APRIL 10-JULY 2 First Class Namastesubtleties of body, breath, mind, and spirit. ... Pune, some in...

I’ve lived in tumultuous times at various points in my life but overall, this moment feels as wild as any. Our own yoga community is experiencing its share of tumult as well. Guruji’s death in 2014 shook us all. The entire world wide Iyengar community is the fruit of this one man’s decades of practice, study, and teaching, and his death set us all adrift. His teachings, however, provided us solace and direction, and Geeta, Prashant, Sunita, and Abhijata continued to pursue his legacy and offered us ongoing guidance and inspiration.

That was one of the reasons, as I said in the last newsletter, that I was eager to go to Pune in December, as well as to celebrate Guruji’s Centenary and to spend time

with longtime, far flung friends.

After four days teaching in Tianjin China, which was a wonderful opportunity and great experience, I f l e w f r o m Beijing to Delhi and from Delhi to Pune. I had a day and a half to rest and reorient before classes began o n M o n d a y morn ing .The Centenary took p lace a t the

Balewadi Sports Complex, some forty minutes from

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 SPRING 2019 • APRIL 10-JULY 2

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.

© 2019 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

Spring 2019 Master.indd 1 3/7/2019 12:07:23 PM

- 2 - UNITY WOODS YOGA CENTER

John’s Workshops

April 28 SundayAdvanced Pranayama

Unity Woods/Bethesda, MD

April 28 SundayDiscussion Group: A Look Back at the Iyengar Yoga

National Convention and the Importance of CommunityUnity Woods Yoga Center

Bethesda, MD

May 3-5 Friday-SundayTeacher Training:

The Art of Teaching Yoga SERENDIPITY

Berkeley Springs, WV

May17-19 Friday-Sunday Iyengar Yoga Institute of Los

AngelesLos Angeles, CA

John teaches a weekend work-shop in LA., including a class

specifically for teachers. www.iyila.org

June 7-9 Friday-SundayDelving Deeper

Refinement and Integration in Upper Level Poses

Milwaukee Yoga CenterMilwaukee, WI

www.mycmke.com

August 2-4 Friday-SundayTeacher Training: Topic TBA

SERENDIPITYBerkeley Springs, WV

August 15-18 Thursday-SundayYoga Intensive for Advanced Students, Teachers-in Training,

and TeachersYoga NorthwestBellingham, WA

www.yoganorthwest.com

September 20-22 Friday-Sun-day

Montreal, Canadawww.asanaperformance.ca/en

October 25-27 Friday-SundayTeacher Training: Topic TBA

SERENDIPITYBerkeley Springs, WV

Namaste (continued)

the Institute. It is a sizeable enough facility to handle the large numbers of students that have come to the several international Iyengar Yoga events held there since Guruji’s death. To honor the 100th anniversary of his birth, December 14th, 1918, 1200 students from 56 countries attended. Prashant taught the morning classes for the first week. Prashant’s teaching is unique in the Iyengar community. In his classes we did asanas and worked with the breath, but the classes were more a vehicle for contemplating what yoga is, what practice is, and how to approach practice than a description of the mechanics of the asanas. Between and during asanas, Prashant spoke at great length, urging us not to be dogmatic in our practice. He continually directed us to the breath and how it affected and reflected the asanas and vice versa.

There were different programs in the afternoon. One especially memorable one was a panel discussion about Guruji and his early life and teachings. Geeta and Prashant constituted the

“panel” with Abhi as the moderator. At the outset, Abhi spoke to the “panel”, saying in a stern voice with a big smile on her face, that she knew that her aunt and uncle were quite capable of speaking at great length, but that she would cut them short if she needed to because she had a number of questions she wanted to ask them. And she did stop them when necessary, to the amusement of everyone, including Geeta and Prashant.

In response to Abhi’s queries, they told wonderful tales of their father’s practice and teaching. They spoke of the struggles and difficulties of those early days when there were few students and little money. They said that although B.K.S. Iyengar was their father, he was also their guru, and in class he treated them as he did the other students. Nor did they receive any special

“teacher training”; they learned to teach by watching him practice and teach. For a couple of hours, they shared amusing and inspiring stories. It was Geeta’s only appearance during the first week at the venue. She had been in poor health for quite some time, and when she came to take the stage for the panel, she came in haltingly using a walker. Once she sat and began to speak, however, her voice was strong and her presentation animated.

On Thursday of that first week, something came up that required my having to leave and go home. Nothing tragic, but it was necessary that I leave. I was sad not to be able to stay and visit longer with friends, and I was disappointed to miss class with Geeta, who taught the second week.

The classes I took over the more than three decades I have studied with the Iyengars were predominantly with Guruji; most of them in Pune, some in the US at Conventions. I had a few with Prashant and Abhi, as well. I also attended several three-week intensives in Pune and several IYNAUS Conventions at which Geeta taught.

Geeta always taught masterfully. Her deep understanding and devotion were always plainly evident in her classes. Geeta’s teaching was systematic, very clear and at the same time very profound. Like her father she seemed to see everything, and she addressed what she saw directly and methodically. If you read her books, you can see how organized her thinking and presentation is. This made her accessible in ways that Guruji sometimes, in his flashing passion, was not. Her passion for yoga (clearly, she was deeply passionate about the subject) was measured and straightforward. Not that she couldn’t verbally decimate a student or class that she felt was casual or did not adequately respect the importance of yoga.

My personal contact with Geeta was limited, but sweet and sincere. Her birthday was a week before Guruji’s, whose birthday was a week before mine, which made it all easy to remember. Each year I sent her a birthday card wishing her well and mischievously reminding her that she was one year older than I. She often responded by sarcastically thanking me for the reminder, wishing me a happy birthday, and including some inspirational comment about keeping yoga at the forefront of my life.

When I was in Pune, she was always kind enough to take a moment or two to speak with me. Unfortunately, that wasn’t possible this trip, because of her poor health, the demands on her schedule, and my staying so far from the Institute and departing early.


- 3 -SPRING 2019

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)

I understand from friends who were there that although she was obviously limited physically, once she started teaching, her energy picked up over the course of the week. So I and the entire Iyengar community were shocked and devastated to learn that Geeta had died of an apparent heart attack two days after the Balewadi conference had ended. As sad as it is, there is an almost poetic synchronicity to the timing of her death. It is as if she willed herself to stay here for Guruji’s Centenary celebration in spite of her pain, exhaustion, and suffering, and when it was finished, she was finally free to leave. This would fit her character perfectly. She had tremendous will power and an overriding sense of duty all her life. In the same Yoga Rahasya article quoted earlier, she said, “My mother passed away when I was quite young, which was a tough period for me emotionally…..As the eldest child, I had to assume my mother’s duty to look after the household. I had to do all the daily chores and then find time for my own practice as well as for continuing to travel to schools and colleges to teach yoga. It was difficult for me to maintain balance in my life, but I discovered that I could do anything I set my mind to.” We are all so incredibly fortunate that she devoted herself to yoga and to sharing it with all of us, directly and/or indirectly. And those of us who knew her will miss her wise wit, her wry sense of humor, her magnificent

teaching, and her huge compassionate and generous heart. When her heart broke, our hearts broke, too.

Now it is up to us to take the legacy she and Guruji have left us and move onward and upward. We who studied directly with Geeta and Guruji have the responsibility, or as Geeta would say, the duty to carry on the practice and teaching. We are not alone. After years of intense study with her grandfather, aunts and uncle, Abhi has inherited the bloodline and the mantle of ambassador of Iyengar Yoga and has proven herself capable and ready to assume that duty.

We will have the opportunity to experience Abhi’s clear presence, delightful humor, and deep knowledge at the Iyengar Yoga USA National Convention 2019 in Dallas, TX April 11-17. For more information visit http://iyengarusa2019.com.

Hope to see you there.

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

“Through a faithful practice of yoga, a person

will develop compassion, patience, sensitivity,

contentment, vigor, faith, and non-attachment, all

of which can be viewed as achievements along the

path to discovering the inner being.” – Geeta S.

Iyengar, Yoga Rahasya, Vol.25 No 4; 2018



Workshops, Short CoursesSee unitywoods.com for detailed descriptions.

2019 NatIONal

CONVeNtIONapril 11-17, 2019

Dallas, texas

exploring the Path of Practice

with

abhijata Iyengar

this event will be held at the Sheraton Dallas Hotel and Conference Center in the arts District of down-

town Dallas, texas

this convention marks the centenary

of BKS Iyengarfor more on the

Convention go to www.Iyengarusa2019.

com

Bethesda WorkshopsSaturday, april 27 1:15-3:15pm yoga Kuruntawith Doerthe BraunKurunta means string puppet. Playfully explore different groups of asanas using ropes. Work-shop fee will be used to buy new ropes!Prerequisite: Level II and up $40

Sunday, april 28 advanced Pranayama with John SchumacherThe Level V pranayama class is for those who have completed Level IV or have extensive training in the Iyengar approach to pranayama. Level VI is for thosewho have been practicing digital pranayama for two years or more.

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

Sunday, april 28 6:45-8:30pmDiscussion Group: a look Back at the Iyengar yoga National Convention and the Importance of Communitywith John Schumacher The IYNAUS National Conventions, which take place every three years, serve many purposes. They provide an opportunity for students of all levels to learn from one of the most senior Iyengar teachers in the world. This year, Abhijata, Guruji’s granddaugh-ter, is the teacher as she was at the last Convention.In the discussion, those of us who attended the Convention and those who did not will share our thoughts and experiences and take a deeper look at the whole idea of community and how it relates to our practice and under-standing of yoga.All are welcome. Refreshments will be served.Free

Bethesda Short Coursesthursdays 4/25, 5/23, 6/6 (3 weeks) 12:15-1:30pmFrom Skin to Soul with Doerthe Braun and Nazli weiss A group exploration of Patanjali's Yoga Sutras through BKS Iyengar's "Light on Life. Visit blog for required readings of "Light on Life"Prerequisite: everybody welcome.Donation, cash or checks only to Doerthe Braun (note: Bellur Trust)

Saturdays apr 27, May 4, 11, 18 (4 weeks) • 11:45am-1:00pmProgressive Gentle - Blossomwith Steve MitchellA slower, prop-supported class that is progres-sive and gentle. Prerequisite: One year Iyengar yoga experience. Course $100, Drop-in $30

Sundays apr 28 - May 19 (4 weeks) • 3:00-5:00pmOsteoporosis yogawith Megan BowlesThe key poses and actions of yoga with osteo-porosis and how to avoid movements that may cause injury. Learn to practice safely and with enjoyment.Prerequisite: None Course $130, Drop-in $36

Fridays May 3 and May 31 (2 classes) 8:15-9:30am advanced Pranayama with Doerthe BraunPrerequisite: Completion of pranayama Level IV Course $60, Drop-in $30

Saturdays June 1-22 (4 weeks) • 11:45am-1:00pmProgressive Gentle - Spring into Summer with Steve MitchellA slower, prop-supported class that is progres-sive and gentle. Prerequisite: One year Iyengar yoga experience. Course $100, Drop-in $30


- 5 -SPRING 2019

Arlington Workshops Sunday, april 28 2:00-4:00pm Restorative Class; Understanding How and whywith Juliana FairLearn how to use your yoga practice to access the natural healing qualities of the body.Prerequisite: None $55

Saturday, May 18 2:30-4:30pm Back to the Hamstrings!with Juliana FairTight hamstrings (the muscles at the back of your thigh bone) interfere with the good execution of many asanas. Just stretching them is not always what has to be done. Join me in finding ways to bring the hamstrings to healthy condition.Prerequisite: Completion of Level I $55

Sunday, May 26 2:00-5:00pm Osteoporosis yogawith Megan Bowles

Come to a fun and informative workshop about yoga with osteoporosis. Learn essential poses, modifications, and what to avoid. The workshop will include asanas (postures) and discussion.

Prerequisite: None $55

Saturday, June 1 2:30–4:30pmGive a little twist to your Backbendswith Doerthe Braun The increased elasticity of the spine caused by twists will lead us into back bends.

Prerequisite: Level I/II and up $40

Saturday, June 15 2:30–4:30pmHyper-mobility of Joints/ ligamentswith Juliana Fair It is important for yoga students to understand if they are indeed “very flexible” . The envy of stiffer students, this class will bring awareness of ways to counter the hyper-mobility to avoid injury.

Prerequisite: Level I twice $55

Arlington Short Courses

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

teacher training at Serendipity

John SchumacherFriday-Sunday, May 3-5

topic: the art of teaching yoga

So many elements go into the art of teaching. Obviously, knowledge of the subject is essential. To know the subject well means that first the teacher must be a good student. The importance of being a good student before being a good teacher is greatly underrated. Once one has substantial knowledge of the subject, the teacher must then convey this knowledge to the student. But it isn’t just knowledge that needs to be conveyed; the yoga teacher must attempt to create a somatopyschospir i tual (whew) experience in the pupil as well as transmit information. A vast arsenal of skills is necessary to do this effectively; what makes this even more difficult is that each student learns in her/his own way, so different techniques are needed for each student.

Over the weekend, we’ll examine what it takes to be a good student, how to recognize the needs of your students, and methods for guiding them to a deeper understanding and experience of yoga. We will practice asanas and practice teaching to learn and hone some of the skills you’ll need to improve your practice and refine your teaching. Optional early morning practice is open to all.

Call UWYC or see our

website for more information.

www.unitywoods.com



Community Classes

Every Friday, 6:00–7:00pm

In Bethesda April 12 – MaggieApril 19 – MeganApril 26 – Leah May 3 – Sonia May 10 – Leah May 17 – JuliaMay 24 – MeganMay 31 – DoertheJune 7 – Linda MJune 14 – MaggieJune 21 – RockyJune 28 – Mary

$10 drop-in fee, cash only

Chantingwith

Megan Bowles

Join Megan for soul-soothing chanting sessions in Bethesda.

Chanting on Fridays,

April 5

May 10 (not first Friday)

June 7

7:10-7:40pm

Free!

Class Schedule

Fridays 10:00–11:30am Level II Laurel10:00-11:30am Osteoporosis Megan***11:45am-1:00pm Level I Megan***6:00–7:00pm Community Class varies (April 12-June 28)

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 for Spring Session

Bethesda

Tuesday, Level II w/Julia - new classThursday, Level III w/Doerthe - time change

Many teachers attend the National Convention in Dallas - see below for adjustments to the class schedule.Classes marked with *** will not meet

during the first week of our Spring Session (april 10-16).

Classes marked with ++ will not meet during the first and second week of the

session, april 17-23.Cost of classes will adjust accordingly - see the Fees & Policies page on our

website.

For more information visit our websitewww.unitywoods.com

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 Mary***7:30–9:00pm Level II Anne

tuesdays

9:45-11:15am Level II Julia***10:00–11:30am Level I Doerthe12:00-1:30pm Level II/III3 Megan***4:15–5:45pm Level I/II Rocky5:00–6:30pm Level II John***6:00–7:15pm Level I/II Maggie6:45–8:45pm Level III 4 John***7:30–9:00pm Level II Maggie

wednesdays 9:00–10:00am Pranayama I5 Doerthe ++9:00–10:30am Level I/II Julia 10:15–11:45am Level II/III 3 Doerthe12:00–1:30pm Gentle Suzanne4:30–5:30pm Level I/II Kim5:00–6:15pm Back Care Rocky***6:00–7:15pm Level I John ++6:45–8:15pm 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 Doerthe10:45am–12:15pm Level I Julia ***5:45–6:45pm Pranayama III1 Doerthe***6:00–7:30pm Level I/II Megan***7:00–8:30pm Level III 4 Doerthe***7:45-9:00pm Level I Megan***

Bethesda, MD 4853 Cordell ave, Penthouse 7

Prerequisites:1 completion of previous level Pranayama 2 Level I/II and up 3 5 minute freestanding Sirsasana 4 10 minute freestanding Sirsasana5 completion of one year of Asana6completion of Level I once


- 7 -SPRING 2019

Arlington, VA4001 N 9th St, Suite 105

Mondays

6:00–7:30pm Level II Joe7:45–8:45pm Pranayama II1 Joe

tuesdays

12:15–1:30pm Mixed Level6 Carol6:00–7:00pm Level I/II Giulia7:15–8:45pm Level II Giulia

wednesdays

12:00–1:00pm Level I/II Ann6:00-7:15pm Level I Leah ++7:30-9:00pm 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 Mary***10:45am–12:15pm Level II Mary***

Sundays

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

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

Spring Registration is now open:www.unitywoods.com

Spring Session:Wednesday, April 10 - Tuesday, July 2

Please note Summer BreakNo regular classesWednesday, July 3 - Sunday, July 7

Classes will meetMonday, May 27 - Memorial Day

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.



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.

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,

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.

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

The Teachers at Unity Woods

thierry Chiapello, CIYT, is a Yoga All iance Registered Teacher at the RYT 500 hour- 200hr Experienced level. In addition to NDU, he teaches Iyengar yoga at the Pentagon,

as well as classes, workshops and special events in the DC area.

leah Diquollo, CIYT Inter-mediate Junior I, began prac-ticing yoga in 1998. Her caring teaching style uses asana and Yogic philosophy to help students find ground-

ing, 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 courage, builds re-silience, 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 regular ly wi th senior teachers. She looks to cultivate and inspire the

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

Kate Krems, CIYT, is a lifelong mover and athlete who arrived at yoga after 15 years as a com-petitive swimmer. For her, yoga is a way to chill out, tune in, and find peace amidst chaos.

StaFFUnity Woods Office

(301) 656-8992 [email protected]

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 FlorescuBilly BialeckiReceptionists

ext. 500


- 9 -SPRING 2019

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. She is an experi-enced 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 III, B.S. Psychology/Neurobiology, M.S. Exercise Physiology, and Mom, applies joy, intuition and compassion.

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.

l inda San Gabr i e l 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 de-velop compassion, be-nevolence, 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. She holds

an M.A in health education

with a graduate certificate

in theology.

amy Van Mui, CIYT, has

taught since 2000. Her focus

on functional 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. WellWithin.com.

Kim weeks. CIYT, was voted three times DC's Best Yoga teacher. Kim loves being at Unity Woods and is grateful to

be of service in Bethesda.

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.

Julia Zawatsky, CIYT, be-gan practicing Iyengar Yoga in 2012. She has apprenticed with John Schumacher since 2015. Trained as a psychiatrist and psychoanalyst, Julia is

particularly interested in the intersection of yoga philosophy and human consciousness

StUDIO NewS

John was quoted in the November issue of Yoga Journal. Every year, Yoga Journal sends ambassadors into the field to get a view of yoga from the ground up. Jeremy Falk and Aris Seaberg, last year’s ambassadors, travelled around the country to speak to prominent yoga teachers about their views on the future of yoga. John stressed the importance of being committed to a lineage to move beyond the surface and get depth in the practice.

In the January/February issue of Yoga Journal called “The Leadership Issue”, John was mentioned in an interview by Andrea Ferretti with Maty Ezraty, the founder of YogaWorks. In the article, “Yogi in the House”, Maty speaks of the importance of looking for leadership from teachers who are rooted in a deeper sense of yoga as opposed to what she describes as “social-media personalities, publications like Yoga Journal, and conferences, which are all about numbers and not necessarily about teaching.”

Rocky’s New Year’s Eve fundraiser, Receiving the Dark, raised $1520.00. for The Word Works, a poetry-reading series held monthly at The Writer’s Center in Bethesda All proceeds will help out-of-town poets with travel funds. Thanks to all who contributed.

Rocky and artist/educator Lauren Rader will co-lead our 8th annual Art and Yoga Retreat at Sevenoaks Retreat Center in Madison, Virginia May 31 – June 2. Go to Laurenraderart.com for more details.

Rocky will co-lead a workshop called Aging and Vitality at Hope Springs Institute in southeastern Ohio, May 10-12. Go to their website www.hopespringsinstitute.org for more information and registration.

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.



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, 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 [email protected].

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.

Spring Boutique Sale! Grow your own discount!

April 1-30Buy 1 item = 10% offBuy 2 items = 15% off

Buy 3 or more items = 20% off

Includes ALL boutique items, so mix and match!

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

SPRING SeSSION DateS:

April 10 -- July 2, 2019

PRANAYAMA (BREATHING) CLASSES $19 $12 $24

NOte: For most classes, spring will be a 12-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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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.

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APRIL 10-JULY 2 First Class Namastesubtleties of body, breath, mind, and spirit. ... Pune, some in...

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