Barefoot Studio

Race for the Cure 2011

2011-10-23T10:27:00.000-05:00

Thank you to ALL that supported Race for the Cure 2011! We had such a great time seeing everyone, laughing the entire time, and reminiscing about those we walk in Memory of~our dear yoga teacher & friend, Marilyn Murphy, and I personally walk in Memory of my Grandma (Gaga), Dadoo's Mom. Its such an emotional site & feeling to seeing thousands and thousands of stories along those three miles. And a HUGE Thank you to the men that supported everyone~3 Miles of Men & the guys that supported their loved ones in different ways :) Every intention & gesture is incredible!

Also, MANY thank yous to fellow yogis, Brent & Capi (Trio's)~for supporting the studio AND race this year!!

Lots of love, hugs & PINK!

xoox~breezy

Doug Sweson Workshop 2011

2011-10-17T21:34:00.000-05:00

A HUGE Thank you to Doug Swenson, and all that attended this past weekend! We had an incredible time, and laughed entire weekend :)

Music Soothes the Soul

2011-08-24T23:10:00.000-05:00

I'm excited students are enjoying some of the music I've been playing during classes! By request here are a few playlists~Enjoy ;)
xoox~breezy

HOT Fusion Yoga
Shanti (Peace Out), MC Yogi
Repulse, ATB
Breathe Me, Sia
Fine Again, Anthony Hamilton
Jet Lag, Joss Stone
Soul's on Fire, Anthony Hamilton
Set Fire to the Rain, Adele
Day Dreamin, Anthony Hamilton
So In Love (featuring Anthony Hamilton), Jill Scott
You've Got the Love, Florence + The Machine
Rolling in the Deep (Jaime XX remix), Adele
VCR (Matthew Dear remix), The XX
When the Night Falls (featuring Solange), Chromeo
Cool (featuring David Banner), Anthony Halmiton
Can't Take My Eyes off of You, Lauryn Hill
By Your Side, Sade
Spoiled, Joss Stone
Her Heart, Anthony Hamilton
Free Fallin (live), John Mayer
Naa Er Druene Paa Sitt Beste, Lindstrom

T/TH 5:30 & 7pm classes
Pure-Yoga Therapy Music for Kids, Yoga for Kids & Children
Repulse, ATB
Durga Shakti, Kerla Dream
Edge Hill, Goodbye Country
Om Mani Padme Hum, Jamste
The Orbiting Suns, Yoga Moods
Bhajya Sahita, Yoga Moods
Enigmatic Encounter, ATB

Eclipse on 5th, Brighwhitelight
Engrossing Moments, ATB
Rama, The Yoga Sessions

Gayatri, Jamtse
Om Sri Matre, Wah!
Bliss, Putumayo Presents Yoga
Naa Er Druene Paa Sitt Beste, Lindstrom
Monsoon, Mantra

Ma Chant (Svasana), Wah!
Lenna's Lullaby, White Swan Records
Yoga Dub Mystic, White Swan Records
The Orbiting Suns, Yoga Moods
Warrior Dub, White Swan Records
Melange Electrique, Jens Buchert
Edge Hill, Goodbye Country
Lo Fi Groovy, Permanent Evolutions
Naa Er Druene Paa Sitt Beste, Lindstrom
Lokah Samastah Sukhino, Donna De Lory remixes
Gaytri, Jamste
Opha-Me, Jamste
Bathe in these waters, Donna De Lory
Shanti (Peace Out), MC Yogi

And other random songs I play in classes :)
Breathe, Yoga Meditation & Relaxation Music
Karma, Yoga Groove 2 Soulfood
Bittersweet Faith, The Mating Game
all music by MC Yogi
Breathe, Telepopmusik
Angels (featuring Norah Jones), Nip/Tuck Soundtrack
Beautiful, Mandalay
Fade Into You, Mazzy Star
Prelude, Yoga Groove 2 Soulfood
From Where You Are, Lifehouse
Uncharted, Sara Bareilles
Love Song, Adele & 311
Still in Love with you, Sade
Brown Skin, India.Arie
Hold My Heart, Sara Bareilles
all music by Black Violin
Govinda Fly Remix, Sharon Gannon
Brent Lewis' DrumSex
Human, The Killers
My Being, Astarius
Just Came Here to Chill, The Isley Brothers
All songs & remixes by Donna De Lory
Squelch, Double D
Eddie C's Parts Unknown

I realize this is a HUGE variety of music~that's the beauty of it ;)

Yoga Music Playlists

2011-05-26T22:47:00.000-05:00

Many students ask about the music that we play in classes, so I thought I'd share some of my playlists!:)

Music is just as therapeutic as yoga for me~so I cannot imagine not sharing it with others!

Some of these lists might not play in the particular order I list them because my iPhone has decided to be on infinite shuffle Lol :) I'll post more next week!

Have a wonderful Memorial Day Weekend!!

Enjoy!
xoox
~breezy

HOT Fusion Yoga

Endless World, Guitar Meditations Vol. 2
Staraja Ladoga, Yoga Moods
Endangered Species (Raeo Remix), Nickodemus
Krishna Love (feat. Jai Uttal), MC Yogi
Shanti/Ashtangi, Madonna
Beauty Beats, Beats Antique
Set Fire to the Rain, Adele
Red, Red Wine, UB40
Day Too Soon (Mock & Toof Edit), Sia
Sleepyhead, Passion Pit
Rocket, Goldfrapp,
Brasilierio Nights (Remix), Shaman's Dream
Together Undone, DJ Cliv$ter (The Beatles)
Girlfriend, Phoenix
Shrine, Beats Antique
One and Only, Adele
Free Fallin (LIVE), John Mayer
Naa Er Druene Paa Sitt Beste, Lindstrom

5:30pm T/Th & Sunday 4pm Classes

Maha Lakshmi, White Swan Records
Midnight on the Run, Boombox
Intro, The XX
Shanti/Ashtangi, Madonna
Endangered Species (Raeo Mix), Nickodemus
Pranayamamystic, Shaman's Dream
Beauty Beats, Beats Antique
Bradenburg, Black Violin
Dirty Orchestra, Black Violin
Fanfare, Black Violin
Shakti, Wah!
Maha Deva, Wah!
Ma Chant (Svasana), Wah!
Thank You for Hearing Me, Sinead O'Conner
How Can I Keep From Singing?, Enya

Beginner Classes

Breathing in, Shaman's Dream & Craig Kohland
You're All Grown Up Now, Guitar Meditations Vol. 2
Summer Night's Compassion, Shaman's Dream
Healing Seas, Shaman's Dream
Sad Little Girl, Guitar Meditations Vol. 2
Sunflower, Yoga Groove 2/Soulfood
Yoga Dub Mystic, White Swan Records
How Can I keep From Singing?, Enya
Prelude, Yoga Groove 2/Soulfood
Bliss, Putumayo Presents Yoga/Yogini
Bath in these Waters, Donna De Lory
Lenna's Lullaby, White Swan Records
The Orbiting Suns, Yoga Moods/Jens Glad
Prayer Flags, White Swan Records
Aureole, Yoga Moods/Jens Glad

February 26, 2011~Day of Celebration & Peace

2011-02-26T15:33:00.001-06:00

Today, February 26, 2011, was one of the most beautiful days I've experienced at Barefoot Studio. And I promise you that Marilyn was there. She is there. Everyday.

Thank you to EVERYONE that joined us at the studio this morning! And to those that did not know Marilyn, but shared their yoga practice with us~thank you :) Today was definitely a day with celebrations, smiles, laughter, and memories. Remembering our dear teacher, a fearless warrior, with such ease, calm, and peace. She inspired us with the balance of all the above. Such a great time was had today as we shared memories of Marilyn, and gained new friendships. Its incredible when people come together, have the courage to share, and meet new faces, see familiar ones, during these times. To those of you that did not know Marilyn, but shared how your morning yoga practice impacted you~Thank you for your courage. Thank you for sharing! I can't imagine spending this day any other way than honoring & sharing Marilyn's love of yoga! She would, and IS, be THRILLED to know yoga has made a difference in your lives. Yoga was such a essential part of her life that she was doing simple stretches just hours before her last breath.

Its been requested to list the songs I used in class this morning. I have to admit that three of the songs were played by a fellow yoga teacher & teacher, Johanna~who's class and teachings have become dear to my heart. These songs resonated with me, and appeared at the most perfect time~so, thank you, Johanna, for sharing your music with me/us :)

Introduction by Russell Simmons by Lokah: The Ivy Ceiling

Warrior Dub by White Swan Records (yogaiTunes presents)

The Orbiting Suns by Jens Glad: Yoga Moods

Endangered Species (Raeo Mix) by Nickodemus

Om Shakti Om by Trevor Hall: This is Blue

Yoga Dub Mystic by White Swam (yogaiTunes Presents)

Naa Er Druene Paa Sitt Beste by Lindstrom

My Being by Astarius: Spirit Rap

Marilyn was with us in many ways today...one being the single candle lit on a pink mat centered in the room. We ended the practice circling the candle, hand in hand, as Patty Griffin's Heavenly Day played in the background.

The words read aloud today were from Happiness:Essential Mindfulness Practices by Thich Nhat Hahn.

Breathing in, I know lam breathing in.

Breathing out, I know lam breathing out.

As my in-breath grows deep,

My out-breath grows slow.

Breathing in, I calm my body,

Breathing out, I feel at ease.

Breathing in, I smile,

Breathing out, I release.

Dwelling in the present moment,

I know this is a wonderful moment.

Also, a HUGE Thank You to everyone that brought food for the Potluck, those that joined us, and to those that shared you couldn't be with us~Much LOVE to you all! Marilyn would be shocked at every one's gathering for her...but excited yoga was involved ;)

Our Happy Hour class donations for the month of February are going to theBreast Cancer Foundation. Because of your generosity, the foundation will receive over $300. Thank you, also, to those that donated on their own!

Marilyn, you've touched us in ways that will live on forever. Thank you for being you~You're never far from our mind, and always in our hearts!

Love & hugs

xoox

~breezy

My Memory of Marilyn

2011-02-16T14:53:00.000-06:00

Georgia is one of our teachers that was/is inspired by her friend & teacher, Marilyn. Thank you, Georgia, for sharing your memories with everyone, and we are thrilled for you to teach at Barefoot! xoox :)

When I first met Marilyn she told me about her breast cancer. After being in remission, it was back. There we were, sitting close together in a conference room at Heifer International where we both worked. A big staff meeting had just ended and people were filing out. I’ll never forget how Marilyn shared herself with me - her heart wide open and vulnerable, tears streaming from her big blue eyes. I listened and from somewhere beyond me the words came, “It’s going to be alright, Marilyn. It’s going to be ok. It’s your Soul and no matter what happens, your Soul knows and is in charge.” That’s how our friendship began and that’s how it always was. She shared freely her challenges of living with cancer and I learned so very much from her. She brought out the best in me and touched me deeply. I admired her determination and grace.

Marilyn showed me how to be brave in the face of death, to carefully review the things that mattered most, to be grateful for what was possible rather than concentrate on life’s betrayals, to clearly identify what could be done with the time left, and then deliberately set out to make it happen.

We would walk the big dam bridge together. As we walked, we talked. One day, a bit hesitantly, I confessed, “I know this is going to sound crazy and I don’t in any way mean to take away from the intense, heart breaking struggle you are facing, but I see how you have made it into blessing. You have chosen to face each day in the present and make the most of it. You don’t know what time’s left and you are determined to make the best of what you have. I have longed to do the same. Yet, I often fall short. You show me how to not let my fears or laziness stop me."

Marilyn was committed to making the most of life. She chose to live her life fully, to pass on the best in herself and to give back. She found ways to be of service to others. She showed me how to take what life gives and find the way through it. She inspires me still today and I want to be like her in so many ways.

Marilyn had shared with me her plans to move to south Texas to be near a dear friend where she would be supported. That all changed after she discovered Barefoot Yoga Studio. She had finally found the support and community that she was searching for with Barefoot ... right here in Little Rock. Marilyn was so grateful and she felt so loved and supported. She told me one day that she was in a yoga pose looking up, and the instructor walked by and told her how beautiful she was. Marilyn beamed as she showed me her yoga pose…she beamed from her heart. She felt so totally loved, accepted and cared for. Her teachers and friends at Barefoot were so very important to her. She found great strength and dignity in her yoga practice and with the loving community.

I went to her house as she was preparing, well, preparing for death. Marilyn gave me pictures that were taken of her as a yoga teacher for the Barefoot Studio website. I remember we were walking the bridge when she got a call to set up the appointment with the photographer. She was really excited and proud in a very heartfelt way to be a yoga instructor. She told me that she wanted everyone to remember her that way… as a yoga instructor. It represented the best of who she was.

I feel honored to have shared a bit of Marilyn’s journey with her. She taught me so very much about living with purpose. There are many, many stories and memories of her that I hold dearly in my heart. It is in her memory and honor that I have recently completed the Barefoot Yoga Teacher Training Certification myself. Marilyn is still very much with me, inspiring me to be the best that I can be. And that is exactly as she would want it to be. Lets join together in remembering and celebrating Marilyn Murphy…such a wise, gentle Soul and caring, bright Spirit!

In Celebration of Marilyn

2011-02-02T14:18:00.000-06:00

Its incredible that almost a year has passed since our friend & yoga teacher, Marilyn, lost her battle to breast cancer. I can honestly say there's not a day that passes that I don't think of her. Her angelic spirit and contagious laugh inspired so many of us...students, teachers, friends, family...every life she touched. In celebration of Marilyn we'll be opening our doors to the public for classes on Saturday, February 26, 2011. We'd love for you to join us in honoring Marilyn, and her love of yoga! Yoga was such an instrumental part of her life that it only seems fitting to share it with the community :)

Following the last class we'll have a potluck, and would love for you to join us! If you'd like to participate and bring a dish, you can sign up at the front desk, or email me...Breezy@barefootstudio.com.

The classes will be the 8:15am Power Hour class & 9:30am Beginner Yoga class. There is no charge for the class, but donations are greatly appreciated, and will go towards The Breast Cancer Foundation.

If you'd like to share your memories of Marilyn please email me and I will post it on the blog! We'd love to hear your stories :)

Marilyn, you're never far from our minds & always in our hearts~love & miss you dearly!

Love & Hugs,
xoox
Breezy
www.barefootstudio.com

Race for the Cure: Team Barefoot

2010-09-02T09:53:00.000-05:00

Friday, February 26, 2010, the heavens gained an Angel. Our dear sweet yoga teacher & friend, Marilyn, lost her battle with cancer. It is with great honor that Barefoot Studio family & friends are participating in the 2010 Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure, Saturday, October 16, 2010.

Team Barefoot t-shirts will be available at the studio for $20 donation. All proceeds go towards Race for the Cure. Sign up at the front desk with shirt size, and they will arrive before the race. This shirt is separate from the shirt you receive when registering for the acual race. You are welcome to buy the shirt AND register for the race, or just one or the other. You can also register for the team by picking up a form at the studio.

To REGISTER for Race or donate to Team Barefoot

Newest Addition to Our Yogi Family!

2010-07-27T10:54:00.000-05:00

Congratulations to Angela Alexander, and her sweet little family!

Angela gave birth to her second child, Posey June Alexander, born at 1:05am on June 29. Weighed 7 pounds 15 ounces and 21 inches long. Born at home in water!

SUMMER SPECIALS

2010-07-23T15:46:00.000-05:00

Wanting to try yoga? Or maybe you need some more classes?...We've got 10 Classes for $100 and get 4 FREE! 14 Classes of your choice~classes are 7 days a week! Check out our Full Schedule Online.

Also, I'll be teaching (Breezy:) the 6 Week Introduction to Yoga Course starting Sunday September 12-October 17, 2010 2-3:30pm! $75 per person for the course, $60 for Little Rock Athletic Club members & Military (active & retired). Great way to gradually learn yoga before attending the Beginner classes, but not required to attend the Beginner classes. You're welcome to bring your own mat, or borrow ours. Anything you might need during class, such as a block, bolster or strap, is at the studio. Water fountain is available~don't forget your water bottle in this heat we're experiencing!! Its also recommended that you don't practice on a full stomach. Eating a light meal 2 hours before class is a good suggestion. We do have a cooler if you need to bring your own snacks or drinks. Comfortable clothing is suggested...something you can move in, any kind of workout attire: pants, shorts, t-shirt, tanks...what you feel most comfortable in :)
To REGISTER or any questions call or email Breezy@barefootstudio.com 501.661.8005.

Doug Swenson is back for another AWESOME workshop weekend! If you missed his sessions in the Spring this is your chance to experience an amazing teacher! All levels will be taught so check out the details~you can attend the entire weekend or per session.

Friday-Saturday, August 27-29, 2010

Cost for Weekend: $185
Early Registration: $165
Per Session: $50

Doug Swenson began his study of yoga in 1969. He has had the fortune of studying with many great teachers including Dr. Ernest Wood, K. Pattabhi Jois, Ramanand Patel and others. Doug is a master yoga practitioner, philosopher, poet and dedicated health advocate. He has incorporated influences from several different yoga systems along with his passion for nutrition and the environment to develop his unique approach. Over the years he has authored several books; "Yoga Helps", "The Diet That Loves You Most", "Power Yoga for Dummies" and "Mastering The Secrets of Yoga Flow". He travels extensively offering workshops, retreats and teacher training courses around the world. Don't miss the opportunity to study with one of the world's top instructors. Doug's classes are always invigorating and inspirational and his supportive style of teaching and keen sense of humor send his students home with a smile on their face and a softness within their heart.

Friday evening: 6:00-8:30 pm

Yin Yoga - (Beginner - Advanced)

In this class the students will enjoy the simplicity of a nurturing, gentle asana flow. Many postures will be supportive, relaxing and held for longer duration. The vinyasa will be light (Non muscle resistance). Studio owner, or students - are asked to supply props, which greatly enhance the experience.
Meditation - Lecture on Types and Sample Meditation Practice (30 - 45 min)This class allows the student to learn the premise and foundation of meditation - including a brief view of the different techniques - class ends with a sample meditation practice.

Saturday morning: 11:00 am - 1:30 pm
Mastering the Secrets of Yoga Flow - (Beginner - Advanced)
The main focus of this class is centered around the fluid movements of soft and hard form vinyasa and how to expand this philosophy to create flow in your daily life - a variety of yoga postures - both easy and challenging will be used. Explanation will be made as to how the fluid energy lines of vinyasa in your yoga practice can affect your daily life in a positive way. A connection is made to help create a flow in your diet, at work in relationships and throughout your daily life.

Saturday afternoon: 3:30 - 6:00 pm
Hatha Yoga - Soft Style Practice - (All levels)
In this class we will practice a variety of postures - using a more restorative approach and non muscle resistance vinyasa.
Yoga Kriya's (Internal Yogic Cleansing Techniques) - (30 min - 1 hr)This class also covers importance of body detoxification and internal cleansing.

Sunday Morning: 11:00 am -2:00 pmEndurance Yoga / Power Yoga - (Intermediate to Advanced/those who enjoy a challenge)
In this class the students will test their body and mind - with long posture holds, difficult sequences and challenging vinyasa.

To REGISTER call or email Breezy@barefootstudio.com 501.661.8005

Hope everyone is having a GREAT Summer! Feel free to call or email me, Breezy, anytime with questions about yoga!

Hope to see you at the studio!

xoox~Breezy

Shiatsu Massage Workshop

2010-03-22T14:02:00.001-05:00

If you missed the first Couples Shiatsu Massage Workshop, Lauren is back again this Friday, March 26! I'd like to add that from experience you can bring any friend, family member or significant other to the workshop. Just because you don't have a significant other doesn't mean you can't partake in this workshop~bring any friend, and I guarantee you'll have a blast! :)

Couples Shiatsu Workshop
Friday, March 26th, 2010

Invite your partner, family member or friend to learn this ancient, oriental art of nurturing, healing and intimate touch. The gentle rocking, pressing and stretching motions can be performed on the floor without disrobing or oils.

Couple's Shiatsu is safe, fun to give and great to receive!

Join Lauren Bresnik-Gordon, LMT in her couple’s shiatsu workshop.

$25 per couple
2 hour class
7:00-9:00pm

Barefoot Studio

3515 Old Cantrell Road

Little Rock, Arkansas 72202
www.barefootstudio.com

To REGISTER call or email Breezy 501.661.8005 Breezy@BarefootStudio.com

The White Rose

2010-02-28T21:39:00.002-06:00

In Celebration of our dear sweet Marilyn, today's 4pm class was held in her honor. The love and energy flowed throughout the studio in the most angelic & gentle way. A pink mat with a single white rose laid amongst us. Our invitation for her presence to be with us was very strong. She was with us, and always will be.

White roses symbolize innocence, purity, new beginnings, honor and reverence. We began and ended the practice circling around the white rose linked together in hand & heart...being mindful of love, light and gratitude. Letting each breath serve as a peaceful reminder to be within this very moment.

The room was filled with students, teachers, friends, and a friend of her's that had not been to the studio, but wanted to be apart of her celebration by doing what had been so therapeutic to Marilyn...yoga. Just absolutely beautiful in every way.

One of the focuses of class was Virabhadrasana, or Warrior pose, variations. Warrior meaning triumph of spirit. It is a fierce posture, and can best be described as having warrior energy without aggression. Finding balance of effort & ease even with strong postures is continuously challenging, but softness within a pose is possible. The asana Marilyn chose for her pictures was Reverse Warrior...we also visited it during the practice.

The last few asanas were restorative postures, a way to 'sink in' to postures & props allowing the body to stretch, calm, and relax without giving any muscular effort. On Monday evenings after Marilyn taught her class, she participated in Peggy's Restorative Class. I'd like to extend a warm Thank You to Peggy for bringing this class to the studio...it truly was a blessing for Marilyn in so many ways.

I'd like to share the quotations I read during the class....

The greatest achievement is selflessness.
The greatest worth is self-mastery.
The greatest quality is seeking to serve others.
The greatest precept is continual awareness.
The greatest medicine is the emptiness of everything.
The greatest action is not conforming with the worlds ways.
The greatest magic is transmuting the passions.
The greatest generosity is non-attachment.
The greatest goodness is a peaceful mind.
The greatest patience is humility.
The greatest effort is not concerned with results.
The greatest meditation is a mind that lets go.
The greatest wisdom is seeing through appearances.
~Atisha

Breath in, I know I'm breathing in.
Breathing out, I know
As the in-breath grows deep,
The out-breath grows slow.
Breathing in makes me calm.
Breathing out makes me ease.
With the in-breath, I smile.
With the out-breath, I release.
Breathing in, there is only the present moment.
Breathing out, it is a wonderful moment.
~Thich Nhat Hanh

When we decided to hold this class In Celebration of Marilyn, I knew one thing was for sure. I wanted to include a song that is dear to my heart, and was introduced to me during the most stressful time of my life. Heavenly Day by Patty Griffin. As we stood in hand & heart circling the White Rose, we listened, smiled, weeped, and celebrated the life of our sweet Angel.

NEVER FAR FROM OUR MINDS~ALWAYS IN OUR HEARTS

Thank you to everyone that came to the studio today! Thank you to everyone for your support, love and joy of Marilyn!

If you'd like to share a message with Marilyn's friends & family, please email
thoughtsformarilyn@heifer.org

Love & Hugs,

xoox

Breezy

In Celebration of Marilyn

2010-02-26T18:07:00.002-06:00

Today the heavens gained an Angel. Our dear sweet fellow yoga teacher & friend, Marilyn, lost her battle with cancer. It is with great honor that I write about her as a friend & teacher~let it be known she is never far from our minds, and always in our hearts.

Marilyn enrolled in the 6-week introductory course at Barefoot Studio over two years ago while undergoing treatments for a cancer recurrence. Since her original diagnosis in 2001, she had been searching and trying out different practices and lifestyle changes to reduce stress and foster optimum health. She found yoga to be just what she was looking for and has maintained a regular practice ever since. Marilyn believes it is the key to supporting her body through ongoing medical treatments, in nurturing body, mind and spirit, and in creating balance and the conditions for healing. She incorporates breath work, postures and meditation into her practice and has recently been exploring the benefits of restorative yoga. Her passion to share yoga with others combined with her experience in training and facilitation led her to pursue certification as an instructor. This past Sunday, February 22, she completed Barefoot Yoga’s 200-hour Teacher Training Program.

Marilyn has worked, lived and traveled internationally over the past 16 years, in the fields of development, training and capacity building, social justice and building/supporting sustainable food systems. She holds Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in music.

This is part of the Biography on the studio's website written by Marilyn. On behalf of all the students, teachers, friends, family, yoga community & every life she touched, I'd like to add what an amazing woman and soul entered our lives. The greatest gift is truly her. She is one of the most courageous, strong & wisest women ever.

Yoga was such a intricate part of her life, and she was such a blessing in ours. The last evening she spent in Little Rock before moving home to Iowa was one of many to remember. She recounted how important it was to her to complete her teacher training. The word important does not begin to describe it actually...And to say she completed teacher training this past Sunday? She completed it long ago. She IS a teacher....a teacher of humanity & generosity. I'd also like to mention that one of her fellow teachers, Cynthia, made a Prayer Shawl for her that was presented to her at the graduation. She was, and still is, overwhelmed with gratitude. Cynthia, thank you again for a beautiful gift from the heart.

I remember Marilyn as a Beginner student just as I was in the early stages of teaching myself. I can recall the first day she walked into my class after completing the Introductory Course. Strong willed, curious, eager to learn and determined. That never changed. What she didn't realize was SHE was the teacher. We were her students :)

In Celebration of our sweet Angel, this Sunday, February 28's 4pm class at Barefoot will be an All Levels class, open to everyone & anyone. Donations per her request in lieu of flowers can be made to Ecuador or Guatemala county programs through Peace Corps Partnership Program www.peacecorps.gov <http://www.peacecorps.gov/> or a donation to the Young Survivors Coalition, www.youngsurvival.org/donate. Please let them know to acknowledge the family with your gifts.

We hope to see you Sunday at the studio, and thank you ALL again for your love & support for Marilyn! I just can't say Thank You enough :)

Never far from our minds~Always in our hearts

Marilyn,

we love & miss you always sweet Angel

Thank you, Marilyn!

2010-02-16T11:11:00.000-06:00

Monday, February 15, was Marilyn's last class to teach at Barefoot because she is moving home to Iowa, and we wanted to make sure she knows how much we appreciate her teaching & friendship! What a blessing & inspiration she has been, and is, to the studio!

It's been amazing to see her transition from student to teacher over the past couple of years. She's definitely been an incredible teacher for me, and helped me in more ways than she'll ever know!

Marilyn's biography is also on the website

Bio

Thank you, Marilyn, for being YOU! :)

Love & Hugs,

Breezy

Couples Shiatsu Massage Workshop~Valentine's Day Weekend

2010-02-12T23:40:00.000-06:00

Lauren Bresnik-Gordon, LMT lead us in an amazing evening of Shiatsu Massage work! Thank you to everyone that joined us! We can't wait to have Lauren visit us again :)

Love & Hugs,

Breezy

Snow Day

2010-02-08T19:34:00.001-06:00

Happy Snow Day Everyone!

We hope you are having a safe & warm day during all of this weather!

Capi's Girlfriends Night Out has been rescheduled for Monday, March 1, 2010~Ladies, Save the Date!!

Barefoot's evening classes tonight have been canceled, and so is Tuesday's 6am class, February 9th. The Tuesday evening classes are as scheduled unless the roads are not yet cleared. If that happens we will post the information in an email, on facebook, twitter & on the studio's voicemail 501.661.8005.

Here's a couple of pics from our snow day....
Loxie, my Golden Retriever pup, LOVES the snow!
Julie & I taking a break from traveling to Little Rock from Tunica (and you are correct, I did not prepare correctly for the blizzard!!)

Love & Hugs,
xoox
Breezy

Girlfriends Night Out at Capi's

2010-02-02T13:06:00.000-06:00

Capi's is hosting it's first GIRLFRIENDS NIGHT OUT!
Monday, February 8 from 6 - 9 p.m.

Gather your girlfriends together & come enjoy sassy cocktails, a tapas buffet and meet new friends! Powder & Smoke will be on hand with their amazing luxuries. Barefoot Studio will be on hand to let you know all about yoga & fitness. Beyond Cotton is going to show you the latest spring fashion trends, and Glo Limited will help you put your best face forward!

$25 per person takes care of the whole evening: cocktails and food!

We can't wait to see you!

CALL FOR RESERVATIONS: 501-225-9600

Yoga Day USA

2010-01-23T19:22:00.002-06:00

I am thrilled that Barefoot participated in Yoga Day USA today!! Celebrating the passion of yoga, and sharing it with the community is something I have dreamed about for years~and today was the perfect way to say Thank you to everyone that has supported the studio AND a welcome to the new students! I enjoyed seeing familiar faces & meeting new people~I hope to see you all again very soon!

Between the 8:15am Intermediate & 9:30am Beginner classes we had almost 100 enthusiastic yogis join us! I have been giddy like a child all day thinking how much fun we had, and just can't say Thank You enough :)

The pictures are also posted on the studio's Facebook Fan Page~check it out!

Facebook Fan Page

Twitter

Also, we are launching a new website SOON, so keep checking back & of course, I will post it on here as well!

Love & Hugs,

Breezy

Doug Swenson Workshop

2010-01-23T18:46:00.000-06:00

DOUG SWENSON

The Ultimate Weekend ~ Yoga Workshop : March 5 - 7, 2010

Friday evening: 6:00-8:30 pm
Cross Training Yoga (Balancing Strength and Softness): (Beginner – Advanced)
A delightful blend of Ashtanga and Soft form Yoga. Class starts with Doug’s completely unique approach to powerful Ashtanga Yoga, and then shifts gears into a challenging, yet, soft form Yoga format. Followed by, Pranayama and deep relaxation.

Saturday morning: 11:00 am - 1:30 pm
Sadhana Yoga Chi (Fluid Power) - (Beginner to Advanced)
A very soothing arrangement of soft and hard yoga asanas, connected together with mostly light (non - muscle resistance vinyasa) and some challenging (muscles resistance vinyasa). You will enjoy the challenge, achieve a variety of new poses and move with fluid power. When finished, drift into a blissful deep relaxation followed by a guided meditation.

Saturday afternoon: 3:30 - 6:00 pm
Latest in Yoga Adjustments and Partner Yoga: (All Levels)
The most fun you will ever have with your yoga, bring your camera. Learn new and exciting ways to help each other with yoga practice, through hands on yoga adjustments and partner work. Class concludes with creation of a yoga dance, from techniques you have learned.

Sunday Morning: 11:00 am -2:00 pm
Endurance Yoga / Power Yoga : (Intermediate - Advanced)
In this class the students will test their body and mind – with long posture holds, difficult sequences and challenging vinyasa.

~ Don’t Miss / This Wonderful Experience ~

Doug Swenson began his study of yoga in 1969. He has had the fortune of studying with many great teachers including Dr. Ernest Wood, K. Pattabhi Jois, Ramanand Patel and others. Doug is a master yoga practitioner, philosopher, poet and dedicated health advocate. He has incorporated influences from several different yoga systems along with his passion for nutrition and the environment to develop his unique approach. Over the years he has authored several books; “Yoga Helps”, “The Diet That Loves You Most”, “Power Yoga for Dummies” and “Mastering The Secrets of Yoga Flow”. He travels extensively offering workshops, retreats and teacher training courses around the world. Don't miss the opportunity to study with one of the world’s top instructors. Doug's classes are always invigorating and inspirational and his supportive style of teaching and keen sense of humor send his students home with a smile on their face and a softness within their heart.

PRICING
For the Weekend: $180.00
Early Registration: $165.00
Per Session: $50.00

To REGISTER call 501.661.8005 or email info@BarefootStudio.com

Valentine's Day Special!

2010-01-20T15:25:00.000-06:00

COUPLES SHIATSU MASSAGE WORKSHOP

Join Lauren Bresnik-Gordon, LMT in her couple's shiatsu workshop.

Friday, February 12, 2010

$25 per couple

2 hour class

7:00pm-9:00pm
Barefoot Studio

To REGISTER call 501.661.8005 or email info@BarefootStudio.com with the names attending.

6 Week Intro to Yoga Course starts Sunday Jan 10!

2010-01-05T11:22:00.000-06:00

Barefoot's 6 Week Introduction to Yoga Course starts THIS Sunday, January 10 at 2pm! A great way to learn yoga AND to start off the New Year! (great refresher course, too!) Its $75, and upon completion you'll receive a FREE Beginner Yoga Class of your choice.

Check out the website for more information and hope to see you there!
www.BarefootStudio.com

Email the website or call 501.661.8005 to Register

Love & Hugs,
Breezy

Stress Reduction

2010-01-05T11:17:00.000-06:00

A HUGE Thank You to Today's THV for inviting me on their Morning Show today! I had a great time, and Tom Brannon even did a little yoga :) Check out the link below!

Alyson talks with Breezy Osborne of Barefoot Yoga Studio in Little Rock about yoga can reduce stress in the new year.

There are many great tools for stress reduction and yoga can be a simple, easy way to manage your stress. Breezy talks about the benefits of yoga and how you can implement yoga into your daily life.
Yoga may not be for everyone, but there are some tips Breezy says are good to follow in order to reduce stress. Take time for yourself and focus on breathing or compose a gratitude journal to help reduce stress. Or you can try some neck rolls or a simple yoga pose - like the legs up the wall pose.
For more information on yoga with Breezy, visit the Barefoot Studio website or call (501) 661-8005.

Link to Today's THV

Love & Hugs,
Breezy

Hatha Yoga: Sacredness in Action Workshop~January 2010

2009-12-07T20:41:00.000-06:00

HATHA YOGA: SACREDNESS IN ACTION
Asana, Pranayama, and Meditation practice with Matthew and Holly Krepps
January 15th - 17th, 2010

This workshop is designed to clarify the relationship between the five traditional techniques and the five senses, which are the basis of our ways of learning, knowing, remembering and relating. When, through sensitive practice of the techniques, the senses and their tendency to function mechanically is clearly seen, we gain a unique understanding, grounded in experience, of how sight, sound, touch, taste, smell and their by product - - emotion - - can help to transform our actions and relationships into a sacred way of moving in the world and everyday life.
January l5th-l7th
Full Weekend: $l70

Friday evening: Creating the Sacred Space. Since the beginning of civilizations, humanity has consistently expressed an urge to create altars and sacred spaces in an attempt to relate to divinity, and understand our connection to it. Hatha Yoga is an expression of that same tendency. In the ancient traditions, the altar was a special structure demarcating the central point of importance in the ritualized space. The Hatha yoga tradition also identifies and creates an altar, onto which a sacred offering is placed. However, its uniqueness lies in it being a “way of action”, rather than an external structure. This session will include discussion, and a focused asana practice as a way of action we will call “Self Remembering”.
2 hours

Saturday morning: Emotion and the Scope of Authentic Devotion. The essence of yoga is love. Authentic practice involves awakening and understanding the full breadth of our emotional potential. Even the simplest postures and techniques can bring about intense feeling that can dominate our posture and send us back into mechanical functioning. However, when understood through “right practice”, a deep emotional experience can be the offering up of the essence of who we are into the light of full consciousness or full awareness. This session will include backbends, balance postures, and visualization.
3 hours

Saturday afternoon: The Mid-Life Crisis (at any age), Memory, Stress and the Possibility of Experiencing the New.
All the spiritual traditions suggest freedom from suffering by suggesting we: Stay in the Moment, or Be Here Now, or that we cultivate Present Centered Awareness. How do we do this in boredom, anger and all of the emotional upheavals that circumstances invite on a constant basis? Is practice the avoidance of these emotions, or is it a full and open invitation to experience them in a new way, that is the key to authentic growth? This session includes twists, and an in-depth pranayama practice related to memory function.
2 l/2 hours

Sunday morning: Spiritual Maturity. The Awakening of Conscience. The ability to experience all thought, sensation, and emotion in relation to a given circumstance without taking a “position”, and without judgment, is conscience. In another way, to be conscientious is to simply see and recognize what is actually happening, as opposed to “thinking about” it. This session will tie together the significance of emotion, memory, and the five senses in a simple, experiential sequence of practices designed to give rise to the opportunity for experiencing the awakening of conscience.
3 hours

Friday evening: Creating the Sacred Space
6:00p-8:00p
$40

Saturday morning: Emotion and the Scope of Authentic Devotion
9:30a- 12:30p
$50

Saturday afternoon: The Mid-Life Crisis (at any age), Memory, Stress and the Possibility of Experiencing the New
2:30-5:00p
$45

Sunday morning: Spiritual Maturity – The Awakening of Conscience
10:00a- 1:00p
$50

Matthew and Holly Krepps are co-owners of Circle Yoga Shala and former owners of Barefoot Studio. Matthew is ERYT 500 with the National Yoga Alliance and has provided teacher training’s at the 200 hour level in accordance with the alliance for the past decade. Matthew and Holly travel teaching workshops and teacher trainings in the US and in Mexico. For more info about their teaching visit: www.circleyogashala.com.

TO REGISTER, call 501-661-8005 or come by Barefoot Studio, 3515 Old Cantrell Road, Little Rock AR 72202. Workshops are also listed at www.BarefootStudio.com

Holiday Specials!

2009-12-02T22:57:00.001-06:00

The holidays are sentimental for me, and remind us how grateful & thankful where we are in life, and awareness to just simply be. These times can also be stressful, and its important that yoga continues to be apart of our lives, possibly before the holiday stress begins.

Anytime during the month December you can purchase 30 Days Unlimited Yoga Classes for $50. No matter if its today or Dec 31, get 30 Days of as many yoga classes as you like to attend! This price includes all current monthly members, too!

6 Week Introduction to Yoga Course is back! Ring in the New Year starting Sunday, January 10, 2010 at 2pm each consecutive Sunday. Price is $75 and upon completion you'll receive a FREE Beginner Yoga Class.

Gift Certificates are available for both options!
Also 20% off ALL retail! Stop by the studio sometime :)

Check out the website for more information www.BarefootStudio.com

Have a Happy Holiday Season!
Love & Hugs,
Breezy

Making Memories: A Celebration of the Life of Anne Pressly

2009-11-22T20:49:00.001-06:00

Barefoot Studio is proud to carry Making Memories: A Celebration of the Life of Anne Pressly. All proceeds from this book will benefit a scholarship foundation in her name to reward outstanding future broadcast journalists. Thank you to KATV & Anne's family for allowing Barefoot to share the memories of a sweet angel!

Anne holds a special place in all of our hearts. My family and I had the pleasure of meeting her and starting an amazing friendship in 2006 when she interviewed us for cooking BBQ at Gillette, Arkansas's Coon Supper. We all cross paths with people for certain reasons, and sometimes we never take the time to realize those reasons. We are truly blessed to have had Anne in our lives, and now our sweet angel is watching out for us, every day. Faith, love, hope & strength continues to flow to her family, friends, and colleagues.

Additional information can be found at http://www.annepresslybook.org/

Love & Hugs,

Breezy

Doug Keller Workshop Weekend

2009-11-05T11:13:00.002-06:00

What an incredible weekend! The students and I are so grateful for this opportunity with Doug Keller, and cannot wait to have him back at the studio! As soon as the date is confirmed I will let you know! I joked (but was serious) with Doug that he could have brought his dog to the studio~ha! I just love his picture with his dog on his flyers & website (you can see it behind Marilyn's shoulder on the door, too).

It makes yoga fun, such as my King Dancer standing in a 30lbs pumpkin~

Sorry to get off track! ;)......

I'd like to thank everyone that attended & helped with the workshop~it was great to meet so many new faces, and see so many familiar ones!

Again, I continue to be blessed beyond amazement with these opportunities, and am thrilled so share them with the yoga community!

Love & Hugs,
Breezy

Bryant's Varsity Dance Team

2009-10-26T10:16:00.036-05:00

Today I met up with Bryant High School's Varsity Dance Team to teach yoga and breathing techniques. One of my favorite times to teach is to ages 14-18 (I also taught this age group while being in Las Vegas for a year). I remember at that age everything being so fast paced, and realizing that things would only speed up. So when I get the opportunity to share with high school-ers, I love it!

Something we all take for granted is breathing. Its something our body does constantly, and once we turn our awareness to our breath, we begin to realize where we hold tension in our bodies. We forget that there's even a second part to our breath...the exhale. Its just as important as the inhale, and at times our exhale can remind us to soften & relax a bit.

I invite you take 5 minutes to yourself today~whether its sitting or laying in a comfortable position. Without manipulating or forcing the breath, start at your toes & ankles, and make your way up the spine to the finger tips & crown of the head~each time you exhale sink a little deeper into relaxation and let go of any tension~even in the jaw, mouth, eyes & forehead. Its amazing how our breath can lead us to see where we hold tension.

Thanks, Bryant Varsity Dance Team, for letting me visit ya'll today!

Love & Hugs,

Breezy

1st Intro to Yoga Course Accomplished!

2009-10-21T18:50:00.000-05:00

This past Sunday wrapped up Barefoot's first 6 Week Introduction to Yoga Course since I took ownership! Its such an amazing feeling to share yoga with so many people! For the rest of my personal journey, I'll always be a student and a teacher~learning something incredible & rewarding each day.

The next Intro Course will begin after the first of the year, and will be announced as soon as the dates are confirmed. Please know that Barefoot offers Beginner classes all throughout the week that you can join anytime!~Whether you've tried yoga once, never, or just heard of it ;)...these classes are for you! Pick out the time & day that's best for you, and come see us!

The Beginner classes are as follows:
Sunday 2-3:30pm with me (Breezy:)
Tuesday 5:30-7pm with Caran
Thursday 5:30-7pm with Jim
Saturday 9:30-11am with me

The full schedule is listed on the website www.BarefootStudio.com & private sessions are available with all of our instructors. Take a look through the website, and I look forward to seeing you in class!

Love & Hugs,
Breezy

Yoga: Take a Breath & Melt Stress Away

2009-10-08T22:31:00.001-05:00

Check out the link below! Dr. David Lipschitz & KARK featured Barefoot Studio on their stress relief segment earlier this month. A HUGE Thank You to them!!

Here is the article, please click on link below to view the video~Enjoy!

We all know less stress means better overall health. And when it comes to better health a centuries-old practice is still a breath of fresh air today.

Monitoring your breathing is advised for a lot of things. Improved health can happen as quickly as your next breath. That is if you're using the techniques that are basic to the practice of yoga.

Breezy Osborne of Little Rock took up yoga about 10 years ago. She believes it's completely transformed her life.

"This is my passion. I want to share it with everybody what it's done for me. I can't imagine not sharing it with anybody," says Osborne.

Right now she's sharing it with her own class. She's gone from student, to instructor, to now owner of her own yoga studio.

"Stress is so important for us to tackle in our life that we always forget about it and one of the number one ways you can tackle it is with your breath," she says.

Reducing stress has immeasurable health benefits and the breathing techniques in yoga can do wonders..sure the poses and postures can seem a little intimidating but don't let that scare you.

"You can always do yoga sitting in a chair, but you can still work a range of motion in your joints," Osborne says.

Yoga may have benefits beyond stress reduction. A study by the famed Mayo Clinic found that yoga can help with a myriad of health conditions. There's the obvious benefit of increased balance and flexibility, but it may also help with asthma, multiple sclerosis, osteoarthritis, even carpal tunnel syndrome. It can help combat depression and memory loss too, and the great news is you don't have to master the practice to get the benefits.

"You don't push yourself to get to a certain point. That's not the point of yoga. The point of yoga is to nurture yourself, be kind to yourself," she says. "No matter what age you are, you can begin this."

You too can find inner peace in just a few short hours a week.

"When you leave the class you will feel amazing inside and out," Osborne says.

And, you don't even need a prescription for a yoga mat.

http://arkansasmatters.com/content/Dr_David_Lipschitz_Fulltext/?cid=261792

Love & Hugs,
Breezy

Mama Mia!

2009-10-08T21:58:00.000-05:00

Monday, Oct 4, I received a phone call from a cast member of Mama Mia that is currently performing in Little Rock this week. Elena (http://asanasacrossamerica.blogspot.com) is visiting a yoga studio in every state as they travel and perform, and what an honor that she wanted to take yoga at Barefoot!

To say the least I was giddy from that moment on! And due to one very nostalgic reason....My first love for music were The Monkees & ABBA. ABBA's Dancing Queen was replayed at our home so many times a night as I twirled in Mom's sequined black jacket, and my 'fancy panties'...keep in mind I was 3 years old (ish:). I seriously thought I was the Dancing Queen, and I used to beg my parents to just watch me...every...night LOL. I recall seeing Dad doze off on the couch and me saying 'Dadoo, watch!'. Thanks, Mom & Dad for watching me spin in circles every night to one of the greatest songs! :)

Today, October 8, nine of it's cast members joined me at the studio for a yoga session. What an amazing opportunity and such an honor. I'm still in awe that she chose to call me and set up a private session! Ever since I dove into this studio I have been blessed beyond what I can imagine. The possibilities are endless, the yoga community & family is incredible, I just can't say Thank You enough for everything!

Love & Hugs,
Breezy

National Breast Cancer Awareness Month

2009-09-30T20:54:00.001-05:00

Hi Dear Friends,

In honor of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, if you register for Race for the Cure or 3 Miles of Men, you'll receive 20% off ALL classes & retail during October!

So many of us are affected by this disease, whether it be family, friends, or ourselves, that promoting awareness is a top priority. I myself have family members & friends that have survived, and lost their battles. There is more than one reason why my favorite color is pink ;)

Next time you come by the studio make sure to pick up a pink ribbon!

Love & Hugs,

Breezy

Women In Balance Retreat Nov 7-9, 2009

2009-09-14T12:09:00.000-05:00

November 7, 8 and 9: Mindful Living Retreat For Women at Arkansas’ Only Luxury Resort Destination Spa!

with other dynamic and empowering teachers at the 6th Annual Women In Balance Retreat on November 6, 7 and 8. This 2 1/2 day retreat takes place at Turtle Cove Spa at Mountain Harbor Resort & Spa nestled in the beautiful Ouachita National Forest on Lake Ouachita.

The Women in Balance retreat combines the best of holistic activity and celebration, with the elegant aesthetic of spa services and gourmet cuisine.
Join best-selling author, TV personality and renowned chiropractor, Dr. Elaine Dembe, for an entertaining and inspiring presentation as she talks about her book Passionate Longevity and shares secrets to living a longer, happier, healthier life --- with passion! Whether you are 35, 55, or 75, Elaine Dembe’s humourous, high energy seminars are filled with practical tips for a balanced, positive lifestyle that will change the way you think about growing older.

Also provided will be yoga classes both stimulating and restorative, journaling, aromatherapy classes, a free makeover with the spa’s mineral makeup line, and spa cuisine along with plenty of time to rest, commune, and be pampered. All classes are optional.

Cost: The cost of attending the retreat is $479, and includes all meals, a $100 spa credit to be used at the event, all lectures, classes, a WIB t-shirt, Spa Goodie Bag, aromatherapy oils, other free gifts provided at meals, and all other retreat activities.

Registration: Contact Kristi McCarty at Turtle Cove Spa at 870 - 867 - 1220 or fax your registration form found at www.turtlecovespa/.com/activities.

Lodging: Discounted Lodging is available at Mountain Harbor Resort & Spa. Space for the event will be limited, so those who want to participate should register early. To make lodging reservations contact Mountain Harbor Resort at (870) 867. 2191, or e-mail: harbor@mountainharborresort.com. Be sure to tell them you are with Women In Balance.

Spa Vacation Giveaway: Register for Women In Balance by October 10, 2009 and be eligible to win a Spa Vacation Giveaway at Mountain Harbor Resort and Turtle Cove Spa valued at over $1000!

Doug Keller Workshop Oct. 30-Nov. 1

2009-09-10T09:01:00.000-05:00

Hatha Yoga:
Evolution Revolution
Practice, Therapeutics, Spiritual Evolution With Doug Keller
October 30-November 1
Full Weekend $170

Friday Evening: The Core — Gateway to Spirit In a simple and refreshing all-levels asana session we’ll explore the ‘core’ actions of hatha yoga and their relationship to both physical and spiritual practice. We can think of the core as a ‘local system’ of core muscles that provide support — particularly to the low back and sacrum — in all forms of movement and in breath. We’ll start with specific ways in which to activate these muscles in practice, and move into the subtler aspects of the ‘bandhas’ — especially in pranayama and meditation — and their emerging role in the yoga tradition. We’ll finish the evening with guided pranayama and meditation.
2 Hours.

Saturday Morning — Uptempo Asana Practice A chance to step up in asana practice
with simple, elegant cues for graceful movement and opening in the poses. It’s the little things that make the di!erence for re-inspiring yourself in your asana practice — and Doug provides plenty to take home and play with in your practice and classes! The session will include backbending and some inverting!
3 Hours.

Saturday Afternoon — Spiritual Strategies: The ‘Upayas’ in the Evolution of Yoga
— This will be a practice session of pranayama techniques and meditation, but will also provide you with a close look at the central insights of the tantric tradition with regard to the main challenges in our spiritual life — the ‘malas’ or our principle experiences or forms of spiritual ‘contraction.’ Practice is treated as an upaya or ‘strategy’ for dealing with our challenges in a way that works for us. This approach will be set in the context of and in contrast to the approach of Patanjali’s tradition of Classical Yoga. This is a rare opportunity to learn,
discuss and inquire about the direction and intention of spiritual/meditative practice in yoga, learn how to incorporate these insights and ‘strategies’ into daily life, and then to have a taste of the key practices.
2 1/2 hours

Sunday Morning: Marma Therapy: A Missing Link in Yoga Therapy — The Ayurvedic
System of ‘Marma Therapy’ (the Ayurvedic science of therapeutic ‘pressure points’ closely related to hatha yoga) provides the ‘missing link’ in understanding much of the logic behind the poses and sequences of hatha yoga designed to address not only chronic pain from muscular imbalances, but imbalances in the ‘doshas’ and deeper therapeutic issues. This session will give a clear, accessible and useable look into these ‘marma’ points in conjunction with the doshas as well as the ‘myofascial sutras’ in Doug’s therapy manual, with guidance for practice that covers
the major areas of the body. It is recommended that you bring a pair of ‘massage balls’ — or something similar, such as ‘squash’ balls to fully participate in the practice. 3 hours

Friday Evening: The Core — Gateway to Spirit
6:30pm - 8:30pm
$40

Saturday Morning — Uptempo Asana
9:30am - 12:30pm
$45

Saturday Afternoon — Spiritual Strategies: The Upayas
2:30pm - 5:00pm
$45

Sunday Morning: Marma Therapy and Yoga Practice
10:00am - 1:00pm
$50

Doug Keller is widely recognized for his unique and insightful contributions in the field of hatha yoga, yoga therapy and yoga philosophy. He is the author of several widely read books on these topics, and writes the ‘Asana Solutions’ column for Yoga+ magazine. Doug is ERYT500 with Yoga Alliance and registered with the International Association of Yoga Therapists. For more information on Doug and his teaching, visit his web site at www.DoYoga.com

TO REGISTER, call 501-661-8005, come by the studio, or download the form at http://www.barefootstudio.com/workshops.html, print and fill out and mail to Barefoot Studio, 3515 Old Cantrell Road, Little Rock AR 72202

Hope to see you all there!
Love & Hugs,
Breezy

Mind Body Expression Workshop PIcs!

2009-08-31T12:43:00.002-05:00

Saturday, August 29th's MBE Class with Katherine Shoulders was a HUGE success! Thank you to ALL that participated & helped out! It was great to see familiar faces, and create many new friendships :)

I can't thank Katherine enough for sharing her time & passion with all of us. I look forward to more of her workshops at the studio!

Message from Katherine Shoulders:
"My first Barefoot teaching experience was far better than I could have imagined. Thanks to all of you for dancing with me, and giving MIND/BODY EXPRESSIONS a try. Surrounded by old and new friends our connection to each other, through movement, was a gift. Thank you Breezy. I look forward to coming home to Barefoot again soon, Katherine Shoulders"

Love & Hugs,
Breezy

6 Week Intro to Yoga Course

2009-08-14T17:01:00.000-05:00

Barefoot Studio will be hosting a 6 Week Intro to Yoga Course every Sunday September 13-October 18, 2009 2-3:30pm. This is a GREAT way to learn yoga step by step, and even a good refresher course for those that have been practicing. All ages & fitness levels are welcome.

Mats are available for purchase at the studio. We recommend you use your own mat, but we do have some you can borrow.

Register in person at the studio or by phone 501.661.8005.

Also, if you have any questions you can check out the website www.barefootstudio.com.

The 6 week course is $75.

Upon completion of the course, you'll receive a complimentary pass to any of our Basic yoga classes!

Hope to see you there!

Love & Hugs,
Breezy

KATV's Jessica Dean's Daily Debrief

2009-08-14T16:55:00.002-05:00

KATV's Jessica Dean & I sat down to discuss yoga on her Daily Debrief segment Wednesday, August 12, 2009. Take a listen to the 10 minute clip, and I guarantee you'll learn some things about me you might not have known ;)

http://www.ustream.tv/recorded/1973160

MomsLikeMe on Today's THV

2009-08-12T21:43:00.000-05:00

Monika Rued, from Today's THV MomsLikeMe, & I talked about how yoga can energize your days, especially for Mom's! With a balance of rest, postures & breath work, it IS possible to have more energy~for EVERYONE! :)

Take a look at the links below!
xoox~breezy

http://www.todaysthv.com/news/local/story.aspx?storyid=89225&catid=2&GID=XaeNegoatgPKu3BS/pYG4YiSolJa7359vzfNlPqtORo=

http://littlerock.momslikeme.com/members/JournalActions.aspx?g=503059&m=6847803&grpcat=Health

Mind/Body Expression Class 8.29.09

2009-07-20T13:14:00.000-05:00

I am THRILLED to announce our next workshop at the studio!

Mind/Body Expression Class (MBE) with Katherine Shoulders of Fayetteville Athletic Club. It will be held at Barefoot Saturday, August 29, from 1-3pm. Cost is $15, and you can register in person at the studio or by phone.

A MBE Class integrates fitness with joy and playfulness, allowing room to dance, move freely, and have fun. The movement in MBE is continuous and very easy to follow. In this 90 minute class, music and movement will range from energetic to slow and meditative.

Katherine Shoulders is a mother of two teenage boys, a health club owner and a teacher. Katherine shares, " MBE is very personal to me, as it is with the evolution of the person I am today. Teaching is a way for me to connect and express my joy, stress release, and to celebrate being alive".

Katherine's teaching venues include:
Aspen Club & Spa-Aspen, CO
Golden Door at the Boulders-Carefree AZ
Bodyworks-Portland, OR
Beaches Resorts-Jamaica
Lake Austin Spa-Austin, TX
Little Rock Athletic Club-Little Rock, AR
Fayetteville Athletic Club-Fayetteville, AR

Quote from one of her participants: "There are these mornings now when my bones feel creaky and the metabolism seems slowed down. But I know after MBE class with Katherine, I'll come out feeling renewed, happy, sweating, and glad to be in this body. Katherine's style and personal grace seem to 'charge' in the room with fun-loving energy. I've told my friends-this is my ticket through menopause." Joy Fox, Activist & Retreat Owner.

Anyone is welcome to email Katherine to learn more about what the class will be like. kshoulders@fayac.com

Any other questions email me Breezy.Osborne@gmail.com or visit the website www.barefootstudio.com

I had the pleasure of taking the MBE class at our Women in Balance Retreat a few years ago, and absolutely fell in love with it! Katherine is a truly amazing person, and her class is incredible! I am SO excited to have her at the studio, and for everyone to experience her class :)

Saturday, August 29, 2009
1-3pm
$15
Barefoot Studio
3515 Old Cantrell Road
Little Rock, Arkansas 72202
501.661.8005

Register in person at the studio or by phone.

Hope to see you there!
Love & Hugs,
Breezy

Good Morning Arkansas

2009-07-19T22:40:00.001-05:00

Friday, July 17, KATV gave us the opportunity to be on Good Morning Arkansas! A student & friend of mine of three years, Lindsay, so graciously demonstrated Chair pose :)

A HUGE thank you to KATV for inviting us! We had a great time! And thank you, Lindsay, for taking time out of your day to be there :) xoox

~Breezy

www.katv.com

Teacher Training

2009-07-19T22:30:00.000-05:00

Today ended the 50 Hours over the span of five days for our teacher trainees! They completed the Pranayama Intensive (breath) of the 200 Hour Certification program. These teachers are truly amazing! I am thrilled to have them at the studio!

I am so proud & happy for them all!
I look forward to seeing you all soon!

Love & Hugs,
Breezy

Ashley, Joy, Cynthia, Paula, Pamela, Susan, Mary, Marilyn, and Holly & Matt

Visit from India

2009-07-13T13:00:00.000-05:00

Susanne, who completed teacher training at the studio, will soon be teaching some classes at Barefoot! This post is about her recent experience with a yoga instructor visiting from India. Enjoy! :)

I had the great pleasure to meet Swami Satyanand from India. He was in Little Rock, Arkansas last week visiting one of his former students. He taught several classes and then cooked a meal for us. The amazing part of his yoga instruction was the flow of the class - movement was first, followed by an asana, then restorative pose, then an asana, following by a resting pose. It was the most fascinating experience, and I came away from the classes with a peace. Swami Satyanand is a disciple of the now deceased Swami Kripalvanand. He is a very kind and compassionate man. I was just amazed at the flow and ease of the classes.

Susanne

Three Generations of Barefoot Studio Owners

2009-07-10T14:34:00.001-05:00

I had the honor of teaching the two previous owners in my Thursday Intermediate Class! I have to admit at first it was startling to see these incredible women in the same room waiting for class to begin, but then I quickly realized we all have something in common...we have all had the opportunity to share our passion with others...and we are all still sharing in different ways :)

Cathy, the original owner, so generously made us a scrapbook of the studio with pictures/collections from 1995-2002. It is in Barefoot's lobby, and I highly suggest you take a look....some have even found pictures of themselves from her classes at the different locations. I am very thankful that she created and shared these memories with all of us. I love looking back...a few things have changed, but some things have not...lots of familiar faces, paintings....what a beautiful full circle xoox

Love & Hugs,
Breezy

Holly Krepps, Cathy Rodgers, and myself 7.09.09 at Barefoot Studio

My Largest Class at the Studio

2009-06-30T23:11:00.000-05:00

WOW! I had to capture this moment!! Twenty Three people on a storm ridden evening is amazing! (one left early for those of you counting heads LOL). I love seeing new & familiar faces in my classes, and when this many show up, its such an energy rush. This is one of the intermediate classes, and is filled with very loyal members. Many have been with Barefoot since the beginning.

At the end of every class I like to share a quote with everyone...'Thank you for letting me be your teacher, and thank you for being mine.' Its so simple, yet bold. Truth be told, we will always be learning new educational tools, AND our experiences teach us more than we sometimes realize. My students teach me plenty, and they don't even realize it. I'm incredibly blessed to be where I am right now...living my dream & passion.

Then the class asked for me to be in the picture...love camera phones! ;)

Thank you ALL for making this possible! I look forward to everything in our path :)

Love & Hugs,
Breezy

PS Two of our teachers, Kim & Jim, took the class. I LOVE when instructors support one another!!

Mike's Classes

2009-06-27T13:50:00.000-05:00

Mike and I went through Barefoot's teacher training program at the same time, and we also team-taught a few classes together after each of us got certified. I remember one distinct moment from taking his class that is forever ingrained in my mind...as he instructs students to raise their arms he says, 'if you happen to touch or run into your neighbor, its a blessing'. I have carried that with me in my own practice, and in every class I teach. There are not many people in this world that see things like that, so when I meet them, they hold a special place in my heart.

Mike's Saturday 9:30am Basic class is filled with such gentle calming energy. He has an eye for being able to see everyone's posture and practice. He truly gives attention to every student, and makes sure they are safe & in a welcoming environment. Mike also teaches at the Little Rock Athletic Club Wednesday 5pm & Saturday 11:40am.

I get to enjoy his Saturday morning class after I teach the 8am, and its the perfect way to start my day!

Thank you, Mike, for your dedication, honesty, and passion for yoga & the studio!

xoox
Breezy

Mike (back center) & his Saturday morning class

A HUGE Thank You!!

2009-06-27T13:10:00.000-05:00

Just recently I have become comfortable asking for help...with anything. I've learned that you truly can't do it all yourself, and when friends & family want to pitch in, its OK to accept the offer. Before the Open House, TONS of members from the studio, and my friends & family volunteered their time cleaning and helping me redecorate.

I wanted to dedicate a blog specifically to everyone that pitched in and made this possible! On the Sunday before the Open House, the studio was filled with volunteers from noon to 10pm! I was so appreciative, but at the same time, it still takes some getting used to to others helping. I've always been the person to take everything under my wing, not as a control issue, but more to make sure it gets accomplished. But this day, and week, people went above and beyond to lend a hand!! I can't not mention how gorgeous the hardwood floors are glowing! Thank you, Steve, for all your hard work! They are beautiful! :)

I cannot express enough how much you all mean to me, and the time we spent together (whether it involved paint, hammers, Lysol or clothing) I will always remember! :)

Yes, even little Sam helped out!

I'm in LOVE with candles!

My parents gave me this piece about 3-4 years ago, and I always new it would be in my studio one day....here it is :)

Love & Hugs,
Breezy

Summer Sales & Fabulous Finds!

2009-06-26T13:46:00.000-05:00

I knew when I took over Barefoot I wanted to do so many things my mind would race! Clothing & inventory is just one of the areas. I made sure the material was affordable and would last! Here are a few comfy & practical things I'm giddy about :)

Next time you come to class, or stop by the studio, take a look at the new & sale items from $5-$40! :)

Men & Women's Logo Tees just $20!!

Women's Roll Down Yoga Pant $39! (these don't high water, nor drag the floor;)

Grass & Aqua comfy Tank Tops perfect for this Summer heat $16!
Yoga Mat Bags in the prettiest of shades $18

Burnout Tanks $20 & Hoodies $27 in the shades of blush, mushroom, oat, heather,and black! Lightweight simple scarves in sapphire, emerald, raspberry & eggplant $17.

Twisted & Sun Salutation Yoga Magnets!

Yoga Mats in every color & Stability Balls both $15!

Yoga Mat & Bag all in one at $40!

ONLY $10! Colorful tanks, tops & pants!

I am excited to announce I'm making jewelry again! My creativity is soaring with this new venture, and it adds a little flavor to the studio :) My line is called Lovingly Breezy (because its made with love!)....featuring mixed mediums, simple & chunky pieces ranging $3-$50.

We also carry Mat Wash, Yoga Blocks & Straps (all $10), and Barefoot's own, Lengthening & Broadening DVD $25!

I'll keep you updated as soon as new inventory arrives!

Love & Hugs,
Breezy

Vicki's classes

2009-06-26T10:12:00.000-05:00

If you have not taken one of Vicki's classes, you are definitely missing out! I am sad to announce that she and her husband are moving at the end of July :( I am happy for their new venture, and wish them all the blessings they deserve! She has such a gentle and calming force about her, that you can't help but adore her! Vicki is a special part of my support system for the stressful times in my life; I'm not even sure she realizes it. I learn so much from her classes, as a student and a teacher. Such a great friend & instructor, I'll dearly miss her!! I encourage you to take her classes. She teaches at the studio Monday & Wednesday's 6-7:30pm, Wednesday 9:30am & a Horizontal class 10:30am Thursdays. You can read more about Vicki's story on our website under 'About Our Teachers'.

These times & info are also on the website www.barefootstudio.com

Thank you, Vicki, for your dedication, love & smiles to the yoga community! xoox :)

Vicki (center) with a Wednesday morning class

Today's THV This Morning 6.22.09

2009-06-24T15:16:00.000-05:00

Monday, June 22, 2009, I had the opportunity to be on Channel 11's morning show! It was very early, but I was so excited it didn't matter! Thank you to Alyson Courtney and THV for letting me represent Barefoot and talk about the benefits of yoga. I had a great time!

Check out the video below!

http://www.todaysthv.com/news/thismorning/story.aspx?storyid=86918&catid=143

Open House 6.19.09

2009-06-24T14:15:00.000-05:00

Barefoot's Open House Friday, June 19, was a HUGE success!! The love and support from the members, family, and friends was overflowing. What an incredible evening! This is the first big event I've ever hosted, and I wasn't sure how the night would turnout. I approached it like everything else I do in life...just a little bit of anticipation, and to let things happen the way they do.

A BIG Thank you, again, to Trio's for the wonderful food, and to the fabulous musicians, Judd Martindale & Nate Devlin...a beautiful combination!

Thank you to all the instructors, teacher trainees, volunteers, and Matt & Holly for joining us! Your help was very much appreciated! I adored seeing so many faces walk through the front door, and tried to hug everyone letting them know how much it meant to me that they came to show support! Thank you all SO much from my heart!

I'm posting some pictures from the event, but not all of them. The rest will be on the website shortly, so please keep checking back the next couple of days. Natalee, Thank you SO much for you continued support and dedication to the studio! Your pictures are heart warming! Much love sweet girl! xoox :)

Week One~Accomplished!

2009-06-07T19:48:00.000-05:00

I've been asked numerous times how week one has felt, and my first reaction is great, but a little mind boggling. My second thought (that usually doesn't get out) is that I've been craving and dreaming of this time for a couple of years now, so it feels right. Right is exactly what I feel. There are some things I am learning, but what I look forward to the most is teaching classes, and hearing feedback. I am tickled that people are sharing their thoughts and ideas with me! It gets my creative juices flowing even more!

There are a few aesthetic changes to the studio, but very simple. By the time of the Open House, June 19, it will be a little different. One painting I've added is a 3D version of Lotus Pose (see pic below) with mixed bold colors. I bought this painting about three years ago, and never new where to place it. As soon as I knew this was a 'done deal', it was the first thing that popped into my mind! Just right!

The clothing is now marked down 30%, and there will be a new selection of styles & colors at the Open House! I am SO excited about the yoga pants with the logo! They are incredible fabric, and incredibly reasonable...$39! Yes, you read that correctly!
Here are the choices of ladies tops & bottoms we have in stock.....

GENTLEMAN!! I have not forgotten about you! There will be men's clothing at the studio as well!

I've been asked many times what kind of a DVD do I recommend. Well? You are in luck!! Barefoot has its own DVD, Lengthening and Broadening. I'm not biased because myself, Matt, Holly, & members are in it. That...I am proud of! This video is how we instruct at the studio. It is the same language, method, and teaching approach us instructors use. It is extremely informative, and is a great home practice. It's $25 and can be found at the studio. All other inquiries email the website :)

Friday's are my 'days off' from teaching, and I have the pleasure of taking John's morning class at 9:30. I always praise John because he is a plethora of knowledge! He understands the traditions, philosophy, and the anatomy to a T. He introduces us to postures we might have forgotten, and reignites our curiosity. I just happen to catch him having a unique flower pot of coffee. Literally ;)

My final thought of the day...or moment...is thanking an amazing photographer! Natalee Ferguson is the face behind the beautiful pictures on the website, including my two new photos on the home page. Not only is she just as precious as can be, she is incredibly talented. She might be one of the sweetest, and most genuinely honest people I know. You will see her work much more throughout the website and blog. If you see her at the Open House, please let her know how much we appreciate her dedication! Now I just hope she reads this blog post! ;)

This picture was taken after the posture session of me flipping around finding a unique one to post on the sight. She, being the professional, put me in the following and it was the most serene and calming. Yes, it was the last picture taken.

We are less than two weeks away from the Open House! Mark your calendars~Friday, June 19, 7-9pm. Food provided by Trio's, and entertainment to be announced!

Again, I cannot express enough thanks to the members of Barefoot for opening their hearts to me! Its the greatest warmest feeling! Thank you!

Namaste

Breezy
xoox

www.barefootstudio.com

Change is beautiful!

2009-06-02T22:58:00.000-05:00

I've taken the greatest leap in my life, and could not be happier! For those of you that I haven't met, my name is Breezy Osborne, and I am the new owner of Barefoot Studio in Little Rock, Arkansas. I fell in love with yoga during college (University of Central Arkansas), and an even deeper love with Barefoot stumbling upon it in 2004. I started doing private practices with the previous owners, Matt & Holly Krepps, which eventually turned into teacher training sessions. Then I started their teacher training program offered at the studio, and earned a certification through the Yoga Alliance.

Matt and Holly have bought a working homestead on Shiloh Mountain outside of Jasper, Arkansas. Development as already begun for a full service retreat center, to include residential teacher training, individual healing retreats, group workshops, all include ayruvedic organic meals and cooking classes. We will still collaborate, and hold teacher training workshops and future retreats. Its definitely not a good bye for them, more about us continuing our paths, but working together as well. These teachers, friends, mentors, family of mine are beautiful souls. I am very lucky Holly answered the phone that day I called inquiring about yoga. I am thrilled for their new venture, and happy they felt confident passing their baby along to me :)

The journey yoga has brought to my life is incredible. It has taught me acceptance, patience, and honesty of my self. The instructors at Barefoot give you the tools to create your own space during class; its essentially your class on your mat. Your body changes everyday, even during the day, energies shift, so nurturing your mind and body according to how you feel reaps amazing benefits.

The studio is having an Open House, Friday, June 19, 7-9pm! We will be celebrating the transition of owners, noshing on food prepared by Trio's, and a new inventory of Barefoot clothing & Lovingly Breezy custom jewelry.

This blog will be updated weekly, sometimes daily, by all the instructors. Its important that people have insight to yoga through different souls. Everyone's story is different, but we are all on the same journey.

Again, I can't express enough how EXCITED I am to be living a dream! Matt, Holly and the studio is my second family. I've never wanted to open another studio while Barefoot was still kickin....Barefoot is where my heart is. I am so blessed to have this opportunity, and hope to see you all in class!

By the way, Barefoot is located at 3515 Old Cantrell Road in Little Rock, Arkansas, 72202...behind Loca Luna restaurant in the Riverdale business district.

The studio's website will be updated frequently, so please check it out! All information regardin location, schedules, registration, teachers, workshops, etc...
www.barefootstudio.com

Holly, Matt & I with teachers, Jim, Mike, Jon, Caran & Vicki (minus Louanne & Kimberly)

Holly & I at Boulevard Bread for lunch

Friends taking one of my classes~Lori, Mary Ann, Lindsay, & Rosemary