Ronly Blau, a Vashon yoga teacher of almost two decades, is blending her various yoga classes and offering them in one location at her new studio named HERE, a new yoga and mindfulness center at Open Space for Arts & Community.
The intention of HERE, according to Blau, is to support students in cultivating a sharpened, awakened presence within a caring and inclusive community. Meditation, breathing practices and self-reflection are central to the practice of yoga. In the mindfulness center, students will explore ways to heighten their experiences practicing the inner yoga arts throughout the various classes Blau will offer.
Blau said that HERE’s classes will offer students a myriad of opportunities for learning how to release stress, cultivate a grounded center, develop enhanced physical strength and flexibility, discover inspiration and to connect with the greater community. She will offer five classes each week: three Mindful Flow yoga classes, a Yoga & Meditation class and a Yoga Bliss, or restorative yoga, class.
“We are delighted to have Ronly teaching her yoga classes in the Open Space movement room,” said Amanda Westbrooke, Open Space executive director.
David Seborer, a new yoga teacher to the island with 20 years of experience, will join Blau at the mindfulness center and offer Yoga Basics one day each week. Seborer’s Mindful Flow classes will integrate mindfulness with the asana practice. Students will flow from one pose to the next, slowly and deliberately with interest and care, pausing throughout the class to notice the effects that movement has on the mind and body, as well as to adjust appropriately. According to Seborer, sometimes music is used to enliven his sessions and to “awaken the inner, graceful dancer” while at other times, students will simply practice in silence, guided only by their own breathing. All discipline levels are welcome, but some introductory experience with yoga is recommended. Yoga & Meditation, Yoga Bliss and Yoga Basics are all beginner-friendly classes. Starting in the fall, Seborer will offer an ongoing, eight-week “Mindfulness Lab” series featuring a rotation of other mindfulness teachers.
The studio is located on the second floor of the renovated Open Space. Large, south-facing windows peer out onto a forested meadow, allowing natural light to stream into the spacious room for an intimate and gracious practice.
All are invited to attend an open house party from 4 to 6 p.m. Saturday, June 16, upstairs at the Open Space with entertainment such as kirtan chanting. Door prizes and snacks will be available, and all are welcome.
More information and a schedule can be found at Ronlyblau.com and Open SpaceVashon.com.
