Dili Yoga - East Timor

Dili Wellness Classes - 2012

2012-01-08T00:04:00.001-08:00

Dili Wellness Classes

January 2012

Happy New Year 2012! With each day comes a new opportunity to improve ourselves; To gain insight into who we are, how we think, and what makes us feel happy and healthy. As my father often reminded me, “Today is the first day of the rest of your life. Make it the best that you can.”. This saying has stuck with me and I continue to strive to do a bit better each day. I hope you will join in making yourself and your community well this new year….physically, mentally, emotionally, spiritually.

As most of you know, the Upstairs Studio in Comoro, Dili is open and fully functioning. Please notice the larger variety of classes that are being offered. I continue to communicate with instructors and artists from around the world and plan to facilitate guest classes and workshops by from time to time this year. I’ve finally received confirmation that the professional Pilates equipment I have ordered is on its way to Dili. It is only a matter of time now before it arrives and I am very excited.

Wishing us all a bit of balance in 2012.

Colleen Coy

Class Schedule

Mondays Pilates Small Group Mat PR 5:30-6:25pm Colleen Coy UpStudio
Mondays Pilates Small Group Ma PR 6:30-7:25pm Colleen Coy UpStudio
Mondays Mens Small Group Pilates PR 7:30-8:25pm Colleen Coy UpStudio
Tuesdays Group Meditation D 7:00-7:50am UpStudio
Tuesdays Pilates Group Mat D 9:00-9:55am Colleen Coy UpStudio
Tuesdays Pilates Group Mat D 6:00-6:55pm Colleen Coy Alola
Tuesdays Basic Vinyassa Flow Yoga D 6:30-7:30pm Rhiannon Owen UpStudio
Tuesdays Adult Ballet S TBD pm Colleen Coy TBD
Wednesdays Little Dancers S 3:15-3:55pm Colleen Coy UpStudio
Wednesdays Pre-Ballet S 4:00-4:50pm Colleen Coy UpStudio
Wednesdays Pilates Small Group PR 5:30-6:25pm Colleen Coy UpStudio
Wednesdays Pilates Small Group Mat PR 6:30-7:25pm Colleen Coy UpStudio
Wednesdays Advanced Pilates Mat PR 7:30-8:25pm Colleen Coy UpStudio
Thursdays Pilates Group Mat D 12:15-1:10pm Colleen Coy United Nation
Thursdays Pilates Group Mat D 6:00-6:55pm Colleen Coy Alola
Thursdays Dynamic Vinyassa Yoga D 6:30-7:30pm Rhiannon Owen UpStudio
Fridays Pilates Group Mat D 9:00-9:55am Colleen Coy UpStudio
Saturdays Pilates Small Group Mat PR 8:00-8:55am Colleen Coy UpStudio
Saturdays Pilates Small Group Mat PR 9:00-9:55am Colleen Coy UpStudio
Saturdays Pilates Small Group Mat PR 10:00-10:55am Colleen Coy UpStudio
Sundays Restorative Yoga D 5:00-6:00pm Rhiannon Owen UpStudio

D = Drop-In.
PR = Must Pre-Register for small-group classes. 24 hour advance cancellation policy applies.
S = Must register and pay in advance for a full Session.

Instructors

Colleen Coy – Pilates, Ballet, Meditation
has been dancing and investigating movement since birth. She graduated cum laude with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Dance from the University of Wisconsin, USA. She received her Pilates certification through Movement Insights in the USA and has been a featured model in their instructional videos. Coy has trained at acclaimed institutions such as the Joffrey Ballet and has performed and toured for more than eight years with ballet and modern dance companies in the USA and Canada, a highlight being working at the Kennedy Center in Washington D.C., USA. As an instructor, Colleen brings to her teaching a profound understanding of the body gained through her extensive movement history. Her teaching takes a holistic approach focusing on proper alignment, the development of core strength, flexibility, balance, and overall body awareness, with respect for individual pain and injury. Colleen works with each client, assisting them to explore the creative and restorative processes of the body. Contact Colleen Coy at: +670-746-3733, collcoy@hotmail.com.

Rhiannon Owen – Vinyassa Flow Yoga
Rhiannon’s Yoga Journey began in 2006 with Ashtanga at Drama School. Immediately attracted to the dynamic nature of the classes, she explored the intensity of Bikram before coming home to Power Yoga in 2008 at Body Mind Life studios in Sydney, Australia. Rhiannon completed her teacher training with Body Mind Life in 2011 and is exited to share her love of flow yoga as moving meditation - moving from the busy mind and dropping into the flow of sensation within the body. Inspired by flow Goddess Shiva Rea, meditation teacher Lorin Roche and her mentor Murray Hatton from Body Mind Life, Rhiannon’s classes are about feeling good and having fun. Expect to be challenged physically but always in the spirit of exploration and play. Contact Rhiannon Owen at: +670-747-3565, timoryoga@gmail.com.

Anne Ooms – Alexander Technique, Meditation
Anne has been practicing Alexander Technique since the 1980's and has had private practices in Australia and the UK. Anne is available to do private work with clients on Sundays by appointment. Contact Anne Ooms at: +670-730-5793, oomsa53@hotmail.com.

Get more information including Class descriptions & 2012 Fees at: colleencoypilates.blogspot.com

Vinyasa Flow Yoga Classes:

2012-01-07T02:55:00.000-08:00

The Upstairs Studio now offers regular yoga classes!

Vinyasa Flow Yoga
with Rhiannon
Classes begin Tuesday January 10th, 2012.

Basically Tuesdays: 6:30 - 7:30pm
Taking it back to basics on Tuesday evenings. A practice designed to look at postural alignment in our flow.
Fun Times Thursday: 6:30 - 7:30pm
Lets get ready for the weekend! In this dynamic class we begin to play with arm balances and inversions. Invite your inner child to come out to play tonight.
Chillout Sundays: 5 - 6pm
Restorative Flow with meditation. Say goodbye to weekend toxins and welcome inner peace to your week ahead.

@ the Upstairs Studio, Comoro, Dili
(across from Leader Supermarket, next to Dili Club pizza in the old PhysiotherapyTimor building)

Drop In: $15 per class or $60 for a 5 class pass

Come and explore your inner bliss!

For further details contact Rhiannon at:
Phone: +670-747-3565
Email: timoryoga@gmail.com

Rhiannon Owen
Rhiannon’s Yoga Journey began in 2006 with Ashtanga at Drama School. Immediately attracted to the dynamic nature of the classes, she explored the intensity of Bikram before coming home to Power Yoga in 2008 at Body Mind Life studios in Sydney, Australia.

Rhiannon completed her teacher training with Body Mind Lif this year and is exited to share her love of flow yoga as moving meditation - moving from the busy mind and dropping into the flow of sensation in the body.

Inspired by flow Goddess Shiva Rea, meditation teacher Lorin Roche and her mentor Murray Hatton from Body Mind Life, Rhiannon’s classes are about feeling good and having fun. Expect to be challenged physically but always in the spirit of exploration and play.

Trickling Off

2011-05-28T22:48:00.000-07:00

Hello Dili Yoginis!
I know that the yoga schedule has been a bit all over the place recently so I thought I would write something to formalise all the mayhem.
Allison left Timor rather suddenly.
Tanya's bub was making it difficult to continue leading so she has taken an indefinite break.
And, I am wrapping up in Dili so will only be teaching Wednesday classes until June 15 (that's 3 more classes).
And that will be the end of yoga classes at Alola for now--which is a rather sad prospect-- unless we find someone to take over. So if you are reading this and interested in taking responsibility for a yoga class, please contact me as soon as possible.
Namaste,
Blossum

Changes to the Changes

2011-04-13T23:05:00.000-07:00

Just a quick note to let you all know that Tanya has cancelled Friday classes again. So we are back to the Monday- Wednesday schedule. Namaste Blossum

Exciting (if temporary) Changes

2011-04-10T22:43:00.000-07:00

Hello Dili Yoginis! So April is bringing some changes to the Dili yoga scene. First off is a return of the much-loved and missed Friday class. Tanya is leading a chill class every Friday from 6-7pm for the time being. Yeah! Monday and Wednesday classes will continue to start at the normal time (6:15pm) And second, is the introduction of another experienced leader to the Dili family. The lovely Allison is taking over the Wednesday class while I'm off traveling in Vietnam. She'll take class on April 20 & 27 and May 4. I'll be back that weekend so should be on the mat on May 11. So welcome and thank-you Allison! If I don't see you this Wednesday, I'll see you in May. Namaste Blossum

January Schedule

2011-01-10T16:04:00.001-08:00

Welcome to 2011 Dili Yogis!
As Bree mentioned, after 1.5 years of subbing in for some classes, I'll be taking over where she left off with some Yoga classes-- and this blog.
So, for now, Tanya will continue to lead on Mondays and I'll lead the Wednesday classes.
The Friday classes are on hold for the time being as we look for someone to lead them (let us know if you're interested).
I look forward to practicing with you on a more regular basis.
See ya on the mat.
Blossum

The end of an era... and music!

2010-12-12T21:15:00.000-08:00

Dear Yogis,

[NB: Yoga has paused for the holiday season and will resume on Monday 10th January 2011.]

Yes, the time has come, at least for a little while, to say goodbye to Timor-Leste.

It has been unbelievably fun and rewarding to be your yoga teacher these many years, and I can say from the bottom of my heart that I will miss you all and the wonderful classes that we have had. Please stay in touch and find me on Facebook, and if you are passing through Oxford, England in the next little while, be sure to look me up! I will be working with Oxfam there until 31st of August at least.

This blog will hopefully go on with Blossom as a new administrator and perhaps some others as well.

I thought I would leave you with something many of you have asked me for, which is some of the music that I play in our classes! I mostly get my music from the iTunes store so I think all of the music given below is available there.

Enjoy, love life, and keep practicing!

Namaste,

Bree

Savasana Songs:

Some of the songs I've played in the last few weeks that you have been asking about have been:

( Artist: Song name)

- Joshua Radin: No Envy, No Fear
- Kings of Convenience: Surprise Ice
- Pearl Jam: Just Breathe
- Coldplay: Till Kingdom Come
- Jose Gonzalez: Heartbeats
- EarthRise Sound System (feat. Morley): Embrace
- EarthRise Sound System (feat. Morley): Intention
- Fleetwood Mac: Landslide
- Jai Uttal and Ben Leinbach: Nataraja
- Jai Uttal and Ben Leinbach: Gopala

Class Music:

If you like the music I play in class, try these compilations, which form the basis of my mix-and-match:

- Yoga Groove (my favourite!!)
- Yoga Salon
- Yoga Rhythms
- Yoga Moods

You can also check out the following artists and albums:

- Jai Uttal and Ben Leinbach: Music for Yoga and Other Joys
- EarthRise Sound System: The Yoga Sessions
- Krishna Das: Live on Earth (for a limited time only)
- Zero 7: In the Waiting Line
- Cafe del Mar IV

November Om!

2010-11-03T23:18:00.001-07:00

Wow, where does the time go?!

Class Schedule

As you all know there are a lot of public holidays coming up, but so far the plan is to continue the yoga throughout! Stay tuned for last-minute changes around the long weekends though. Also, sadly there is no longer a Monday class at the UN because Amrita has had to return to Australia for medical reasons.

Some of the classes have been pretty busy so make sure to get there early to get a spot. I will do my absolute best to make sure that everyone who arrives before class starts at 6:15pm gets a spot - but if you arrive late and are turned away please don't take offense - it's because there really is no room left!

Donations and Clothing Drive

As I've mentioned in class, our yoga donations at the moment are going to support the Pradet women's shelter. And what they really need at the moment is women's clothing to help support the women who come in. So if you have used clothing that is still in good condition, please make a donation! I will be collecting clothes after the Wednesday and Friday classes for the next 6 weeks or so and will start donating them as soon as we have a good amount.

Comments? Feedback? Leave a comment on the blog or on the wall of the Facebook group! See you there...

Rolling into October

2010-10-06T17:25:00.000-07:00

Hi yogis,

I'm back from a quick break and somewhat surprised to find that it's October already! Time flies when you're having fun, right?

A few quick announcements here...

Monday Evening Classes at the UN (UN gym members only)
First of all, for those of you who have access to the UN Recreational Gym, the UN has started a class on Monday evenings from 6-7:30. Taught by Amrita, it's a vinyasa flow class open to all levels and especially suited for beginners.

Donations this year to benefit women's safe house
Secondly, I have been musing on how best to use the donations from the Wednesday and Friday yoga classes, and this is what I have come up with. A local NGO runs a women's safe house here in Dili and they are in need of small goods to support women who come in with nothing but the clothes on their backs: clothing, soap, towels, children's clothing, toys. So in the next few weeks I'll be looking to set up a way that our Yoga group can make regular small contributions (in kind) to the shelter. If you want to get involved get in touch with me: lagitane(at)mac(dot)com.

That's it for now folks... See you on the mat!

~Namaste!

Om

2010-09-02T00:50:00.000-07:00

If you have ever attended a yoga class, watched a film with yoga in it, or maybe even been to a hippie-style concert or gathering, you have probably come across the chant "OM".

Now, while we are happy to sing along at a concert or around a campfire, the idea of "chanting" turns a lot of us off from the start. And chanting in a language we don't understand? It can seem scary, daunting and downright culty. Right?

In fact, Om is not a religious chant per se, athough it is believed to have its origins in the Vedic mysticism that preceded modern Hinduism and Buddhism. The syllable Om is references the universal 'vibration' of the universe, the fibre that exists within everyone and everything, binding us all together. Om reminds us that we are one with the universe, that we are all of the same nature.

For some people this reminder is associated with divinity or with a particular divinity, but for others, myself included, it is simply an expression of one-ness, much as the act of singing or chanting together makes all of our voices one.

In Sanskrit, the syllable Om is written in 4 parts: A-U-M-and a mark symbolising the silence that follows. (A and U pronounced together make the O sound).

Repeating the syllable Om is still used by modern Buddhists as a form of meditation, and is said to calm the mind, steady the emotions, and open the way for deeper understanding of the situation you are meditating upon.

So next time it comes up in class... Give it a go!

Namaste...

Yoga Rocks!

2010-08-31T23:20:00.000-07:00

Yes, it truly does!

Just a reminder that our classes are still rocking the Alola foundation Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 6:15pm!

Also, Colleen is back and her pilates classes are back so check out her link on the right hand side of the page.

Coming up in October we will have more weekend workshops, yoga philosophy discussions and some music sharing opportunities, so stay tuned!

Om...

July-August

2010-07-14T21:18:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,

Thanks for being fabulous yogis and making yoga in Dili such a joy!

I'll be going to Canada for 3 weeks starting Saturday (July 17), so the schedule will be shaken up a little I'm sorry to say.

On Wednesdays, you'll have a guest teacher, Amrita for Vinyasa Yoga
On Fridays, Tanya will be teaching the Gentle class

Namaste all and see you in 3 weeks!

June and July

2010-06-07T01:14:00.000-07:00

Hello Yogis,

Yes, Yoga in Dili is alive and well thanks to you all and your great presence.

A quick note that the schedule continues as usual, with a few interruptions:

On Wednesday June 16 and Friday June 18, Blossom will be teaching the class at the regular time.
Bree will be out of Dili from the week of 19 July until the week of 9 August. Classes should continue as normal, but teachers TBD!

Oh, and at the moment there are yoga mats at Leader for $10 - go and get e'm!

Namaste~

Easter Weekend

2010-04-01T00:27:00.001-07:00

Hi everyone,

Just to let you know there will be no class on Friday, April 2nd due to the Easter long weekend. Classes will be back on Monday as usual.

Namaste!

Bree

Yoga for Runners + New workshops to come!

2010-03-13T20:31:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone,

I'm back and will be resuming my usual classes Wednesday and Friday!

Also, this Sunday I'll be doing a Yoga for Runners workshop organized by a group of runners! It's aimed at people training for the upcoming Dili 10-k, half-marathon and marathon, but could be useful for all runners or cyclists. There are still a few spaces left so if you are interested, get in touch!

Also, I'm currently planning more workshops for March-April, so if you have a workshop idea or request, now is the time to let me know!

See you on the mat, people!

Bree away - 2 weeks of guest teachers!!

2010-02-24T05:59:00.000-08:00

Many of you know that I will be on holidays for the next 2 weeks!! I'll be teaching Friday 26 Feb, and then back again on Wednesday 17 March (St Patrick's day!).

In my absence Yoga will continue on schedule with the lovely Blossom teaching Vinyasa/Bikram on Wednesdays and Chris teaching gentle Hatha on Fridays.

Enjoy and see you in 2 weeks!

~Namaste

DVD and Online Yoga Resources

2010-02-17T15:44:00.001-08:00

A few of you have asked me for advice on Yoga DVDs to buy so you can practice at home. I hope this finds you!!

Ashtanga DVDs

The Yoga that I teach is based on the Ashtanga Primary Series. That said, our classes are a tempered version of this type of Yoga. A full Ashtanga practice is a challenging, set series of postures. It can be practiced by anyone but bear in mind that if you have injuries or are recovering from an illness you should seek out a gentler practice to begin with!

If you are going to go the Ashtanga route, there are only two names that I have for you:

Richard Freeman
David Swenson

A quick search on YouTube will show you why. My own teachers prefer Richard Freeman's DVD but both of these men are amazing yogis and excellent teachers, and studied Ashtanga for many years with its founder, Sri K. Patthabi Jois.

You can find DVDs by them both on the online store at Ashtanga.com. Remember you are looking for a DVD of the Primary Series.

Other Online Resources

With the proliferation of new media, there are tonnes of online resources for yoga - if you happen to be in a place where you can access them!!

Here are a few I have heard good reviews about:

Yoga Today - Every week, Yoga Today delivers a free class via the internet. They also have subscription options where you can buy classes one-by-one for about $3, or buy a membership to get unlimited access to classes.
YogaGlo - YogaGlo charges an $18 monthly fee, and in return you get unlimited access to video classes.

Enjoy!

Reiki in Dili, Pilates is Back, Schedule for Feb

2010-01-22T18:03:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone,

I have posted a link to the lovely Aleyda Santos' new site www.reiki-invitation.com. Aleyda is a 3rd level reiki teacher offering workshops and therapeutic treatments to the folks in Dili.

She is offering a 3-hour reiki introduction workshop on 30th January from 9-12 (sadly the same time as our backbending workshop so I can't attend!!) and also has two Level-1 reiki courses coming up, starting on 6 Feb and 6 March.

I love that our holistic community in Dili continues to grow! On that note, those of you who are committed to your core will be excited to know that Colleen is back in Dili and her pilates (and ballet) classes are back on! Check out her blog for her schedule of classes.

Finally, Tanya is back in town so she will resume her Monday classes, and I will continue teaching Wednesdays and Fridays, 6:15 at the Alola Foundation!

Namaste...

20-minute take-home sequence

2010-01-17T23:54:00.000-08:00

Need some help to take your practice out of class and into your home?

Follow this link to my website and scroll down to "News" to get a 20-minute Yoga sequence that you can try at home!

Namaste and enjoy everyone!

Now offering private/group classes!

2010-01-12T18:35:00.000-08:00

Too busy to attend the drop-in classes? Find them too hot and crowded? One-size-fits all classes not your style of Yoga?

To help people in Dili deal with some of these issues, I'm not offering one-on-one or small group (up to 6 people) classes. Get one-on-one adjustments and advice for your practice, try new poses, or create the foundations for a personal Yoga practice. Get a Yoga class that goes at your own pace and helps you focus on areas of the body that you would like to work on.

Classes for one or two people can be held at my home, or I can come to you! Classes for up to 6 people can be held at a location of your choice or at the well-appointed space at PhysioTherapy Timor, opposite Leader store. Rates start at $30 for a one-hour private lesson and can vary depending on duration and group size. For more info, follow this link to my website or get in touch with me! lagitane (at) mac (dot) com.

The 3 Doshas

2010-01-08T20:50:00.000-08:00

Hi all,

Some of you who attended the detox workshop today asked me to post these files describing some basic characteristics of the 3 Doshas, so here they are. Enjoy!!

Remember, if you want to find out more there are lots of internet resources available, where you can take a more detailed Dosha quiz and study some of the recommendations.

You can click on the images above to view the full size jpg files.

Enjoy!

Bree's Yoga on the Web :) :)

2010-01-03T23:57:00.000-08:00

As some of you may see from the previous post, I have been busy creating a website!

Please have a look at it by following this link!

Since I no longer have a day-job, I am branching out my Yoga teaching. I am now accepting individuals or small groups for private classes or personal therapeutic Yoga Sessions.

If you are interested you can drop me a line any time, in the meantime, please have a look at my new website, Breeze Yoga (pun intended!) and enjoy!

Namaste,

Bree

Saturday Workshop Schedule!

2010-01-03T23:52:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone,

Finally! The long awaited Saturday workshop schedule. The workshops will take place at the Alola Foundation, from 9am to noon. The workshops will have limited class sizes, so if you are interested, sign up soon! Price is $15 per person or $40 for any 3.

Please note that these are not drop-in workshops: if you want to attend you must sign up ahead of time! You can sign up after class, or by emailing me on: lagitane [at] mac [dot] com. :)

	9:00 - 12:00
9 Jan	Detox Yoga	Practice a series of rejuvenating and detoxifying poses to start off the new year, and learn your Ayurvedic type and what kind of foods and practices can benefit you!
16 Jan	Yoga Foundations	Learn some fundamental principles of alignment and energy so you can practice the fundamental poses and hold your own in any Yoga class.
30 Jan	Backbends & Inversions	Learn how to safely go deeper into these challenging poses!
13 Feb	Forward bends: hips & hamstrings	Benefit your entire Yoga practice by learning the importance of the lower back and hips, and practice some techniques to help you go deeper into these tricky areas.
20 Feb	Yoga for Women's Health	Explore the feminine side of yoga! Learn modifications for different times in your cycle, and poses that can help to reduce menstrual cramps and menopausal symptoms.

Hope to see some of you there!

Namaste, Bree

Happy New Year!

2009-12-30T16:13:00.002-08:00

Happy new year everyone and best wishes for 2010!

I hope it will be a great year for Yoga in Dili, with a few exciting things in the works. Stay tuned in January for some weekend yoga workshops, including several introduction to yoga sessions as well as some in-depth sessions to help you go deeper into tricky poses like hip-openers, backbends and inversions!

Starting next week classes will be back on 3 times a week! You can view this post to check out class levels and durations. For the first 2 weeks of January I will be teaching all classes, and Tanya will be back on Mondays from mid-January.

Namaste everyone!

Holiday-time Yoga!

2009-12-20T22:08:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone,

Just to confirm the schedule over the next few weeks:

There WILL be Yoga on:

- Monday Dec 21
- Wednesday Dec 23
- Monday Dec 28 ** TBC from Alola Foundation!! (they are closed for the holidays)
- Wednesday Dec 30 ** TBC from Alola Foundation! (they are closed for the holidays)

There will NOT be Yoga (sorry!) on:

- Friday Dec 25
- Friday Jan 1st

As of January the 4th, all goes back to normal with Yoga Monday-Wednesday-Friday as usual.

Thanks everyone and see you at the Alola Foundation!

Bree

Bree is Back! December classes

2009-12-06T17:08:00.000-08:00

Hello yogis!!

After a long absence, I am back in town - and here to stay, even over the Christmas holidays.

As we count down to the end of 2009, Dili yoga will continue as always! For the next two weeks classes will run as usual, and then as we get to the holiday period we may cancel some classes depending on how many people are left in town. January we will start right back up again and in addition I'm hoping to hold some mini-workshops on weekends for those people who want to go a bit deeper into their practice.

So, a huge thanks to Blossom for teaching while I was away, and hope to see you all Wednesday or Friday!

Oh, and in case you need to, you can check out the class descriptions for Monday, Wednesday and Friday classes in this post.

Namaste and see you soon!
~Bree.

October - November Schedule

2009-10-11T00:19:00.000-07:00

Dear Yogis and Yoginis,

As most of you know already, I'll be away from Dili for 7 weeks starting October 12. However, Yoga shall continue as usual with Tanya teaching Mondays and Blossom taking Wednesday and Fridays.

In case you need a reminder - class starts at 6:15, at the Alola Foundation. Mondays are open level, Wednesdays are more challenging, and Fridays are suitable for everyone, including beginners, and a cruisy way to end the week.

Namaste and see you all in December!

Bree

Thursday Yoga at the UN + Pilates @ Alola

2009-09-24T16:40:00.000-07:00

Hello Yogi(ni)s,

Dili Yoga continues to grow and expand!

For those of you who have access to the UN, the lovely Blossom is teaching Yoga every Thursday night at 6 - 7:15pm at the UN rec centre. Classes are free for those with a UN rec club membership. Blossom has been teaching for a number of years in various UN missions and her background is in Bikram yoga - so definitely check it out. :)

Also, for the abs aficionados, pilates with Colleen has started again at Alola on Tuesday and Thursday nights.

Enjoy!

Candle light Yoga this Friday Sept 18th

2009-09-15T23:23:00.000-07:00

Dear Yogis and Yoginis,

This Friday's class, 18th September, will be a special restorative class lit by candles! The occasion is the day of the new moon, which is a time when a gentle, introspective Yoga practice is recommended.

Be sure to arrive early to get a spot - we will be starting at 6:15 sharp. If you like, bring your own candle, and you may also want to bring a blanket or a sarong to make you more comfortable since we will be doing an extended Savasana (final relaxation).

The new moon is a great time to make personal reflections and set goals for the new month (moon-month), so if you plan on attending, you can already start to reflect on what your personal intention for the class will be!

~Namaste~

Dili Yoga on Facebook

2009-09-08T17:02:00.000-07:00

Hi all,

If you are not frequent bloggers but would want to receive notifications about what's going on with Yoga in Dili, you can now join our Facebook group!

To go directly to the page, click here. Or, you can search groups for "Dili Yoga".

I will use the group to send messages if there are changes to the schedule or special notifications. You can feel free to use it for any other discussions Yoga or Dili related.

Namaste!
Bree

Directions to the Alola Foundation

2009-09-01T04:56:00.000-07:00

In response to a recent comment, here are some directions to the Alola Foundation:

1. Find the large roundabout in the centre of Dili. The easiest way to do this is by finding the government palace on the beachfront, turning right away from the ocean, and following that road all the way past the stadium to the roundabout
2. If the ocean is behind you, go straight through the roundabout
3. About 500 metres(?) up the road, past the police station, on the right hand side is the Alola Foundation - there is a sign out front and some lovely flower bushes
4. The Yoga room is to the right and around the back of the Alola Foundation. Follow the sticky mats!

Hope that helped! I have also tried to show you on a Google map although I'm not sure how clear it is.

Namaste and hope to see you there!

Class Descriptions for September

2009-08-25T19:51:00.000-07:00

Hi Dili Yogis and Yoginis,

It is great to be back in Dili. As most of you know I've been away doing a teacher training and I'm coming back with my Vinyasa Yoga certification - exciting. So you will probably notice that the classes will change a bit based on that. As always, please give me your comments and feedback so I can keep on making Yoga in Dili better for all of you!

All classes are still at the Alola Foundation. Classes start at 6:15 so please be on time! It is respectful to your teacher and to your fellow students! Also, as always, please arrive early to let your teacher know if you have any special needs, are recovering from an injury or have any questions. Our class run-down for the coming months is as follows:

Monday - Open Level Yoga class

Teacher: Tanya
Duration: 1h15 mins (6:15 - 7:30)
Level: Open Level
Donation: $4

Wednesday - Vinyasa Flow Class

Description: A vinyasa flow class that will keep you moving and flowing through standing poses, twists, backbends, inversions and more, while building strength, challenging your mind and body awareness, and increasing flexibility.
Teacher: Bree
Duration: 1h30 mins (6:15 - 7:45)
Level: Experienced Beginner / Intermediate (some prior practice of Yoga, and good basic fitness will be helpful for this class. Not suitable for people recovering from injuries, medical conditions, or pregnant women without consent from a physician).
Donation: Open

Friday - Foundations Flow

Description: A gentle, flowing class, on Fridays we'll focus on building strength and flexibility, safe alignment, breath and posture awareness, and restorative poses. A great class for beginners and intermediate practicioners looking for a smooth way to end the week.
Teacher: Bree
Duration: 1h15 minutes (6:15-7:30)
Level: Gentle (suitable for total beginners and anyone else wanting a fun yet restorative practice)
Donation: Open

If you have any more questions, feel free to ask one of the teachers or post a comment to this blog! Namaste everyone and see you on the mat. :)

August Schedule

2009-07-27T05:34:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,

Well, I am on my way out of Dili for nearly a month, and I will miss our Dili Yoga. But enough about me, because your Yoga will go on!

Here is the schedule for the last week of July and the first few weeks of August. All classes start 6:15 @ the Alola foundation and please: be respectful - be on time!

Week of 27 - 31 July and again week of 3 - 7 Aug Sarah will be teaching all classes.
Week of 10 - 14 Aug, and 17-21 Aug, Tanya will be teaching Mondays and Sarah will be teaching Wednesday and Fridays.
Week starting 24 Aug Tanya will be teaching on Monday, and Bree will be back and hopefully teaching either Wednesday or Friday that week.

Remember: Monday class is all levels, Wednesday is all levels but good fitness and some Yoga experience will be helpful, and Friday is a gentle class suitable for beginners or those recovering from an injury.

Enjoy everyone, and Namaste! See you in a month.

~Bree

Wedensday teacher and Bree going away

2009-07-13T19:57:00.000-07:00

Hello Yogis,

This Wednesday you will have a guest teacher, Sarah Hohl, who is here from her home in Seattle, USA, where she also teaches Yoga with a therapeutic focus. I will be there as her teaching assistant.

You will be seeing a lot more of Sarah soon - as many of you know, I am heading off to Bali to do my Yoga teacher training certification. I can hardly believe it but the date is approaching in two weeks time!

I will be gone from Dili Yoga from Wedensday July 29 and my first class back will be Wednesday August 26th. While I am away Sarah will be teaching all of my classes. I will miss you all but I'm leaving you in very cabable hands.

Namaste,

Bree

Back in the room

2009-06-30T02:41:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,

So, we are back in the room and it is very white (fresh paint).

Come on down, 6:15 Monday, Wednesday and Friday (beginners and gentle class).

Namaste,
Bree

Outdoor Yoga and Mats at Landmark

2009-06-24T22:58:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,

So, the Alola foundation room is being re-painted, so we had to hold Wednesday's class outside in the kiddy space. Needless to say it was a bit dark but overall quite nice and breezy, and once I found the candles you could even see!

Likelihood is that for Friday we will have to do the same, so bring some mozzie repellent. I will have candles again but if you need more light feel free to bring your own. We can do a nice candle meditation at the end.

Also I met someone sporting a brand new mat purchased recently at Landmark! Let the Yogi stampede begin.

Namaste!

Monday 15 June...

2009-06-12T20:47:00.000-07:00

... Bree will be teaching, since Tanya will be away that week.

Also, since many of you ask me, here is a link to a website with lots of Yoga and holistic activity listings in Bali (mainly Ubud and Seminyak): www.balispirit.com.

Two studios I can recommend are the Yoga Barn in Ubud (drop-in classes daily, private classes on request), you can see their schedule on the above website, and Desa Seni in Seminyak: www.desaseni.com (Yoga twice daily, free for guests, small fee for drop-ins. Also, the food is stupendous!)

Finally, if you are interested in deepening your Yoga experience, check out www.balispirit.com/yoga/yoga_retreats_workshops.html for a list of workshops in Bali this year. Workshops are a great way to focus on your Yoga, have access to individual teaching, and take your practice to a whole new level.

Namaste!

Schedule for last week of May

2009-05-22T00:15:00.000-07:00

Hello Yogis,

Just a quick post to let you know that there are a few teaching switches coming up:

Monday 25 May Bree will be teaching instead of Tanya
Friday 29 May Tanya will be teaching instead of Bree

As usual the classes continue to be at Alola Foundation, starting at 6:15.

Don't forget to try and arrive on time... Also if you have any special conditions or questions, try to get to class early so you can inform the teacher and ask for advice.

Namaste everyone!

No class on Friday May 15

2009-05-10T22:05:00.000-07:00

Dear all,

Just a quick note to the effect that there will be no class on Friday May 15th. This week's Gentle Yoga class will be on Thursday May 14th instead.

Thanks for your understanding!

Namaste

May long weekend classes

2009-04-25T21:07:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,

Just a quick note to let you all know that there will be class on Thursday April 30th instead of Friday May 1st, since Friday is a holiday for many.

Other than that, classes continue as normal, starting at 6:15 at the Alola Foundation!

Remember:
Monday - Tanya - All levels Yoga Class
Wednesday - Bree - Intermediate Level Vinyasa Class
Friday - Bree - Gentle / Beginners Level Yoga Class

~Namaste

Easter class schedule

2009-04-05T19:55:00.000-07:00

Hello Yogis!

Just a quick note to let you know that there will be no class on Friday April 10th. This week's 'gentle' class will be on Thursday April 9th, instead.

Edited to add: tonight's class (April 9th) will be a special restorative and detox class. Hope to see you there!

Namaste and hoping you all enjoy the long weekend!

Bree

Tanya is back!

2009-03-25T01:32:00.001-07:00

Hello Dili yogis,

Quick announcement to let you know that Tanya will be taking her Monday classes again starting March 30th! I (Bree) will continue to teach Wednesdays and Fridays. All classes start at 6:15 at the Alola Foundation.

The levels will remain the same - please read the previous post for more information!

Also, a word about the meditations:
- Since the Wednesday class is now 1.5 hours there will be no meditation following the class.
- On Wednesdays and Fridays I will try to leave a long enough Savasana for people to do a seated meditation.

~Namaste everyone, see you there!

Class Levels - Please read, IMPORTANT information!

2009-03-09T16:36:00.000-07:00

IMPORTANT: Class Levels

Mondays - All levels
Wednesdays - Level 2
Fridays - Gentle / Introductory

Hi everyone,

Our Dili yoga community is growing, which is fantastic! So I am trying to also grow our class schedules to accommodate you all. Please read the following carefully to decide which class is right for you. All classes are still at the Alola Foundation, starting at 6:15. Please be there at least 5 minutes early so we can get started on time!

At the moment, all classes are with Bree (me!). Please be aware that at the moment I am NOT yet an internationally certified Yoga Teacher. However I have been teaching Yoga on and off for several years and I am enrolled in a certification programme later this year.

If you are not sure which class you should attend, please read the following. Please note that if you are pregnant, have any injuries or have any medical conditions, you should be sure to arrive early to let the teacher know before the class.

Mondays - All Levels - 1 hour 15 minutes

This class is open for all levels but if you have never done Yoga before, please try to attend one or two Friday sessions first to learn the basic poses.
This class is suitable for people with special conditions such as pregnancy (first and second trimester) or injuries ONLY if you have previously done some yoga and feel confident you are able to manage your condition.
This class is moderately physically demanding.

Wednesdays - Level 2 - 1.5 hours

This class is a physically challenging class and will include options for some Level 2 poses. This class is NOT suitable for people who are pregnant, have an injury or have any other health condition.
This class requires a good level of general physical fitness. Some previous Yoga experience would be best, too!
The class format will be a flow class followed by an in-depth study of poses.

Fridays - Gentle class (Introductory) - 1 hour 15 minutes

This class is open to all levels. It will focus on developing breathing, body awareness, mindfulness and meditation, and a knowledge of Yoga's foundation poses.
This class is suitable for people who have never done Yoga.
This class is suitable for pregnant women in their 1st and 2nd Trimester but it is NOT a pre-natal class. If you are pregnant and you have never done Yoga before, please do some research on the Internet or consult with your doctor before starting.
This class is suitable for people who have minor injuries or have minor health conditions (you are advised to check first with your doctor).

Thanks for reading all this. Please spread the word about these class level changes, and help us keep our Dili Yoga community alive and vibrant!

~Namaste~

March Teachers, Room

2009-03-04T17:33:00.000-08:00

Hello,

Just a short post to let you all know that the teaching schedule in Dili is shaking and moving as always! Most of the March classes will be led my me (Bree) with the following exceptions:

March 13 (Friday) - Louise
March 16 (Monday) - Tanya

I am going to Bali for a long weekend and may be able to pick up some Yoga supplies so if anyone needs a mat, please let me know before the 12th of March.

Also, bad news about the room - the government reneged on the contract for the space that I had bee hoping we could use - boo - so we are back to the drawing board. For now we will continue to use the room at Alola with space on a first-come, first-serve basis. If you are finding the room too crowded, you could also consider coming on a Friday instead, when the group is usually smaller.

Namaste and see you soon everyone!
Bree

March Calendar and Other News

2009-02-24T23:56:00.000-08:00

Hello all,

It's been a while since I posted - things have been a bit busy lately! First things first, yoga in Dili is going ahead 3 times a week as usual! There have been a few changes in the teaching rotation though.

First of all, sadly Deevah has gone back to Australia for medical reasons and probably won't be rejoining us for a few months at the least. However we have decided to keep up her Friday classes although I think we will reduce them to 1 hour and 15 minutes. Also, we are switching duration of Mondays and Wednesdays, so Mondays will be 1 hour 15 minutes, and Wednesdays 1 hour only, followed by the meditation session - this means we can get out a bit earlier.

Secondly, Tanya has decided to take a short break from teaching to get on top of her work. So, for the month of March you all are stuck with Louise and myself - mostly me!

Without further ado, the schedule, all classes @ Alola Foundation:
* Mondays - 6:15 - 1.15 hour class - Bree or Louise
* Wednesdays - 6:15 - 1 hour class - Bree
*Wednesdays - 7:15 - Meditation - 10-15 minute sessions, leave about half an hour for the entire exercise.
*Fridays - 6:15 - 1.15 hour class - Bree or Louise

Finally, a comment on the room - I think I have found a fabulous new place that is airy, spacious and air conditioned. At the moment it is being fixed up a bit but we may be able to start using it in only a few weeks. The best part - it's on the same road as Alola, a bit further up.

Namaste everyone and see you in class!

Bear with us!

2009-02-11T16:00:00.000-08:00

Hi Dili Yogis,

It will be no surprise to you that this post is about the yoga room. There are lots of you coming to yoga, which is fantastic, but as you all know, it seems our class has outgrown our lovely space at the Alola Foundation.

As of yet we don't have another option but I just wanted to reassure you all that I am looking into some alternatives and will be visiting a few places over the weekend and in the coming week.

So please hang in there another week or two, be patient with us and with each other when you're on the mat. Also please try to be ON TIME! It is really disruptive when people come in late and the entire room has to re-shuffle to accommodate them.

I am looking at a few gym spaces this weekend in the local schools and universities. If this works out our room donations can go to support the school. If anyone else has an idea - please let me know!

Namaste and keep practising!
Bree

Wednesday Meditations and Deevah away

2009-02-05T15:41:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone,

Thanks to all of you who participated in the meditation session on Wednesday. The feedback I got was really positive so I think we will do it again next Wednesday and make it a regular feature of the Wednesday classes. :) Also I have heard that there are some meditation opportunities in Dili so I will look for that information and try to post it here!

Also, Mana Deevah will be away for a week or two so I (Bree) will be taking her Friday classes, 90 minutes, starting at 6:15, until she gets back.

Namaste,

Bree

Wednesday 1hr15 classes and Meditation special class!

2009-01-29T15:50:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone,

As we decided in last Wednesday's class, from now on Wednesday classes will be 1 hour and 15 minutes, so from 6:15 to 7:30. This should allow us to do a few more poses per class and most importantly to have a nice long savasana (resting pose) after our asanas (physical poses).

In addition, next Wednesday February 4th, there will be an optional meditation session after the asanas. For those who wish to learn more about meditation and give it a try, I'll provide a brief introduction to meditation - what it is, why people practice it, what are some of the techniques - and then people will have the opportunity to try a 10 minute session using one of several techniques. We'll try to wrap up our asana practice a bit early, so I expect the meditation session to run until about 7:45.

If you want to participate, you may want to bring some of the following:
- A tais, blanket or pillow to sit on if you find it uncomfortable to sit on the floor;
- An eye mask or blindfold to help you keep your eyes closed;
- A light shirt to keep your body temperature constant as you cool down after your asanas.

If you have any questions feel free to post a comment here!

Namaste,
Bree

Schedule for Jan-Feb 09

2009-01-27T18:29:00.000-08:00

Hello Yogis!

Well, we are well into January and there are more people at yoga than ever, which is fantastic!

Schedule:
This is just a quick note to let you know that all the yoga leaders are now back in Dili and so classes are resuming their normal routines: Monday, Wednesday and Friday at the Alola Foundation. Classes start at 6:15pm sharp - please try to be on time! For the moment there are no schedule changes for February so our schedule continues as always.

Our teachers are:
Monday - Tanya (various length, 1 - 1 1/2 hours) - $4
Wednesday - Bree (1 hour 15 mins) - donation as you see fit
Friday - Deevah ('Dynamic' Ashtanga class - 1 1/2 hours) - $4

Each has a different style, why not try them all? Most of our classes are quite active, but don't be discouraged if you need time to build up your strength - try a shorter class, drink lots of water, and rest in Child's Pose as often as you need.

General Information:

With the rainy season well and truly here, it is HOT in Dili and despite our aircons, the yoga room gets steamy at this time of year. Therefore please drink lots of water on yoga days - bring some to class with you! Also it gets sweaty at times so you may want to bring a towel to class if you are prone to perspire - a small one to wipe your brow or even a large one to put over your mat if you find it gets slippery. And to think in some places people pay big money for 'hot' yoga! ;)

See you on the mat and Namaste!

Bree

Donation-based Wednesday Classes

2009-01-05T23:36:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone, and welcome back!

As mentioned in the previous post, our Dili yoga classes are back on and hopefully 2009 will be better than ever!

I just wanted to announce that for all Wednesday classes (and all others that I (Bree) teach) there will be a new policy: donation based classes!! From now on there will be no fixed contribution - I will provide a place for people to make a donation if they want to, as much as they want to.

In the upcoming year we will be looking at adding new days to the yoga schedule, possibly holding some classes at an alternative venue, and maybe even doing some weekend yoga retreats outside of Dili. If you have any suggestions or ideas please bring them up and we will do our best to make them happen!

For now, namaste and hope to see you in class soon... :)

Happy New Year!

2009-01-04T15:57:00.000-08:00

Hello Yogis and happy 2009!

Just a quick update to let you know that yoga is BACK ON! As far as I know, Mondays are still going strong (unconfirmed) but definitely the classes over the next few weeks will be:

Wednesday Jan 7rd
Friday Jan 9th
Wednesday Jan 14th
Friday Jan 16th

All the above will be lead by Bree - since everyone else is still on holidays.

Starting the week of the 19th Wednesdays will continue as usual but there may be some changes to the 'Dynamic Yoga with Deevah' schedule - I'll keep you posted.

Namaste and best wishes for the new year everyone!

Pilates!

2008-12-14T21:19:00.000-08:00

Hello all,

The yoga spot from now on will also include pilates schedule info! Seems we are going up in the world.

The lovely Lilach will be teaching her last class of '08 tomorrow Tuesday 16 December and returning again after New Years on Tuesday 6 December. Classes start are from 6-7pm at the Alola Foundation and a $3 donation is most welcome.

Don't forget to check the post below (or search for the posts labeled 'schedule') to check out the January start dates.

Have great holidays and happy 2009 everyone!!

Keeping your yoga fitness over the holidays

2008-12-10T16:18:00.001-08:00

Hello Yogis and Yoginis,

A few of you have asked me to post some resources to help you practice your yoga at home during the holidays.

So, here are a few online places to start!

Audio Podcasts:

Hillary's Yoga Podcast: http://hillarysyogapractice.wordpress.com. (my personal favourite, because she also posts the full list of poses on her site, with photos so you can make sure you're doing them right!) Also, check out Hillary's website at: www.iamnotamess.com

www.yogadownload.com
http://www.yogatothepeople.com/tryOnlineClass.shtml

Many of these are also available on iTunes - do a search for 'yoga' in the podcasts directory.

Video Podcasts (on iTunes if no web address given):

YOGAmazing with Chad Rough
YogaJournal.com Yoga Practice Podcast
Many others!! Do a search and look for the items with video icons (a small box like a TV) beside them.
http://www.yogatoday.com/

Other resources:

www.yogajournal.com - the site of the Yoga Journal magazine has a 'pose browser' where you can see examples of dozens of poses and read detailed instructions on how to do each one.

Hope this gives you enough to go on!!

Namaste :)

Last minute changes

2008-12-10T16:05:00.000-08:00

Hi all,

Last minute announcement!

There will be NO CLASS this Friday Dec 12th. Instead class will be Thursday Dec 11th, with Deevah. As usual this is a 1.5 hour 'dynamic yoga' class, and unusually, this is a free class as an early holiday gift to us all. :)

Hope you all can make it!

Namaste.

A few notes on the holiday schedule

2008-12-01T18:35:00.000-08:00

Hi all,

Just wanted to highlight that there are a few changes to the holiday schedule previously posted. First of all, there will be no class on Friday Dec 5th as previously announced - due to the Alola holiday fair the class has been moved to Thursday Dec 4th, from 6:15 to 7:45.

Secondly, December 12th will be the last Friday class of the season and the lovely Deevah is offering a free class as an early holiday gift!

Finally, from now on I (Bree) will be permanently leading the Wednesday class unless otherwise posted. Louise may still step in now and again, though, and she will lead the last Wednesday class of 2008 on December 17th.

Check the previous post for January start dates, have fantastic holidays, and Namaste everyone...

Bree

Holiday Schedule (December and early Jan)

2008-11-25T15:44:00.000-08:00

Hello all,

You'll be glad to know that yoga will be continuing throughout the holidays on Mondays starting at 6:15pm. I think there will be class-by-class announcements if that changes.

For the other days of the week we have classes on:

December:
Wednesdays: Dec 3, Dec 10 with Bree and Dec 17 with Louise
Thursday: Dec 4th with Deevah
Friday: Dec 12 with Deevah - Free class!!

January:
Wednesdays: Jan 7 onwards with Bree
Fridays: Jan 9, Jan 16 with Bree, Jan 23 onwards with Deevah

Namaste and happy holidays everyone!

Class levels, mats, and other info

2008-11-16T17:51:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone and thanks for all the positive feedback we've been getting.

In response to a few questions, I wanted to clear up that the Dili Yoga classes are for ALL LEVELS - no previous yoga experience required. If you are a beginner, please let the teacher know at the beginning of class. That said, the 1.5 hour classes - Fridays and some Mondays (no fixed schedule for which mondays, sorry) - can be more challenging so if you're totally new, recovering from an injury, or not sure if you're up to 1.5 hours of 'bending and stretching', I recommend you start with the 1 hour Wednesday class and see how you go.

Additional information - there are some spare mats available at the Alola foundation for use on a first-come-first-serve basis. At the moment I don't think there are any mats for sale in Dili therefore if anyone is going to Bali or Australia soon, please let us know if you would be able to bring back a few mats for those in need.

We ask a $4 donation per class which goes to the teachers. That said, I feel it's important to point out that only Tanya (who teaches Mondays) is an officially certified yoga teacher - the rest of us (for now - I will be doing a course mid '09 if I get accepted!) are just fellow yoginis who are willing to put in a little time to help you all get motivated.

I will be posting very soon the schedule for December through mid-January. Until then... Namaste. :)

November Schedule

2008-11-11T23:53:00.000-08:00

Hello Yogis!

Welcome to Dili Yoga Spot - hopefully an easy way to keep track of the yogic goings-on of our fair city. ;)

I wanted to post the schedule (so far as we know it) for November. I will post again soon with the schedule for December through New Years. I think most of us are going away so keep a watchful eye here as the holidays approach!

Dili Yoga Schedule
All classes @ Alola Foundation (just up from the Merkadu Lama roundabout) in the conference room - access round the back - and start @ 6:15. All classes 1 hour unless specified! Edited to add: Monday classes vary between 1 hour and 1.5 hours.

Wed Nov 12 - Bree
Fri Nov 14 - Bree (1.5 hours)
Mon Nov 17 - Tanya
Weds Nov 19 - Edited: Bree
Fri Nov 21 - Deevah (1.5 hours)
Mon Nov 24 - Tanya
Weds Nov 26 - Edited: Bree
Thurs Nov 27 - Deevah (1.5 hours)