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Elemental Gong Meditation & Healing the Heart: A Gong Bath Immersive Journey

Elemental Gong Meditation: EARTH
Join us for our Elemental Gong Meditation, where we’ll be combining the healing powers of multiple planetary gongs alongside their elemental energy to guide you into a meditative state that allows you to bring forth traits that resonate with that particular element.

When we embody the aspects of the EARTH element, what can we receive?

Strength & Stability to create more harmony in our life
Patience & Nurture to grow and support new intentions
Integrity & Conviction to remain rooted in our core values and beliefs

For our EARTH series, you can expect a gong meditation that will help reconnect you with your essence. The purpose of which is to help strengthen your energetic and emotional support system, so that you may become clearer in your heart about what is your purpose in life and what steps you need to take in order to bring it closer to reality.

Elemental Gong Meditation: FIRE
Join us for our Elemental Gong Meditation, where we’ll be combining the healing powers of multiple planetary gongs alongside their elemental energy to guide you into a meditative state that allows you to bring forth traits that resonate with that particular element.

When we embody the aspects of the FIRE element, what can we receive?
Courage & Determination to go after what we desire
Passion & Creativity to spark a deeper connection with ourselves
Healing & Rebirth to release old stories and ignite new beginnings

For our FIRE series, you can expect a gong meditation that will ignite the flames of new energy within you. The intention is to help strengthen your energetic and emotional support system, so that you may become clearer in your heart about what is your purpose in life and what steps you need to take in order to bring it closer to reality.

Elemental Gong Meditation: WATER
When we embody the aspects of the WATER element, what can we receive?

Cleansing & Purification to heal any internal turmoil
Flexibility & Change to adapt to the circumstances of life
Clarity & Peace to center our spirit and body

For our WATER series, you can expect a gong meditation that will revitalize the life force within you. This purpose is to help strengthen your energetic and emotional support system, so that you may become clearer in your heart about what your purpose in life is and what steps you need to take in order to bring it closer to reality.

Healing the Heart: A Gong Bath Immersive Journey
Using purely the sounds of multiple planetary gongs, prepare to immerse yourself in rich tones and heavy vibrations that soothe the body into a relaxed state. Feel the unwanted weight of emotional strain being washed away, leaving you with a calmer state of being.

Gong immersions have a combination of intensity and serenity, where we fluctuate between the two to first bring out blocked or stagnant energy from the body. The gong’s vibration permeates through the body, affecting us on a cellular level to release any tensions within them. Once brought to the surface, various tones and frequencies break them apart, leaving you in a gentle state of harmony and ease.

Combining the elements of astrology and sound therapy, our gong immersion will consist of five Paiste planetary gongs, an introduction to each planet and the role they play in our lives. We’ll open the ceremony with a collective chant to activate our connection to the angelic realm. Once we’ve set our intentions, we’ll fall back into an hour long gong immersion before closing with an integration meditation.

 

Kyle Lam is a wellness practitioner dedicated to serving the emotional, mental and spiritual well-being of the community with sound bath meditation and holistic healing events all throughout Southern California. His background in music and expertise in working with a variety of musical instruments allows him to curate sound experiences that guide participants into a meditative state, enlightening their awareness and strengthening their connection with mind, body, and spirit. His goal is for the community to develop a more intimate connection to their hearts while inspiring new dedications towards the betterment of their well-being.

“Love is what we are born with. Fear is what we learn. The spiritual journey is the unlearning of fear and prejudices and the acceptance of love back in our hearts. Love is the essential reality and our purpose on earth. To be consciously aware of it, to experience love in ourselves and others, is the meaning of life. Meaning does not lie in things. Meaning lies in us.”

― Marianne Williamson

Gyrokinesis with Karen Burka

The Gyrokinesis Cardiovascular Breathing Program, developed by Juliu Horvath, offers a path to respiratory health in uniquely designed progressions that allows each person to stay in their individual comfort zone while expanding the functional range with a sense of ease.

In these classes, we will explore and experience the fundamentals of the movement and breathing patterns while sitting and standing. These movements will be performed in order to open and stimulate all parts of the body to allow maximum inhalation and exhalation throughout the brain and lung chambers.

All circulatory systems of the human body are stimulated systematically, leading to an increase in the flow of blood, nutrients, oxygen and other gases, and as well as hormones to and from the cells.

This ultimately increases overall better health, energy, life force, and detoxification.

 

Karen Burka’s love of movement led her to San Diego State University where she obtained a B.S. degree in physical education and sports medicine. She then joined Santa Monica College’s International Touring Dance company and even designed some of the costumes, leading her to her next career as a fashion stylist to the stars. In 1995, she became certified in the Pilates and Gyrotonic methods. Karen has been sharing with groups and private clients for over 30 years, and always continues study and grow. She is now a Master Trainer in the Gyrotonic, pretrainer in Gyrokinesis and specializes in breathe-work with movement. Karen also teaches Hatha, Restorative, Children’s and Aerial Yoga.

Karen lives in Santa Barbara, California with her long haired Dachshund Mate.

Gyrokinesis with Karen Burka

The Gyrokinesis Cardiovascular Breathing Program, developed by Juliu Horvath, offers a path to respiratory health in uniquely designed progressions that allows each person to stay in their individual comfort zone while expanding the functional range with a sense of ease.

In these classes, we will explore and experience the fundamentals of the movement and breathing patterns while sitting and standing. These movements will be performed in order to open and stimulate all parts of the body to allow maximum inhalation and exhalation throughout the brain and lung chambers.

All circulatory systems of the human body are stimulated systematically, leading to an increase in the flow of blood, nutrients, oxygen and other gases, and as well as hormones to and from the cells.

This ultimately increases overall better health, energy, life force, and detoxification.

 

Karen Burka’s love of movement led her to San Diego State University where she obtained a B.S. degree in physical education and sports medicine. She then joined Santa Monica College’s International Touring Dance company and even designed some of the costumes, leading her to her next career as a fashion stylist to the stars. In 1995, she became certified in the Pilates and Gyrotonic methods. Karen has been sharing with groups and private clients for over 30 years, and always continues study and grow. She is now a Master Trainer in the Gyrotonic, pretrainer in Gyrokinesis and specializes in breathe-work with movement. Karen also teaches Hatha, Restorative, Children’s and Aerial Yoga.

Karen lives in Santa Barbara, California with her long haired Dachshund Mate.

Gyrokinesis with Karen Burka

The Gyrokinesis Cardiovascular Breathing Program, developed by Juliu Horvath, offers a path to respiratory health in uniquely designed progressions that allows each person to stay in their individual comfort zone while expanding the functional range with a sense of ease.

In these classes, we will explore and experience the fundamentals of the movement and breathing patterns while sitting and standing. These movements will be performed in order to open and stimulate all parts of the body to allow maximum inhalation and exhalation throughout the brain and lung chambers.

All circulatory systems of the human body are stimulated systematically, leading to an increase in the flow of blood, nutrients, oxygen and other gases, and as well as hormones to and from the cells.

This ultimately increases overall better health, energy, life force, and detoxification.

 

Karen Burka’s love of movement led her to San Diego State University where she obtained a B.S. degree in physical education and sports medicine. She then joined Santa Monica College’s International Touring Dance company and even designed some of the costumes, leading her to her next career as a fashion stylist to the stars. In 1995, she became certified in the Pilates and Gyrotonic methods. Karen has been sharing with groups and private clients for over 30 years, and always continues study and grow. She is now a Master Trainer in the Gyrotonic, pretrainer in Gyrokinesis and specializes in breathe-work with movement. Karen also teaches Hatha, Restorative, Children’s and Aerial Yoga.

Karen lives in Santa Barbara, California with her long haired Dachshund Mate.

Tai Chi and Qigong with Cari Shurman

Tai Chi
The morning class focuses on a powerful 10-15 min Tai Chi wake up that can be easily learned and practiced every day for extra energy, balance, strength and focus. The energy (chi) is moved to all the organs, muscles, bones, nerves – everywhere in the body. We learn focus to improve balance and muscle tone as well as relaxation and circulation.

QIGONG
In the afternoon class we will practice focused moments for each of the organ systems – heart, lungs, stomach, intestines, liver etc. We will also learn Qigong for better sleep.
The two classes complement each other. You are welcome to attend one or the other or both. You may join at any time during the week.

 

Cari Shurman discovered Tai Chi and Qigong in 1985 on her first of many trips to China. The flexibility, balance and focus of participants awakened her interest in these exercises for health and longevity. She developed a program for children that is done all over  the US and beyond. Her adult classes, live or Zoom, help  participants stayed involved everywhere. Their stories of feeling happy, relaxed and balanced; of reducing pain and stress; of improving focus and positive energy are inspiring.

“It is wonderful to hear from those who have worked with me at the Ranch how life changing it has been to discover, feel and understand Tai Chi and Qigong.”

Tai Chi and Qigong with Cari Shurman

Tai Chi
The morning class focuses on a powerful 10-15 min Tai Chi wake up that can be easily learned and practiced every day for extra energy, balance, strength and focus. The energy (chi) is moved to all the organs, muscles, bones, nerves – everywhere in the body. We learn focus to improve balance and muscle tone as well as relaxation and circulation.

QIGONG
In the afternoon class we will practice focused moments for each of the organ systems – heart, lungs, stomach, intestines, liver etc. We will also learn Qigong for better sleep.
The two classes complement each other. You are welcome to attend one or the other or both. You may join at any time during the week.

 

Cari Shurman discovered Tai Chi and Qigong in 1985 on her first of many trips to China. The flexibility, balance and focus of participants awakened her interest in these exercises for health and longevity. She developed a program for children that is done all over  the US and beyond. Her adult classes, live or Zoom, help  participants stayed involved everywhere. Their stories of feeling happy, relaxed and balanced; of reducing pain and stress; of improving focus and positive energy are inspiring.

“It is wonderful to hear from those who have worked with me at the Ranch how life changing it has been to discover, feel and understand Tai Chi and Qigong.”

Bender Ball with Leslee Bender

These classes specialize in core strength by utilizing the Bender Ball to protect the back and disengage the hip flexors known to be over utilized in many exercises. You will leave feeling strong, centered and balanced.

Restore
This class will leave you feeling as though you have just experienced a deep tissue massage through special movement techniques and stretching. This is the perfect unwind for ever-body who is looking for longevity, decrease stress and more.

Bender Ball Core
This specific class will leave you with new and creative ways to have a strong healthy core without ever doing one crunch ever! Experience how to protect you back and strengthen the core body for life!

Better Booty with the Bender Ball
This class will give you a new functional approach to having a strong back side. Experience how to train you hips and glutes like never before with a Bender Ball ™ and Gliders™ and theraband for guaranteed results.

Bender Ball Pilates
This progressive class takes classical exercises vertical for a functional approach to Pilates mat. You will leave feeling lengthened, strengthened and strong, as though you have just experienced a Pilates apparatus class.

 

Leslee Bender, 2020 IDEA Personal Trainer of the Year, Author, International Speaker and presenter, has over 4 decades in the fitness and wellness industry. Leslee is the creator of The Bender Ball Method of Core Training which has been featured on national television and won awards. Leslee is the program educational director for Ageless Training Academy featuring a modality of longevity at any age to decrease pain, stress and lead a fulfilling ageless life. Leslee specializes in a functional approach to training that translates to life both one on one and small groups from professional athletes to anyone looking for exceptional results.

“The Ranch is the place where change happens both from within and out. Leave your past behind so you can experience your future.”

Bender Ball with Leslee Bender

These classes specialize in core strength by utilizing the Bender Ball to protect the back and disengage the hip flexors known to be over utilized in many exercises. You will leave feeling strong, centered and balanced.

Restore
This class will leave you feeling as though you have just experienced a deep tissue massage through special movement techniques and stretching. This is the perfect unwind for ever-body who is looking for longevity, decrease stress and more.

Bender Ball Core
This specific class will leave you with new and creative ways to have a strong healthy core without ever doing one crunch ever! Experience how to protect you back and strengthen the core body for life!

Better Booty with the Bender Ball
This class will give you a new functional approach to having a strong back side. Experience how to train you hips and glutes like never before with a Bender Ball ™ and Gliders™ and theraband for guaranteed results.

Bender Ball Pilates
This progressive class takes classical exercises vertical for a functional approach to Pilates mat. You will leave feeling lengthened, strengthened and strong, as though you have just experienced a Pilates apparatus class.

 

Leslee Bender, 2020 IDEA Personal Trainer of the Year, Author, International Speaker and presenter, has over 4 decades in the fitness and wellness industry. Leslee is the creator of The Bender Ball Method of Core Training which has been featured on national television and won awards. Leslee is the program educational director for Ageless Training Academy featuring a modality of longevity at any age to decrease pain, stress and lead a fulfilling ageless life. Leslee specializes in a functional approach to training that translates to life both one on one and small groups from professional athletes to anyone looking for exceptional results.

“The Ranch is the place where change happens both from within and out. Leave your past behind so you can experience your future.”

Yoga Samba with Luciana Freire

Born in Brazil, based in Corona del Mar, Luciana Freire has traveled the world apprenticing and training with the world’s most extraordinary healers, shamans, yogis, Ayurvedic doctors, meditation teachers and holistic experts. A coach, yogini, healer and lifelong seeker, Luciana is a dedicated certified Teacher and facilitator in Eastern and Western healing approaches. Her clients include celebrities, professional athletes, executives and others who are committed to living life to its highest potential. She has been a yoga instructor at Equinox for 8 years and has also taught yoga and Wellness Events at Montage Hotel, Pasea Hotel and Pelican Hills. Luciana is passionate about sharing her love for sustainable health, happiness and transformative healing.

World Groove Movement

Re-CREATE your workout…..GET GROOVE FIT! – THE GROOVE™ Experience 
THE GROOVE™ F.I.T. is a mind-blowing, functionally integrated fitness experience. Not only do you get to Dance Your Heart Out in the way that best suits your body and soul, you also get to enhance every area of fitness you can possibly think of. Cardio, flexibility, coordination, balance, agility, full range of motion, muscular strength, endurance and exclusive to THEGROOVEexperience, we’re gonna pump-up your creativity muscle too. There are NO fancy steps or choreography to memorize — just UNITE in a ridiculously SIMPLE yet effective movement connected to Make‐You‐Wanna‐Dance music and GROOVE yourself FIT!

GENTLE GROOVES…Restorative Flow! – THEGROOVE™ Experience
“GROOVE your body CALM to HEAL and RESTORE”
Are you ready and willing to gain access to the fullest potential of movement in your body?  No one can do it for you except you!  Find YOUR FLOW and experience how good you can feel ALL OF THE TIME!  Learn one of the most powerful tools for a healthy life; the ability to soothe, restore and relax your mind and body through music, movement, creativity and breath. Enjoy the bliss of slowing down, elongating your muscles, decompressing your joints and making sweet sweet love to your whole body!

 

Heather Winia is a master trainer and educator for The World GROOVE Movement and the featured facilitator on the bodyGROOVE On Demand streaming program. She brings with her 31 years of experience in the fitness/wellness industry and 15 years of sharing holistic health education and GROOVE DANCEfloors at fitness conferences and wellness retreats around the world.  Her passion is to INSPIRE the WORLD to DANCE, to Speak Truth and to LIVE Authentically while spreading POSITIVE VIBES in all she does!

Iyengar Yoga with Anna Delury

Deepening Practice
“Yoga does not just change the way we see things. It transforms the person who sees.” B.K.S.Iyengar

Iyengar Yoga is known for its precision of timing, sequencing and physical alignment. These principles help bring one to a dynamic awareness in action that allow one to move from fundamental asana to more complex.

  • 1 year of yoga practice recommended.

Healthy Back
“Yoga is symmetry”  B.K.S. Iyengar

Learn how to apply various yoga asana(poses) to achieve maximum benefits to help alleviate and relieve stress and strain in your lower back as well as improving muscle strength to avoid future issues.

Healthy Knees
Healthy knees are essential for trouble free mobility in the world. They are largest joints in the body, comprised of a complex system designed to both move and bear the weight of a person. Both their structure and modern stresses expose them to a variety of possible strains. By studying their structure and functions, we are can avoid injury altogether or recover from a pre-existing one. In this class, Anna will lead you towards a greater understanding of how to apply the principles of Iyengar Yoga in your asana practice for great ease and freedom.

Let’s Have Some FUN!!
“It is through your body that you realize you are a spark of divinity” BKS iyengar

While we often come to yoga with goals of healing an injury or getting fit or finding serenity, being light hearted and joyous is also a marvelous benefit of practice. Come find out how Iyengar Yoga can bring exuberance and delight into your practice and life.

  • Good for all levels of practice

Iyengar Yoga for Perimenopause
“The feeling of exhilaration and peace of mind is not difficult to attain during menopause. However, we need to have faith, determination and devote time.”  Dr. Geeta S. Iyengar

Perimenopause is a natural stage of life like puberty. It is a process that ultimately leads to the cessation of menstruation (known officially as menopause after one year). It may occur gradually over time without an abrupt change or it may happen quite suddenly. Iyengar Yoga can be of the tools used to provide support for the challenges that can arise, bringing relief and reflection

These classes will address a variety of symptoms including:

  • Irregular menstrual cycles
  • Remedies for hot flashes
  • Breast health
  • Pelvic health
  • Fatigue and insomnia
  • Mood swings and depression
  • Bone density
  • High blood pressure and heart palpitations

Women of all ages are welcome to attend this workshop to gain greater compassion for these transition years and an understanding of their inherent wisdom.

 

Anna Delury is one of Southern California’s Senior Iyengar Yoga teachers and a founder of IYILA.  Since 1982, she has travelled regularly to Pune, India to study directly with B.K.S. Iyengar and the Iyengar family, most recently in August 2023. In 1988, she received a BSc. in Kinesiology from UCLA. Known for her insight and wry sense of humor, Anna brings a practical application of yoga philosophy into each class she teaches, as she helps guide students to a deeper understanding and awareness of what lies within them.

 

Gyrokinesis with Kathy Van Patten

Kathy Van Patten is the founder of successful GYROTONIC® and Pilates studios in Boston, New York, California, and Texas. She has trained and coached some of the very best GYROTONIC® and Pilates teachers, who are now Master Trainers and owners of successful studios.

Romana Kryzanowska certified Kathy in Pilates in 1994, and she opened her first Pilates studio in Boston soon after.  Kathy continued her Pilates study with Bob Liekins, becoming a master trainer for Power Pilates in 1998. Kathy was certified in GYROTONIC® in 1999, and continues her studies with GYROTONIC® founder Juliu Horvath. She is certified in all courses offered in the GYROTONIC EXPANSION SYSTEM®, is a GYROTONIC® Specialized Master Trainer, and is authorized to conduct both GYROTONIC® and Gyrokinesis® Final Certifications.

“If you want to fly, give up everything that weighs you down.” – Buddha

Gyrokinesis with Kathy Van Patten

Kathy Van Patten is the founder of successful GYROTONIC® and Pilates studios in Boston, New York, California, and Texas. She has trained and coached some of the very best GYROTONIC® and Pilates teachers, who are now Master Trainers and owners of successful studios.

Romana Kryzanowska certified Kathy in Pilates in 1994, and she opened her first Pilates studio in Boston soon after.  Kathy continued her Pilates study with Bob Liekins, becoming a master trainer for Power Pilates in 1998. Kathy was certified in GYROTONIC® in 1999, and continues her studies with GYROTONIC® founder Juliu Horvath. She is certified in all courses offered in the GYROTONIC EXPANSION SYSTEM®, is a GYROTONIC® Specialized Master Trainer, and is authorized to conduct both GYROTONIC® and Gyrokinesis® Final Certifications.

“If you want to fly, give up everything that weighs you down.” – Buddha

Fitness with Farel Hruska

Farel Hruska is a fitness professional with just over 20 years of experience who combines a practical foundation in a variety of programming for functional fitness. Hruska also has a specialty in pre and postnatal fitness, training clients and Fit Pros worldwide.

Farel is forward-thinking and focused on effective and efficient training while building self-esteem, empowering others, and inspiring the fitness mindset focused on the mind/body connection.

“Be the change you wish to see in the world”

 

Fitness with Farel Hruska

Farel Hruska is a fitness professional with just over 20 years of experience who combines a practical foundation in a variety of programming for functional fitness. Hruska also has a specialty in pre and postnatal fitness, training clients and Fit Pros worldwide.

Farel is forward-thinking and focused on effective and efficient training while building self-esteem, empowering others, and inspiring the fitness mindset focused on the mind/body connection.

“Be the change you wish to see in the world”

 

The BURN Bootcamp

The BURN is a comprehensive, high energy class made for all fitness levels.  It is a full-body workout that challenges everyone from beginners to elite athletes!!  Tony’s attention to detail on form makes for a quick workout with maximum results.  With over 20 years of experience & 52 Fitness Infomercials under his belt, Coach Tony will motivate & challenge every participant to do more, better, faster!!

With fun music & an exciting hour every member will level up with each workout!! Come one, come all & experience the amazing BURN class with Coach Tony!!

 

Tony Lattimore is a former Marine who served in Operation Desert Storm, then returned home to attend Illinois State University and earned his bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology.

In January 1998, Tony moved to California, determined to become a fitness superstar. He began training clients at the prestigious Sports Club/Irvine (now Equinox) and went on to privately train professional athletes, celebrities, and community leaders. He continues to lead group exercise programs and has competed nationally as a bodybuilder. Traveling worldwide as an instructor and personal trainer, Tony has appeared in over 50 fitness infomercials, including the popular P90X workout program. His infectious optimism is a perfect complement for anyone’s fitness goals.

Today, Tony continues to work as a Model, Personal Trainer, Master Instructor, and Entrepreneur. He lives in Orange County, CA with his wife, Kimberly, and their 9 children.

The BURN Bootcamp

The BURN is a comprehensive, high energy class made for all fitness levels.  It is a full-body workout that challenges everyone from beginners to elite athletes!!  Tony’s attention to detail on form makes for a quick workout with maximum results.  With over 20 years of experience & 52 Fitness Infomercials under his belt, Coach Tony will motivate & challenge every participant to do more, better, faster!!

With fun music & an exciting hour every member will level up with each workout!! Come one, come all & experience the amazing BURN class with Coach Tony!!

 

Tony Lattimore is a former Marine who served in Operation Desert Storm, then returned home to attend Illinois State University and earned his bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology.

In January 1998, Tony moved to California, determined to become a fitness superstar. He began training clients at the prestigious Sports Club/Irvine (now Equinox) and went on to privately train professional athletes, celebrities, and community leaders. He continues to lead group exercise programs and has competed nationally as a bodybuilder. Traveling worldwide as an instructor and personal trainer, Tony has appeared in over 50 fitness infomercials, including the popular P90X workout program. His infectious optimism is a perfect complement for anyone’s fitness goals.

Today, Tony continues to work as a Model, Personal Trainer, Master Instructor, and Entrepreneur. He lives in Orange County, CA with his wife, Kimberly, and their 9 children.

The BURN Bootcamp

The BURN is a comprehensive, high energy class made for all fitness levels.  It is a full-body workout that challenges everyone from beginners to elite athletes!!  Tony’s attention to detail on form makes for a quick workout with maximum results.  With over 20 years of experience & 52 Fitness Infomercials under his belt, Coach Tony will motivate & challenge every participant to do more, better, faster!!

With fun music & an exciting hour every member will level up with each workout!! Come one, come all & experience the amazing BURN class with Coach Tony!!

 

Tony Lattimore is a former Marine who served in Operation Desert Storm, then returned home to attend Illinois State University and earned his bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology.

In January 1998, Tony moved to California, determined to become a fitness superstar. He began training clients at the prestigious Sports Club/Irvine (now Equinox) and went on to privately train professional athletes, celebrities, and community leaders. He continues to lead group exercise programs and has competed nationally as a bodybuilder. Traveling worldwide as an instructor and personal trainer, Tony has appeared in over 50 fitness infomercials, including the popular P90X workout program. His infectious optimism is a perfect complement for anyone’s fitness goals.

Today, Tony continues to work as a Model, Personal Trainer, Master Instructor, and Entrepreneur. He lives in Orange County, CA with his wife, Kimberly, and their 9 children.

The Spirit of Meditation with Michele Hébert

In the practice of meditation you leave the outer world and dive deeply into your inner most center of being. You learn to direct your awareness away from past and future thoughts and arrive in the present. In the NOW, you create a space of freedom where calmness and happiness can grow. Michele Hébert will guide you through the turbulence of the mind to the place within yourself that is of peace and stillness.

“Yoga is seeing life the way iti s.”—Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras

 

Michele Hébert is a Raja Yoga Master Teacher, meditation guide, award-winning author, and founder of the first meditation-based stress management program at the renowned Scripps Clinic in La Jolla, CA. She developed Intro to Meditation at UCSD and has been associated with Rancho La Puerta since 1987. Michele was personally trained in Meditation by Raja Yoga Master Walt Baptiste. She studied extensively withSwami Veda Bharati of Rishikesh, India and H.H.The Dalai Lama. Her mission is to inspire others to dive deeply within and make a conscious decision to grow and to live from their highest ideals. http://www.rajayogis.net

Qigong for a Healthy Body and Peaceful Mind with Samuel Barnes

Qigong improves the various bodily functions by improving the body’s natural energy flow andcapacity with simple standing or seating postures, body movement and harmonized breath. The simple movements were developed by Chinese over the last 5000 years to follow the natural flow of the earth’s energy and improve the circulation of internal Qi (Chi) from the body and external Qi from nature, utilizing this energy to stimulate and balance the various functions of the body, improving health, well-being and inner peace. Along with learning the Eight Pieces ofBrocade Qigong Set and Wild Goose Moving Qigong Set 1, each week will be exploring therapeutic qigong that is ancient form of Chinese energetic medicine and is one of the four main branches of Traditional Chinese Medicine, along with acupuncture, herbal medicine, and medical massage. Therapeutic Qigong practices demonstrate by balancing ones Qi or electromagnetic energy which surrounds and pervades in everyone and everything in nature. Disruptions in the electromagnetic energy of the body can occur throughout the natural life span as a result of poor diet, sedentary lifestyle, surgery, injuries, suppression of emotions, and aging. Therapeutic qigong begins to stabilize these bio-energetic imbalances and blockages. This enables the body to strengthen and regulate the internal organs, the nervous system and the immune system, reduce pain, regulate hormones, and strengthen and release deep-rooted emotions and stress.

Materials: DVD or Stream “Element: Tai Chi for Beginners” found on Amazon

Day 1: Introduction to Eight Pieces of Brocade’s 1st Piece of Brocade and the opening motion of the Wild Goose Moving Qigong Set 1, 3- 2- 3 Breath Work, Therapeutic Qigong practices for the Heart’s Health.

Day 2: Learn Eight Pieces of Brocade’s 2nd and 3rd Piece of Brocade and the 2nd group of motions of the Wild Goose Moving Qigong Set 1, 9 Point Breath Work, Therapeutic Qigong practices for the Spleen’s Health.

Day 3: Learn Eight Pieces of Brocade’s 4th and 5th Piece of Brocade and the 3rd group of motions of the Wild Goose Moving Qigong Set 1, 4- 4- 6 Breath Work, Therapeutic Qigong practices for the Lung’s Health.

Day 4: Learn Eight Pieces of Brocade’s 6th Piece of Brocade and the 4th group of motions of the Wild Goose Moving Qigong Set 1, 4-7-8 Breath Work, Therapeutic Qigong practices for theKidney’s Health.

Day 5: Learn Eight Pieces of Brocade’s 7th Piece of Brocade and the 5th group of motions of the Wild Goose Moving Qigong Set 1, Slow Breath Breath Work, Therapeutic Qigong practices for the Liver’s Health.

Rancho La Puerta Tai Chi with Samuel Barnes Traditional Tai Chi The martial art of Tai Chi is well-known for bringing the mind, body and spirit together to improve balance, prevent injury and promote good health. This peaceful martial art will help clear the mind, reduce stress, enhance flexibility along with promoting overall wellness. The steps are soft and the slow movements are simple. The postures and movements all accord with the principles of yin and yang and build an intimate awareness with one’s natural internal and external energy building a great sense of inner peace. Each week a new tai chi posture is introduced in the moving sequence of the traditional Tai Chi Long Form Tai Chi Form training. Tai Chi is a form of Qigong so each week will be exploring therapeutic qigong that is ancient form ofChinese energetic medicine and is one of the four main branches of Traditional ChineseMedicine, along with acupuncture, herbal medicine, and medical massage. Therapeutic Qigong practices demonstrate by balancing ones Qi or electromagnetic energy which surrounds and pervades in everyone and everything in nature. Disruptions in the electromagnetic energy of the body can occur throughout the natural life span as a result of poor diet, sedentary lifestyle, surgery, injuries, suppression of emotions, and aging.The goal of tai chi as a therapeutic qigong begins to stabilize these bio-energetic imbalances and blockages. This enables the body to strengthen and regulate the internal organs, the nervous system and the immune system, reduce pain, regulate hormones, and strengthen and release deep-rooted emotions and stress.

Materials: DVD or Stream “Element: Tai Chi for Beginners” found on Amazon

Day 1: Introduction to Tai Chi Free Flow Movements, Opening Motion of Tai Chi Long Form, Lifting Hands and Ward Off Left

Day 2: Practice Tai Chi Free Flow Movements for improved health up to Ward OffLeft then add Ward Off Right and Roll Away, Press, Guard the Temples and Push movements

Day 3: Practice Tai Chi Free Flow Movements for better balance up to Push then add movements Single Whip, Lifting Hands, Spread the Wings and Brush Knee.

Day 4: Practice Tai Chi Free Flow Movements for anxiety relief up to Brush Knee then add 2nd Brush Knee, 3rd Brush Knee, Play the Guitar, Pary and Punch.

Day 5: Practice Tai Chi Free Flow Movements for transformation of fear up to Part and Punchthen add Uncrossing of the Hands, Turn to Close, Return to the Mountain Training
Camp.

 

Samuel Barnes is the director of TaiChi Works Studio, the Qigong Healing Institute inBeverly Hills and a teacher at UCLA. He has been teaching Tai Chi for over 43 years and is a master teacher of these popular health practices, traveling extensively in China and Tibet and cultivating a deep understanding of these practices so he can share them clearly with the West. He also teaches Qigong, Hsing I, Bagua, Chinese Yoga,Therapeutic Qigong and Meditation. He is featured on the “Element: Tai Chi forBeginners” DVD and is pioneering online class content to allow Tai Chi and Qigong to be easily accessed in the mainstream. He is well known for leading 3-35 day deep world wide travel immersions in Tai Chi, Qigong and Meditation and has an extensive private practice with clients locally and online.

Better Balance with Kymberly Williams-Evans

Want to reduce your fall risk? Stave off memory decline? Walk more effectively and confidently? Learn some interesting aspects of your specific movement habits? This program is based on the latest science and is designed to improve your balance, cognitive function, and posture in these integrated, cutting edge, research-based, exercise sessions.Try some fun moves that stimulate your motor, cognitive, and sensory domains. Come one day or all as each session offers stand-alone activities. You’ll gain loads of functional tasks to do at home post-Ranch visit.If you have balance or brain health concerns or simply want to play, laugh, and learn targeted tasks to activate your brain and body all-in-one, join me every day or on a drop-in basis.

 

Kymberly Williams-Evans PhD (ABD) has taught fitness, dynamic balance and dance to more than 40,000 participants on 4 continents in 4 languages. Her teaching career spans land, sea, and airwaves and started in the first aerobics studio inEurope. Former faculty at University of California Santa Barbara in both the Dept of Exercise and Sports Studies and English, she specializes in baby boomer and older adult group exercise. Her newly released video program, “Better Balance, Fewer Falls, was inspired by her 40 years’ guest teaching at the Ranch.When not at Rancho la Puerta, you can find her in Santa Barbara where she leads classes and writes on fitness topics.

“I won’t be old until my feet hurt, and they only hurt when I don’t let ‘em dance enough, so I’ll keep right on dancing. – Bill “Bojangles” Robinson

Better Balance with Kymberly Williams-Evans

Want to reduce your fall risk? Stave off memory decline? Walk more effectively and confidently? Learn some interesting aspects of your specific movement habits? This program is based on the latest science and is designed to improve your balance, cognitive function, and posture in these integrated, cutting edge, research-based, exercise sessions.Try some fun moves that stimulate your motor, cognitive, and sensory domains. Come one day or all as each session offers stand-alone activities. You’ll gain loads of functional tasks to do at home post-Ranch visit.If you have balance or brain health concerns or simply want to play, laugh, and learn targeted tasks to activate your brain and body all-in-one, join me every day or on a drop-in basis.

 

Kymberly Williams-Evans PhD (ABD) has taught fitness, dynamic balance and dance to more than 40,000 participants on 4 continents in 4 languages. Her teaching career spans land, sea, and airwaves and started in the first aerobics studio inEurope. Former faculty at University of California Santa Barbara in both the Dept of Exercise and Sports Studies and English, she specializes in baby boomer and older adult group exercise. Her newly released video program, “Better Balance, Fewer Falls, was inspired by her 40 years’ guest teaching at the Ranch.When not at Rancho la Puerta, you can find her in Santa Barbara where she leads classes and writes on fitness topics.

“I won’t be old until my feet hurt, and they only hurt when I don’t let ‘em dance enough, so I’ll keep right on dancing. – Bill “Bojangles” Robinson

Better Balance with Kymberly Williams-Evans

Want to reduce your fall risk? Stave off memory decline? Walk more effectively and confidently? Learn some interesting aspects of your specific movement habits? This program is based on the latest science and is designed to improve your balance, cognitive function, and posture in these integrated, cutting edge, research-based, exercise sessions.Try some fun moves that stimulate your motor, cognitive, and sensory domains. Come one day or all as each session offers stand-alone activities. You’ll gain loads of functional tasks to do at home post-Ranch visit.If you have balance or brain health concerns or simply want to play, laugh, and learn targeted tasks to activate your brain and body all-in-one, join me every day or on a drop-in basis.

 

Kymberly Williams-Evans PhD (ABD) has taught fitness, dynamic balance and dance to more than 40,000 participants on 4 continents in 4 languages. Her teaching career spans land, sea, and airwaves and started in the first aerobics studio inEurope. Former faculty at University of California Santa Barbara in both the Dept of Exercise and Sports Studies and English, she specializes in baby boomer and older adult group exercise. Her newly released video program, “Better Balance, Fewer Falls, was inspired by her 40 years’ guest teaching at the Ranch.When not at Rancho la Puerta, you can find her in Santa Barbara where she leads classes and writes on fitness topics.

“I won’t be old until my feet hurt, and they only hurt when I don’t let ‘em dance enough, so I’ll keep right on dancing. – Bill “Bojangles” Robinson

Dance with Rory Davis

Roryography is a follow-in-the-moment dance/cardio class in the style of a Richard SimmonsVHS tape. All ages and skill levels are welcome. If you are a trained dancer or you trip over your own feet, you will have a ball dancing with Coach Rory Davis, who specializes in movement and cardio for all bodies and abilities. You will laugh and sweat equally in Roryography. Fabulous attire not required but highly recommended!

Rory Davis is the long-standing resident choreographer for Peaches Christ Productions and the co-creator of Baloney, SanFrancisco’s acclaimed Gay All Male Revue. Rory staged the west coast premiere of “Showgirls! The Musical!” and has starred opposite drag legends Bianca Del Rio, Alaska, Bob the Drag Queen and countless others. Rory staged the world premiere of the FX miniseries “Feud” and he was a headline performer for the San Francisco Pride main stage for several years. With the creation of Roryography, Coach Rory has become the go-to choreographer for the drag scene in San Francisco and continues to specialize in movement for non-dancers.