Tonights $5 Community Class: Pilates with Joanna

Community Class $5 Friday 5:30-6:45 +Many Rivers: 

Pilates with Joanna MacNeil

Not sure what Pilates is?  This is your chance to be introduced! 

Through foundation movements we will wake our core, find length through our spine, and leave feeling energized and centered.

All are welcome, no exercise experience required!

I look forward to seeing you,

Joanna 

Building History Kenton Bloom

Interview with Kenton Bloom.  The History of the Building, by Kayla Spaan 3/22/2015

Kayla:

“Where did the vision and construction of this building begin?”

Kenton:

“It really began when my cabin burned down in 1981. Fundamentally what I experienced afterwards was the support of the community. Through a series of events and different experiences that followed, I came to have a conviction that I wanted to do something to help support the community.  

I came across these red cedar logs in the middle of winter, the last of their kind, stacked in a pile on West Hill. I bought them without knowing what I had gotten into. We were able to move them up to my cabin on Pahamni Ridge in 1985 and there they sat. I ended up going to Nepal in 1987 to a Sherpa village, Shermatong. While I was there working and visiting, I happened to be part of a mourning process for a youngster who had died. It was a procession that led me to the spiritual center of the community, a building for spirit, education and sadhana, the Gompa. I kept returning to this building because it was beautiful and I would watch the people working on the building. I came to learn they were working out of their own volition with the intention, for not for pay, but for the betterment of the community. This whole scene had a resonance with me. I thought about the logs I had and, at that point, it was beyond my dreams, being able to manifest something like that. So I didn’t really have a vision, just a spark. 

Gus and Mackenzie

I had an experience and I brought that back. The next year I worked with a friend up on Pahamni Ridge and we cut down a few trees and used a chainsaw mill that made these long timbers that go under the whole length of the building, 26 feet. We drug them out of the woods and set them up to form the beginnings of building a cabin. In 1989 I began integrating all the things I had been feeling and learning and I started moving directly into a design for a building that was going to be special. I had clarity of purpose that it was going to be for the community. Later that year the Valdez oil spill happened and work was interrupted.

Photo Credit: Linda Smogor

In that same year, a Tibetan Monk was visiting Homer and holding a healing ceremony for land and water after the oil spill. The Monk filled all these clay pots and blessed them with sacred spiritual prayers. He sealed them and gave them to people to plant in the ground. The purpose was to spread the prayers widely around the area. I had given him a special clay pot from New Mexico. It turns out he was going to a Buddhist retreat in Jemez, where the pot was made. That was a coincidence and the start of a beautiful connection.

He came up for tea. During this session I asked him, ‘How do I maintain the initiative and intention to complete this project without being attached to the outcome?’ He told me, ‘All you need to do is complete the building and the building will take care of itself.’ These were words I could trust and led to a tremendous awakening. Years later, resonating deeply with these words, I began to trust in a power greater than I know of myself. That is the ultimate support.”

Kayla:

“What was the process of building this structure?”

Pete Beck

Kenton:

“In the big picture it was productive to go slow, because it allowed time for understanding what was happening and for it to grow into our consciousness. We began to believe we were actually going to be successful at building this structure for spirit and community.  

People were attracted to working on something that could make a difference. Many people volunteered to help build. They just gave by virtue of their own choice. That was such a pure gift of life energy. There are a lot of people who worked for modest amounts finishing specific jobs. These were not great wages being paid. There was a whole gamut of different types of people working and investing in the best possible outcome. It was a real supportive process of co-creation. Everybody had ideas and we were able to put many of them into practice. All our hands joined together making for less work and more happiness. We loaded the mostly finished building on the back of a boom truck in 1992. We stood it all up that year. The logs were standing one-day. Then roof was on by fall.

Kayla:

“The building has a very unique design. How did you come up with ideas and forms?”

Kenton:

“There are three things that mostly informed the process for constructing this building:

We researched and followed early historical versions of timber and log work from many places, reaching back over hundreds of years.

The Craft of Log Building by Herman Phleps, was one of my main references during design and construction. I keep this book dog eared just in case I need to reference back to it, or show it to somebody so they can see the pattern language. At the end of the day, this building is a compilation of ideas that span time from across the planet. Being a student of pattern language and working within a wide ranging self-education in architecture. I also embrace the contemporary. I made a study of integrating the contemporary needs and uses. We worked to incorporate modern elements and technologies into the timeless architecture.

On Left: Kurt Marquardt

The second thing was the incorporation of the Golden Section, which is the relationship between opposite sides of a rectangle. This is based on a ratio of 1.618:1. I took the sacred geometry one step further and worked with a system called The Modular System. This was developed by a famous modernist architect, Le Corbusier. He took Golden Section and based his system from the vantage point of 6 feet. He made a list going down using that proportion and going up using that proportion. He called that the Red list. And then he took 12 feet, and did the same process of proportioning dimensions to create the Blue list. Between the Red and Blue lists, you have all these dimensions available. When we were looking to fit a window into a wall or design the additions onto the log cabin, we looked up the dimensions that fit those ratios. When we were making choices, we constantly conferred with that list. Notice the width of the entry door is 6 feet and the width of the space in front of the building is 12 feet. Right there, those two primary visual aspects of the space reflect proportions of the Golden Section. The windows and doors, everywhere in the building these ratios repeat themselves.

The third thing is, mostly all of the building components, like the foundation, the timbers, the logs, the shingles, some of the decking, the corrugated metal. All of these materials are salvaged. Most of the building materials have either been in other places and are repurposed, or were destined for other places and became salvage before they were used.

Photo Credit: Linda Smogor

Those three parts are really the foundation of what happened with the architecture. When you get into the specifics of the building, like the curved shingled roof, there are specific historic contexts which we worked with. The building is an intricate expression of ideas, built piece by piece. We were able to take time and avoided mistakes based on urgency. This allowed us to explore more intuitively the possibilities that the space really held and how to align with those possibilities. We were working repeatedly with the materials, such as glass and timber, side by side. This was a metaphor we of what we saw, of strength and fragility being connected, in ourselves.

Photo Credit: Kayla Ray

I received support from people who were helping build and also from Martty Zeller. We had some really deep conversations. He encouraged me and agreed to let us build where Many Rivers stands now. This was an important watershed moment. Martty has been a mentor and partner. He was supporting me in this vision. I began seeing things in a new way and feeling how the building was coming together. I knew I had to remain patient.

What this process has really shown me is by approaching the construction in a deliberate and patient manner, it allowed time for new ideas to enter our perceptions. We continued to experience awakening when we were receptive. Proceeding this way connected us to what we were creating in a very intimate and powerful way.

The experience of working on this project, beginning over 25 years ago to now, has revealed a deep truth. People here have chosen the possibility to create this building in our community and I have chosen as well. Now we are at a place where the community and the building have a path forward, far beyond the dreams and aspirations we started with.”

Kayla:

“How do you feel now that all the construction is complete and Many Rivers is an organization dedicated to supporting community space?”

Kenton:

“I love that Many Rivers is occupied by all the diverse individuals that use it. I have always dreamt that whoever would be using this space for their practice or doing work there, would practice a little bit better while inside this space. This was always my deepest yearning, that the space itself provide shelter and support for good practice. 

Photo Credit: Kayla Ray

When I see yoga classes, meditation groups, healing practioners, support groups, singing circles and esctatic dancers, I feel joy. Many of these activities have evolved and progressed over time. I have a deep connection in my heart with people who have their own moments of complete peace just being present in the space and feeling its support and sheltering effects.

Photo Credit: Kayla Ray

The space is there to support and serve people. That can make life a little bit better in our community. People come for their practice and then they go out into their lives and touch other people and their experiences are something that is tied to their use of this space. It's this process that has transformed the building from a raw idea, into a more evolved presence. That presence is not only logs and timbers; it is the accumulation of one breath at a time, one meditation at a time, one yoga pose at a time and one moment of stillness in time, one prayer at a time.  This intimate process of construction is new to us, this 'soul architecture', yet it harkens back to a long tradition. My description for this evolution in the building construction refers to a growing patina of spirit, much like verdigris spreading over old weathered copper.”

Kayla:

“Timshel, where did that come from?”

Kenton:

“Timshel, Thou Mayest!”

“Debbie Poore painted that sign above the door. It is a Hebrew phrase I read from East of Eden a long time ago as part of my exploration of John Steinbeck.  It caught my eye because of a spiritual opportunity that is phrased as ‘Thou Mayest’. For me, what I understood from those words is really important in the context of Many Rivers. Because what it did was give me clear guidance in taking an idea and turning it into a vision, and taking a vision and turning it into a practice and in taking a practice and turning it into building. I learned from the steps and challenges that the simplest truth was this spirit of Timshel. This spirit guided my hand towards completion of the construction. It really sustained me in beginning again after periods of time when I was unable to work on the building.

Looking back, it seems almost kind of funny that I was living in a little cabin working to build this community building. I was bonded by the efforts and intentions of the community helping to create this space. All the while I was having ideas and inspirations that led to continuing my commitment and ultimately resulting in completion. I don't understand exactly how it all happened to work out. I do know when I choose to follow my intention, choose to follow my heart and choose to go to goodness, life seems to work well for me. There's a positive process for making things happen and in a way Many Rivers is an example of that. I want to thank everyone who is and has been involved in this co-creation of community space. I would like to welcome and invite all those who would like to get involved. I invite you to take advantage of the opportunities to share this space and share your practice.”

Photo Credit: Linda Smogor

Greetings~ Joanna MacNeil, Pilates Teacher

Interview With Joanna MacNeil by Kayla Spaan, after a $5 lunch hour Pilates Class.

Kayla:

“Welcome to Many Rivers! Can you tell us about what you teach here?

Joanna:

“I am teaching Pilates and I am excited to be sharing my knowledge, and experiences with other peoples experiences. The times I teach are: Tuesdays ~$5~ Lunch Hour Pilates~ 12-1p.m. and Thursdays Beginners Pilates 7:15-8:15 p.m.  Pilates is an art that can be mastered. Even though it seems like a beginners level class, everyday is a different work of concentration, precision, focus, and exploring the mind~body connection. This is starting from the foundations Pilates.”

Kayla:

“When you first began practicing Pilates, did you notice things shifting in you?”

Joanna:

“Yes, I had a new body. Hee hee he (laughing out loud). I came to Pilates from boxing. I was a competitive kick-boxer and had many many injuries. I was braking down and being broken. Yoga was helping me with my flexibility, but I needed something to help me with my structural alignment and to give me strength in the areas that were really weak. I was introduced Pilates and it gave me exactly what I needed to have that; ways to engage the little muscles that we don't really think about, that do so much work in our bodies. There's so much more to gain from optimally functioning aspects of the body when you exercise this way. It repaired me from neck injuries, two rib injuries and chronic upper back distress. Pilates helps me. It helps me find my inner ruler. Where I can re-position and get straight again.”

Kayla:

“So people with injuries can take this class?”

Joanna:

"Definitely, it's a beautiful practice for pre-and post rehabilitation. Pilates is non-impact, which is the wonderful thing about it. It puts your body into a gentle place where you engage your body in a way with gravity. That is not the same impact as running on a treadmill. You really are connected to your body and that helps you recover and heal. This practice is also great for athletes and desk jockeys, the people who work at their desks far too often, like artists! All are welcome and invited, No prior experience necessary.”

Thank You!

Joanna Macneil  

   Find her online: 

www.bodyology.info   www.facebook.com/BodyologyAlaska

Bio:

Joanna’s exploration into the mind body connection began at a young age when a coach imprinted the words “it’s all in your head” into her mind before going into competition.  Physically she was ready, but winning was only an option if she was mentally prepared.  This was the beginning of Joanna’s journey exploring the depths of her strength both physically and mentally.  Years down the road Joanna found Pilates at a time in her athletic life when she needed rehabilitation and optimization of her strength.  It quickly proved to be an invaluable tool teaching her new foundations of how to optimize her body and mind. 

While staying true to the core principles of Pilates Joanna allows her passion for the body, and the science that lies behind it to guide her practice.  With a kind heart she motivates through her clients through movement, building their confidence, helping them discover and develop their physical and mental strength.  She believes a sense of humor combined with discipline is a winning combination for success in any fitness goal! 

New Moon Community Kundalini Yoga Class & Japji workshop

Greetings Rivers of light,

Happy almost spring! We extend these special offerings to you in the spirit of joy, growth, and exploration. We celebrate your presence and participation at Many Rivers. Hope to see you soon!

New Moon Community Kundalini Yoga Class with Anna 

Friday 3/20 5:30-6:45pm $5

This is an all-levels friendly Kundalini Yoga class. A new moon is a perfect time for new beginnings. We will do powerful pranayam, beautiful kriya, and a deep relaxation to the sound of the gong to create a bright new beginning. Followed by Chai tea and cookies

-- 

Japji Workshop with Kayla Sunday March 22nd 2-3:30pm $5

Join Kayla Spaan to learn history, pronunciation, and meaning to Japji, the Sacred morning prayer of the Sikhs. Known as the  "Song of the Soul" this Gurmukhi mantra is the beginning of the traditional Kundalini Yoga early morning Sadhana. The words to the mantra were spoken in an ecstatic state by Guru Nanak Devji, the first Sikh Guru. To chant it balances the total psyche of a person. (The mantra will be played slowly for easy learning.) This is a very special opportunity. Sign up here:

https://clients.mindbodyonline.com/classic/home?studioid=148045

Warm and Sunny Blessings to all!

Anna, Kayla and Kenton,

On behalf of Many Rivers

Community Hu At Many Rivers This Sunday March 15th at 2 pm

Community Hu At Many Rivers This Sunday March 15th at 2 pm

"Why sing HU, this ancient, sacred name for, and carrier of Love from God to all life?

  *To allow our human state of consciousness

 to relax away as HU         

                    attunes us to a higher spiritual awareness

  *To strengthen our experience of the ever-present reality of God,   

                      in even the minutest details of our lives.

                      *To experience a deep peace and calm

                *Singing HU awakens our true nature as Soul, 

                                spacious, loving and free

All are welcome 

Anyone can use the HU

It can enhance anyone’s Spiritual Practice

          The HU is FREE

 Tea/ snacks served after the HU Song for those who  wish to stay and chat."

-Kathleen Finn

Here are some resources, if you would like to study more:

1- www.eckankar.org/hu.html   Download  or simply  "Listen to the sound  of thousands of people singing this majestic love song to God"  

2-http://www.eckankar.org/Video/play.php?name=Just+Sing+HU!  The youth of ECK share why they love the HU. This is one really sweet introduction to the HU.

Take Care
HUUU
Kayla

Interview with Ramona Pearce, Yoga for Life~

Interview with Ramona Pearce,

 teacher at Many Rivers, located in Homer Alaska.  

Interviewed by Kayla Spaan  3/1/15

Kayla:

“Ramona, Did you just come back from travels?”



Ramona:


"I did!”





Kayla:

“What were you doing?”

Ramona:

"I was finishing up my 200 hour teacher training for a Yoga Alliance registration and certification.”

Kayla:

“Ramona, what kind of Yoga Teacher training were you just at?”

Ramona:

"The name of the studio is called,  A Gentle Way.  It’s located in La Mesa California, near San Diego. It was a training for M. I. M. S. Y.    Standing for: Mediation In Movement Style Yoga. It is a very soft, easy and gentle type of practice. (Teaching this kind of yoga) has been something i’ve been wanting to mainly teach for quite a long time.”

Kayla:

"In general, who would benefit from this kind of yoga practice the most?”

Ramona:

"It was originally designed for people who are plus sized and for students that have not done a lot of movement with their bodies. It developed into a very deep practice because it is very slow, very meditative.  I teach this practice in my Thursday (5:30-6:45 pm) class, Yoga For Round and Aging Bodies at Many Rivers. I do teach some of the M. I. M. S. Y.  poses in the Monday (5:30-6:45 pm) Yoga for Absolute Beginners class, towards the end.”

Kayla:

"Ramona, you also teach another yoga class in Anchor Point. Can you tell us a little bit about that?”

Ramona:


“I do! At the Anchor Point Senior Center.  It’s basically just like the Yoga For Round and Aging Bodies class. But we also do some standing poses.  I have been teaching there for a couple months and it's a lot of fun. We use a lot of props: bolsters, blocks, blankets, straps, the walls and the floor for support. The Yoga For Round and Aging Bodies class I teach at Many Rivers on Thursday night does not have any Standing poses, We are on the floor and a lot of it is laying down, some is sitting.  Once in a great while we may do something standing, but is not a posture, it’s usually rolling a tennis ball underneath our feet or something like that!

It’s very relaxing, it’s very meditative, it’s very deep. People who come to class really seem to of enjoyed it.  And they can really learn how to relax and breathe.  These postures you can use anywhere but once you add the meditation and add the breath, that makes yoga.”

Kayla:

“Are there any misconceptions about yoga that you like to help cleanup?"

Ramona:

“One thing for people who have never taking yoga, or for people who are curious about yoga is that there are some misconceptions. I think that people think, “ You have to be flexible to take yoga” That’s not necessarily the case. I have students who have scoliosis, I have students who have M.S., students who have high blood pressure problems, people who can’t sleep at night, All that kind of stuff.  And yoga helps them. Yoga postures can be adapted, modified and supported to help anybody who feels like they’re struggling or who feels like they would like to get more out of the class.”

Kayla:

“These classes are really here to help people become comfortable in their bodies and relax.  Thank you for this service Ramona. What are your plans for the future?”

Ramona:

"I definitely intend to keep teaching this kind of practice. I have been teaching for a long time, my yoga practice and my yoga teaching has changed over the last 17 years.  As I’ve gotten older, my practice has become more meditative with slower movements and it’s more quiet.

Kayla:

“Now that you're back from your 200 Hour certification, Do you have any interest in going to another  training anytime soon?”

Ramona:

"Not out of state anytime soon. I am going to a workshop in Anchorage in a couple weeks. It is a Svaroopa Yoga Training, which is somewhat that M. I. M. S. Y.  is based off of. It kind of just adds to the practice. I might go out of state for another training another year or so.  I’ll consider it.”

Kayla:

“Thank you so much Ramona.”

Ramona:

“You're welcome. Thank you”

Ramona Has Been Teaching as, Yoga For Life, in Homer since 2007.  She is currently teaching at Many Rivers, Mondays 5:30-6:45 pm Yoga for Absolute Beginners and Thursdays: 5:30-6:45 pm, Yoga For Round and Aging Bodies, All are welcome and invited.  She also teaches private classes and at the Anchor Point Senior Center.