Event Review: Downtown Orlando’s Best Kept Secret….

You know when you stumble upon something amazing that you had no idea existed, and then you think, how did I not know about this for so long?! That’s what happened to me last Sunday when I attended Yoga In Lake Eola Park in downtown Orlando, FL. Love when that happens!

My main practice is Ashtanga Yoga, so unfortunately I rarely make it out to other yoga classes, but when I do it’s such an eye opening experience. Last week, the class was headed by Colure Caulfield, who taught a heart opening and mixed level funky flow.

I love how she reminded us to make sure to always come from a calm place, and to make sure that the breath is moving freely, which is what yoga is all about. She gave us a great mix of challenging postures while always encouraging us to take whatever modification we needed. Her teaching was motivating and inspiring.

I decided to go totally off the beaten path and experiment outside of the Ashtanga practice. She mentioned we could close our eyes and tune in, so I did that. Ashtanga is always taught with the eyes open and on a gaze point. However, the gaze is subjective because it always moves inward, so really, I still had a drishti.  I also decided to open up my hands in the warrior and fierce postures. It was fun to let go and let loose. It can be stressful to always be such a type A all of time!

2014 is all about following the beat of the Universe!

Yoga In Lake Eola Park is headed by Ryan & Amanda. They teach a few times each month along with a few guest teachers as well. What I love about this program is that it provides the gift of yoga, and the chance to practice from a variety of different yoga styles and teachers, and connect with a bunch of yogis where the goal is always the same – To find a happiness, calmness, and inner peace.

It’s nice to support the community and  amazing to practice in the energy of a bunch of rad yogis, all surrounded by the guiding energy of the sun, sky, and earth. Love it!

You can’t beat the vibrant energy of practicing under a big oak tree right in the middle of a farmers market and a playground!

I had a chance to talk with Amanda & Ryan about the goals of yoga in the park:

Our goal is to let everyone know that yoga is here for them. We love the awesome vibes that everyone brings, the sweet hugs and when yogis say, Thank you for doing this, Or This is exactly what this community needed. We’re just thrilled to give back. This is the shit that keeps on giving!

I’m thrilled to be teaching Yoga in the Park this Sunday, Feb 2^nd 2014, and I hope you can make it. If not, I hope to share a space next to you under the big oak tree!

Yoga in the park is held every Sunday in Downtown Orlando at 11am under the big oak tree located on Lake Eola and Washington. It’s between the farmers market and the playground. Parking is on the street or in the parking garage across the street. It’s super easy to find! It’s donation only, and you can come even if you can’t donate. Amanda & Ryan just want to provide the gift of yoga to everyone. How cool is that? Find more about Yoga In Lake Eola Park on their Facebook page. 

Loving the Orlando community more and more everyday!

 

Until Next Time Yogis!

 

 

Have you been to Yoga In Lake Eola Park? What was your experience? Who was your teacher? What did you learn? Tell me in the comments below & feel free to pin any of these pictures!