Over the nearly forty years I have been writing these newsletters, rarely have I repeated a newsletter or published a piece from someone else. This quarter I am reprinting the piece I wrote in the spring of last year. I’m doing this for a couple of reasons. One is that I’m past deadline and really don’t have time to write a new piece. (Ahem.) The other reason is that the topic has become increasingly more important and relevant since I last wrote about it.

For all the years that I have been writing these newsletters, I have assiduously avoided any sort of partisan political commentary. I want no part of the us versus them bog that leads only to ignorance, division, conflict, and stagnation. For the truth is that, as yoga

teaches, we are all in this together. Yoga is inclusive, wholistic, and ecumenical. At the heart of yoga lies the realization that, beneath our various costumes,

disguises, and identities, I am he as you are he as you are me and we are all together. We are connected. We are One. Until now, the closest I have come to an outright political statement was the newsletter I wrote during the run up to the Iraq War, where it was apparent to me that the country was being manipulated to support attacking Iraq. Even

then I wrote primarily about the importance of paying attention to what we are being told and to develop and practice discerning awareness. More about that later.

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 FALL 2018 • SEPTEMBER 10 - DECEMBER 23

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.

© 2018 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

September 22 SaturdayBending Backward

BenevolentlyYoga For Health, Potomac MD

(301) 330-0430 or yogasuzie@gmail.com

October 5-7 Friday-SundayIyengar Yoga Maine

Brookville, MEWeekend Workshop

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

November 2-4 Friday-SundayPractice Yoga Studio, Phila, PA

(215) 755-3268; www.practiceyogastudio.com

November 9-11 Friday-Sunday Teacher Training –

Understanding Inversions: Preparations, Problems,

Practice SERENDIPITY

Berkeley Springs, WV Questions and housing:

301-330-0430 or yogasuzie@gmail.com

Register 301-656-8992 or annick@unitywoods.com

November 18 SundayAdvanced Pranayama

Level V 2:30-4:00pm $40Level VI 4:15-5:45pm $40

Held in Bethesda (301) 656-8992;

www.unitywoods.com

November 18 SundayDiscussion Group: The Yamas:

Guidelines for Awakened Living in the World.

Unity Woods Yoga CenterBethesda, MD

November 26-29 Mon-ThursYoga: The Journey to the Light 4-day Iyengar Yoga Convention

Liandu Yoga SchoolTianjin, China, +8613920733654 www.chinaliandu.com

December 21 FridayA Day with John Schumacher

PosturesNaples, FL, www.postures.com

Namaste (continued)

Now, however, I feel compelled to comment on the current political mess. And it is a mess on so many levels. Since I write a yoga newsletter, not a political one, my intention is to view the situation from a classical yoga point of view. To do that I want to set the stage by pointing out some basic yoga facts.

What is yoga?

There are many definitions, but in defining yoga, I think it is useful to make a distinction between the state of yoga and the practice of yoga.

The Bhagavad Gita says yoga is “skill in action”. In the Yoga Sutras, Patanjali defines yoga as “the cessation of movements in the consciousness.” (B.K.S. Iyengar’s translation). These refer to the state of yoga, a state in which the mind stuff becomes so tranquil and clear that our true divine nature is revealed.

According to Patanjali and most yoga sages, the practice of yoga is the action we take to bring about the state of yoga. Patanjali describes a path with eight limbs (ashtanga yoga) as the practical means to attain the state of yoga.

Most people think of asanas (postures) as the foundation of yoga. It’s true that in modern times, asana has been the gateway to the practice for most people. In fact, asana is their yoga practice.

Classically, however, the cornerstones of yoga as prescribed by Patanjali are the yamas and the niyamas, the first two limbs of ashtanga yoga. The yamas are sometimes described as moral injunctions, ethical disciplines, or self-restraints; the niyamas as fixed or personal observances. There are five of each. [Come to our discussion group on Sunday, November 18, for a more in-depth exploration of the yamas.]

The first two yamas, the very first two steps on the path of classical yoga, are ahimsa (non-harming) and satya (truthfulness). B.K.S. Iyengar says that ahimsa “is more than a negative comment not to kill, for it has a wider positive meaning, love.”

Of satya, Mr. Iyengar says, “Satya or truth is the highest rule of conduct or morality. Mahatma Gandhi said: ‘Truth is God and God is Truth.’…..if the whole of life is based upon truth, then one becomes fit for union with the Infinite. Reality

in its fundamental nature is love and truth and expresses itself through these two aspects.”

There are many notable quotes and definitions with respect to truth, but I chose Mr.Iyengar’s words because they speak to the essential importance of truth as it relates to reality. Without getting into what Reality as a philosophical or religious postulate is, reality as defined in The Oxford online dictionary is “the world or the state of things as they actually exist as opposed to an idealistic or notional idea of them.”

Merriam-Webster’s online dictionary defines fact as “something that truly exists or happens: something that has actual existence.”

In other words, facts are reality and what is real is factual. Anything that isn’t real, that is

“an idealistic or notional idea”, simply isn’t fact. You can’t have a wrong fact. And you can’t have an “alternative fact”. And this brings me to the current political mess.

As was pointed out when the term “alternative fact” was first publicly used what seems like decades ago by Trump advisor Kellyanne Conway, political commentator Chuck Todd said that the information posited as alternative facts were actually “falsehoods”. His criticism was correct as shown by subsequent fact checking. The idea that you can say something that doesn’t comport with reality and call it a fact of any kind is simply wrong by definition.

Even more outrageous was the syntactically challenged statement made by Trump spokesperson, Scottie Nell Hughes, in a Diane Rehm Show interview in which she says that, There’s no such things, anymore, unfortunately, of facts.” This is absurd on its face since it would mean that there is no reality, only my “facts” versus your “facts”, the sort of thing that George Orwell describes in 1984 where Big Brother says that War is Peace, Freedom is Slavery, Ignorance is Strength. Nonsensical, down the rabbit hole, through the looking glass stuff. Not a misspeak. Not out of context.

The danger in our current political situation isn’t simply that people who are part of and represent vital institutions in our society are not telling the truth. This has been going on forever. Just in my lifetime I’ve been lied to by government officials

- 3 -FALL 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)

of all parties from the president on down, by the media, big business, big religion, and on and on. Even by friends and relatives. Nearly every agency, nearly every special interest at times spins, misleads, diverts, distracts, and yes, lies.

The real danger here as I see it and the reason I think it’s important to send this out again is that there appears to be a concerted, intentional effort by this president, his spokespersons, and his supporters to cast doubt on everything that doesn’t fit in with their version of things (not a new tactic) by denying the existence of objective reality (new and alarming tactic). This is a brazen departure from anything I have seen in this country. Spin the facts, make things up, change the subject, but to say that facts don’t exist, that there is no objective reality is stunning in its audacity and its peril.

Peril because once the existence of reality, of an agreed upon set of facts is done away with, every conversation, every discussion, every proposal, every action becomes susceptible to unconstrained manipulation through denial or misinformation. Every uncomfortable fact can be dismissed as “fake news”, and misinformation becomes a tool for creating fear, distrust, and division. The seeds of doubt and confusion are sown. Whom can you trust? Why, the one who

is telling you what you want to hear or who is bolstering your own fears and prejudices, of course. As Groucho Marx said, “Who do you believe, me or your own eyes?”

There are numerous possible antidotes for this dire situation, but beneath it all, for our own survival and well-being, we must be willing to open our own eyes fearlessly and see what is real and what is not. With so many from every corner, including ourselves, trying to color our view and sway our thoughts, it is our duty as citizens and as yoga practitioners to dig below the surface, to be open and skeptical, to be bold and cautious, to keep our eyes wide open all the time and be a true seer and a truth seeker.

For those who advise patience, acceptance, cooperation, I suggest considering the counsel of Mahatma Gandhi in his satyagraha (insistence on truth) movement during his quest for independence from the British: “Non-cooperation with evil is as much a duty as cooperation with good.”

.

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

“Three cannot be long hidden: The sun, the moon,

and THE TRUTH." - Buddha

.

- 4 - UNITY WOODS YOGA CENTER

Workshops, Short CoursesSee unitywoods.com for detailed descriptions.

Teacher Training at Serendipity

John SchumacherFriday-Sunday, November 9-11

Topic: Understanding

Inversions - Preparations, Problems,

Practice

B.K.S. Iyengar calls Sirsasana (Headstand) and Sarvangasana (Shoulderstand) respectively the King and Mother of all asanas. They are the core of the asana practice in Iyengar Yoga. The challenge lies in Iearning to do them and do them well. Proper preparation is essential, and correct actions are crucial to obtain the full benefit and avoid injury.Over the weekend, we will see what poses prepare the student to practice inversions safely and effectively. We will learn and practice proper technique for all the inversions, including Halasana (Plow), Adho Mukha Vrksasana (Handstand), Pincha Mayurasana (Elbow Balance), and many of the variations of the above poses. Fear is often the greatest obstacle to learning inversions and we will explore ways to work with and overcome that fear. And we will look at the most common problems you will encounter in teaching these invaluable asanas to your students. As always, we will practice teach in the afternoon classes to improve your skil ls. Optional early morning practice is open to all.

Call UWYC at (301) 656-8992

or see our website for more information.

www.unitywoods.com

Bethesda WorkshopsSunday, Nov 18 Advanced PranayamaWith John SchumacherLevel V pre-req. Level IV. Level VI pre-req. 2 years or more of digital pranayama.Level V 2:30-4:00pm $40Level VI 4:15-5:45pm $40

Sunday, November 18 6:45-8:30pm Discussion GroupThe Yamas: Guidelines for Awakened Living in the World. With John Schumacher Free

Saturday, Nov 24 10:00am-12:00pmHappy Thanks Twistingwith Doerthe BraunFeeling sluggish after the feast? This energizing twist sequence will regain your vitality.Prerequisites: Level I/II and up $40

Sunday, December 2 3:00-5:30pm Yoga for Two - All LevelsWith Carolyn Bleumle and Rocky DelaplainePartners create traction, provide grounding, and ex-plore shifts of weight, balance, and support.Prerequisites: None $60 per pair in advance; $70 at the door.

Saturday, Dec 8 1:30-4:00pm Drop Back and OverWith Doerthe BraunLearn ways to refine dropping into backbends.Prerequisites: Urdhva Dhanurasana with ease, Sirsasana freestanding 8 minutes. $45

Monday, Dec 31 10:00-11:30amReceiving the Dark: A benefit workshop for The Word Workswith Rocky DelaplaineRelax deeply & turn inward for the New Year. Prerequisites: : None. Level I and restorative poses strongly encouraged.$40 minimum donation if paid in advance; $45 at the door.Make tax-deductible checks to: The Word Works.

Bethesda Short CoursesThursdays Sept 13, Oct 18, Nov 15, Dec 13 12:15-1:30pmThe Gems of Patanjali's Yoga Sutra with Doerthe Braun and Nazli Weiss Through chanting and discussion, delve into the wisdom and teaching of Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras. For details visit our Sutra blog Prerequisite: everybody welcome.Donation, cash or checks only to Doerthe Braun (note: Bellur Trust)

Fridays Sept 14, Oct 19, Nov 16 (3 weeks) 8:15-9:30am Advanced Pranayama With Doerthe BraunRefine and deepen your pranayama practice.Prerequisite: Completion of pranayama Level IV. $80 Full course, Drop-in $30

Saturdays Sept 29, Oct 6, 13, 20 • 11:45am-1:00pmProgressive Gentle - Ease Into Fall With Steve MitchellA slower, prop-supported class that is progres-sive and gentle. Class size is limited to provide ample wall space for each student.Prerequisite: One year Iyengar yoga experience. Course $100, Drop-in $30

Sundays Oct 28, Nov 4, 11, 18 3:00-5:00pm Osteoporosis Yoga With Megan BowlesKey poses and actions of yoga with osteoporosis and how to avoid injury. Prerequisite: None Course $140, Drop-in $38

Saturdays Nov 10, 17, Dec 1, 8 • 11:45am-1:00pmProgressive Gentle - Warm Up to Winter With Steve MitchellA slower, prop-supported class that is progres-sive and gentle. Class size is limited to provide ample wall space for each student.Prerequisite: One year Iyengar yoga experience. Course $100, Drop-in $30

- 5 -FALL 2018

Arlington Workshops Sunday, September 23 2:00-5:00pm Osteoporosis YogaWith Megan BowlesCome to a fun and informative workshop about yoga with osteoporosis. Learn essential poses, modifica-tions, and what to avoid. The workshop will include asanas (postures) and discussionPrerequisites: None. $55

Sunday, October 21 3:00–5:00pmPadmasana PreparationWith Juliana Fair

The ability to do Padmasana requires mobility in hips, knees and ankles. In this 2 hour workshop we will look at the restrictions and specific ways they can be addressed to supplement your regular practice.

Prerequisite: Level I twice $50

Saturday, October 27 2:00-4:00pm Upper Back MobilityWith Doerthe BraunExplore asanas which reverse our habit of rounding the upper back and caving the chest. Prerequisites: Level I/II and up. $40

Sunday, November 11 3:00–5:00pmShoulder Health for InversionsWith Juliana Fair

The common denominator for Sirsasana (headstand) Salamba Sarvangasana (shoulderstand) and Adho Mukha Vrksasana (handstand) apart from being inversions, is the need for a strong and flexible shoulder girdle. Join me in this workshop as we work through various ways to address tight shoulders, weak muscles and minor injuries.

Prerequisite: : Level II and up $50

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

Unity WoodsAnnual

Holiday Party

Sunday, December 166:30-9:00pm

Bethesda Studio

Mark your calendars.

Join us for our yearly celebration of the season and

of the Unity Woods Community.We provide

food, drinks, and decorations.

Friends and family welcome!

- 6 - UNITY WOODS YOGA CENTER

Community Classes

Every Friday, 6:00–7:00pm

In Bethesda September 14 – Doerthe

September 21 – Megan

September 28 – Mary

October 5 – Megan

October 12 – Maggie

October 19 – Sonia

October 26 – Rocky

November 2 – Maggie

November 9 – Doerthe

November 16 – Rocky

November 23 – No Community Class

November 30 – Rocky

December 7 – Megan

December 14 – Maggie

December 21 – Rocky $10 drop-in fee, cash only

Chantingwith

Megan Bowles

Join Megan for soul-soothing chanting sessions in Bethesda.

Chanting on Fridays,

September 7

October 5

November 2

December 7

7:10-7:40pm

Free!

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 (Sept 14-Dec21)

Saturdays

8:00–9:30am Level II Steve9:30–11:00am Level II Linda SG10:00–11:30am 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 forFall Session Bethesda

Thursday Pranayama Level I w/Doerthe - will not meet on September 20

Wednesday, Level I w/John - new timeWednesday, Level II/III w/John - new timeThursday Level III w/Doerthe - 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/III Megan4:15–5:45pm 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 III1 Doerthe10:15–11:45am Level II/III 3 Doerthe12:00–1:30pm Gentle Suzanne5:00–6:15pm Back Care Rocky6:00–7:15pm Level I John6:45–8:15pm Level II Linda McR7:30–9:15pm 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 I7 Doerthe6:00–7:30pm 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 II 2 Level I/II and up 3 5 minute freestanding Sirsasana 4 10 minute freestanding Sirsasana5 completion of Pranayama III6completion of Level I once7completion of one year of asana

- 7 -FALL 2018

Arlington, VA4001 N 9th St, Suite 105

Mondays

6:00–7:30pm Level II Joe7:45–9:00pm Level I Joe

Tuesdays

12:15–1:30pm Mixed Level6 Carol6:00–7:15pm Level I/II Giulia7:30–9:00pm Level II Giulia

Wednesdays

12:00–1:00pm Level I/II Ann6:00-7:15pm Level I Leah7:30-9:00pm Level II Leah

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 Fall SessionArlington

No classes in Arlington Friday, Saturday, Sunday, September 14, 15, 16

Monday Level II w/Joe - new time Monday Level I w/Joe - new timeWednesday Level I w/Leah - new teacher/timeWednesday Level II w/Leah - 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

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

.

IMPORTANT DATES

Fall Registration is now open:www.unitywoods.com

Fall Session:Monday, September 10 - Sunday, December 23

Please Note Thanksgiving Break No regular classes Thursday, November 22 - Sunday, November 25

Please note Winter BreakNo regular classesMonday, December 24 - Tuesday, January 1

Winter Session Begins: Wednesday, January 2

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

The Teachers at Unity WoodsSTAFFUnity 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

Cathleen ScottBrandi EricksonTracy Koretsky

Dorian FlorescuLiz Rilley

Receptionistsext. 500

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

Leah Diquollo, CIYT, Leah DiQuollo, CYIT, began practicing yoga in 1998. Her caring teaching style uses asana and Yogic philosophy to help students

find grounding, flexibility and balance on and off the mat.

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 cour-

age, builds resilience, 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.

Sarah Hull , CIYT, began practicing Iyengar yoga in 2010, apprenticed with Doerthe Braun and studies regularly with senior teachers. She looks to cultivate and inspire the

alignment, balance, strength, and ease that comes from a dedicated practice.

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.

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.

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.

- 9 -FALL 2018

STUDIO NEWS

Unity Woods proudly welcomes a new teacher

to our studios.

LEAH DIQUOLLO, CIYT, has been teaching since 2000.

In 2005, she found her way to an Iyengar Yoga class at Unity Woods in Arlington, VA and then Bethesda, MD. She is grateful for the time she worked with her mentor, Lori Lipton and she continues to study with her primary teacher John Schumacher.

Having finished her 21-year telecom run in 2017, Leah is now a full time teacher. She considers it a privilege to share the gift of Iyengar Yoga as she helps each student develop body awareness, gain stability and balance; and build strength and flexibility in a safe and conscious way.

She teaches classes at her home studio in Alexandria, VA (www.iyengaryogawithleah.com) and Alexandria City Park and Rec Centers. Off the mat, she enjoys gardening, reading and traveling. She is thankful for support of her husband and her 5-year old son, as they continue to be her inspiration.

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.

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.

Linda San Gabriel has practiced since 1989 and taught since 1996. She apprenticed with John Schumacher, studied with the Iyengars, and travels to study with Iyengar teachers worldwide.

Suzanne Y. Sigüenza offers the practice of yoga as a steady foundation to develop compassion, benevolence, awareness, and the fortitude to “run with perseverance the race set out before us” (Heb. 12:1). She is an artist.

Ann Thomas, CIYT, apprenticed with John Schumacher and began teaching at Unity Woods in 1996. She holds an M.A in health education with a gradu-ate certificate in theology.

Amy Van Mui, CIYT, has taught since 2000. Her focus on func-tional and efficient movement is supported by her study of bio-mechanics and background in Pilates. Amy’s classes journey

beyond 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 30 years and has studied in India with the Iyengars. Her teaching is precise, caring, and inspired, acknowledging the vitality, strength and harmony yoga brings.

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. Suitable for students with scoliosis.

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–2:00pm 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 Silk Sari Skirts and other interesting

apparel

Keep your eyes open for our fall sales and

our annual end-of-year inventory sale in

December.

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 September 10, you will receive a full refund. If we receive notice between September 10 and September 30, we’ll refund tuition minus the $40 registration fee. No refunds after September 30.

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

FALL SESSION DATES:

September 10 - December 23

PRANAYAMA (BREATHING) CLASSES $19 $12 $24

NOTE: For most classes, fall will be a 15-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

Printed on recycled paper

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.)

Check box if this is new or corrected contact information.

NAME

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Please register me for the following Classes:Location Teacher Level Day Time

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(check one if applicable) Minus 10% Senior or Student or Military Discount __________________

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NOTES:

RECEPTIONIST INITIALS:

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