PranaShanti Yoga Centre

Daytime Ottawa on Rogers TV - Neti Pots with Alison (Devinder)

info@pranashanti.com (PranaShanti Yoga Centre) — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 15:28:00 +0000

Leave it to Oprah Winfrey to convince millions of people to use something that looks like a cross between a watering can and Aladdin's lamp to pour water through their noses!

The neti pot, long a standby of yogic and Ayurvedic practitioners, is an unlikely health hero.

The squat little ceramic pot used for nasal cleansing - the flooding of the nasal passages to clear out mucus congestion - was introduced to Oprah's wide audience by Dr. Mehmet Oz in early 2007.

So, what is a neti pot anyway? This week, Alison was invited on the Daytime Ottawa Show on Rogers TV to introduce hosts Derick and TL to the Neti Pot.

"Introduce your nose to Neti Pots. We did! Alison Finney introduces viewers to the neti pot. It's used to clean your nasal passages. In this segment, it's used for your entertainment."

Click on the link below to watch this fun segment of the show!
Daytime Ottawa Show, November 10th

Happy Halloween at PranaShanti!

info@pranashanti.com (PranaShanti Yoga Centre) — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 13:01:00 +0000

This year Halloween was on a Saturday - the same day as our weekly Children's Yoga Class. Jamie Reardon, the Teacher, created a very special class and what a spooky good time it was!

All of the children came dressed in their Halloween costumes and met our special friend Mr. Funny Bones.

It was active, creative, ghoulish and cute! A ghostly fun time! As always, there was a special craft at the end of class for everyone to take home.

Here's a few pictures from our Halloween Children's Yoga class.

Early Morning Yoga

info@pranashanti.com (PranaShanti Yoga Centre) — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 13:58:00 +0000

Wake up with Yoga and be ready to take on your day with more focus and peace!

Classes start at 6:30 AM!

Monday
Early Morning Yoga with Elizabeth
Mysore Program with Kate

Tuesday
Kundalini Yoga with Sat Daya
Power Wake Up with Jemile

Wednesday
Early Morning Yoga with Elizabeth
Mysore Program with Kate

Friday
Early Morning Yoga with Nigel
Mysore Program with Kate
1 Friday per month - Group Sadhana - Kundalini Tradition, 5 AM to 7 AM

Happy 1st Anniversary PranaShanti!

info@pranashanti.com (PranaShanti Yoga Centre) — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 12:11:00 +0000

Greetings! On Tuesday, October 6th we celebrated the 1st Anniversary of PranaShanti with current and new firends, yoga, meditation and lots of fun!

Please take a look at the photos from the day.

Gurucharan Weekend - October 2nd - 5th,2009

info@pranashanti.com (PranaShanti Yoga Centre) — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 02:14:00 +0000

What a weekend we had with Gurucharan!

Tremendous knowledge, depth of practice and fun - all wrapped up into one weekend!

Dr. Gurucharan Singh Khalsa is expert in Kundalini Yoga as taught by Yogi Bhajan and the Director of Teacher Training at KRI, the Kundalini Yoga Research Institute. He is a Doctor of Psychology and has developed trainings in Humanology for therapists and healers. He consuls with many businesses and coaches executives on leadership skills, stress resilience, creativity and conscious communication in teams. He co-authored Breathwalk and The Mind with Yogi Bhajan and co-edited The Psychospiritual Clinician’s Handbook. In addition, he has contributed original research on the effects and use of Kundalini Yoga and meditation.

The weekend at PranaShanti consisted of 5 Workshops and on Saturday night a wonderful Community gathering with group meditations led by Gurucharan, and of course a little social time afterwards with tea, cookies and fruit.

Thank you to everyone in the community who joined us! It was wonderful to see everyone and have such a big warm welcome for Gurucharan.

It was a great honour to have Gurucharan come to PranaShanti.

We are very grateful to Gurucharan for his time, advice and training and that he was able to work visting us into his schedule. Between Teacher Training programs and moving to Portland, Oregon, he was able to spend almost a week with us at PranaShanti.

Here's what some people had to say about the weekend:

"Gurucharan is an amazing teacher! Please bring him back to PranaShanti every year." KP

"This weekend was one of the best yoga weekends I have done in a longtime. Thank you." RS

"I was only able to sign up for 2 workshops due to some previous committments, next time count me in for everything. I learned so much about myself and Kundalini Yoga in just a few hours. Thank you for this precious time." ST

"I can't wait for the Level 3 course to be offered at PranaShanti! I'm in!" JS

Mirabai Ceiba Concert at PranaShanti - September 26th, 2009

info@pranashanti.com (PranaShanti Yoga Centre) — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 01:47:00 +0000

Last month we had the great pleasure and joy of hosting Angelika and Markus of the group Mirabai Ceiba. This was their first visit to Canada and Ottawa. The previous nights they performed in St. Catherine's and Toronto. After Ottawa they went on to Montreal.

It was a heavenly evening filled with soulful, joyful and uplifting music. Angelika's voice, her celtic harp playing combined with Markus' voice and guitar playing carry you away completely! It was a full house of all ages. We chanted, sang and were taken on a sweet musical journey together!

Here are some photos of this very special evening. We can't wait for them to come back next year!

Thank you Angelika and Markus for sharing your gifts with us at PranaShanti!

Lots of autographs and smiles after the concert!

More and more people to meet!

Even a new friend's guitar to autograph!

PranaShanti Becomes a Certified Private Educational Institution

info@pranashanti.com (PranaShanti Yoga Centre) — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 23:26:00 +0000

PranaShanti Yoga Centre is an approved certified private educational institution by Human Resources and Skills Development Canada (HRSDC) and the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). Our Yoga Teacher Training programs were reviewed by HRSDC and determined to be part-time educational programs.

Beginning in 2010, students taking PranaShanti Yoga Teacher Training programs will receive an official tuition fee receipt (CRA Tuition, Education, and Textbook Amounts Certificate (T2202A)) which will allow students to qualify for Tuition and Education Tax Credits on their personal income tax for the tuition paid for these programs.

Please visit the CRA website for more details: http://www.cra-arc.gc.ca/tx/ndvdls/tpcs/ncm-tx/rtrn/cmpltng/ddctns/lns300-350/323/menu-eng.html

Kundalini Yoga Teacher Training - Begins September 25th, 2009

info@pranashanti.com (PranaShanti Yoga Centre) — Sat, 05 Sep 2009 01:14:00 +0000

This program is life-transforming and is for everyone. Whether you are interested in becoming a teacher or wanting to deepen your yoga practice and knowledge.

This certification fulfills the Kundalini Yoga Research Institute (KRI) and Yoga Alliance's 200 hour requirement for a Registered Yoga Teacher and includes 180+ hours of classroom instruction in a well-defined curriculum consisting of:

~How to use breath (pranayam), postures (asanas), sound (mantra) and meditation to awaken your mind and train your body;
~Yogic philosophy and the origin of Kundalini Yoga;
~Yogic and Western Anatomy;
~How to develop a meditative mind for clarity and calmness;
~How to use mantra and sacred sound;
~How to develop a daily yoga practice (Sadhana);
~How to deal with stress and the yogi approach to relaxation techniques;
~The study of humanology and 3HO lifestyle;
~Teaching Kundalini Yoga Postures, Kriyas and Meditation; and
~Ethics and the Role of a Kundalini Yoga Teacher.

Our Teaching Team brings a wealth of experience and expertise. All of our Teachers are KRI certified Teacher Trainers:

~Shabad Saroop Singh (Montreal);
~Sangeet Kaur (New Mexico);
~Guru Raj Kaur (Vancouver);
~Dev Suroop Kaur (New Mexico);
~Siri Bandhu Kaur (Ottawa); and
~Devinder Kaur (Ottawa).

Dates:
~September 25-26-27, 2009;
~October 23-24-25, 2009;
~November 13-14-15, 2009;
~December 4-5-6, 2009;
~January 15-16-17, 2010;
~February 12-13-14, 2010;
~March 19-20-21, 2010;
~April 16-17-18, 2010;
~May 14-15-16, 2010;
~May—White Tantric Yoga (Toronto), 2010; and
~June 4-5-6, 2010.

Hours: Fridays 6PM - 9:30PM, Saturdays 9AM - 6:30PM, Sundays 9:30AM - 6PM.

PranaShanti Yoga Centre offers internationally recognized Yoga Teacher Training programs in Hatha Yoga and Kundalini Yoga. We are an approved 200-hour Registered Yoga School (RYS) through Yoga Alliance.

Please visit the website for more details.

CBC Radio Gong Meditation Interview by journalist Dayanti Karunaratne

info@pranashanti.com (PranaShanti Yoga Centre) — Sat, 25 Jul 2009 19:33:00 +0000

Last month Ottawa journalist Dayanti Karunaratne came to PranaShanti to interview us at PranaShanti and record one of our monthly Gong Meditations.

What she learned and her experience is retold in the following piece which aired on CBC Radio just a couple of weeks ago.

Thank you to everyone who kindly shared their experiences with Dayanti. Please listen to the following link for Dayanti's story on CBC Radio, you may even hear your own voice!

CBC Radio Gong Meditation Interview

Mirabai Ceiba Live in Concert with Angelika & Markus Sieber

info@pranashanti.com (PranaShanti Yoga Centre) — Sat, 25 Jul 2009 18:14:00 +0000

Live in Concert! September 26th, 2009, 7:30 PM to 9:30 PM

Join Angelika and Markus for an amazing evening of music and chanting. With deep, rich journeys into the sound that is lush, earthy and otherworldly, you will travel the world through their music. Their incredible vocals are accompanied by Angelika's harp and Markus' guitar to stunning effect. This is a night you will not want to miss!

"Their Concerts are sensual Celebrations of joy, they remind us to the essence of our life in connection with the elements around us." Andreas Grosse

"Everyone must listen to them every day. In your car, in your home ... everywhere. Play it for your children sleeping or awake. It soothes the souls of even those who have the most to soothe. I love them." Gurmukh

Cost: $25 per person in advance, $30 per person at the door. Children under 12 free admittance.

To listen to Angelika and Markus' beautiful music please visit Mirabai Ceiba Discography.

PranaShanti Yoga Centre
52 Armstrong Street
Ottawa, ON
K1Y 2V7
613-761-9642
www.pranashanti.com

Hatha Yoga Teacher Training - 2 Amazing Opportunities

info@pranashanti.com (PranaShanti Yoga Centre) — Fri, 12 Jun 2009 15:51:00 +0000

This year we will be holding the first PranaShanti Hatha Yoga Teacher Training Program. This is a 200+ hour Yoga Alliance approved program and will be held in a module format.

In the spirit of community and to support students becoming Teachers we are offering 2 amazing opportunities. We recognise that Teacher Training is a life commitment and it can also be costly. Through the generosity of donations we are offering one Work Exchange Program and one Scholarship Program for a total of 2 students.

Here are the details of the Hatha Yoga Teacher Training Modules:

Module 1 & 2: Private Island Retreat
You can expect to be submerged in the teachings for a week while enjoying a beautiful serene environment. This module includes a deep understanding of meditation & asana practices, a daily Sadhana, anatomy and philosophy. The hours are from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM, daily.

While at the retreat enjoy swimming, canoeing, paddle boating, cliff diving, nature walks and campfires. Transportation to/from retreat excluded, but car pooling can be arranged.

Already a certified yoga teacher? Joins us as a refresher and experience a week yoga retreat in the company of fellow Yoga Teachers.

This module is held at a fully equipped private island retreat property just over an hour drive from Ottawa, Ontario. Enjoy vegetarian meals, swimming, canoeing, paddle boating, cliff diving, nature walks and campfires.

Dates: July 13-19, 2009.

Cost for Modules 1 & 2: $1,250.00.

Module 3: 7 Weekends
Module 3 begins July 31st, 2009 and is held over 7 weekends (Friday 6 PM to 9 PM, Saturday 11 AM to 6 PM and Sunday Noon to 6 PM) at the PranaShanti Yoga Centre.

This module consists of several hours of teaching practice/coaching with peers and students, deeper digging into the anatomy in motion, philosophy & sutras, discussions, preparing teachers to enter the yoga teaching world, etc.

Dates:

July 31 - August 2, 2009;

August 14-15-16, 2009;

August 28-29-30, 2009;

September 11-12-13, 2009;

October 9-10-11, 2009;

October 16-17-18, 2009; and

October 30 - November 1, 2009.

Cost for Module 3: $1,650 + GST.

Here are a few details about the Work Exchange and Scholarship Programs:

1. PranaShanti Work Exchange Program: In exchange for working with the Teacher Trainers, this program offers the ability for a student to earn full certification at no monetary cost, (full price of the program is $2,900.00 + GST). Participation in this program requires full attendance at all modules and the commitment of approximately 35-40 hours of seva or service hours per module in addition to the regular program hours. The Work Exchange program is available to students with an annual income of less than $30,000.00.

Duties include assisting the Teacher Trainers onsite during the course, corresponding with students during and outside the course, preparing training material, and assisting with program administration and facilities setup and take down. It is a wonderful opportunity to learn side-by-side with the trainers. Once your application is received, you will be contacted for an in person interview. Upon acceptance, your space will be held in the program.

2. PranaShanti Scholarship Program: As part of the Scholarship the student will work directly with the Teacher Trainers to support the program, trainers and students. Participation in this program requires full attendance at all modules. The Scholarship provides a 50% discount off the full tuition price (full price of the program is $2,900.00 + GST, Scholarship price is $1,450.00 + GST) in exchange for 15-20 hours of seva or service per module. The scholarship is available to individuals with an annual income of less than $30,000.

Duties include assisting the Teacher Trainers onsite during the course, corresponding with students during and outside the course, preparing training material, and assisting with program administration and facilities setup and take down. It is a wonderful opportunity to learn side-by-side with the trainers. Once your application is received, you will be contacted for an in person interview. Upon acceptance, a non-refundable fee of $100 will be required to hold your space.

How to Apply:

In addition to providing a resume by email to info@pranashanti.com please provide answers to the following questions:

1. Why are you applying?

2. How would you describe yourself, i.e. qualities, strengths, how you relate to others, any issues or aspects of yourself you are working on?

3. Describe your current yoga practice.

4. Some of the work/service assignments may involve physical activity. Do you have any limitations that may restrict your ability in such activities?

5. Please provide us with two work-related references.

6. Please provide us with a letter of reference from a certified Yoga Teacher.

The close off date for applications is Monday, July 6th, 2009 at 5:00 PM.

Don't delay, join us today!

Summer Solstice Celebrations - June 20th and 21st, 2009

info@pranashanti.com (PranaShanti Yoga Centre) — Tue, 09 Jun 2009 14:02:00 +0000

Lighten and brighten!

Celebrate summer's beginning at PranaShanti!

As we recognize the sun completing it’s cyclical journey around the earth, it is a time to reflect on our own lives through Yoga and Meditation.

Summer solstice is the time of year in which the sun is closest to the earth and the high energy rays are most abundant. The efforts and intentions which we put forth on that day have a much greater energetic and etheric effect on our bodies, minds, lives and the world.

Whether worshiped in its terrestrial form - as a source of heat, light and life - or in its celestial form - as a symbol of spiritual illumination - since time immemorial the sun has been adored.

Join us to celebrate this special time of year with our Teachers:

Saturday, June 20th - 9:00 AM - Kundalini Summer Solstice Celebration with Rai Kaur;

Saturday, June 20th - 10:45 AM - Fuel the Fire of Your Deepest Desire with Greg Kaps;

Saturday, June 20th - 10:45 AM - Introduction to Holistic Yoga with Yogi Vishva and Chetana;

Sunday, June 21st - 9:30 AM - Power and Compassion with Ann Marie Vezina;

Sunday, June 21st - 11:00 AM - Summer Solstice Prayer and Meditation with Jennifer Stackhouse;

Sunday, June 21st - 2:00 PM - Sun salutations and Meditation for Energy and Light with Jemile Amador;

Sunday, June 21st - 4:00 PM - Summer Solstice Sun Salutations - Experience your inner radiance with Christophe Cappon.

See you there!

PranaShanti Yoga Centre - One of the Top Five Great Places to Visit the Loo!

info@pranashanti.com (PranaShanti Yoga Centre) — Mon, 11 May 2009 22:50:00 +0000

By Dayanti Karunaratne, The Ottawa CitizenMay 9, 2009.

PranaShanti ranks as one of the top 5 places to visit the loo in Ottawa!

"PranaShanti Yoga Centre

52 Armstrong St., 613-761-9642

pranashanti.com

Classes run 6:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Why it's good: Simplicity and serenity is the mantra for this bathroom, which was designed by Nathalie Lamont -- the same visionary behind the bathrooms at Le Nordik Spa in Chelsea. Multiple mirrors create an airy feel, while low-flow taps and toilets keep it eco-friendly and a marble countertop brings rugged character. Plus, a floor-to-ceiling mirror lets you check out your revitalized yoga bod.

Accessibility: No stairs, but the stalls are all standard size.

Tip: With the latest Somerset Street construction, OCTranspo's No. 2 Bayshore bus is now routed directly past this new studio. Jump off on Armstrong to visit PranaShanti's sparkling new facilities."

Health and Wellness Ottawa Show - May 1-3, 2009

info@pranashanti.com (PranaShanti Yoga Centre) — Fri, 24 Apr 2009 00:52:00 +0000

Join the fun! Check out the Show and drop by the PranaShanti booth!

Held in copnjunction with the Ottawa is Blooming Gardening and Landscaping Show, the Health and Wellness Ottawa Show will feature a wide range of local holistic health practitioners, informative demonstrations, and exhibitors promoting innovative products and services.

Don't miss it! 2 shows for the price of 1!

PranaShanti Yoga Centre will be featuring FREE Yoga Demo Classes on Saturday at 1:30 PM and Sunday at 1:30 PM.

Location:
Kanata Recreation Complex
100 Walter Baker Place
Kanata, ON

Show Hours:
Friday, May 1 - 10 AM to 8 PM
Saturday, May 2 - 10 AM - 5 PM
Sunday, May 3 - 10 AM - 4 PM

See you there!

Triple Gong Meditation - 1st Time in Ottawa

info@pranashanti.com (PranaShanti Yoga Centre) — Wed, 22 Apr 2009 00:27:00 +0000

Sunday, April 26th, 4:00 PM to 5:30 PM.

Join Alison (Devinder Kaur), Catherine (Rai Kaur) and Josephine (Guru Inder Kaur) for this special afternoon of elevating and joyful vibrations with 3 Symphonic Gongs played together.

Every New Moon, we have the opportunity to manifest a new beginning and when we come together with such an intention our efforts are enhanced.

This class will include a Meditation for Prosperity and Clearing Obstacles and a Triple Gong relaxation where Alison, Catherine and Josephine will each play a Gong - all in the energy of the New Moon.

Feel surrounded and uplifted by New Moon Energy and the healing vibrations of the Gong!

No previous yoga or meditation experience necessary. Yogi Tea and a home baked organic goodie served after class.

What to bring: Yoga mat, blanket/shawl & show up early!

Cost: $14 per person. Pre-registration required.

Hatha Yoga Teacher Training - A Balanced Approach

info@pranashanti.com (PranaShanti Yoga Centre) — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 00:29:00 +0000

PranaShanti Hatha Yoga Teacher Training ~ Module 1 Begins Monday, July 13th, 2009

Interested in deepening your yoga practice on and off the mat?
Interested in taking your experience to the next level by becoming a yoga teacher?

The PranaShanti Hatha Yoga Teacher Training Program is a total of 210 hours including 180 contact hours and is Yoga Alliance registered and certified. Our program offers the opportunity to truly dive into the teachings, both physically, mentally and spiritually.

Join us to awaken your spirit!

Module 1 & 2: Private Island Retreat
You can expect to be submerged in the teachings for a week while enjoying a beautiful serene environment. This module includes a deep understanding of meditation & asana practices, a daily Sadhana, anatomy and philosophy. The hours are from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM, daily.

While at the retreat enjoy swimming, canoeing, paddle boating, cliff diving, nature walks and campfires. Transportation to/from retreat excluded, but car pooling can be arranged.

Already a certified yoga teacher? Joins us as a refresher and experience a week yoga retreat in the company of fellow Yoga Teachers.

This module is held at a fully equipped private island retreat property just over an hour drive from Ottawa, Ontario. Enjoy vegetarian meals, swimming, canoeing, paddle boating, cliff diving, nature walks and campfires.

Dates:

July 13-19, 2009.

Cost for Modules 1 & 2: $1,250.00.

Module 3: 7 Weekends
Module 3 begins July 31st, 2009 and is held over 7 weekends (Friday 6 PM to 9 PM, Saturday 11 AM to 6 PM and Sunday Noon to 6 PM) at the PranaShanti Yoga Centre.

This module consists of several hours of teaching practice/coaching with peers and students, deeper digging into the anatomy in motion, philosophy & sutras, discussions, preparing teachers to enter the yoga teaching world, etc.

Dates:

July 31 - August 2, 2009;

August 14-15-16, 2009;

August 28-29-30, 2009;

September 11-12-13, 2009;

October 9-10-11, 2009;

October 16-17-18, 2009; and

October 30 - November 1, 2009.

Cost for Module 3: $1,650 + GST.

We have chosen this specific format in order to offer future teachers exposure to as much knowledge as possible while offering current teachers a possibility to reconnect with the teachings.

In order to graduate from the program and obtain the required hours for Yoga Alliance certification, students need to complete all 3 modules. Work exchanges and payment plans available.

Register online, by telephone or in person. Registration for Modules 1 & 2 closes Monday, July 6th at 5:00 PM. Registration for Module 3 closes Monday, July 27th at 5:00 PM.

PranaShanti Hatha Yoga Teacher Training Brochure or call 613.761.9642 (YOGA) for more information.

PranaShanti featured in Ottawa Citizen February 21st, 2009

info@pranashanti.com (PranaShanti Yoga Centre) — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 14:08:00 +0000

Pranashanti is sure getting some great press these days! Check out the latest article where we were featured about our Hot Yoga classes.

Hot Hot Hot - Ottawa yoga studios are turning up the heat
By Joanne Chianello, The Ottawa Citizen
February 21, 2009

"..."Hot" is now one of the most popular forms of yoga taught across North American, including in Ottawa. Two new studios that have opened in the last five months offer hot yoga -- Prana Shanti on Armstrong Street in Hintonburg, and Ottawa's first Moksha Yoga studio on Preston Street. (It's also available at other studios around town, including Mountaingoat Yoga Centre, with a location in each of Nepean and Kanata.)

Prana Shanti, for example, offers a class called the "Hot 26," which is based on the Bikram sequence, which co-owner Catherine Larrivée-Currie says she enjoys practising, but doesn't want to sign onto all the rules of teaching "pure" Bikram. ("There are hygienic reasons not to have carpet in the hot room," she says.)

But Prana Shanti also offers other hot yoga classes with postures not included in Bikram, and that change from time to time..."

Follow the link below to read the full article:
http://www.ottawacitizen.com/Health/Hot+Hot+Hot/1313870/story.html

PranaShanti Yoga Centre Featured on New Ottawa Citizen Design Blog

info@pranashanti.com (PranaShanti Yoga Centre) — Wed, 11 Feb 2009 20:00:00 +0000

New Yoga Studio Focuses On Design
By Maria Cook 02-09-2009

I do yoga to relax; part relaxation, part meditation.

The number of yoga mats I see slung over shoulders in the street, and the studios crowded with people sweating in hot rooms, downward-dogging and deep-breathing confirms that there is a growing number of people who find yoga to be the best one-and-a-half hour holiday available.

It puzzles me that the rooms we flock to are more workout than calm oasis.

The recently opened PranaShanti Yoga Centre at 52 Armstrong Street in HIntonburg features quiet colours, ordered spaces stabilized by artworks and carefully placed furniture.

"We wanted to offer a place where people could feel a sense of community and find a relaxing space to do their yoga practice and self-improvement," says co-owner Catherine Larrivée Currie. "Clean lines. No clutter. Earthy colours."

Ottawa architects Robert Martin and Danica Robertson assisted with transforming a two-storey space in the non-descript former Neighbourhood Services building.

The fact that they both practise yoga helped. They've seen their share of awkward layouts, change rooms and showers with little privacy, unhygienic finishes, tacky lighting and poor ventilation.

"For facilities supposedly focussed on wellness and meditation, most are not very uplifting," says Martin.

Design issues focused on yoga mat sizes, spacing, sight lines to instructors, and ventilation.

"We tried to anticipate the flows of people in and out and to allocate sufficient coat and boot space," he says. "The industrial textures of raw concrete and spiral ductwork were left exposed and interior finishes are of natural materials to evoke a spa/zen feel."

Tell Designing Ottawa about the yoga studios you frequent. What do you love/hate? One of my favourites is Shunnya Centre in Beechwood Village. It's a tranquil one-room space and after class they serve fresh-baked cookies! www.shunnyacentre.com

Seven Things to Love About PranaShanti Yoga Centre www.pranashanti.com

1. Three spacious rooms named Mind Body and Spirit

2. Instead of plastic bottles, a vending machine dispenses filtered water for refillable containers

3. Very cute yoga clothes from a Quebec company called Respecterre.com

4. Herbal tea bar

5. Boot rack at front door keeps the floor dry

6. Variety of yoga styles including a Bikram knockoff called Hot 26

7. Spa like change rooms

Movie Night - Finding Life on Mt. Everest by Elia Saikaly

info@pranashanti.com (PranaShanti Yoga Centre) — Sat, 31 Jan 2009 17:47:00 +0000

(Photo above: Catherine introducing the film and Elia)

Last night we held our first of many Movie Nights at PranaShanti. The movie we featured last night is called "FindingLife on Mt. Everest". The filmmaker is Elia Saiklay.

It is an extrorindary movie about Elia retracing his teacher's or mentor's steps in a climb to the top of Mt. Everest. The film is about much more than the climb. It is about knowing yourself, finding out what is really important and as Sean Egan's moto says it, "Aim High"! Afterall, this is your life.

If you missed it this time please follow Elia's website, FindingLife, as he will be showing the film in a few different locations in Ottawa including schools.

(Photo right: Elia Saikaly, filmmaker)

Last night's movie was also a fundraiser for ChildHaven. Sean Egan was a great supporter of ChildHaven in Nepal and worked towards helping to build a school for orphaned children. Elia continues to help ChildHaven reach their goals.

Inspired by the ideals and philosophy of Mahatma Gandhi, Child Haven International is a registered charity founded in 1985. They assist children and women in 4 countries, who are in need of food, education, health care, shelter and clothing, emotional and moral support.

Thank you to everyone who attended last night and donated so generously! Our donations will be sent to ChildHaven via Elia to help build a well for drinking water for the school in Nepal.

Thank you Elia for creating a beautiful and meaningful legacy for Sean and your continued work to inspire and uplift all. Your film opens the heart!

Also, thank you to Chandlar, Mike and Luc for all your hard work and technical support that allowed us to watch the film with amazing sound!

"Hot 26" - A New Class at PranaShanti

info@pranashanti.com (PranaShanti Yoga Centre) — Sat, 24 Jan 2009 15:53:00 +0000

Banish the Winter Blues!

If you love Bikram Yoga you'll love our new class called "Hot 26".

Enjoy a series of 26 Yoga postures in the Body Room with the heat and humidity set to 105F. You'll feel like you're in the tropics!

Wednesdays 9:30 AM - Hot 26 with Kym;
Thursdays 7:30 PM - Hot 26 with Yannick;
Fridays 7:30 PM - Hot 26 with Kym;
Saturdays 10:45 AM - Hot 26 with Catherine; and
Sundays 11:30 AM - Hot 26 with Stephanie.

2009 Akara Numerology

info@pranashanti.com (PranaShanti Yoga Centre) — Fri, 02 Jan 2009 21:30:00 +0000

What's in store for 2009? While, Akara Numerology isn't a way to predict the future, it can help us as an additional tool to be prepared for the changing times ahead.

2009 is an 11 year,(2+0+0+9=11). 11 is one of numerology's most spiritual numbers. 2009 brings a unique combination of sensitivity and intensity. With this increased sensitivity and intensity we will need more patience. This will be the challenge or the yoga for those of us who are naturally a little impatient - "patience please".

Along with being patient also comes being aware of our thoughts and actions and how our relationships are affected by our spoken and unspoken thoughts and communications. With patience and sensitity to yourself and others,, 2009 may be your best year ever!

If you would like to learn more about Akara Numerology or have a personal reading by Alison (Devinder Kaur) based on your day, month and year of birth, please contact us for more information at 613-761-9642.

How Men Can Benefit From Yoga

info@pranashanti.com (PranaShanti Yoga Centre) — Sat, 27 Dec 2008 01:19:00 +0000

The other day it was mentioned to me to check out an article on the benefits of doing Yoga...the interesting thing is that it was an article on the benefits men can can have from doing Yoga. Here are the highlights:

"Paul McQuillan, a yoga instructor at a Toronto Yoga Centre, has been practising yoga -- specifically, hot yoga, a style of yoga that takes place in rooms heated to about 40 C -- for three years. Yoga has improved both his physical and mental strength, he says, while revitalizing his energy levels. Here, he explains the advantages of yoga and how men can benefit from it.

1. Yoga works the entire body
In sports such as hockey, tennis or football, you tend to utilize only 10 to 15 per cent of the body, whereas yoga provides a workout that covers every muscle, joint and organ. The practice oxygenates the blood, creating more energy when you finish the exercise as opposed to depleting the body of it. You work every system: cardiovascular, skeletal, muscular and endocrine.

2. Yoga has benefits in the bedroom
Guarasana, or Eagle Pose, is a posture that sends fresh blood and oxygen to the sexual organs, so this is a particularly beneficial exercise for men in revitalizing their bedroom prowess! Trikonasana, or Triangle Pose, is a marriage of the heart and the lungs, two organs that don't usually interact. Not only does this posture increase cardiovascular endurance, but it is also the only known yoga posture that utilizes every organ, muscle and joint in the body.

3. Yoga works for every size
It does not matter how you look when you practise yoga. Whether you're a 250-pound linebacker or a 150-pound triathlete, yoga will push your personal boundaries by increasing your own flexibility, endurance and muscle strength.

4. Yoga decreases muscle soreness
Yoga is hugely beneficial in working out stiffness from other sports. When muscles are fatigued, they build with lactic acid, and yoga, which stretches and releases tension, helps flush that away. Runners in particular find yoga the best activity after a long endurance jog.

5. Yoga restores energy levels
Yoga practice doesn't deplete your body of all of your energy after a class -- like, say, a gym workout, where your body is entirely fatigued after your session. Instead, it actually increases your vigour, making you feel more aware and revitalized.

6. Yoga trains your focus
Athletes like Wayne Gretzky, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and John McEnroe have heightened their performance levels through practising Bikram yoga. By combining mental, physical and emotional strength, they became better athletes at their chosen sport. Men can't seem to let their egos go, and in yoga, you have to train your mind to shut down -- to stop thinking about work, what you're going to have for dinner or whether the Raptors are going to win the game. Traditionally, men have a more difficult time doing that than women, although, once they do let go, their focus on the positions -- and the difficulty in holding them -- improves vastly.

7. Yoga flushes your system
The practice of yoga is often referred to as "intense," especially in Bikram. When you are working in a room heated higher than your body temperature, you sweat a considerable amount. The pounds dramatically shed off your body and, more importantly, you rid yourself of all the pent-up toxins. Due to the heat in Bikram, it has been noted that you are essentially creating an artificial "fever" in the body, therefore enhancing the immune system.

8. Yoga balances the mind
Yoga has such a great sense of community to it and it really allows for mental clarity and focus. After you practise, you feel more grounded, less self-absorbed and calmer. This type of mental clarity really helps in other sports or activities you may be involved in."

Interesting...

PranaShanti Hatha Yoga Teacher Training - April 2009

info@pranashanti.com (PranaShanti Yoga Centre) — Tue, 25 Nov 2008 17:15:00 +0000

Interested in deepening your yoga practice on and off the mat?
Interested in taking your experience to the next level by becoming a yoga teacher?

The PranaShanti Hatha Yoga Teacher Training program offers the possibility to really dive into the teachings, both physically, mentally and spiritually. The PranaShanti Teacher Training program is a total of 255 hours including 210 contact hours. It is offered in 3 separate modules that can be taken consecutively or with integration time in between each block.

The first module starts in April 2009 (70hrs contact and 20hrs mentorship) and is spread over 5 weekends. This module serves as a introduction to teaching techniques, yoga sutras, anatomy and philosophy.

The second module is an intensive week in July 2009 (70hrs contact + 15hrs personal work) at a retreat property just over an hour from Ottawa. You can expect to be submerged in the teachings for a week while enjoying a beautiful serene environment. This module includes a deeper understanding of meditation & asana practices, a daily Sadhana, anatomy and philosophy.

The third module is scheduled for September 2009 and consists of several hours of teaching practice/coaching with peers and students, deeper digging into the anatomy in motion, philosophy & sutras, discussions, preparing teachers to enter the yoga teaching world, etc. In order to graduate from the program, students will need to complete the 3 modules. Teachers that have already graduated from different programs are more than welcome to attend any of the modules as refreshers to their already acquired knowledge.

We have chosen this specific format in order to offer future teachers exposure to as much knowledge as possible while offering current teachers a possibility to reconnect with the teachings.

Faculty: Catherine Larrivee Currie, Guy Tardif, Dave Schubert, Geoff Outerbridge, and other guest teachers.

Fee Structure:
- First module $1080 + GST;
- Second module: $1250 + GST (includes vegetarian food and lodging for the week);
- Third module: $1080 + GST.

You can register for each module separately or sign up for all 3 for a discounted price of $3200 + GST.

Minimum Registration: 10 students | Maximum: 30 students

The Holidays Are Coming! Can You Feel The Stress?

info@pranashanti.com (PranaShanti Yoga Centre) — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 20:21:00 +0000

Whether you like it or not, we’re entering that busy holiday season! It can be a time of extra joy, but for many, it’s a time of extra stress. Remember to breathe and enjoy the little things. It’s also a great to carve out some “me time” by coming to yoga class every week!

Our new Class Schedule starting January 1st, 2009, will be posted within the next week. We have some new Teachers joining us and some fantastic workshops to kick off the New Year. Watch for Hatha Yoga Teacher Training starting April 2009.

Make 2009 your year of awakening...

PranaShanti Hot Yoga Studio

info@pranashanti.com (PranaShanti Yoga Centre) — Sat, 25 Oct 2008 19:07:00 +0000

When we were planning the design of PranaShanti we wanted to incorporate a Hot Yoga Studio.

Our Hot Studio, called the Body Room, is maintained at a temperature of 103 to 105F. We have also included a humidification system to ensure that the moisture content and air quality is perfect for practicing Hot Yoga. With our Eastern Ontario winter climate, taking a Yoga Class in the Hot Studio is a real treat, but there are also some benefits year round:

~Helps you to work deep into your muscles and tendons and heal and exercise your body;
~Helps decrease chronic pain and maintain your current health condition;
~Helps in stress reduction and losing weight;
~Balances your physical and mental health;
~The poses of hot yoga not only work with your muscles and limbs but also work on your organs and nervous system;
~Promotes sweat and in this sweat your toxins can be released.

Remember to bring into the Body Room with you a large bottle of water, electrolytes and a towel. It is also helpful to drink lots of water before practicing in the Body Room so you do not become dehydrated or over heated.

Hot Yoga helps in making a healthy connection between your body, mind and soul. Hot Yoga does this connection in a powerful way. Once you try it then you will instantly observe the results.