Certain poses are iconic asanas. You see them in all the books, in magazine ads, and on TV: Adhomukha Svanasana (Downward Dog), Virabhadrasana II (Warrior II), Padmasana (Lotus), Vrksasana (Tree). Vrksasana is ubiquitous, because balancing on one leg fits in with most people’s idea of a yoga pose.

In the grand scheme of yoga, however, that kind of balance is only one tiny aspect of the subject of balance. Balance is a complex, intricate, and fundamental element in the philosophy and practice of yoga. It incorporates balancing the sides of the body, balancing the inner and outer, balancing the three gunas, paksa pratipaksa, and more. Because it is such a vast subject, I want to narrow this discussion to one

aspect of the question of balance: the balance between effort and surrender.

In the Winter newsletter, I wrote about the three asana sutras found in the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali (II:46-48). The middle one (II:47) says, “Prayatna saitily ananta samapattibhyam”; “Perfection in an asana is achieved when the effort to perform it becomes effortless and the infinite being within is reached.”[Translation: B.K.S. Iyengar] Prayatna saitilya/

Effortless effort. Somehow effort has to be balanced with effortlessness. Let’s use asana and driving as vehicles to examine this idea of effortless effort.

When I first learned to drive a car, after fifteen minutes of driving, I was exhausted. The mental

See Namaste, page 2

InsideJohn’s Workshop

Schedule ......................2

Special Events ...............4–5

Class Schedule .............6–7

Teacher Information ......8–9

Studio News .....................9

Course Descriptions .......10

Boutique Information ......10

Fees and Policies ............11

Registration Form ............12

YOGA IN THE IYENGAR TRADITION SINCE 1979 SPRING 2018 • APRIL 10 - JULY 2

Namaste

Unity Woods Yoga Center...is one of the best known and most widely re-spected yoga centers in the country. We offer classes for students at all levels in posture (asana) and breathing (pranayama), special courses for tar-geted needs and interests, workshops with some of the world’s finest teachers, and programs covering various aspects of the science and art of yoga.

At Unity Woods, our purpose is to offer uncompro-mising, expert yoga instruction to as broad an au-dience as possible. Our teaching staff is the area’s most experienced, comprised of highly trained, certified instructor s who help guide you to im-proved health, serenity, and expanded awareness.

© 2017 Unity Woods Yoga Center, LLC.4853 Cordell Ave, PH9Bethesda, MD 20814Phone: (301) 656-8992Fax: (301) 656-7792www.unitywoods.com

All of our classes are based on the teachings of B.K.S. Iyengar. Named by Time magazine as "one of the 100 most influential people in the world", Mr. Iyengar is widely regarded as the 20th century's foremost yoga teacher. His approach develops self-awareness through precision in movement and attention to the subtleties of body, breath, mind, and spirit.

HEALTH • SERENITY • AWARENESS

First Class Free for New

StudentsNewcomers to

Unity Woods may take their first class free anytime during the session. Contact

us for details.

301-656-8992www.unitywoods.com

- 2 - UNITY WOODS YOGA CENTER

John’s Workshops

April 27-29 Friday-SundayTeacher Training:

Teaching Students at Different LevelsSERENDIPITY

Berkeley Springs, WV

June 16 SaturdayYoga For Health Potomac, MD

Contact Susan at (301) 330-0430

June 29-July 1

Milwaukee Yoga CenterMilwaukee, WI

July 27-28 Friday-SundayTeacherTraining: Topic TBA

SERENDIPITYBerkeley Springs, WV

August 15-19 Wednesday-Sunday

Yoga Northwest Bellingham, WA

John returns to picturesque Bellingham for his annual intensive for experience students. [See contact

info from before]

Sept. 22 SaturdayYoga For Health Potomac, MD

Contact Susan at (301) 330-0430

October 5-7 Friday-SundayIyengar Yoga Maine

Brookville, MEWeekend workshop

(207) 326-2037; info@iyengaryogamaine.com; www.iyengaryogamaine.com

November 2-4 Friday-SundayPractice Yoga Studio

Philadelphia, PA(215) 755-3268

www.practiceyogastudio.com

November 9-11 Friday-SundayTeacherTraining: Topic TBA

SERENDIPITYBerkeley Springs, WV

Namaste (continued)

concentration, working my hands and feet, and the muscular tension in my body all wore me to a frazzle. Now I can drive, tune the radio, chew gum, talk to my passenger, and look at the countryside all at the same time almost effortlessly. (Of course, I never ever actually behave this way.) Fifty-six years of driving, i.e., practice, have made me skillful enough to need much less effort.

So it is with asana. Except for Savasana, every asana from simply standing in Tadasana (Mountain) to performing the most difficult Arm Balance requires muscular activity (effort) and mental concentration (effort). When you first learn a pose, you inevitably move your body in a very inefficient way. You use much more physical effort than you will once you have practiced and learned the pose. And because you don’t yet know the actions and intricacies of the pose, your mind gets fatigued trying to keep up with what’s going on. It’s effortful on all levels.

Once you’ve learned the pose, you need to use much less effort, but now things get a little tricky. Let’s go back to the car analogy. Let’s say you’re driving on a dark and stormy night on an unfamiliar road with lots of road construction signs all around. Now you can’t be so casual. You have to peer through the rain darkened windshield and wend you way around unfamil-iar obstacles. Because your circumstances have changed, you can’t operate on cruise control. You have to make more of an effort to drive.

Back to yoga. You have practiced the pose enough to be familiar with it, so now you don’t need so much effort. You can operate on cruise control, listen to the radio, chew gum, talk to a friend in the room, and inspect the plants hanging by the window for dead leaves. And this is where it gets tricky, because once you do that, you really aren’t practicing yoga anymore. You’re just putting your body in yoga poses. To me, that’s not yoga. Yoga means continually uncovering the connection of body, mind, and spirit and becoming more and more absorbed in the present moment. This requires your com-plete presence, as total as possible. You can’t just reach a familiar comfy place and hang out. That’s called alabdhabhumikatva, failure to make progress, and Patanjali lists it as one of the

obstacles to attaining yoga. No cruise control allowed. If you are a keen practitioner, your asana practice is like that. Even though you are familiar with Virabhadrasana II, you continue to penetrate more deeply into the unfamiliar parts of the pose and yourself.

Why does your right waist feel so different from your left waist? What is the length of the ring finger on your left hand? Is it the same as the ring finger on your right hand? Why not? What if you equalize them? Can you equalize them? Does that affect your breath? How does that affect your mind?

In a way you are like that driver on a dark and stormy night. As you penetrate the dark, unknown area of your own body/mind, you continually find yourself in unfamiliar and challenging territory, which means, for that moment, you have to make more of an effort. This is what happens when you go to class and your teacher gives you a completely new instruction or adjustment in a pose you’ve practiced for years. A pose that was relatively easy and comfortable all of a sudden becomes difficult. It’s just that because of the years you have spent developing your skills, your effort is subtle, more refined. You are doing the pose on another level.

So where’s the effortless part?

At some point, you can begin to transform all this effort, this doing, into undoing. In Virabharasana II, why are you tightening the trapezius muscle near your neck. Can you eliminate that unnecessary effort? Is your breath restricted? Can you relax your diaphragm and your breath? What about your eyes, ears, tongue? Are you tense in your jnanendreyas, your sense organs? What does that do to your state of mind.? Gradually, you learn to be aware of and let go of what is not needed. Where, at one point you were appropriately busy acquiring and accumulating knowledge and skill, now you become engaged in the process of shedding the unnecessary. There becomes less for you to do in the pose. You maintain the physical activity needed to be in the pose, but there is an effortlessness to it. The mind is in a receptive state, tuned in to the movement of the moment, a much less effortful process than thinking or

- 3 -SPRING 2018

John Schumacher is the founder and director of Unity Woods. He has prac-ticed yoga for over 45 years and has taught in the Washing-

ton area since 1973. John studied in India with B.K.S. Iyengar for 33 years and is an Advanced Certified Iyengar Yoga Teacher (CIYT). He also spent many years studying with internationally acclaimed teacher Dona Holleman.

John’s clear, precise style and his engaging sense of humor have made him one of the country’s leading yoga teachers. Yoga Journal cited him as one of "25 Americans who are shaping yoga today." He has written for a variety of publications and has appeared in numerous local and national media, including U.S. News and World Report, Yoga Journal, Washingtonian Maga-zine, the Washington Times, the Washington Post, PBS and others. John speaks about the practice and benefits of yoga on radio and television and at conferences and organizations around the country.

Over the years John has taught thousands of students and trained hundreds of teachers. He contin-ues to travel across the U.S. and throughout the world, includ-ing Europe, Asia, Africa, South America, the Middle East and the Caribbean, where he conducts workshops for students and teach-ers of all levels.

Namaste (continued)

analysing. In that reflective state, subtle clues

arise and the yogi’s body/mind adjusts to those

clues and reposes in that adjusted pose. As this

layer-by-layer process goes on, at some point,

the yogi ceases doing the pose and becomes,

is, the pose. You and I mostly do Vrksasana or

Sirsasana. A master such as B.K.S. Iyengar is

Vrksasana, is Sirsasana. The effort to perform the

pose has become effortless.

So all this magically happens if you just keep

on practicing?

Well, yes, if you practice intentionally, intently, consistently, confidently, with dedication, with devotion, with attention, with awareness, honestly, humbly, fiercely, and fearlessly…..yes. Step by step you will become sensitive to the balance between effort and surrender, and, as a tightrope walker intuitively acts to adjust her balance, you adjust the balance of effort and surrender in each pose, in each moment. Balance at this point takes on an entirely different meaning, so that you can shift gears in your practice and open a door to another dimension of understanding.

Read John’s essays from earlier newsletters on our website:

www.unitywoods.com/tag/letter

And look for digital downloads of John's classes and discussions at

www.schumacheryoga.com

When the sadhaka [practitioner] has reached the

state of balance, attention, extension, diffusion,

and relaxation take place simultaneously in body and

intelligence, and they merge in the seat of the soul.

B.K.S. Iyengar , Light on the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, II:47.

.

- 4 - UNITY WOODS YOGA CENTER

Workshops, Short CoursesSee unitywoods.com for detailed descriptions.

Teacher Training at Serendipity

John Schumacher

Friday-Sunday, April 27-29

Topic: Teaching Students at

Different Levels

Needless to say, not all students are the same. How then do we address appropriately the different needs of different students? One way is to have classes of different levels and to teach based on the level of the class. Many teachers, however, do not have the luxury of having different levels. Everyone – beginners, intermediate students, advanced students - comes to the same class. What to do in that kind of setting?In this workshop, we’ll examine criteria to establish different class levels, how to present the material being taught to different levels, ways to teach a mixed level class, and more. As always, we will practice teach in the afternoon classes to refine your skills as a teacher. Optional early morning practice is open to all.

Call UWYC or see our website for more

information.www.unitywoods.com

Bethesda WorkshopsFriday, April 20 8:30-9:45am Advanced PranayamaWith Doerthe BraunRefine and deepen your pranayama practice; includes digital pranayama and kumbhaka. Prerequisites: Pranayama Level IV $25

Saturday, May 12 1:30-4:00pm Advanced Arm BalancesWith Doerthe BraunA journey through deep hip openers and forward bends leads to advanced arm balances. Prerequisites: Padmasana with ease, free-standing Sirsasana, no shoulder injuries. $45

Sunday, June 3 Advanced PranayamaWith John Schumacher

The Level V pranayama class is for those who

have completed Level IV or have extensive train-

ing in the Iyengar approach to pranayama. Level

VI is for those who have been practicing digital

pranayama for two years or more.

Level V 2:30-4:00pm $40

Level VI 4:15-5:45pm $40

Sunday, June 3 6:45-8:30pm Discussion Group: Practice With John Schumacher

As we usually do in the spring discussion group,

we’ll dig deep into the subject of practice and

talk about how, what, when, why, problems,

solutions, benefits, and more. If you practice,

come share your experience; if you don’t, come

share your thoughts about why or why not.

All are welcome. Refreshments will be served.

Free.

Friday, June 29 8:30–9:45amAdvanced Pranayama With Doerthe BraunRefine and deepen your pranayama practice; includes digital pranayama and kumbhaka. Prerequisites: Pranayama Level IV $25

Bethesda Short CoursesThursdays - Apr 12, May 17, Jun 14 12:15-1:30pmYoga Sutra Discussion Group with Doerthe Braun and Nazli Weiss Delve into the teachings and wisdom of Patanjali's Yoga Sutras. For detailed info visit the Unity Woods Sutra Study blog.

Prerequisite:: Open to all. Donation, cash or checks to Bellur Trust.

Saturdays April 28, May 5, 12, 19 • 11:45am-1:00pmProgressive Gentle II, Part 1 With Steve MitchellJoin us for a slower, prop-supported class that is progressive and gentle. Prerequisite: One year Iyengar experience. Course $100, Drop-in $30

Sundays May 6, 13, 20, 27 3:00-5:00pmOsteoporosis Yoga With Megan BowlesFour-week short course teaches key poses and actions of yoga with osteoporosis. Prerequisite: None. Course - $130, Drop-in $36NOTE: Week 3 (May 20) will be taught by Mary.

Mondays May 7, 14, 21, 28 4:45-5:45pmBack Care with Mary Pappas-SandonasThis 4-week short course will provide you with a home practice to bring relief to your aching back. Prerequisite: None. Course $100, Drop-in $25

Saturdays June 2, 9, 16, 23 11:45am-1:00pmProgressive Gentle II, Part 2 With Steve MitchellJoin us for a slower, prop-supported class that is progressive and gentle. Prerequisite: One year Iyengar experience. Course $100, Drop-in $30

- 5 -SPRING 2018

Lori (continued)

As of the Spring Session, she will pare down her schedule, continuing her Monday evening classes and monthly Sunday workshops. For the Spring Session, Lori’s Friday classes will be taught by our newest teacher, Kate Krems. Don’t let “new-est” fool you. Check out Kate’s bio. Mary Pappas-Sandonas will bring her enthusiasm and vitality to the Saturday morning classes. In the Summer Ses-sion, Joe will take over Lori’s Monday evening classes. Joe has been teach-ing at the Arlington studio since we opened it in 1996. B.K.S. Iyengar says, “The relationship between a [teacher] and a [pupil] is a very special one.” Lori has studied with me going on twenty years now and is entering her fifteenth year of teaching at Unity Woods. Some of my students have been with me longer; some Unity Woods teachers have been teaching at UW longer. None has maintained the intensity of weekly study with me without interruption for so long. My relationship with Lori, as Guruji said, is a special one. I will miss her alert receptivity as a student, her deep car-ing about the Arlington studio and UW as a whole, her thoughtful input, her honest observations, and her infec-tious sense of humor. She has been an outstanding student, a respected and reliable colleague, and a dear friend. I could go on, but you get the idea. And besides, she’s not floating off into the void. In fact, Lori will return to UW in the fall to teach. Look for details in the summer newsletter. And technology can be a tool to bridge the distance, too. Lori has been recording her classes, which she will make avail-able, and she intends to stay in touch with her students. I know we all wish Lori well in her new life and are excited for her. To have a chance to share that excite-ment along with our best wishes, we will host a party on Sunday, June 24. We’ll announce details in the classes and on the website.

Arlington WorkshopsSunday, April 15 • 2:30–5:30pm

Osteoporosis Yoga in Arlington With Megan BowlesFun and informative workshop. Learn es-sential poses, modifications, and what to avoid. Includes asanas (postures) and discussion.

Prerequisite: None $55

Saturday, June 16 • 2:00–4:00pmLife is too long for short hamstringsWith Doerthe Braun

Safely open groins and successfully extend your hamstrings.Prerequisite: Level I/II and up $40No hamstring injuries

Asana - from Body, Mind to Spirit:Strength, Balance, Endurance

Series with Lori RitlandSunday, May 6 1:00-3:00pmStrengthExplore strengthening asanas to build firmness of body and serenity of mind.Prerequisite: Level I/II and up $40

Sunday, June 10 • 1:00–3:00pmBalanceBalancing asanas and balancing effort and atten-tion in the body, the mind turns inward.Prerequisite: Level I/II and up $40

Sunday, July 1 1:00-3:00pmEndurancePose and repose. Stay in the asana, adjust, and reflect inward.Prerequisite: Level I/II and up. $40

Note: Sign up for all three Body, Mind to Spirit workshops for $105

Arlington Short CoursesWednesdays, April 11, 18, 25, May 2, 9 5:00–6:00pmFind Stability with Hyper-mobilityWith Juliana Fair Mobility and stability are found in all aspects of yoga. Mobility indicates kinetic energy and stability indi-cates static energy. Find stability in asana practice with mobile joints/loose ligaments.

Prerequisite: Level I and up Course $125, Drop-in $25

Wednesdays, May 23, 30, June 6, 13 5:00–6:00pmAddressing the HamstringsWith Juliana Fair

The large muscles at the back of the upper leg are invariably tight, short and weak, inhibiting many asanas. Learn ways to negotiate a path to a healthier more balanced group of muscles.

Prerequisite: Anyone with tight hamstrings Course $100, Drop-in $25

Lori's LeavingThis summer, Lori Ritland and her family will move to Santa Cruz, California. This is a big deal for her, obviously, but also for her students, for Unity Woods, and for me personally.Lori’s contributions to the success of Unity Woods have been immeasurable. She has been the mainstay at the Arlington studio. She is not replaceable, so her departure leaves a giant chasm in the Arlington schedule. Fortunately, we have superb teachers who can step in to con-tinue the high level of instruction her students have come to expect. (continue next column)

and Special EventsNo refunds or credits/credits/changes from 14 days prior.

- 6 - UNITY WOODS YOGA CENTER

Community Classes

Every Friday, 6:00–7:00pm

In Bethesda

April 13 no Community ClassApril 20 Linda McRApril 27 RockyMay 4 MaggieMay 11 RockyMay 18 MaryMay 25 MaryJune 1 DoertheJune 8 MaggieJune 15 DoertheJune 22 SoniaJune 29 Doerthe

$10 drop-in fee, cash only

Chantingwith

Megan Bowles

Join Megan for monthly soul-soothing chanting sessions in Bethesda.

Sessions will meeton the following Fridays

7:10-7:40pm

May 4June 1Free!

Important Schedule Note

The following classes will not be held on April 14th

and April 15thSaturday, April 14 Bethesda Level II 8:00-9:30am (Steve) Level I/II 10:00-11:30 (Steve)Saturday, April 14 Arlington Level II/III 9:00-10:30am (Mary) Level II 10:45am-12:15pm (Mary)Sunday, April 15 Bethesda Level II/III 9:00-10:30am (Anne) Level II 10:45am-12:15pm (Anne)

Class Schedule

Fridays

10:00–11:30am Level II Laurel10:00-11:30am Osteoporosis Megan11:45am-1:00pm Level I Megan6:00–7:00pm Community Class varies (April 20-June 29)No Community Class on April 13

Saturdays

8:00–9:30am Level II Steve9:30–11:00am Level II Linda SG10:00am–11:30am Level I/II Steve11:15am–12:30pm Level I Megan

Sundays

8:00–9:15am Level I/II Steve9:00–10:30am Level II/III 3 Anne9:30–11:00am Level II Steve10:45am–12:15pm Level II Anne11:15am–12:30pm Level I Steve

Schedule Changes forSpring Session

Bethesda

Tuesday Level II w/Sonia - new classTuesday Level II/III w/Megan - new classWednesday Level I/II w/Sonia - new teacherWednesday Level I w/John - new time

Mondays

10:00–11:30am Level II/III 3 Jill/Rocky10:15–11:45am Level I/II Suzanne12:00–1:30pm Level II Anne12:15–1:15pm Level I Suzanne5:45–7:15pm Level I/II Anne6:00–7:30pm Level II/III 3 Mary7:30–9:00pm Level II Anne

Tuesdays

10:00–11:30am Level I Doerthe12:00–1:30pm Level II Sonia12:00–1:30pm Level II/III Megan 4:15–5:45pm Level I/II Rocky5:00–6:30pm Level II John6:00–7:15pm Level I Maggie6:45–8:45pm Level III 4 John7:30–9:00pm Level II Maggie

Wednesdays

9:00–10:00am Pranayama I Doerthe10:15–11:45am Level II/III 3 Doerthe12:00–1:30pm Gentle Suzanne12:00-1:30pm Level I/II Sonia5:00–6:15pm Back Care Rocky5:30–6:45pm Level I John6:45–8:15pm Level II Linda McR7:00–9:00pm Level II/III 3 John

Thursdays

9:00–10:15am Seniors Suzanne9:00–10:15am Level I/II Doerthe10:30am–12:00pm Level II Doerthe5:45–6:45pm Pranayama III5 Doerthe*6:00–7:30pm Level I/II Megan7:00–9:00pm Level III 4 Doerthe7:45–9:00pm Level I Megan

Bethesda, MD 4853 Cordell Ave, Penthouse 7

Prerequisites:1 completion of Pranayama I 2 Level I/II and up 3 5 minute freestanding Sirsasana 4 10 minute freestanding Sirsasana5 completion of Pranayama II

- 7 -SPRING 2018

Arlington, VA4001 N 9th St, Suite 105

Mondays

5:45–7:15pm Level II Lori7:30–9:00pm Level I Lori

Tuesdays

12:15–1:15pm Level I Carol6:00–7:15pm Level I/II Giulia7:30–9:00pm Level II Giulia

Wednesdays

12:00–1:00pm Level I/II Ann6:15–7:15pm Level I Fritz7:30–9:00pm Level II Fritz

Thursdays

6:00–7:15pm Level I/II Joe7:30–9:00pm Level II/III 3 Joe

Fridays

10:30–11:45am Level I Kate12:00–1:15pm Level I/II Kate

Saturdays

9:00–10:30am Level II/III 3 Mary10:45am–12:15pm Level II Mary

Sundays

9:00–10:30am Level II Maggie10:45am–12:15pm Level I Maggie

Schedule Changes for Spring Session

Arlington

Wednesday Level I/II w/Ann - new classFriday Level I and I/II w/Kate - new teacherSaturday Level II/III w/Mary - new teacherSaturday LeveL II w/Mary - new teacher

Class ScheduleWashington, DC4000 Albemarle St NW, 4th Floor

Wednesdays

6:00–7:15pm Level I Joe7:30–9:00pm Level II Joe

Thursdays

6:00–7:30pm Level I/II Sonia

Fridays *

12:00–1:15pm Level I/II Sonia

Saturdays

9:00–10:30am Level II/III 3 Joe10:45–12:15pm Level II Joe12:30–1:45pm Level I/II Joe

Building access 3227# on small keypad

New classes in Tenleytown!!!

Schedule Changes for Spring Session

Tenleytown

Thursday Level I/II w/Sonia - new classFriday Level I/II w/Sonia - new class

*Friday class: You are welcome to join us before class at 11:45am for a short discussion on yoga philosophy. Please bring your own translation of the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali. Optional and all are welcome.

IMPORTANT DATES

Registration is now open:www.unitywoods.com

Spring Session:Tuesday, April 10 - Monday, July 2

Spring registration opens March 12

Please Note Summer Break after Spring Session completes: No regular classes Tuesday, July 3 - Sunday, July 8

Classes WILL Meet: Monday, May 28 (Memorial Day)

Summer Session Begins: Monday, July 9

THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT TAKING CLASS

AttireThere are changing rooms at each studio. Wear clothing you can move in (no baggy clothes—they obscure alignment). Bare feet are essential. No perfume, please.

Propsare provided, but you are encouraged to bring your own mat.

Food Come with an empty stomach.

Special Physical NeedsLet your teacher know about any injuries, physical problems or medical conditions.

Please be on timeTeachers begin each class with preparatory practices. You may be turned away if you arrive late.

Do not come to classif you have any contagious condition. You share the floor, props, and air with many other students!

Children Minimum age for asana class participation is 16. Unity Woods cannot provide childcare for younger children.

Class Cancelationsfor weather or other emergencies are posted on our website and our voicemail 2 hours before class time: www.unitywoods.com or 301-656-8992.

- 8 - UNITY WOODS YOGA CENTER

Joe Adlesic, CIYT Intermediate Junior I, mentored by John Schumacher since 1982, has taught at Unity Woods since 1990. Joe studied in India with the Iyengars several times and

has trained extensively with Senior Iyengar teachers, particularly Patricia Walden.

Winnie Au, CIYT Intermediate Junior II, first traveled to Pune in 2003 and continues to study regularly with the Iyengars, with John Schumacher (her first teacher) and with Manouso

Manos. Winnie is committed to serving students by teaching the Iyengar method.

Megan Bowles, CIYT Intermedi-ate Junior I, trained with senior teachers John Schumacher and Patricia Walden. Megan’s style is warm, humorous, and pre-cise, and helps all levels of

yoga practitioners access the benefits of yoga. Megan is certified by Dr. Loren Fishman and Ellen Saltonstall to teach Yoga for Osteoporosis, and has assisted them in their teacher trainings.

Doerthe Braun, CIYT Intermedi-ate Junior III, began practicing in 1999, apprenticed with John Schumacher and has studied with the Iyengars in India. With a degree in acting and move-

ment, she enjoys sharing yoga’s gifts with all ages, inspired by her own four children.

Jill Pollet Cahn, CIYT, has stud-ied at Unity Woods since 1980 and taught since 1987. Jill has a B.S. from U.C. Berkeley and an M.A. in Special Education. She teaches special workshops

on Yoga and the Energy Field.

The Teachers at Unity Woods

Carol Cavanaugh has taught Iyengar yoga since 1977. She made five trips to study with B.K.S. and Geeta Iyengar between 1980 and 1995. She directed the Iyengar Yoga

Institute of San Francisco from 1977–1988. She has practiced Vipassana meditation since 1999.

Rocky Delaplaine, CIYT, is interested in exploring how the practice of yoga promotes peace, fosters creativity and cultivates reverence for the natural world. She is certified

by Elise Browning Miller to teach Yoga for Scoliosis. She has taught at Unity Woods since 1991. rockydelaplaine.com

Sonia Dovedy, CIYT, first began her practice of Iyengar yoga in Pune, India, under the strict, compassionate eyes of Shri BKS Iyengar and his family. For Sonia, the practice of yoga

is a gift for all; it generates courage, builds re-silience, shields against illness, and cultivates immense joy.

Juliana Fair, CIYT Intermediate Senior I, began her yoga journey in 1974 in her native Australia, and has taught Iyengar yoga since 1981. She travels to Pune to study with the Iyengar family

bi-annually. Her straightforward, humorous teaching encourages students to understand their own bodies.

Kate Krems is a lifelong mover and athlete who arrived at yoga after 15 years as a com-petitive swimmer. For her, yoga is a way to chill out, tune in, and find peace amidst chaos.

Laurel Goeke, CIYT appren-ticed with John Schumacher, and has been practicing since 1994. When not teaching at Unity Woods, you can find her teaching teens & adults at Sweetbay Yoga.

STAFFUnity Woods Office

(301) 656-8992 uwyc@unitywoods.com

John SchumacherFounder/Director

ext. 102

Judith FriedAdministrator

Outreach Coordinatorext. 101

Suzanne Y. SigüenzaAssistant Administrator

Website ManagerBoutique Manager

ext. 300

Debra MonacoFinancial Administrator

ext. 104

Annick MildeRegistrarext. 105

Steve MitchellArlington Studio Coordinator

ext. 201

Lori L. RitlandSpecial Projects

ext. 500

Cathleen ScottBrandi EricksonTracy Koretsky

Dorian FlorescuLiz Rilley

Jacob LevittReceptionists

ext. 500

- 9 -SPRING 2018

Giulia Mainieri began studying yoga with BKS Iyengar directly. She has studied with senior Iyengar teacher Kofi Busia for over 30 years and completed his teacher training program.

She is an experienced teacher who finds each class different and fun.

Linda McReynolds, CIYT, began practicing at Unity Woods in 2003 and apprenticed with John Schumacher. She believes that dedicated yoga practice provides energy and equipoise to enjoy a full life.

Steve Mitchell, CIYT, has been with Unity Woods for over 20 years, and has studied with many senior teachers. He has maintained a devoted, steady yoga practice for 23 years, teaching since 1995.

Mary Pappas-Sandonas, CIYT Intermediate Junior II, B.S. Psychology/Neurobiology, M.S. Exercise Physiology, and Mom, applies joy, intuition and compassionate precision to

help students explore living from the true nature of the heart.

Fritz Partlow, CIYT, began teaching in 2007. She is enthusiastic about helping students create balance in the body which Iyengar said “is the foundation for balance in

life.” When not “on the mat” Fritz runs her own graphic design business.

Maggie Rhoades, a certified Yoga teacher, has studied with the Iyengars, and has taught classes for cardiac and cancer patients in area hospitals. She is a certi-fied Pilates instructor and has

developed yoga and Pilates DVDs.

Lori L. Ritland, CIYT Inter-mediate Junior III, has stud-ied with John Schumacher since 1998 and with the Iyengars in the U.S and India. She dedicates her

teaching of asana and pranayama to those seeking greater balance in their busy lives.

Linda San Gabriel has

practiced since 1989 and

taught since 1996. She ap-

prenticed with John Schum-

acher, studied with the Iyen-

gars, and travels to study with

Iyengar teachers worldwide.

Suzanne Y. Sigüenza offers the

practice of yoga as a steady

foundation to develop com-

passion, benevolence, aware-

ness, and the fortitude to “run

with perseverance the race set

out before us” (Heb. 12:1). She is an artist.

Ann Thomas, CIYT, appren-

ticed with John Schumacher

and began teaching at Unity

Woods in 1996. She holds

an M.A in health education

with a graduate certificate

in theology.

Amy Van Mui, CIYT, has

taught since 2000. Her focus

on functional and efficient

movement is supported by

her study of biomechanics

and background in Pilates.

Amy’s classes journey be-

yond the physical to cultivate a vibrant sense

of well-being. Her ongoing apprenticeship

with John Schumacher enriches her practice

and teaching. WellWithin.com.

Anne Wutchiett, CIYT, has taught for over 25 years and has studied in India with the Iyengars. Her teaching is precise, caring, and inspired, acknowledging the vitality,

strength and harmony yoga brings.

STUDIO NEWS

Unity Woods proudly welcomes two new teachers

to our studios. SONIA DOVEDY, CIYT, is a recent transplant from Boston and thrilled to be joining the Unity Woods community.

KATE KREMS is a lifelong mover and athlete who arrived at yoga after 15 years as a competitive swimmer. For her, yoga is a way to chill out, tune in, and find peace amidst chaos.

In other Studio News:

John recently recorded a video for The Great Courses, a series of college level audio and video courses produced by the Teaching Company. He appears in the Iyengar Yoga section of Yoga for Mind and Body, which can be found at www.thegreatcourses.com

Rocky’s end-of-year Honoring the Dark fundraising workshop raised at total of $1880.00 for the Hispanic Federation Unidos Campaign to help the residents of Puerto Rico recover from the hurricane. Thanks to all who contributed.

Rocky will co-lead a weekend art and yoga retreat with artist and arts-educator Lauren Rader. Friday June 1 –Monday, June 4 at Sevenoaks Retreat Center in the Blue Ridge Mountains. See www.sevenoaksretreat.org or http://laurenraderart.com/retreats/ for information.

Ann Thomas has been certified by the International Association of Yoga Therapists.

Becoming a Certified Iyengar Yoga Teacher (CIYT) requires years of dedicated practice, training and experience. This rigorous preparation for the national certification exams produces highly quali-fied and knowledgeable yoga teachers. Unity Woods is proud of our expert and inspiring faculty.

- 10 - UNITY WOODS YOGA CENTER

ASANA (POSTURE)Gentle classes are for students who are less flexible, not so strong, have a particular limitation, or would prefer a more slowly paced, less rigorous class.

Level I classes introduce beginning students and students new to Unity Woods' approach to the fundamentals of posture and breath.

Level I/II classes are for students who have completed Level I and prefer a gradual tran-sition to Level II. This level is also ideal for those with previous yoga experience who are new to Unity Woods or Iyengar Yoga.

Mixed Levels is for students in Level I/II and up. Modifications will be made according to level and/or need.

Level II classes are for students who have com-pleted the introductory (Level I) course. The basic poses are refined with an emphasis on all the standing poses. Inverted poses (headstand, plow and shoulder stand) are introduced.

Level II/III classes are for students firmly established in their practice and ready to move beyond the basics. Must be able to do a five minute freestanding Sirsasana.

Level III classes are for students with previous Iyengar training who are strong in all the basic poses, can do a ten minute freestanding Sirsasana, and can do Sarvangasana and Halasana with confidence.

Advanced Asana classes are offered periodically and are limited to students who meet the listed prerequisites for each topic.

Course DescriptionsSPECIAL CLASSES Seniors’ Yoga (Bethesda), a gently paced class designed specifically for seniors, approaches asanas in ways that enhance strength, supple-ness and balance.

Back Care (Bethesda), for those with back inju-ries/conditions, focuses on strengthening weak muscles, stretching tight muscles and creating traction in the spine. We correct postural imbal-ances and use breath awareness to reduce stress and pain. Physician approval recommended.

Yoga with Osteoporosis (Bethesda): come to this fun, challenging, effective class to learn the dos and don’ts of yoga with osteoporosis.

PRANAYAMA (BREATHING)Level I affords those interested in working with the breath an opportunity to move beyond the elementary levels incorporated into regular asana classes. Prerequisite: one year of study and practice of asana in the Iyengar method.

Level II, III and IV classes are for students who have completed the preceding levels.

Level V classes are strictly for students who have completed Level IV or have received extensive Iyengar training in pranayama elsewhere.

Level VI classes are for students who have extensive Iyengar training and have been practicing digital pranayama for two years or more.

Beyondananda Boutique Information

At our Bethesda studio, we offer a convenient source for supplies to enhance your yoga practice. We sell yoga DVDs, CDs, books and props, along with John’s audio CDs, plus our unique Unity Woods and Dog Pose t-shirts, a nd beautiful batik clothing designs created exclusively for us.

Gift certificates are available for Beyondananda Boutique items or for classes. Call to inquire or e-mail uwyc@unitywoods.com.

Bethesda Boutique Hours Mon–Thurs: 10:00am–9:00pm Friday: 10:00am–4:00pm Sat–Sun: 8:30am–1:00pm

For Boutique information call us at (301) 656-8992 or visit www.unitywoods.com.

Make sure to check our new leggings and other

interesting apparel

D i s c o u n t e D D r o p - i n s

For those enrolled for the full session:

extra classes for $12 each (except two-hour classes:

drop-ins $15).

Registration form on reverse -- or register online at www.unitywoods.com.

Fees and Policies

SESSION TUITION DROP-IN FEE Per-class amount If fully enrolled If not enrolled ASANA (POSTURE) CLASSES if fully enrolled in another class

1 1/4 – 1 3/4 HR CLASS $19 $12 $24

1 HOUR CLASS $17 $12 $20 2 HOUR CLASS $24 $15 $28

COMMUNITY CLASSES N/A $10 $10

SHORT COURSES (see pages 4–5) prices vary N/A $18–38

SENIOR DISCOUNT: 10% for age 65 and over, on full-session enrollments only (no discount on drop-ins or Short Courses).

STUDENT DISCOUNT: 10% with current student ID, on full–session enrollments only (no discount on drop-ins or Short Courses).

MILITARY DISCOUNT: 10% for personnel/families with valid ID, on full–session enrollments only (no discount on drop-ins or Short Courses).

MAKE-UP POLICY: Make up missed classes any time during the current session, at any of our locations, in a class of the same level or lower than your own.

DROP-IN POLICY: Drop-ins permitted any time during the session, at the discretion of the teacher.

REFUND POLICY: For full session classes: If we receive notice of your withdrawal before April 10, you will receive a full refund. If we receive notice between April 10 and April 23, we’ll refund tuition minus the $40 registration fee. No refunds after April 23.

For workshops: no refunds or credits from 14 days prior to the event.

SHORT COURSE POLICIES: Students are encouraged to enroll for the series, but drop-ins are accepted. No make-ups. No discounts. No refunds. Short Courses may not be used as make-ups for regular classes.

SCHOLARSHIPS/WORK EXCHANGE: We have a limited scholarship fund and an active work-exchange program. Please call for information.

CLASS CANCELLATIONS for weather or other emergency circumstances are posted on the voice mail (301) 656-8992 and at unitywoods.com 2 hours before class. We do not follow Montgomery County, Arlington, DC school or government closures.

o n l i n e r e g i s t r a t i o n • www.unitywoods.com

SPRING SESSION DATES:

April 10 - July 2

PRANAYAMA (BREATHING) CLASSES $19 $12 $24

NOTE: For most classes, spring will be a 12-week session. Please register online for accurate pricing, or check with us before enrolling.

Full-session tuition includes a $40 non-refundable, non-transferable registration fee per class.

www.unitywoods.com • (301) 656-8992

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Please check here to agree to liability waiver below.

I understand that yoga includes physical movements as well as an opportunity for relaxation, stress re-education and relief of muscular tension. As is the case with any physical activity, the risk of injury, even serious or disabling, is always present and cannot be entirely eliminated. If I experience any pain or discomfort, I will listen to my body, adjust the posture and ask for support from the teacher. I will continue to breathe smoothly. Yoga is not a substitute for medical attention, examination, diagnosis or treatment. Certain yoga practices are not recommended and are not safe under certain medical conditions. I affirm that I alone am responsible for deciding whether to practice yoga. I hereby agree to irrevocably release and waive any claims that I have now or hereafter may have against Unity Woods Yoga Center.

Registration Form for Classes(Or register online at www.unitywoods.com.)

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RECEPTIONIST INITIALS:

Make checks payable to:Unity Woods Yoga Center, LLC4853 Cordell AvenueSuite PH9Bethesda, MD 20814-3036