Kia ora!
As we move deeper into the cooler months, our practice this season invites us to explore both strength and openness, while embracing challenge and transformation on and off the mat.
Throughout May, in Ed's classes, we focused on the hips. The hips are a fascinating area of the body, requiring both mobility and stability to function well. We centered on practices that incorporated hip strengthening, flexibility work, and hip-opening postures designed to improve movement, support posture, and release accumulated tension.
In Jill's classes we explored self-compassion and putting aside time for ourself. We also eased into some rest and release, letting go of that which did not serve us, letting it drift away like an autumn leaf.
May also held Ed's Warrior Within Workshop, which explored the strength, symbolism, and mythology behind the Warrior poses. Drawing from the story of Sati, Shiva, and King Daksha, we uncovered the deeper meaning behind Warrior I, II, and III. Far more than physical postures, these poses tell a story of courage, purpose, and transformation - qualities that exist within each of us.
108 Sun Salutations Challenge for the Winter Solstice
I am very excited to introduce our upcoming 108 Sun Salutations Challenge on the 20th of June. Inspired by a powerful experience during my teacher training in Bali, this traditional Yoga Mala practice invites you to complete 108 rounds of Surya Namaskar, in celebration of the Winter Solstice. While physically demanding, the repetition often becomes surprisingly meditative, creating a sense of focus, resilience, and accomplishment.
The number 108 holds special significance in yoga and spiritual traditions. It appears in cosmic measurements, meditation malas, Sanskrit teachings, and yogic philosophy, symbolising wholeness, connection, and transformation. Whether you complete all 108 or simply participate in part of the journey, this workshop is a unique opportunity to challenge yourself and experience the power of collective practice. Registrations are available on our website at www.connectyoga.co.nz, or get in touch with us at hello@connectyoga.co.nz
Bookings
If you're planning to come to class, we'd really appreciate it if you could book in advance whenever possible. Bookings help us prepare the space, plan the class, and ensure we're ready to offer the best experience for everyone who walks through the door. They also give us a clearer picture of attendance ahead of time.
We absolutely love seeing familiar faces (and welcome last-minute decisions when life gets busy!), but if you know you're coming, a quick booking makes a huge difference and is greatly appreciated.
Save the date- End of Term Gathering and July Shut Down
Our end of term drinks and nibbles will be held on Wednesday the 1st of July. All are welcome to attend. This will be held after the 5:30 vinyasa class.
We will then be taking a 2 week break (4th-19th of July), inline with the school holidays. Traditionally, we take a one-week break during the school holidays, but this year we've decided to extend that to two weeks. Winter is typically our quietest season, and we're also looking forward to spending some quality time with our families and recharging our own batteries.
We understand this may be a little longer than usual and apologise for any inconvenience. We appreciate your understanding and look forward to welcoming you back to the mat refreshed and ready for the second half of the year.
Invest in You – Video Library
Introducing Connect Yoga’s new membership, “Invest in You, One Breath at a Time” over the last month, has been incredibly invigorating. Invest in You is a commitment to your well-being, growth, and consistency, one breath at a time. Alongside the 6-month and 12-month memberships for unlimited classes, we have also been working on a membership for 1 year of access to our at-home-yoga video library. If you are unable to make it to classes every week, or just feeling like you need to recenter yourself throughout the day, this could be the membership for you. Once you have purchased a membership, you will be able to find these videos in the community posts section our Connect Yoga app, or on our booking website.
We look forward to continuing these practices with you and sharing the journey together, one breath at a time.
Warm Regards,
Ed and Jill