki:

"...When I look at you out there, I actually see beams of light.
That's what we're all about. It's what defines life, is energy...So
at the end of the day, REIKI, therapeutic touch and prayer all deal
with energy...As we get better at understanding how little we know
about the body, we begin to realize that the next big frontier is
energy medicine..."

REIKI is a Japanese technique for stress reduction and relaxation that also promotes healing. It was discovered by Dr. Mikao Usui in the early 1900's. Reiki is a very simple yet powerful technique that can be easily learned by anyone.

Nadine Premadas Boles, Reiki Master-Teacher since 2006, wiill be giving Reiki Level 1 and 2 workshops, alternating monthly, at Yoga In Bay Ridge.

The workshops will be starting soon. Email or Call to reserve a seat.