Hello, Unity Woods community.

As many of you may know, the long-time Administra-tor of Unity Woods, Esther Geiger, is retiring from her position here. I will be tak-ing the reins, although it has been noted that I cannot (and will not try to) replace Esther. But I will try to fill her shoes in a role as gen-eral caretaker for John and all the teachers and to guide and support the administra-tive staff. I have been with Unity Woods practically since its inception, as a student and friend, and now I will truly be part of this family as John, Esther, and everyone at Unity Woods welcome me and ease

the transition. By way of introducing myself and helping all of you to get to know me, here is a little bit of my history.

My introduction to yoga was serendipitous. One day in 1975 I came home to my apartment in Phila-delphia and announced to my significant other (who became my husband and then later my ex-husband)

“I’m going to take a Yoga class”. I found a class at a

local cultural center; the teacher was Joan White. I could say here that “the rest is history” but there is so much more to tell. Joan’s enthusiasm, knowl-edge, and precision in teaching was so infectious

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 WINTER 2017 • JANUARY 2 – APRIL 9

Namaste from Judith

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 was 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

December 20, 2016 Iyengar Yoga Centers of the

Palm BeachesDelray Beach, FLwww.icypb.com

January 6, 2017 Santosha Yoga Studio

Wheat Ridge, COwww.santoshayogastudio.com

January 13–15, 2017Yoga Institute of Miami

Miami, FLFor experienced students.

www.yogamiami.com

February 6–19, 201734th Annual

Yoga Vacation in Jamaica Negril, Jamaica

John and Barbara Benagh con-tinue the decades old tradition of welcoming students to their

annual yoga vacation in Ja-maica. As always, the top notch yoga classes, easy camaraderie, warm sun, turquoise sea, and

unique Jamaican culture weave a tropical spell that will enchant you in ways you can’t imagine.

www.yogastudio.org

April 28–30, 2017Teacher Training

SERENDIPITYBerkeley Springs, WV

The Art of Staging Asanas: How to Teach the Basic Poses

Step by Step www.unitywoods.com

May 26–27, 2017The Yoga Space

Vancouver BC, CanadaWeekend workshop sponsored

by the B.K.S. Iyengar Yoga Association Vancouverwww.theyogaspace.ca

See www.unitywoods.com for details

Namaste (continued)

that I very quickly became a devotee and was soon completely immersed in a world where confronting physical boundaries allowed ex-ploration of the mind and the spirit. I remained Joan’s student for another four years, also being exposed to Iyengar teachers from all over the world… most notably Angela Farmer, Victor Van Kooten, Kofi Busia.

I spent almost all of 1979 living and traveling in Europe. And doing yoga, of course. I trav-eled to Molivos, Greece in the spring to take classes with Angela Farmer and a memorable group of students from Holland, Philadelphia, Washington, Boston. Our venue was a 12th century castle at the top of the hill overlooking the town. We climbed the hill each morning for asanas and each evening for inversions in that sunny, arid place. I would later travel to India for a three-week session with Mr. Iyengar with some of the same students I met in Greece.

In 1980, I moved to the Washington area. One of my first tasks upon arriving here was to find a yoga teacher, and I found John teaching small classes in his home in Thurmont and at loca-tions in the Bethesda area. We’ve been friends since then, and I have continued with John as my primary teacher, as well as many classes and workshops with Victor, Angela, Kofi, Mary Dunn, George Purvis, Joan White and others.

The 1980’s were great yoga years! Unity Woods Yoga Center was born in 1979 and grew to a thriving resource and center of excellence—a paragon of yoga classes and teacher training in the Washington area with John Schumacher as a dedicated teacher driven by his love for yoga and giving to us his natural talent and en-thusiasm as a mentor and yogi. Now yoga has experienced huge growth in the community at large, including Unity Woods.

My trip to India in 1982 was life-changing. I recall the challenges I had physically (in head-stand, for example—“Lift your sacrum, Judith!”) I can still feel BKS Iyengar’s swat on my back as he exhorted “There is the fear!” Perhaps you’ve heard stories about Mr. Iyengar’s fiery personal-ity. It’s all true, and his adjustments were always delivered with love, encouragement, and the most intense insight. And completely unforget-table in every detail! I remember him walking

by me in Dwi Pada Viparita Dandasana as he grunted “huh” when he saw me lift my shoul-ders. And I remember my sobbing breakthrough when I felt shooting bursts of energy from the center of my chest during seated pranayama and Mr.Iyengar’s challenge to me, “She can’t do pranayama!” I knew he didn’t mean it literally.

- 3 -WINTER 2017

John Schumacher is the founder and director of Unity Woods. He has prac-ticed yoga for over 40 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 a Certified Advanced Iyengar Yoga Teacher. He also spent many years studying with interna-tionally 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, including Europe, Asia, Africa, the Middle East and the Caribbean, where he conducts workshops for students and teachers of all levels.

Namaste (continued)

I knew he meant that I can do pranayama, and I needed more study and refinement. My chal-lenges today are so much more difficult than those of a progressing young student—aging has brought along with it herniated discs, sci-atic pain, and physical limitations. I continue to practice yoga to work with and improve these conditions.

Another central focus in my life has been my professional career. With another type of ser-endipity (there’s that word again) I embarked on a career in Information Technology, starting as a computer programmer and progressing in line with my natural proclivities to positions as a manager of technical staff and projects implementing technical solutions for business problems. Specifically I’ve worked on telecom-munications billing systems, government pro-curement programs, tracking of federal entitle-ment programs, and most recently and for over 16 years, at Marriott International supporting the loyalty program and reservations systems.

With Esther’s retirement, Unity Woods faces a career transition of its own. How will UWYC adapt to her departure? So many of you have said that I am the “perfect person” for this job. From my point of view it is the perfect job for me. Dear friends, yoga vibes, nurturing environ-ment. I have been a part of Corporate America for many years, and really look forward to a new career! I bring with me to Unity Woods a

strong sense of organization, business acumen, self-motivation, and technology orientation. And most of all, I care about Unity Woods. I’ve been so lucky in my own career. When I first came to Marriott, I found a diverse and welcom-ing environment where people have respect for each other. Now, coming to the next major phase of my work life, I find myself in a welcom-ing place where diversity is celebrated and we have a common interest. I consider myself lucky beyond belief to be involved with Unity Woods and the people who make it an enjoyable place to be. And finally, for my luck in coming to Unity Woods as Administrator, I must say a special thanks to my dear friend (family, really) Suzie Mann. She knew I needed to find a new work situation, and she knew the changes about to happen at Unity Woods. Serendipity. Once the idea was out there, everyone supported it—for this I am again so very grateful to receive such a warm welcome from old friends and new. I hope to get to know all of you as we embark on the new year and new administration.

Namaste.

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

"Change is not something we should fear. Rather, it

is something we should welcome. For without change,

nothing in this world would ever grow or blossom,

and no one in the world would ever move forward to

become the person they're meant to be."

B.K.S. Iyengar

- 4 - UNITY WOODS YOGA CENTER

Workshops, Short CoursesSee unitywoods.com for detailed descriptions.

Unity Woods Annual

Holiday PartySunday,December 18

6:30-9:00pm

Bethesda studio

Join us for our yearly celebration of the season and of the Unity Woods

community.

We provide food, drinks and decorations. The dessert table is open to contributions. Friends

and family welcome!

Bethesda WorkshopsSunday, December 4 • 3:00–5:30pmAll Levels Yoga for twoWith Carolyn Bluemle and Rocky DelaplaineExplore one of the most difficult yogas of all: the yoga of relationship. The focus is less on the pose and more on what your interactions teach you. .

No Prerequisite: Open to all $60/pair

Saturday, December 10 • 1:00–2:30pmBenefit Workshop: Celebrating Mr. Iyengar's BirthdayWith Amy Van Mui This class is dedicated to BKS Iyengar, who spent his life devoted to sharing yoga. Share your gratitude and benefit Mr. Iyengar's Bellur Trust.

No Prerequisite: Open to all Donation Checks only, to IYNAUS [for Bellur Trust]

Saturday, December 31 • 10:00–11:30amBenefit Workshop: Receiving the DarkWith Rocky DelaplaineSlow down, relax deeply and turn inward in prepara-tion for the New Year.

Prerequisite: Completion of Level I $35 Cash or checks only, to Hope Springs Institute.

Saturday, January 28 • 3:00–6:00pmBackbends at the Ropes and on the Chair With Doerthe Braun In this three hour journey through backbends you will explore how the chair and the ropes can move you with ease and playfulness more deeply into vigor-ous asanas. (No back or shoulder problems, please.)

Prerequisite: Level II and up. $50

Saturday, March 11 • 12:45–3:15pmAdvanced Asana: Arm Balances With John Schumacher For dedicated practitioners can perform Bhu-japidasana and Bakasana; push up into Urdhva Dhanurasana; and do Salamba Sirsasana II in the middle of the room for three minutes. No therapeutics, please.

Prerequisites: See above $50

Sunday, March 12 • see below for timesAdvanced Pranayama (Levels V & VI)With John Schumacher Level V: Completion of Level IV or extensive training in the Iyengar approach to pranayama. Level VI: Two years digital pranayama practice.

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

Sunday, March 12 • 6:45–8:30pmDiscussion Group: Topic TBAWith John Schumacher

All are Welcome. FREE

Saturday, March 18 • 1:00–3:00pmBalance and Stability With Amy Van Mui It is never too early to work on fall prevention. Im-prove your balance by strengthening and opening strategic areas. Learn an effective practice sequence for enhancing balance.

No Prerequisite: Open to all $38

Sunday, March 19 • 3:00–4:30pmReduce Your Spinal Curve: Focus on VasisthasanaWith Rocky Delaplaine Explore ways to approach this powerful pose, which can help reduce a spinal curve if practiced regularly.

Prerequisite: Completion of Level I $35

Saturday, April 1 • 1:00–3:00pmStrong and Flexible ShouldersWith Amy Van Mui Having strong and flexible shoulders is essential for overall movement health. Explore key principles to develop a strong and flexible shoulder girdle.

No Prerequisite: Open to all $38

- 5 -WINTER 2017

Bethesda Short CoursesFridays, January 13–27 • 4:00–5:00pmKids and Teens YogaWith Doerthe Braun A fun-filled, fast-paced yoga sequence, followed by restorative poses and relaxation will help children to focus, build up strength, improve body awareness and reduce stress.

Prerequisite: ages 9–15 $51/course

Thursdays • 12:15–1:30pm January 19, February 9, March 9, April 6The Gems of Patanjali's Yoga SutraWith Doerthe Braun and Nazli WeissDelve into the wisdom and teachings of Patanjali’s famous Samadhi and Sadhana Pada (Chapter on Self Realization and Practice) during this Lunch (brown bag) and Learn Series

No Prerequisite: Open to all Donation Checks only, to IYNAUS [for Bellur Trust]

Fridays, Jan 20, Feb 10, Mar 10 • 8:30–9:30amMaintain and Deepen your Pranayama PracticeWith Doerthe Braun These classes will support you on the path of your Pranayama practice and further deepen and refine it.

Prerequisite: compl of Pran IV $60/course

Sundays, Feb 26–Mar 19 • 3:00–5:00pmYoga with OsteoporosisWith Megan Bowles Yoga is good for bone health! Improve balance, strength, posture, and well-being.

No Prerequisite: Open to all $140/course

Fridays, March 3–31 • 5:30–7:30pmMoving AnatomyWith Esther Geiger and Laura Cox Get to know your bones! Learn how they connect in kinetic chains that support movement and balance. Each class offers an anatomy lesson and related yoga practice.

No Prerequisite: Open to all $125/course

Arlington WorkshopsSunday, December 11 • 1:00–3:00pmToning Up and Tuning In with Twists With John SchumacherTwists tone spinal muscles, massage internal organs, and lubricate the spine.

Prerequisite: One year of asana practice $45

Sunday, February 5 • 1:00–3:00pmYoga with OsteoporosisWith Megan Bowles Do yoga for bone health! Learn what’s essential and what to avoid as you take care of your bones.

No Prerequisite: Open to all $30

Arlington Short CoursesWednesdays, January 4–25 • 5:00–6:00pmJump Start!With Juliana Fair Jumpings offer a sense of lightness, strength and con-fidence, of body and mind. Throw off the sloth that creeps in during the colder months and free yourself from SOME of gravity's pull.

Prerequisite: Completion of Level I $80/course

Wednesdays, February 1–22 • 5:00–6:00pmStand on Your Own Two Feet: Part 1With Juliana Fair “Stand on your own two feet” is a simple statement, but after one yoga class it takes on a new meaning, which we will seek to understand in the first part of this course.

Prerequisite: Completion of Level I $80/course

Wednesdays, Mar 15–Apr 5 • 5:00–6:00pmStand on Your Own Two Feet: Part 2With Juliana Fair With a renewed understanding of how to stand on two legs (Part 1), we move on to one-legged asanas. Balance is complex. Using judgment and reasoning (Vijnanamaya Kosha), breath (Pranamaya Kosha), and mind (Manomaya Kosha), see how these affect what we do with our anatomical bodies (Annamaya Kosha ). BALANCE!...in more ways than one.

Prerequisite: Completion of Level I $80/course

Special Guest Workshop:Lois Steinberg

Friday, April 7– Sunday, April 9

In Bethesda

Lois returns for another informative and inspiring workshop at Unity Woods. Her teaching is infused with enthusiasm to share the knowledge and acumen that have come through her sustained practice and study of the work of the Iyengar family. Lois is the author of numerous books and articles and is widely respected for her understanding of therapeutics.

Fri 6:00–8:00pm asana $50

Sat 9:30am–12:00pm asana $70

Sat 3:30–5:30pm asana $50

Sun 9:00am–12:30pm pran $80

Prerequisite: At least two years of Iyengar yoga.

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

December 2 MaggieDecember 9 SuzanneDecember 16 RockyDecember 23 NO CLASSJanuary 6 RockyJanuary 13 DoertheJanuary 20 MeganJanuary 27 MeganFebruary 3 MaggieFebruary 10 RockyFebruary 17 SuzanneFebruary 24 RockyMarch 3 MaggieMarch 10 DoertheMarch 17 RockyMarch 24 MaggieMarch 31 MaggieApril 7 NO CLASS

$8 drop-in fee, cash only

Class Schedule

Fridays

8:30–9:30am Adv Pranayama Doerthe (Short Course: Jan 20, Feb 10, Mar 10)10:00–11:30am Level II Laurel10:00–11:30am Osteoporosis Megan4:00–5:00pm Kid/Teen (9–15) Doerthe (Short Course: January 13-27)5:30–7:30pm Anatomy Esther/Laura C (Short Course: March 3-31)6:00–7:00pm Community Class varies (January 6–March 31)

Saturdays

7:30–9:00am Level II * Steve7:30–9:00am Level III Mary9:15–10:45am Level II/III 3 * Steve9:30–11:00am Level II Linda SG11:00am–12:30pm 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 Steve3:00–5:00pm Osteoporosis Megan (Short Course: February 26–March 19)

*NOTE: Steve's Saturday classes do NOT meet on April 8 Anne's Sunday classes do NOT meet on April 9

Mondays

10:00–11:45am Level II/III 3 Jill10:15–11:45am Level I/II Suzanne12:00–1:30pm Level II Anne12:15–1:15pm Level I Suzanne5:45–7:15pm Level I/II Anne6:15–7:45pm Level II/III 3 Doerthe7:30–9:00pm Level II Anne

Tuesdays

10:00–11:30am Level I Doerthe4:15–5:45pm Level I/II Rocky5:00–6:30pm Level II John6:00–7:30pm Level II Linda SG6:45–8:45pm Level III 4 John

Wednesdays

9:00–10:00am Pranayama I 1 Doerthe10:15–11:45am Level II/III 3 Doerthe12:00–1:30pm Gentle Suzanne12:00–1:15pm Level I/II Megan5:00–6:15pm Back Care Rocky6:00–7:30pm Level I John6:45–8:15pm Level II Linda McR7:45–9:15pm Level I/II John

Thursdays

9:00–10:15am Seniors Suzanne9:00–10:15am Level I/II Doerthe10:30am–12:00pm Level II Doerthe12:15–1:30pm Level I/II Suzanne12:15–1:30pm Sutra Study Doerthe/Nazli (January 19, February 9, March 9, April 6)5:45–6:45pm Pranayama II John6:30–8:00pm Level I/II Megan7:00–9:00pm Level II/III 3 John8:15–9:15pm Level I Megan

Bethesda, MD 4853 Cordell Ave, Penthouse 7

Prerequisites:1 completion of one year of asana 2 Level I/II and up 3 5 minute freestanding Sirsasana 4 10 minute freestanding Sirsasana

- 7 -WINTER 2017

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

5:00–6:00pm Jumpings Juliana (Short Course: January 4–25)5:00–6:00pm Standing Poses Juliana (Short Course: February 1–22)5:00–6:00pm Standing/Balancing Juliana (Short Course: March 15–April 5)6:15–7:15pm Level I Fritz7:30–9:00pm Level II Fritz

Thursdays

6:00–7:30pm Level I/II Joe7:45–9:15pm Level II/III 3 Joe

Fridays

10:30–11:45am Level I Lori12:00–1:15pm Level I/II Lori

Saturdays

9:00–10:30am Level II/III 3 Lori10:45am–12:15pm Level II Lori12:30–1:30pm Pranayama I 1 * Lori

Sundays

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

*NOTE: Lori's Pranayama I class will NOT meet on January 21

Class ScheduleWashington, DCat Epic Yoga, 1323 Connecticut Ave NW

Saturdays

8:30–10:00am Level II/III 3 Joe10:10–11:40pm Level II Joe11:50am–1:05pm Level I/II Joe

IMPORTANT DATES

Registration is now open:www.unitywoods.com

Winter Session:Monday, Jan 2–Sunday, April 9

Please Note: Bethesda studio A only: No ClassesSaturday, April 8–Sunday, April 9

Classes WILL Meet: Monday, Jan 16 (MLK Day) Monday, Feb 20 (Presidents' Day)

Spring Session Begins: Monday, April 10 Spring registration opens March 13

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 90 minutes before class time: www.unitywoods.com or 301-656-8992.

- 8 - UNITY WOODS YOGA CENTER

Joe Adlesic, CIYT Intermedi-ate 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 I, 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, trained with senior teachers John Schumacher and Patricia Walden. Her style is warm, humorous, and precise. She enjoys helping new and ex-

perienced practitioners access the benefits of yoga. She also teaches Bone Builders, for those with osteopenia and osteoporosis.

Doerthe Braun, CIYT Interme-diate Junior II, 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 WoodsCarol Cavanaugh has taught Iyengar yoga since 1977. She made five trips to study with B.K.S. and Geeta Iy-engar between 1980 and 1995. She directed the Iy-engar 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 Sco-liosis. She has taught at Unity Woods since 1991 and is on the yoga faculty of the Casey Health Institute. rockydelaplaine.com

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.

Laurel Goeke, CIYT contin-ues to study regularly with John Schumacher, her primary teacher. In addition to her classes at Unity Woods, she enjoys teaching teens through-out Bethesda.

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.

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 KoretskyAnjali Sarkar Receptionists

ext. 500

- 9 -WINTER 2017

Linda McReynolds, CIYT, be-gan 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 I, B.S. Psy-chology/Neurobiology, M.S. Exercise Physiology, and Mom, applies joy, intuition and com-passionate precision to help

students explore living from the true nature of the heart.

Fritz Partlow, CIYT, began teaching in 2007. She is enthusi-astic about helping students cre-ate 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 certified Pilates instructor and

has developed yoga and Pilates DVDs.

Lori L. Ritland, CIYT Interme-diate Junior III, has studied with John Schumacher since 1998 and with the Iyengars in the U.S and India. She dedi-cates her teaching of asana and

pranayama to those seeking greater balance in their busy lives.

Alyson Ross, CIYT, PhD, RN, has taught since 1996. A re-searcher at the NIH Clinical Center, she has published ex-tensively on the health benefits of yoga.

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 world-

wide. She holds an M.Ed. in Applied Linguistics.

Suzanne Y. Sigüenza offers the practice of yoga as a steady foundation to develop compas-sion, 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, appren-ticed with John Schumacher and began teaching at Unity Woods in 1996. An M.A. in health education with a graduate certificate in theol-

ogy, she teaches yoga at a holistic medical practice in Leesburg, VA

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

a vibrant sense of well-being. Her ongoing ap-prenticeship 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 Iy-engars. Her teaching is precise, caring, and inspired, acknowl-edging the vitality, strength and

harmony yoga brings.

STUDIO NEWS

Maggie's October 16 workshop, Cool Yoga Tricks for Pretzebility, raised more than $1,000 for the Nepal rebuilding fund. Many thanks to all who participated and for con-tributing to such an important cause.

Rocky will co-lead a weekend art and yoga re¬treat with artist and arts/educator Lauren Rader Friday, June 3—Sunday, June 5, 2017at Sev-enoaks Retreat Cen¬ter in the Blue Ridge Mountains. See www.seveno-aksretreat.org for information.

John was invited by IYASE (Iyengar Yoga Association of the SouthEast) to create the first Home Practice In-termediate Level sequence for their online Home Practice Plan. You can go to iyase.org iyase sequences and click on John Schumacher to download the sequence.

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 limita-tion, 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 transi-tion 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 es-tablished 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 Sirsa-sana, 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 exten-sive 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 au-dio CDs, plus our unique Unity Woods and Dog Pose t-shirts, and 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.

Keep an eye out for our annual end of year

Inventory Sale!

throughout the boutique

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 $22

1 HOUR CLASS $17 $12 $20 2 HOUR CLASS $24 $15 $25

COMMUNITY CLASSES N/A $8 $8

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 January 2 you will receive a full re-fund. If we receive notice between January 2 and January 22 we’ll refund tuition minus the $40 registration fee. No refunds after January 22.

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.

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

WINTER SESSION DATES:

January 2–April 9

PRANAYAMA (BREATHING) CLASSES $19 $12 $22

NOTE: For most classes, winter will be a 14-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