Ashtanga,Vinyasa Yoga, and Pilates in Chicago


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June 2008 Annoucements (last updated 6/17/08):

Namaste Yogis please see many new classes I have added this summer at Yoga Now in the Gold Coast. What else is new? Tuesday nights at I will be teaching on the Beach (Oak Street Beach) be sure to pre-register online at www.yoganowchicago.com and bring your own mat:) I also got married June 7, 2008 to my longtime boyfriend Brett and we are very happy, it was a very special day for us and our families! Anyway hope you are enjoying the beautiful sunshine and Hope to see you in class soon:)

Om shanti,

Jessica



April /May 2008 Annoucements (last updated 5/11/08):

*Sunday 4:00-5:00 pm May 18th I will be teaching a FREE ashtanga yoga class 1/2 primary at the Chicago Green Festival. Visit their website for more info: http://www.greenfestivals.org/content/view/655/209/

Namaste Yogis It's good to be back and teaching even though I miss the wonderful weather of India. I loved India and everyone I met and everything I learned there! I 'm looking forward to sharing all the knowledge I was so lucky to learn with you all. I have some new classes this Spring that I'm very excited to annouce! Starting April 1rst I will be teaching a 1/2 primary series Ashtanga Yoga class at Yoga Now Gold Coast Mondays 12-1. If you have done Ashtanga this is a great class to continue to refine the first half of the series. If you haven't done Ashtanga this is the perfect place to start (beginners are welcome)!! Don't be intimidated by this practice it is beautiful and can be modified to fit absolutely any level! Also new at Yoga Now Gold Coast I'm teaching a Friday 10-11:30 Ashtanga Inspired Vinyasa Flow which will give us a little more time to dig deeper into the primary series and play with a little second series!

Please see my current schedule above and feel free to email me with any questions.

See you in class

Namaste,

Jessica



April /May 2008 Annoucements (last updated 5/5/08):

*Sunday 4:00-5:00 pm May 18th I will be teaching a FREE ashtanga yoga class 1/2 primary at the Chicago Green Festival. Visit their website for more info: http://www.greenfestivals.org/content/view/655/209/

*Jessica's class featured in the Soulistic April Newsletter http://www.soulisticstudiospa.com/news.html#

Namaste Yogis It's good to be back and teaching even though I miss the wonderful weather of India. I loved India and everyone I met and everything I learned there! I 'm looking forward to sharing all the knowledge I was so lucky to learn with you all. I have some new classes this Spring that I'm very excited to annouce! Starting April 1rst I will be teaching a 1/2 primary series Ashtanga Yoga class at Yoga Now Gold Coast Mondays 12-1. If you have done Ashtanga this is a great class to continue to refine the first half of the series. If you haven't done Ashtanga this is the perfect place to start (beginners are welcome)!! Don't be intimidated by this practice it is beautiful and can be modified to fit absolutely any level! Also new at Yoga Now Gold Coast I'm teaching a Friday 10-11:30 Ashtanga Inspired Vinyasa Flow which will give us a little more time to dig deeper into the primary series and play with a little second series!I'm also starting a new class in April at Soulistic Studio on Thursday evenings 7:45-8:45 pm this class is a level 1 - all levels class. It is a Yin Yang Yoga/Intro to Vinyasa Flow, which means I will integrate the wonderful restorative long holds of Yin Yoga with the energizing flow of a Yang practice. You will love this class it will leave you with a wonderful sense of balance to the mind and body that you can take with you into the rest of your life!

Please see my current schedule above and feel free to email me with any questions.

See you in class

Namaste,

Jessica



March/April 2008 Annoucements (last updates 3/26/08):

Namaste Yogis It's good to be back and teaching even though I miss the wonderful weather of India. I loved India and everyone I met and everything I learned there! I 'm looking forward to sharing all the knowledge I was so lucky to learn with you all. I have some new classes this Spring that I'm very excited to annouce! Starting April 1rst I will be teaching a 1/2 primary series Ashtanga Yoga class at Yoga Now Gold Coast Mondays 12-1. If you have done Ashtanga this is a great class to continue to refine the first half of the series. If you haven't done Ashtanga this is the perfect place to start (beginners are welcome)!! Don't be intimidated by this practice it is beautiful and can be modified to fit absolutely any level! I'm also starting a new class in April at Soulistic Studio on Thursday evenings 7:45-8:45 pm this class is a level 1 - all levels class. It is a Yin Yang Yoga, which means I will integrate the wonderful restorative long holds of Yin Yoga in order to go deeper into the body with the flowing energetic Yang practice. You will love this class it will leave you with a wonderful sense of balance to the mind and body that you can take with you into the rest of your life! Also, I'm excited to report that Century Bally Total Fitness (clark and Diversy) where I teach Pilates Reformer just recieved 5 brand new Balanced Body Reformers, 5 new Barrels, and 5 new Chairs. So if you are interested in Pilates on the Equipment this is a great (and very affordable) studio to practice. I'm currently teaching group Pilates Reformer there on Tuesdays and Thursdays 4-5 pm Please email me to reserve your space (there are only 5 slots open per class)

Please see my current schedule above and feel free to email me with any questions.

See you in class

Namaste,

Jessica


JAN/FEB 2008 ANNOUCEMENTS (last updated 12/26/07):
Namaste Yogis and Yoginis! Happy New Year! Do you make New Year's Resolutions? This year I've decieded I'm changing my vocabulary from resolution to intention. I've been thinking lately about the idea of setting intentions in life. One of the things I've been working on personaly that I want to share is the idea of going into any situation with an intention but without an expectation. For example in Yoga Asana practice we start each asana with a intention of what we want to feel, focus, breathe, but it is unproductive to start a asana thinking that we have to achieve perfect results. It is more productive to approach the asana enjoying the process without attachment to the outcome. This lessson can be used off the mat as well. Approaching situations without expectations or attachement to the results originates from the Buddhist teachings of non-attachement. Using intention in our life on and off the mat will keep us focused and present, but as my teacher Larry often put it, "life still sometimes throws us curve balls". When we get a "cureveball" it's a oppurtunity to put into practice intention without expectation! Using this practice we can keep calm and relaxed through any situation and as my father says "Any problem can be solved":) As many of you already know my intentions will start this year in India. I step off the plane in Delhi just 10 minutes into 2008! I will be studying with my guru Patthbi Jois and his family in Mysore for 7 weeks then spend a week in Rishikesh attending the International Yoga and Ayurveda Conference. I return to Chicago in March to take back over my classes. I will be emailing out journaling and pictures of my adventures. If you are interested in recieving these emails and are not are on my email list please send me your email at (jessica@smileyogachicago.com). I look forward to hearing your 2008 intentions sharing my India travel experiences with you in person when I return!! Thank you to all of my regular students, family, friends, teachers subbing for me, and my amazing mysore teachers for your words of support, wisdom, and gifts to help me with this journey. I wish you a fruitful, positive, and peacefilled 2008!

Namaste,
Om Shanti,
Jessica


BALLY's NORTHRIVERSIDE MONTHLY SATURDAY CLASS ANNOUCEMENTS:

We will be restarting the monthly Saturday classes at Bally's in March (date to be annouced) when I return from India. If you are interested in attending this class please send me a email to be on the list. The cost is only $8.00 for members and $10.00 for non-members and it is a 1.5 hour Power Vinyasa Yoga (super fun and energy charged)!

BALLY's CENTURY PILATES ALLEGRO REFORMER CLASSES FORMING NOW:
Allegro Reformer classes will be reforming in Jan/Feb to begin the new sessions when I return in March if you are interested in joining please send me a email to reserve your spot. Pricing is between 21 and 25 dollars a class depending on what size package you purchase 4-16 packs. Class times will be Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays 4-5 pm at Century City Bally's (Clark and Diversy) Please note that these are not drop in classes - commitment to attendace is mandatory cancelations under 24 notice will be charged (only exceptions will be extreme emergencies).

new years
CLASS SCHEDULE:
Happy 2008 May you manifest all your hopes and dreams! Om Shanthi Shanthi Shanthithi
*Monday Dec 31st New Years eve my 6:30-7:30 am Yoga at Old Town Fitness formula is cancelled
*Starting Monday Dec 31st New Years eve my 12-1 Pilates Mat at Yoga Now gold coast is taken off the schedule
*Monday night Vinyasa Yoga 7:30-9 pm at Namaskar will be cancelled starting Dec 31st and will resume the first Monday in March when I return from India In this classes absense some other options are 6-7:30 pm Mondays with Mary Beth or 7:30-8:45 pm Wednesdays with Jody.

TRIP TO INDIA
*Hopefully I have remembered to officially annouce it in all my classes
but I will be traveling to India this winter for 2
months (jan and feb) to study with my guru Pattahbi
Jois and his family in Mysore for 7 weeks and then to the
International Yoga and Ayeurveda conference in
Rishikesh for 1 week. I leave Sunday December 30th and return the last day of February. My Pilates Mat 12-1 at Yoga Now is taken off the schedule starting Dec 31. My Pilates Allegro class Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays 4-5 at Century Bally's will be cancelled until I return and all of my other classes elsewhere will have wonderful subs in my absence. I will be keeping a journal of my adventures in India and sending a few emails over the course of my trip sharing my experiences if any of you are interested in getting those emails please send me your email and I'll add you to my mailing list. Otherwise I look forward to sharing all my experiences and adventures with you in person when I return to teaching in Chicago in March:)


DEC 2007 Annoucements (12/5/07)

Namaste Yogis and Yoginis! Happy Holidays! It's that time of the year when things get busy and yoga is just what we need to keep us calm, relaxed and balanced. I'm subbing some extra classes this month before I leave for my trip to India. So hopefully you can come out to some:)


EXTRA CLASSES AT YOGA NOW:
I'm subbing some extra classes at Yoga Now See my drop -in schedule above for dates and times. Please come out and see me feel free to visit the yoga now website for pricing and directions www.yoganowchicago.com

BALLY's NORTHRIVERSIDE SATURDAY CLASS ANNOUCEMENTS:

The December Bally's Power Yoga class (Dec 16th) is cancelled due to low attendance last month. I'm sorry to the regulars and I hope that you are able to come to some of my classes at other locations this month. Otherwise we will be restarting the monthly Saturday classes at Bally's in March (date to be annouced) when I return from India. I wish you all a happy holidays if I don't get to see you before then.

EXTRA CLASSES I'M SUBBING THIS MONTH:
(these are all drop in classes anyone is welcome:)
*
Yoga Now Edgewater locationYoga 12:30-2pm Saturday 12/8, and 12/15


Xmas/new years CLASS SCHEDULE:
I will be visiting my family out of town for the holidays from 12/22-12/26
*Classes that will be cancelled are: 12/24 Monday and 12/26 Wednesday Pilates Allegro at Century 4-5pm,Yoga at Fitness Formula Old Town 12/24 Monday 6:30 a.m., Pilates Mat at Yoga Now Gold Coast 12/24 Monday 12-1 pm
*Classes that will have subs: Old Town Fitness Formula Yoga 12/26 Wednesday at 6:30 a.m
, and Yoga at Lakeshore Athletic Club 6:15-7:30 pm Wed 12/26


TRIP TO INDIA
*Hopefully I have remembered to officially annouce it in all my classes
but I will be traveling to India this winter for 2
months (jan and feb) to study with my guru Pattahbi
Jois and his family in Mysore and then to the
International Yoga and Ayeurveda conference in
Rishikesh. My Pilates Allegro class Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays 4-5 at Century Bally's will be cancelled until I return and all of my other classes elsewhere will have wonderful subs in my absence. I will be keeping a journal and sending a a email or two while I'm in India sharing my experiences if any of you are interested in getting those emails please send me your email and I'll add you to my mailing list. Otherwise I look forward to sharing all my new
knowledge and adventures with all of you in person when I return in March:)



NOV 2007 Annoucements (11/1/07)
Namaste Yogis and Yoginis! Happy Thanksgiving!

BALLY's NORTHRIVERSIDE SATURDAY CLASS ANNOUCEMENTS:
The format for the Bally's 10:30-12:30 am Power Yoga class has changed. Starting in November this class is meeting monthly. This month we will meet Sunday November 11th 10:30-12 in the large room. Pricing will be $6.00 per class for members and $10.00 per class for non-members. So bring your class for a powerful and energizing Ashtanga inspired Vinyasa Class!!

EXTRA CLASSES I'M SUBBING THIS MONTH:

* Yoga Now This Sunday 11/4/07 I will be subbing Yoga for Athletes 3:30-5 pm at Yoga Now Gold Coast

THANKSGIVING CLASS SCHEDULE:
I will be out of town for the holidays
*Class Cancelations:Weds 11/21 4-5 pm Pilates Allegro Ballys Century, 6:15-7:30 pm Vinyasa Yoga Lakeshore Illinois Center, 11/22 4-5 Pilates Allegro Bally's Century, 6:30-8 pm Hatha Yoga Lakeshore Illinois Center
*Classes with subs: Weds 11/21 9-10:30 am Namaskar, Friday 11/23 6:30-7:30 am Old Town FFC



OCT 2007 UPDATE (10/4/07)

Namaste Friends -Happy Fall! Happy Halloween!! Reminder I have a new Pilates class at Yoga Now Gold Coast on Mondays 12-1 so please tell your friends and come out and see me! There is also still some spaces open in my Pilates Reformer classes at Bally's email me if you're interested.
And lastly, October 4th is World Animal Day so send some love to your animal friends:)
Om Shanthi,
Jessica


NEW CLASS
!!

*I'm very proud and excited to annouce that starting Monday September10th I will be teaching a 1 hour Pilates Mat class at Yoga Now in the Gold Coast from 12-1. Yoga Now is a absoultely beautiful studio with a wonderfully positive vibe! Please come out and join me. There is plenty of parking on the street at meters, there is a nearby L stop, and there is a parking lot where you can get a discount. Adding pilates just once a week to your yoga practice will make such a positive impact on your body. This is a drop in class feel free to show up anytime! ($16 for individual class discouted packages are available)

BALLY's SATURDAY CLASS ANNOUCEMENTS:

Those of you that attend my 10:30-12:30 Bally's Northriverside yoga class there will not be class Saturday October 13th and the following Saturday Oct 20th will be the last regular saturday class so come in and join me to use the rest of your packages. If you have used up your packages there will be a $6.00 per class charge for drop-ins through Oct 20th. And if you are not able to use up your package not to worry I will continue to teach one Saturday a month each month will have a new theme. More information on the new monthly class format coming soon. See you saturday:)

PEACE TEES HAND PAINTED YOGA THEMED T-SHIRTS and ONSIES

I'm starting a new side business of handpainted yoga themed t-shirts and onsies I will be creating a website shortly but I'm aleady selling the shirts now through word of mouth. If you are interested in seeing a sample and/or ordering a t-shirt or onsie from me please let me know. All shirts are handpainted with love by me on sweat shop free American Apparel t-shirts!

MORE !! FREE
PILATES REFORMER CLASSES:


*I have a just a few slots left in my Allegro classes at Century Bally's!! about 3 on Tuesdays, 2 Wednesdays, and 3 on Thursdays. The classes are filling up quick so please contact me soon If your'e interested in registering. (you DO NOT need to be a Bally's member to join). After your free 30 minute demo If you like the class and want to sign up for a 8 week session I can offer you a great discounted package! Classes will meet twice a week at Bally's Century City location (Clark/Diversy) Tuesdays and Thursdays 4-5 pm. or if you can only make it once a week you can come on the Wednesday timeslot 4-5pm These will be small group classes (5 students max) on the pilates allegro reformers with VERY affordable pricing. Please email me or call me to reserve your spot for a free demo! (jessica@smileyogachicago.com 773-343-8177)

EXTRA CLASSES I'M SUBBING THIS MONTH:


* Lakeshore Athletic Members:
I have permantely (at least for the Fall) taken over Sandy's Hatha yoga 6-7:30 pm at Lakeshore Illinois Center. Starting in October this class will change it's timeslot to 6:30-8 pm.
* Peninsula Members: My permanent class will run Tuesdays starting Tuesday Sept 25th from 6-7 pm. This will be a all levels Vinyasa class.
*
Yoga Now: I'm subbing Friday Oct 5th 4-5:30 pm Vinyasa Yoga at the Gold Coast Location and Sunday Oct 7th 12:30-2 pm yoga also at the Gold coast location






SEPT 2007 UPDATE (9/27/07)

Namaste Friends - A few new things to report for the end of Sept- Hope you enjoyed the Harvest Moon last night it was beautiful and I hope you're enjoying this wonderful fall weather! First of all thank you to everyone who came, supported, and dedicated their practice to Yoga Mala the turnout was great (about 300 or so yogis came). Lourdes did a amazing job with the organization! Also I have a new Pilates class at Yoga Now Gold Coast on Mondays 12-1 so please tell your friends and come out and see me! The is also still some spaces open in my Pilates Reformer classes at Bally's email me if you're interested. If you are a Lakeshore member my Thursday Hatha class will be switching it's time to 6:30-8 pm. Lastly this Saturday (7-9 pm Yoga Now Gold Coast is hosting a Satsang with Kundalini Kriya Yoga Master Yogiraj Siddhanath.
Also this Saturday Sept 29th in theme with Bally's Turn Back (70's week) I will be playing 70's music and lead you through a special yoga pilates fusion class at 1/2 the price only $3.00 this is at Bally Total Fitness Northriverside (Oak Park) 10:30-12:30!
See you in class:)
Om Shanthi,
Jessica

NEW CLASS STARTING IN SEPT!!

*I'm very proud and excited to annouce that starting Monday September10th I will be teaching a 1 hour Pilates Mat class at Yoga Now in the Gold Coast from 12-1. Yoga Now is a absoultely beautiful studio with a wonderfully positive vibe! Please come out and join me. There is plenty of parking on the street at meters, there is a nearby L stop, and there is a parking lot where you can get a discount. Adding pilates just once a week to your yoga practice will make such a positive impact on your body. This is a drop in class feel free to show up anytime! ($16 for individual class discouted packages are available)

BALLY's SATURDAY CLASS ANNOUCEMENTS:

Those of you that attend my 10:30-12:30 Bally's Northriverside yoga class there will not be class Saturday October 13th and the following Saturday Oct 20th will be the last regular saturday class so come in and join me to use the rest of your packages. If you have used up your packages there will be a $6.00 per class charge for drop-ins through Oct 20th. Also this Saturday Sept 29th in theme with Bally's Turn Back (70's week) I will be playing 70's music and lead you through a special yoga pilates fusion class at 1/2 the price only $3.00! And if you are not able to use up your package not to worry I will continue to teach one Saturday a month each month will have a new theme. More information on the new monthly class format coming soon. See you saturday:)

MORE !! FREE PILATES REFORMER CLASSES:

*I have a just a few slots left in my Allegro classes at Century Bally's!! about 3 on Tuesdays, 2 Wednesdays, and 3 on Thursdays. The classes are filling up quick so please contact me soon If your'e interested in registering. (you DO NOT need to be a Bally's member to join). After your free 30 minute demo If you like the class and want to sign up for a 8 week session I can offer you a great discounted package! Classes will meet twice a week at Bally's Century City location (Clark/Diversy) Tuesdays and Thursdays 4-5 pm. or if you can only make it once a week you can come on the Wednesday timeslot 4-5pm These will be small group classes (5 students max) on the pilates allegro reformers with VERY affordable pricing. Please email me or call me to reserve your spot for a free demo! (jessica@smileyogachicago.com 773-343-8177)


EXTRA CLASSES I'M SUBBING THIS MONTH:


* Lakeshore Athletic Members:
I have permantely (at least for the Fall) taken over Sandy's Hatha yoga 6-7:30 pm at Lakeshore Illinois Center. Starting in October this class will change it's timeslot to 6:30-8 pm.
* Peninsula Members: My permanent class will run Tuesdays starting Tuesday Sept 25th from 6-7 pm. This will be a all levels Vinyasa class.
*
Yoga Now: I'm subbing Friday Oct 5th 4-5:30 pm Vinyasa Yoga at the Gold Coast Location and Sunday Oct 7th 12:30-2 pm yoga also at the Gold coast location
*
Namaskar: I'm subbing this Sunday Sept 30th vinyasa yoga 9:30-11 am


SEPT 2007 UPDATE (9/21/07)

Namaste Friends - Lots of new things for Sept- I have a new Pilates class starting at Yoga Now Gold Coast, a new Pilates Reformer class Wednesdays at Century Bally's, and Sept 23rd I'm teaching at the Global Mala Project. Wishing you a happy end to the Summer- see you in class:)
Om Shanti,
Jessica

Yoga Mala Update! Those of you that are planning to come to the Yoga Mala this Sunday please be sure to arrive between 8:30-8:40 am for check-in at Michigan and Jackson or Buckingham Fountain, West side, located on Columbus Drive at Congress and bring your yoga mat:) If you want to practice with me just let them know your teacher is Jessica Aiken and they will direct you to the appropriate location:) See you Sunday!!

NEW CLASS STARTING IN SEPT!!

*I'm very proud and excited to annouce that starting Monday September10th I will be teaching a 1 hour Pilates Mat class at Yoga Now in the Gold Coast from 12-1. Yoga Now is a absoultely beautiful studio with a wonderfully positive vibe! Please come out and join me. There is plenty of parking on the street at meters, there is a nearby L stop, and there is a parking lot where you can get a discount. Adding pilates just once a week to your yoga practice will make such a positive impact on your body. This is a drop in class feel free to show up anytime! ($16 for individual class discouted packages are available)

BALLY's SATURDAY CLASS ANNOUCEMENTS:

Those of you that attend my 10:30-12:30 Bally's Northriverside yoga class there will not be class Saturday October 13th and the following Saturday Oct 20th will be the last regular saturday class so come in and join me to use the rest of your packages. If you have used up your packages there will be a $6.00 per class charge for drop-ins through Oct 20th. And if you are not able to use up your package not to worry I will continue to teach one Saturday a month each month will have a new theme. More information on the new monthly class format coming soon. See you saturday:)

GLOBAL MALA YOGA STUDENTS NEEDED


The Chicago Yoga Community is joining The Global Mala Project, a world–wide event to be observed in 30 countries and cities across the US. Global Mala is the largest unified worldwide yoga event dedicated to positive change in the history of the planet. I will be teaching at the Global Mala and I'm looking for students to register with me! You can register with me at any of my classes you will write a check to Namaskar for a donation of minumum $18. This donation directly support Trees for the Future, War Child, and Youth Aids. Visit www.globalmalachicago.com for more information on this event.
 
The event will be ONE MILE of YOGA for PEACE.  On the International Day of Peace, September 23, 2007 at 9:00am, we will gather as the Chicagoland Yoga Community in downtown Chicago to offer a Yoga Mala: We will line 12 blocks, exact location to be announced, and offer each 9 sun salutations, which symbolically equals the 108 of a mala. Each teacher will have at least 4 students, in order to create a mile of yogis (approximately 400 yoga mats).  We will have studios and teachers assigned to each block, where there will be a “block captain” who will organize that section. Once you sign up you will be emailed which block you'll be located at. Once yogis are assembled, we will begin the ritual of 9 surya namaskars (6 surya namaskar A and 3 surya namaskar B), staying as synchronized as possible. Kenny Mazursky will use his Earth Gong to set the “pulse”/pace.
 
Directly following we will gather for an inspirational program, including an invocation, japa mala, and kirtan by Devi 2000, and inspirational speakers. Paul Wietz and Paul Fowler,with their students, have generously offered Thai massage for participants interested. The event should conclude by 12 noon.
 
YOGA AS PEACE IN ACTION (more background info about Global Mala):


The UN Days of Peace is a world-wide event where spiritual practices are observed for peace and non-violence. This global practice is meant to demonstrate the power of prayer and spiritual practices in promoting peace and preventing violent conflict. These worldwide spiritual observances will also help raise the public awareness of the International Day of Peace and directly support the establishment of a global cease-fire.

This is also opportunity for the yoga community collectively to raise awareness and funds for organizations committed to peaceful and positive change in our world. Chicago's funds will directly support Trees for the Future, War Child, and Youth Aids. Please pass on the information to communities where you are involved. This is a universal practice and we welcome all Yogis, Activists, Artists, and Humans BEING FOR PEACE,  of all ages and abilities. We invite you to cross the borders of your yoga mat, yoga studio, style and form of yoga to create a mile of yoga… we need at least 400 people. CHILDREN ARE WELCOME!

*I will be teaching at the Global Mala International Yoga Event and I'm looking for students (email me Jessica@smileyogachicago.com)!

MORE !! FREE PILATES REFORMER CLASSES:

*I have a just a few slots left in my Allegro classes at Century Bally's!! about 3 on Tuesdays, 2 Wednesdays, and 3 on Thursdays. The classes are filling up quick so please contact me soon If your'e interested in registering. (you DO NOT need to be a Bally's member to join). After your free 30 minute demo If you like the class and want to sign up for a 8 week session I can offer you a great discounted package! Classes will meet twice a week at Bally's Century City location (Clark/Diversy) Tuesdays and Thursdays 4-5 pm. or if you can only make it once a week you can come on the Wednesday timeslot 4-5pm These will be small group classes (5 students max) on the pilates allegro reformers with VERY affordable pricing. Please email me or call me to reserve your spot for a free demo! (jessica@smileyogachicago.com 773-343-8177)


EXTRA CLASSES I'M SUBBING THIS MONTH:


* Lakeshore Athletic Members:
I have permantely (at least for the Fall) taken over Sandy's Hatha yoga 6-7:30 pm at Lakeshore Illinois Center.
* Peninsula Members: My permanent class will run Tuesdays starting Tuesday Sept 25th from 6-7 pm. This will be a all levels Vinyasa class.
*
Yoga Now: I'm subbing Tuesday September 25th 12-1 pm Ashtanga Yoga at Yoga Now Gold Coast and Friday Oct 5th 4-5:30 pm Vinyasa Yoga also at the Gold Coast Location

SEPT 2007 UPDATE (9/12/07)

Namaste Friends - Lots of new things for Sept- I have a new Pilates class starting at Yoga Now Gold Coast, a new Pilates Reformer class Wednesdays at Century Bally's, and Sept 23rd I'm teaching at the Global Mala Project. Wishing you a happy end to the Summer- see you in class:)
Om Shanti,
Jessica

NEW CLASS STARTING IN SEPT!!

*I'm very proud and excited to annouce that starting Monday September10th I will be teaching a 1 hour Pilates Mat class at Yoga Now in the Gold Coast from 12-1. Yoga Now is a absoultely beautiful studio with a wonderfully positive vibe! Please come out and join me. There is plenty of parking on the street at meters, there is a nearby L stop, and there is a parking lot where you can get a discount. Adding pilates just once a week to your yoga practice will make such a positive impact on your body. This is a drop in class feel free to show up anytime! ($16 for individual class discouted packages are available)

BALLY's SATURDAY CLASS ANNOUCEMENTS:

Those of you that attend my 10:30-12:30 Bally's Northriverside yoga class there will not be class Saturday October 13th and the following Saturday Oct 20th will be the last regular saturday class so come in and join me to use the rest of your packages. If you have used up your packages there will be a $6.00 per class charge for drop-ins through Oct 20th. And if you are not able to use up your package not to worry I will continue to teach one Saturday a month each month will have a new theme. More information on the new monthly class format coming soon. See you saturday:)

GLOBAL MALA YOGA STUDENTS NEEDED


The Chicago Yoga Community is joining The Global Mala Project, a world–wide event to be observed in 30 countries and cities across the US. Global Mala is the largest unified worldwide yoga event dedicated to positive change in the history of the planet. I will be teaching at the Global Mala and I'm looking for students to register with me! You can register with me at any of my classes you will write a check to Namaskar for a donation of minumum $18. This donation directly support Trees for the Future, War Child, and Youth Aids. Visit www.globalmalachicago.com for more information on this event.
 
The event will be ONE MILE of YOGA for PEACE.  On the International Day of Peace, September 23, 2007 at 9:00am, we will gather as the Chicagoland Yoga Community in downtown Chicago to offer a Yoga Mala: We will line 12 blocks, exact location to be announced, and offer each 9 sun salutations, which symbolically equals the 108 of a mala. Each teacher will have at least 4 students, in order to create a mile of yogis (approximately 400 yoga mats).  We will have studios and teachers assigned to each block, where there will be a “block captain” who will organize that section. Once you sign up you will be emailed which block you'll be located at. Once yogis are assembled, we will begin the ritual of 9 surya namaskars (6 surya namaskar A and 3 surya namaskar B), staying as synchronized as possible. Kenny Mazursky will use his Earth Gong to set the “pulse”/pace.
 
Directly following we will gather for an inspirational program, including an invocation, japa mala, and kirtan by Devi 2000, and inspirational speakers. Paul Wietz and Paul Fowler,with their students, have generously offered Thai massage for participants interested. The event should conclude by 12 noon.
 
YOGA AS PEACE IN ACTION (more background info about Global Mala):


The UN Days of Peace is a world-wide event where spiritual practices are observed for peace and non-violence. This global practice is meant to demonstrate the power of prayer and spiritual practices in promoting peace and preventing violent conflict. These worldwide spiritual observances will also help raise the public awareness of the International Day of Peace and directly support the establishment of a global cease-fire.

This is also opportunity for the yoga community collectively to raise awareness and funds for organizations committed to peaceful and positive change in our world. Chicago's funds will directly support Trees for the Future, War Child, and Youth Aids. Please pass on the information to communities where you are involved. This is a universal practice and we welcome all Yogis, Activists, Artists, and Humans BEING FOR PEACE,  of all ages and abilities. We invite you to cross the borders of your yoga mat, yoga studio, style and form of yoga to create a mile of yoga… we need at least 400 people. CHILDREN ARE WELCOME!

*I will be teaching at the Global Mala International Yoga Event and I'm looking for students (email me Jessica@smileyogachicago.com)!

MORE !! FREE PILATES REFORMER CLASSES:

*I have a just a few slots left in my Allegro classes at Century Bally's!! about 3 on Tuesdays, 2 Wednesdays, and 3 on Thursdays. The classes are filling up quick so please contact me soon If your'e interested in registering. (you DO NOT need to be a Bally's member to join). After your free 30 minute demo If you like the class and want to sign up for a 8 week session I can offer you a great discounted package! Classes will meet twice a week at Bally's Century City location (Clark/Diversy) Tuesdays and Thursdays 4-5 pm. or if you can only make it once a week you can come on the Wednesday timeslot 4-5pm These will be small group classes (5 students max) on the pilates allegro reformers with VERY affordable pricing. Please email me or call me to reserve your spot for a free demo! (jessica@smileyogachicago.com 773-343-8177)


EXTRA CLASSES I'M SUBBING THIS MONTH:


* Lakeshore Athletic Members:
I have permantely (at least for the Fall) taken over Sandy's Hatha yoga 6-7:30 pm at Lakeshore Illinois Center.
* Peninsula Members: I'm subbing Tuesday 9/18 12-1 Yoga and My permanent class will run Tuesdays starting Tuesday Sept 25th from 6-7 pm. This will be a all levels Vinyasa class.




JULY 2007 ANNOUCEMENTS (updated 7/19/07):

HAPPY 92nd Birthday Guruji: Sri K. Pattabhi Jois's birthday falls on July 29th this year!
SPECIAL JULY DATES:

*New Moon - July 14th

*Full Moon/Guruji's Birthday - July 29th

INSPIRATIONS:

*A few inspiring quotes I found on living in the present moment:

A Vinaya Master named Yuan asked Hui-hai: "When discipling oneself in the Tao, is there any special way of doing it?"
"When hundry one eats; when tired one sleeps," said Hui-hai.
"But that is what other people do," said Yuan. "Is their way the same as yours?"
"Not the same," said Hui
"Why not?"
"When they eat, they do not just eat, but conjure up all kinds of imagination; when they sleep, they do not just sleep, they are given to all sorts of idle thoughts."
The Vinaya master asked nothing further of the Zen master.
ZEN MONDO


Sit just to sit. And why not sit? You have to sit sometime, and so you may as well reeally sit, and be altogether here. Otherwise the mind wanders away from the matter at hand, and away from the present. Even to think throught the implications of the present is to avoid the present moment completely.
ALAN WATTS


MORE !! FREE
PILATES REFORMER CLASSES:


*If your'e interested in registering for a free pilates allegro demo please email me to for more information. (you DO NOT need to be a Bally's member to join). If you like the class and want to sign up for a 8 week session. Classes will meet twice a week at Bally's Century City location (Clark/Diversy) Tuesdays and Thursdays 4-5 pm. These will be small group classes (5 students max) on the pilates allegro reformers with VERY affordable pricing. Please email me or call me to reserve your spot for a free demo! (jessica@smileyogachicago.com 773-343-8177)

EXTRA CLASSES I'M SUBBING THIS MONTH:

*
This Summer at Namaskar I'm subbing Mondays 7/30 and 8/6 9:30-11 a.m. Vinyasa Flow Yoga and Thursdays 7/27, 8/2, and 8/9 9:30-11 am Vinyasa Flow yoga

* Fitness Formula Members: Mondays July 16th, July 23rd, and July 30th from 5-6 pm I will be subbing pilates mat at 190 N Lasalle
* Lakeshore Athletic Members: Thursdays July 19th, July 26th, August 2nd, and August 9th I will be subbing hatha yoga 6:30-8 pm at Lakeshore Athletic Club Illinois Center



SUBS, CANCELLATIONS, ECT:

* Tuesday and Thursday August 14th and 16th 4-5 pilates allegro at Bally's Century City will be cancelled
*Wendesday August 15th 7:30-9pm Yoga at Namaskar will have a sub
*Wednesday August 15th 6:30-7:30 am Yoga, Friday August 17th 6:30-7:30 am Yoga, and Monday August 20th 6:30-7:30 am Yoga will all have subs at Old Town Fitness Formula
* Saturdays August 4th, August 18th, and September 1st 10:30-12:30 yoga class will be cancelled at Bally Total Fitness Northriverside
*Sundays July 15th and August19th 12-1 yoga class at Rivercity will have sub
s


JULY 2007 ANNOUCEMENTS (updated 7/11/07):

HAPPY 92nd Birthday Guruji: Sri K. Pattabhi Jois's birthday falls on July 29th this year!
SPECIAL JULY DATES:

*New Moon - July 14th

*Full Moon/Guruji's Birthday - July 29th

INSPIRATIONS:

*A few inspiring quotes I found on living in the present moment:

A Vinaya Master named Yuan asked Hui-hai: "When discipling oneself in the Tao, is there any special way of doing it?"
"When hundry one eats; when tired one sleeps," said Hui-hai.
"But that is what other people do," said Yuan. "Is their way the same as yours?"
"Not the same," said Hui
"Why not?"
"When they eat, they do not just eat, but conjure up all kinds of imagination; when they sleep, they do not just sleep, they are given to all sorts of idle thoughts."
The Vinaya master asked nothing further of the Zen master.
ZEN MONDO


Sit just to sit. And why not sit? You have to sit sometime, and so you may as well reeally sit, and be altogether here. Otherwise the mind wanders away from the matter at hand, and away from the present. Even to think throught the implications of the present is to avoid the present moment completely.
ALAN WATTS


MORE !! FREE
PILATES REFORMER CLASSES:


*If your'e interested in registering for a free pilates allegro demo please email me to for more information. (you DO NOT need to be a Bally's member to join). If you like the class and want to sign up for a 8 week session. Classes will meet twice a week at Bally's Century City location (Clark/Diversy) Tuesdays and Thursdays 4-5 pm. These will be small group classes (5 students max) on the pilates allegro reformers with VERY affordable pricing. Please email me or call me to reserve your spot for a free demo! (jessica@smileyogachicago.com 773-343-8177)

EXTRA CLASSES I'M SUBBING THIS MONTH:

*
This Summer at Namaskar I'm subbing Mondays 7/30 and 8/6 9:30-11 a.m. Vinyasa Flow Yoga and Thursdays 7/27, 8/2, and 8/9 9:30-11 am Vinyasa Flow yoga

* Fitness Formula Members: Mondays July 16th, July 23rd, and July 30th from 5-6 pm I will be subbing pilates mat at 190 N Lasalle
* Lakeshore Athletic Members: Thursdays July 19th, July 26th, August 2nd, and August 9th I will be subbing hatha yoga 6:30-8 pm at Lakeshore Athletic Club Illinois Center



SUBS, CANCELLATIONS, ECT:

* Tuesday and Thursday August 14th and 16th 4-5 pilates allegro at Bally's Century City will be cancelled
*Wendesday August 15th 7:30-9pm Yoga at Namaskar will have a sub
*Wednesday August 15th 6:30-7:30 am Yoga, Friday August 17th 6:30-7:30 am Yoga, and Monday August 20th 6:30-7:30 am Yoga will all have subs at Old Town Fitness Formula
* Saturdays July14th and August 18th 10:30-12:30 yoga class will be cancelled at Bally Total Fitness Northriverside
*Sundays July 15th and August19th 12-1 yoga class at Rivercity will have sub
s


JULY 2007 ANNOUCEMENTS (updated 7/3/07):

HAPPY 92nd Birthday Guruji: Sri K. Pattabhi Jois's birthday falls on July 29th this year!
SPECIAL JULY DATES:

*New Moon - July 14th

*Full Moon/Guruji's Birthday - July 29th

INSPIRATIONS:

*Amma is in town!! July 5th and 6th visit http://www.ammachicago.org/html/updates.html for more info


MORE !! FREE
PILATES REFORMER CLASSES:


*There is one More free pilates reformer classe in case you couldn't come last week - this will be held Tuesday July 10th 4:00-4:30pm at Bally Total Fitness Century City location (you DO NOT need to be a Bally's member to join). If you like the class and want to sign up for a 8 week session. Classes will meet twice a week at Bally's Century City location (Clark/Diversy) Tuesdays and Thursdays 4-5 pm. These will be small group classes (5 students max) on the pilates allegro reformers with VERY affordable pricing. Please email me or call me to reserve your spot for a free demo! (jessica@smileyogachicago.com 773-343-8177)

EXTRA CLASSES I'M SUBBING THIS MONTH:

* Fitness Formula Members: Mondays July 16th, July 23rd, and July 30th from 5-6 pm I will be subbing pilates mat at 190 N Lasalle
* Lakeshore Athletic Members: Thursdays July 19th, July 26th, August 2nd, and August 9th I will be subbing hatha yoga 6:30-8 pm at Lakeshore Athletic Club Illinois Center



SUBS, CANCELLATIONS, ECT:

*All classes cancelled Wednesday July 4th Have a great Holiday!!
* Tuesday and Thursday August 14th and 16th 4-5 pilates allegro at Bally's Century City will be cancelled
*Wendesday August 15th 7:30-9pm Yoga at Namaskar will have a sub
*Wednesday August 15th 6:30-7:30 am Yoga, Friday August 17th 6:30-7:30 am Yoga, and Monday August 20th 6:30-7:30 am Yoga will all have subs at Old Town Fitness Formula
* Saturdays July14th and August 18th 10:30-12:30 yoga class will be cancelled at Bally Total Fitness Northriverside
*Sundays July 9th, July 15th, and August19th 12-1 yoga class at Rivercity will have sub
s



JUNE 2007 UPDATES (updated 6/22/07):

MORE !! FREE PILATES REFORMER CLASSES:

*There are now More free pilates reformer classes in case you couldn't come last week - these will be held Tuesday June 26th and ThursdayJune 28th 4:00-4:30pm at Bally Total Fitness Century City location (you DO NOT need to be a Bally's member to join). If you like the class and want to sign up for a 8 week session. Classes will meet twice a week at Bally's Century City location (Clark/Diversy) Tuesdays and Thursdays 4-5 pm. These will be small group classes (5 students max) on the pilates allegro reformers with VERY affordable pricing. Please email me or call me to reserve your spot for a free demo! (jessica@smileyogachicago.com 773-343-8177)

EXTRA CLASSES I'M SUBBING:

* Fitness Formula Members: Mondays July 16th, July 23rd, and July 30th from 5-6 pm I will be subbing pilates mat at 190 N Lasalle
* Lakeshore Athletic Members: Thursdays July 19th, July 26th, August 2nd, and August 9th I will be subbing hatha yoga 6:30-8 pm at Lakeshore Athletic Club Illinois Center


INSPIRATIONS:

*"The mind is like water: when it's still, there is reflection; when disturbed, no mirror."
Seng-Chao

SUBS, CANCELLATIONS, ECT:

*All classes cancelled Wednesday July 4th Have a great Holiday!!
* Tuesday and Thursday August 14th and 16th 4-5 pilates allegro at Bally's Century City will be cancelled
*Wendesday August 15th 7:30-9pm Yoga at Namaskar will have a sub
*Monday July 2nd 6:30- 7:30 am Yoga, Wednesday August 15th 6:30-7:30 am Yoga, Friday August 17th 6:30-7:30 am Yoga, and Monday August 20th 6:30-7:30 am Yoga will all have subs at Old Town Fitness Formula
* Saturdays July14th and August 18th 10:30-12:30 yoga class will be cancelled at Bally Total Fitness Northriverside
*Sundays July 9th, July 15th, and August19th 12-1 yoga class at Rivercity will have sub
s


JUNE 2007 UPDATES:

FREE PILATES REFORMER CLASSES:

*Finally the time has come!! I'm starting FREE Pilates Allegro Reformer Demos these will be held Tuesday June 5th and Thursday June 7th 4:00-4:30pm at Bally Total Fitness Century City location (you DO NOT need to be a Bally's member to join). If you like the class and want to sign up for a 8 week session. Classes will meet twice a week at Bally's Century City location (Clark/Diversy). These will be small group classes (5 students max) on the pilates allegro reformers with VERY affordable pricing. Please email me or call me to reserve your spot for a free demo! (jessica@smileyogachicago.com 773-343-8177)

EXTRA CLASSES I'M SUBBING:

*
Namaskar I am subbing Mondays June 4th and June 11th 9:30-11 am Vinyasa Flow Yoga
* Fitness Formula Members: Friday June15th I will be subbing 12:15-1:15 yoga at Fitness Formula Union Startion and Monday June 18th I will sub 5:30-6:30 yoga at Fitness Formula Gold Coast

* Lakeshore Athletic Members:Thursday July 19th I will be subbing yoga 6:30-8 pm
* Bally Total Fitness Members: Sunday June 3rd I will be subbing 9:30-10:30 am yoga at Bally Total Fitness Webster Place.


INSPIRATIONS:

*"The mind is like water: when it's still, there is reflection; when disturbed, no mirror."
Seng-Chao

SUBS, CANCELLATIONS, ECT:

*June 13th Wednesday I will have a sub for my 6:15 -7:30 pm yoga class at Lakeshore Athletic Club
* Saturday July14th 10:30-12:30 yoga class will be cancelled at Bally Total Fitness Northriverside
*Sundays July 9th and July 15th 12-1 yoga class at Rivercity will have sub
s



MORE MAY 2007 UPDATES:
Happy Memorial Day!

MEMORIAL DAY SCHEDULE:

*Memorial Day weekend I will be out of town Saturday May 26 my 10:30 Power yoga at Bally's Northriverside is cancelled and Sunday May 27th 12-1 Beg Yoga at Rivercity Bally's is cancelled, and Monday 6:30-7:30 am at Old Town Fitness Formula is cancelled, and last but not least 7:30 -9 pm Namaskar is cancelled.

EXTRA CLASSES I'M SUBBING:

* Fitness Formula Members: Fridays May 11th and June15th I will be subbing 12:15-1:15 yoga at Fitness Formula Union Startion and Monday June 18th I will sub 5:30-6:30 yoga at Fitness Formula Gold Coast

halsted-community@lululemon.com
*May 18th Friday I will be subbing yoga at Namaskar 9:30-11 am (this is a DROP IN class- all are welcome)
* Lakeshore Athletic Members:Wednesday May 30th I will be subbing 12:15-1:15 yoga at Lakeshore Athletic Club Illinois Center
* Bally Total Fitness Members: Sundays May 20th and June 3rd I will be subbing 9:30-10:30 am yoga at Bally Total Fitness Webster Place.


INTERESTED IN PILATES ON THE REFORMER?


* Please send me a email if you would like more information on Pilates Reformer classes. These classes are open to all levels - no experience necessary. Classes will meet twice a week at Bally's Century City location (Clark/Diversy). These will be small group classes on the reformers with very affordable pricing. I will be offering a FREE 20 minute demo class to all that are interested. Free Demos will begin towards the beginning of June please email me if you are interested in being on the list (non- Bally's members can take these classes as well)


MAY 2007 UPDATES:

FREE CLASS AT LULULEMON

*Next Sunday May 13th 10-11a.m. I will be teaching the Sunday Salutations - a free yoga class (level 1/mixed) at the Lululemon on Halsted street Space is limited so please RSVP:
halsted-community@lululemon.com
- Hope to see you there!

DALAI LAMA VISITS CHICAGO

*This sunday the Dalai Lama will give a public lecture on "Finding Inner Peace in a World Full of Turmoil" at Jay Pritzker Pavilion Millennium Park visit www.tibetan-alliance.org for ticket info. I will have a sub for my 12-1 class at Bally's Rivercity so I can attend.

EXTRA CLASSES I'M SUBBING:

* Fitness Formula Members: Fridays May 11th and June15th I will be subbing 12:15-1:15 yoga at Fitness Formula Union Startion and Monday June 18th I will sub 5:30-6:30 yoga at Fitness Formula Gold Coast
*Next Sunday May 13th from 10-11 am I'm teaching a FREE level 1 yoga class (all are welcome) at the
Lululemon on Halsted street Space is limited so please RSVP:
halsted-community@lululemon.com
*May 18th Friday I will be subbing yoga at Namaskar 9:30-11 am (this is a DROP IN class- all are welcome)
* Lakeshore Athletic Members:Wednesday May 30th I will be subbing 12:15-1:15 yoga at Lakeshore Athletic Club Illinois Center
* Bally Total Fitness Members: Sundays May 20th and June 3rd I will be subbing 9:30-10:30 am yoga at Bally Total Fitness Webster Place.

CANCELLATIONS and SUBS:

*Memorial Day weekend I will be out of town Saturday May 26 my 10:30 Power yoga at Bally's Northriverside is cancelled and Sunday May 27th 12-1 Beg Yoga at Rivercity Bally's is cancelled as well

INTERESTED IN PILATES ON THE REFORMER?


* Please send me a email if you would like more information on Pilates Reformer classes. These classes are open to all levels - no experience necessary. Classes will meet twice a week at Bally's Century City location (Clark/Diversy). These will be small group classes on the reformers with very affordable pricing. I will be offering a FREE 20 minute demo class to all that are interested. Free Demos will begin towards the beginning of June please email me if you are interested in being on the list (non- Bally's members can take these classes as well)


APRIL/MAY/JUNE 2007 Announcements:

*There are no longer classes offered at Arabesque
THANK YOU
to all the students who have supported me at Arabesque and shared your beautiful practice with me there. Please send me a email if you're are interested in my schedule at other locations.


SCHEDULE CHANGES

*Starting April 25 my Wednesday morning class at Namaskar will move to 9:00-10:30 am. My Monday night 7:30-9 pm at Namaskar will stay the same. They are both mixed levels Ashtanga inspired Vinyasa flow all are welcome!

CANCELLATIONS and SUBS:

*Memorial Day weekend I will be out of town Saturday May 26 my 10:30 Power yoga at Bally's Northriverside is cancelled and Sunday May 27 I will have a sub for my 12-1 beg yoga at Rivercity Bally's.

EXTRA CLASSES I'M SUBBING:

* I will be subbing May 3rd Thursday 6:30-8 pm yoga at Lakeshore Athletic club Illinois Center so if you're a member there come in and see me!
*Sunday June 3rd I will be subbing 9:30-10:30 am yoga at Bally Total Fitness Webster Place.

EVENTS/RECOMMENDATIONS:

*April 21-22 is GreenFest where we can learn more about how to live Green and save our environment! I will be volunteering at the Yoga Chicago magazine booth from 4-6pm on Sunday so come over and say hi if you're there.

INSPIRATIONS:

* "Only one who makes no attempt to possess it cannot lose it." Lao-tsu I think this quote is helpful in better illustrating the the Yama (yamas are ethical disiplines - one of the eight limbs of ashtanga yoga) Aparigraha (non-covetousness).

*"The proper technique combined with the proper attitude will keep injuries at bay." This is from a article called Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga Explained which offers a great description of the practice.

OCTOBER 2006 SMILE YOGA ANNOUCEMENTS:

Namaste Friends,
Happy Halloween!!
Hope Fall is treating you well:)

* October Class Cancellations - No Saturday class October 14 and October 28.

Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions regarding yoga or would like a copy of my full schedule.
Thank you for sharing your practice with me.

Namaste,
Jessica
www.smileyogahicago.com


SEPTEMBER 2006 SMILE YOGA ANNOUNCEMENTS!:

Namaste Friends,
*As the end of summer approaches and Fall begins it is
time to renew our yoga practice and set intentions for
the new Season*
Smile Yoga Schedule at Arabesque
(www.smileyogachicago.com)
Saturdays 2-3 p.m. $10 drop in rate
no class Saturday Sept 23rd

Om Shanti
Peace,
Jessica
Jessica@smileyogachicago.com


AUGUST 2006 SMILE YOGA ANNOUNCEMENTS!!:
*Class Cancellation for August -
There will not be class on Saturday August 5th

Om Shanti,
Jessica


JULY 2006 SMILE YOGA ANNOUNCEMENTS!!:

Namaste and thank you all for sharing your yoga
practice with me!

*Happy July 4th to everyone - have a wonderful holiday
weekend!
*Saturday July 1rst marked Smile Yoga’s 1 year
anniversary!
* There are no class cancellations at any of my
locations for July!
* Early Warning on Class Cancellation for August -
There will not be class on Saturday August 5th (It’s
my 30th birthday)!

Jessica’s Arabesque Schedule at a Glance:
Saturdays 2-3 p.m.

Feel free to email me if you have any questions
Namaste,
Jessica

JUNE 2006 SMILE YOGA ANNOUNCEMENTS!!!:
Happy Memorial Day! YES we are having class so please come on out and join me for a fun Memorial Day Weekend Vinyasa Flow Class!! It is the new moon this Saturday the 27th so it is a great time to use your yoga practice to set intentions and goals for the weeks ahead. Start anew! We are now in the big studio at Arabesque and have plenty of space to spread out!

One class cancellation to announce for June. Saturday June 24th there will not be class. I will be attending a yoga workshop that day.

Those of you that joined me on Saturday May 13th for our Full Moon class thank you! We will be doing this lunar flow routine again for the next Full Moon which is Oct. 7th. So that will be a special class focusing on backbending and restorative poses!

Please email me if you have any questions or would like info on my classes at other gyms and yoga studios and have a great holiday weekend I hope to see you Saturday at Arabesque!!

June 2006 schedule at a glance (Arabesque)
Saturdays 2-3 pm (no class 6/24)

Namaste,
Jessica

MAY 2006 SMILE YOGA ANNOUCEMENTS!!!
Namaste friends,
Hope everyone had a happy holiday weekend and is enjoying the beautiful sunshine.

Schedule at Arabesque - I am keeping Saturdays at Arabesque 2-3 pm on the schedule so hopefully you can all make it out that day and we'll have some really fun classes. We have a really fun small group of
Saturday regulars and I would love to see the class grow. For all of you DANCERS - Intermediate
Bellydance is from 3-4 so you could always start with yoga and stay for dance. The pricing will stay the
same of course at 10 a class, but I will no longer be offering packages since it is only 1 day a week.

April schedule at a glance (Arabesque)
Thursdays 7:15-8:15 pm
Saturdays 2-3 pm

May schedule at a glance (Arabesque)
Saturdays 2-3 pm

All the Best,
Jessica
jessica@smileyogachicago.com

APRIL SMILE YOGA ANNOUNCEMENTS!!!
Namaste and thank you all for sharing your yoga practice with me!

Not much new to report for April – I am just checking in to say Hi and remind you all of the current schedule.

Packages – Since I am down to only 2 days at Arabesque I am no longer offering packages (5 or 10). If you already have purchases a package of course I will honor it until it is used up.

Schedule at a Glance – The schedule will stay the same for April. Classes on Thursdays 7:15 – 8:15 pm and Saturdays from 2-3 pm.

Jessica’s Schedule – Please send me an email if you are interested in my classes at other Chicago and Suburban locations.

Thanks again for a great March and I look forward to seeing you in class soon.
Namaste,
Jessica

For more information on yoga classes here at Arabesque visit: www.smileyogachicago.com


MARCH SMILE YOGA ANNOUNCEMENTS!!!
Spring is on its way YEA! Thank you everyone for a great February!

Just a Scheduling Reminder – The Tuesday night class has been cancelled for the winter session. We will have group classes now on Thursday evening (7:15 – 8:14 PM) and Saturday afternoon (2 –3 PM).

Smile Yoga SPRING BREAK - Class Cancellations –Thursday March 9th, Saturday March 11, and Thursday March 16. I will be training with Pattabhi Jois in San Francisco this week. I look forward to sharing my new insights and knowledge from the training when I return.

Moon Days – Tuesday March 14th is a full moon day. How does this affect the traditional Ashtanga practice? In the Traditional Ashtanga practice full moon days and new moon days are days of rest for yogis and yoginis. Our bodies are affected by the gravitational pull of both the moon and the sun. The positions of the sun and moon create an energetic experience that can be compared to our breathing cycle. Using this comparison the full moon would correspond to the end of an inhalation where we feel energetic and emotional but not well grounded. The new moon would correspond to the end of an exhalation where we feel calm and grounded, but not energetic or ready for physical exertion. So by the observation of the moon days we are accepting and honoring the relationship between the rhythms of nature and the rhythms of our bodies. Some of you have asked me this question before so hopefully this information is helpful to understand more about the traditions behind the type of yoga we practice.

February Smile Yoga Announcements


Happy February! Thanks to everyone for a wonderful January – the enthusiasm is up and it’s great to see new faces. Welcome all NEW Smile Yoga Yogis and Yoginis!

Schedule change reminder! –
Remember starting Feb.5 there will not be a Monday yoga class at Arabesque.

Happy Valentine’s Day (Feb.14th) –
Arabesque will be closed for the holiday and we will NOT be running any Yoga classes that evening.

Private Class Selection–
If you or someone you know would like a little extra attention Jessica offers many private class options:
*
Prenatal Ashtanga - Jessica is certified in Prenatal yoga and is always happy to incorporate these modifications in any of the group classes at Smile Yoga. She is also available for private personalized prenatal or postnatal classes. Email Jessica@smileyogachicago for more information.
* Ashtanga Alignment Basics – This is a great class for anyone brand new to yoga or brand new to Ashtanga just wanting to learn better form and alignment in a modified primary class. We will break down the postures and focus on the best modification in each for your personal level.
* Ashtanga Flow Basics – This class will focus on the yoga breath practice integrated with the postures. We will break down the vinyasas and sun salutations to achieve the best modification for your level. You will learn different breathing techniques to further you in the asanas and in meditation.
* Intermediate/Advanced Ashtanga Vinyasa Flow – This class focuses on poses for the more experienced yoga practitioner, incorporating poses from the primary and secondary series of Ashtanga into a rigorous flow class.
* Chakra Flow – This class will begin with sun salutations in the Ashtanga Vinyasa tradition and will incorporate healing postures for the balancing of each of the 7 chakras. This class will offer breath and visualization techniques for chakra balancing.
* Pricing for private Ashtanga classes is $60 a hour chakra and pre-natal classes are $75.00 – classes can be held at Arabesque studio or in the privacy of your home. Please contact Jessica to schedule.

Heads up on the March Schedule –
Just a early heads up for the March schedule Smile Yoga will be taking a Spring Break. Classes will be cancelled March 9, 11, 14, and 16.


January 2006 Smile Yoga Announcements
Namaste friends,

Happy 2006! New Year – New You! Resolve deepen your Yoga practice this year – it’s the best gift you can give yourself!

New Class Time Reminder – Just a reminder the Tuesday class is now at 7:30 pm – 8:30 pm.

Schedule change – Starting Feb.5 there will not be a Monday yoga class at Arabesque. The last Monday yoga class will run on January 30th. So please take advantage of Mondays through the month of January.

NEW Eye Pillows are in! – If you would like a lavender eye pillow of your very own for savasana in class and at home - new styles are in. Check out the new patterned silk eye pillows at Arabesque. Patterned eye pillows are $16 and solids are $15 (cash or check only please)

Prenatal Ashtanga – Jessica is certified in Prenatal yoga and is always happy to incorporate these modifications in any of the group classes at Smile Yoga. She is also available for private personalized prenatal or postnatal classes. Email Jessica@smileyogachicago for more information.

Your very own yoga mat – Every yogi and yogini should eventually acquire their own yoga mat. It is more hygienic and more convenient to practice at home. Smile yoga has yoga mats for sale for $20.00 at the studio. Yoga mats can also be purchases at many locations around town such as: Sportsmart, Wholefoods, Target, and Sports Authority. If you have questions about what type of mat is good for you and your practice feel free to talk to Jessica before or after class.


Namaste,
Jessica
Jessica Aiken
Smile Yoga
email: jessica@smileyogachicago.com
phone: 773.343.8177
web: http://www.smileyogachicago.com/

December 05 Smile Yoga Announcements:
Namaste Friends and Welcome newcomers!

Happy Holidays!! - Important Schedule holiday schedule changes - Yoga classes will be cancelled Saturday Dec. 24th (Christmas Eve), Monday Dec. 26th (Christmas Day), Tuesday Dec. 27th, and Saturday Dec. 31st (New Year’s Eve) for the holidays. THERE WILL BE CLASS ON THURSDAY DECEMBER 29TH – SO COME IN FOR THE LAST SMILE YOGA CLASS OF 2005!!!

Holiday gift giving: Smile Yoga offers many healthy and pampering gift options for the Holiday season. Gift certificates are available at any denomination. Silk lavender scented Eye pillows are only $15.00 and extra thick yoga mats are only $20.00. Give the gift of Yoga!

Holiday Yoga Parties – what better way to ring in the New Year by starting off with a healthy yoga practice and sharing your practice with friends. Smile Yoga is available for Christmas or New Year’s yoga parties. Just ask Jessica for more details.

Contact info – Please reply to Jessica@smileyogachicago.com if you would like to be added to the Smile yoga mailing list. Reply with your mailing address, email, birthday, and phone number.

Have a Safe and Fun filled Holiday Season!

Namaste,
Jessica
Jessica Aiken
Jessica@smileyogachicago.com
773.343.8177
www.smileyogachicago.com

November 05 Smile Yoga Announcements:
Namaste Friends and Welcome newcomers!

Halloween Reminder!! - Happy Halloween!!! Remember Arabesque is closed for the holiday and there will be no Monday 7:15 – 8:15 pm class on October 31 so get dressed up, go out, and have a spooky night!
Happy Thanksgiving! - Classes will be cancelled Tuesday November 22nd 7:15 – 8:15 pm and Thursday November 24th 7:15 –8:15 pm for the Thanksgiving Holiday week!
IMPORTANT November schedule changes -The Tuesday night class time will be changed from 7:15 – 8:15 pm to 7:30 – 8:30 pm starting Tuesday November 1st. Thursday Daytime class Cancellation - Starting November 6th the Thursday 1-2 pm class will no longer be running (note the Thursday NIGHT class will continue to run as usual)
November Holiday Special Deals - *November only Special* - with any gift certificate purchase of $25.00 or more receive $5.00 off a yoga mat purchase or $3.00 off a Silk Eye pillow purchase *October Special extended* – purchase a 10 class pack and receive $5.00 off a yoga mat or $3.00 off a Silk Eye pillow
Smile Yoga Xmas gift ideas – Get started on your Holiday gift giving with Yoga! Silk Eye Pillows for $15.00, Extra thick yoga mats for $20.00, Smile Yoga gift certificates available at any denomination!
Smile Yoga at Work – If you work in Chicago and have a large group (minimum of 10) of fellow employees who also enjoy the benefits of Yoga practice you could have a weekly class before work, after work or on your lunch break at your workplace. Ask Jessica about special rates and further information.
Smile Yoga Class Packages – 5 or 10 class packs are a great way to save a few dollars on your yoga practice. 5 class packs are available for $45.00 (a $5 savings) and 10 class packs are available for $90.00 (a $10 savings). Pick up yours today!

Thank you Everyone for a great October and wishing a you a wonderful Holiday season full of YOGA!

Namaste,
Jessica
Jessica Aiken
Smile Yoga
email: jessica@smileyogachicago.com
phone: 773.343.8177

October 05 Smile Yoga Announcements:

Hello Friends and Welcome everyone that is new to classes!

* Attention Dancers! Check out a New Article posted regarding the Benefits of Yoga for Dancers. Available at Arabesque and online at www.smileyogachicago.com
* Eye Pillows have finally arrived!!! Pick up yours today at Arabesque. Eye Pillows are a great addition to your yoga prop collection. They are especially useful in Savasana (Final Relaxation Pose). The lavender scent is very relaxing -adding to the restorative nature of corpse pose. Eye Pillows are available for purchase from Jessica before or after class for $15.00 (cash or check only please)
* Happy Halloween!! There will not be a Monday 7:15 – 8:15 pm class on October 31st. Arabesque will be closed in observance of Halloween.
* Spreading the word – If you would like help spread the word about Smile Yoga and think that you have friends or co-workers who may be interested let Jessica know and she will happily give you marketing materials to distribute. Every bit help is forever appreciated!
* New Daytime class time for a Limited Time Only!– It’s Back to School time and we have added a new Yoga class to the schedule. So come on in and relax and refresh while the kids are away! Thursdays 1-2 pm (Note the this Thursday daytime class will only be running through November 6th)
* Yoga Mats - Some of you have inquired about yoga mats. If you have your own yoga mat please bring it to class. If you don't have your own mat, there are community mats available for your use. There are also yoga mats for sale for $20.00, these can be purchased before or after class from Jessica.
* Chant sheets – Due to requests we have added chanting to some classes. Chant sheets are available from Jessica before or after class. Chant sheets include the traditional opening and closing chants for Ashtanga Yoga.
* Specials, Promotions, and Package Deals – Purchase a 10 class pack in the month of October and receive $5.00 off a yoga mat or $3.00 off a silk eye pillow! Please check out www.smileyogachicago.com to learn more about Fall promotions and specials. Classes can be bought in bulk for a lower rate!
* Early Holiday Gift Giving – Start your Holiday shopping early this year and give the gift of relaxation with Yoga!! Smile Yoga gift certificates are available at any denomination. Silk Lavender scented eye pillows and extra thick yoga mats also make wonderful gifts for anyone!

Thank You everyone for a great Summer! I am excited for a wonderful Fall full of Yoga! Please feel free to contact me if you have questions or comments. I look forward to seeing you all in class!

Namaste,
Jessica
Jessica Aiken
Smile Yoga
email: jessica@smileyogachicago.com
phone: 773.343.8177
web: http://www.smileyogachicago.com/