Charleston Power Yoga

Proud Mary and Africa Yoga Project

2012-02-23T06:39:00.000-08:00

Two of our favorite passions have come together, shopping and Yoga, thanks to Harper Poe of Proud Mary. Harper, one of our flow junkies, started Proud Mary in 2008 when she returned from volunteering for Habitat for Humanity in South America. She was inspired to combine sustainable design business and social change together and since has created an outlet for shoppers to purchase unique, handcrafted goods from artisans in developing countries, and 10% of the Market sales go to support like minded organizations. Harper has chosen one of our favorite organizations, Africa Yoga Project, to receive 10% of Sales on products from Mali. AYP creates empowerment and transformation through Yoga and trains amazing teachers in Africa who are being the change every day! Check out Proud Mary's Market and give back while getting some amazing, unique, sustainable products you will love!

www.charlestonpoweryoga.com

2012-01-30T11:43:00.000-08:00

~Yogini Necklace~

Theodosia Jewelry NOW at Charleston Power Yoga!

Shop Local~Be Local! One of our local fav's Jenny Thompson is at it again.. this time with a special collection of 24kt plated yoga pendents on beautiful gold chains specially designed for all you flow junkies at CPY. The necklaces are retailing for $95 and are sporting pendants of 'Namaste', lotus, buddha, om, and more! These will sell fast and are a great gifts to receive or share for your special Valentine! We are also carrying a Theodosia favorite.. 'the Delicate Necklace'. This necklace is a 14kt gold chain with a semi-precious stone droplet hanging down in multiple colors retailing for $45. You have probably seen Jess, Beth, and Sarah all sporting theirs... they are obsessed with the simplicity and beauty of this piece and how easy it translates on and off the mat! Its a definite low maintenance yogini staple! So stop by today to grab yours or gift your bestie!

~Delicate Necklaces~

2012-01-10T16:39:00.000-08:00

A lesson in Non-Attachment by the sale of a big black truck ~Sarah Frick

Today my black Chevy pick up truck was sold by my darling Husband (truly he was quite sweet about it). You see we are having a baby and I now have a station wagon which I drive my yoga self around in for the most part so the truck is more just an eye soar on our curb and an occasional vehicle to tote my dogs to the beach in. It no longer holds the sole purpose of transporting me from point A to B safely (or if you saw the dents.. semi-safely :) This truck for me holds many memories and a way of life I am no longer really living but having a hard time letting go of. About 4 years I packed up my life and drove it down to Charleston with my little lab friend in the front seat and took up shop in a sweet little rental on Sullivans Island and have not looked back! It was a time to play and be free and have little responsibility. So.. fast forward 4 years.. I am a wife, a soon to be Mother, a business owner, a home owner, ex-party girl, and last but not least a station wagon driver. Last night when I was cleaning out the truck and literally balling my eyes out I had to stop and ask myself.. "what is the attachment to this piece of metal... why am I literally associating my persona to this truck"? In yoga the concept of 'non-attachment' is called Aparigraha. 'Aparigraha is the Sanksrit word for greedlessness or non-grasping.' Why.. when I know nothing material is permanent and we are not our things could I just not let go of the 'idea' of this truck defining me. Why did I feel that I now had to define myself with words like 'wife, mother, business owner, or worst of all responsible adult!' when really all I have to be is "Sarah' and its enough. I spent a long time thinking about how I use material items and labels to define me as a person when they can all be taken away so quickly anyway. At the end of the day its just you and God and not the stuff you bought or the money you made or the image you so delicately try to portray. So the question then became.. is it the truck I am having a hard time letting go of or is the image I have created for myself that only I care about- because the people that really love me don't care what I drive or look like. Of course after much 3am soul searching I came to see that it was the image.. the free spirit, life of the party, pick up truck driving girl that I was mourning when in reality she is still there.. just with a bigger baby belly, a sweet husband, a killer business, and a safer (more suitable) ride! Remember folks.. on this journey.. we are not our things.. we are not our jobs.. our money.. we are our spirits and our kindness and most importantly God's love~ If you see the old beater riding around Charleston... give her a honk ;)

New Years Eve Class with Beth

2011-12-29T18:53:00.001-08:00

What's your Resolution? Why not kick your New Year totally different than ever before! Join Beth from 10:00pm to Midnight for a Goal Setting Session to create your Personal, Health and Career goals for 2012 and beyond. Then get on your mat for a 76 minute Candlelight Power Vinyasa class to inspire Possibility and take you Ommming into the new year. Toast 2012 with champagne and treats for the perfect finish. Sign up today to reserve your spot! $20 pre sign up, $25 day of.
http://www.charlestonpoweryoga.com/events.php
See you there!

Stuff Your Stocking with Yoga!

2011-12-18T20:09:00.001-08:00

Charleston Power Yoga has the perfect gift for that yogi in your life, and we will even wrap it up for you! From Manduka Pro and Pro-lite mats with a lifetime guarantee, to the best athletic tanks and pants on the planet, to must have yogitoes skidless towels and locally made yoga bags from the Rose Knot, we've what they want! Even non yogis will love Rewined candles, locally made soy candles in recycled wine bottles in 7 popular varietals. Or buy with a conscious and support displaced women in Northern Uganda with handmade recycled jewelry from 31 Bits. Can't decide? Charleston Power Yoga gift cards always fit and are easy to buy at www.charlestonpoweryoga.com Our boutique is open before and after scheduled classes, or call 843-513-3400 for other times to shop. We know you have other local King St businesses to support as well, so drop your 4-11 aged kids off this Thursday, December 22 for a Kids Yoga Class from 2-3, and cross those last few things off your list! Kids class is $10, cash/check only, reserve your child's spot by calling 843-224-5900
Have a Merry Christmas! NAMASTE

Adopt an Angel this Holiday

2011-12-02T02:29:00.001-08:00

Remember the thrill of waking up on Christmas to see what Santa brought? No child should be deprived that! Join Charleston Power Yoga in our annual Salvation Army Angel Tree and adopt an angel today. Stop in the studio and pick an angel off our tree. Buy your angel something from their wish list. A great guide is an outfit, pair of shoes, one toy, but do what you can afford, less or more. Go in with friends and ditch giving each other obligatory gifts, practice Karma Yoga and give selflessly from your heart. Unwrapped gifts are due back to CPY by Dec 10th. Get your angel before they fly away! NAMASTE
www.charlestonpoweryoga.com
557 King St, Suite A
843-513-3400

Get your Wrap on at Dellz

2011-11-22T11:37:00.001-08:00

Charleston Power Yoga's favorite lunch spot is Dellz Deli, right around the corner on Cannon. Owner Dell Grayson whips her amazing wraps and other healthy options every day except Sunday starting at 11am, and is even open late night on the weekend! Sarah's favorite is the High on Veggies with sprouts, tomatoes, cucumbers, mushrooms, celery, avocado, red and yellow pepper and fresh fields greens. And dont' forget to ask for the Goddess sauce, yum! Beth loves the bean and rice bowl with salsa, avocado and sprouts, but its really hard to choose, everything is so dang good! Try the Mahi Mahi tacos and the Jazzy pizza if you've got someone to share with. If you;re looking for an awesome healthy lunch on the go, stop by Dellz and treat yourself to an affordable delicious treat! Its the perfect lunch spot after a hot sweaty yoga class, or even a hard day of shopping on Upper King. Tell Dell we said hi!

Dellz Deli
1A Cannon St
843-722-5376
Call ahead if you're short on time

www.charlestonpoweryoga.com

Get Sugared!

2011-11-13T16:40:00.000-08:00

No we aren't talking cupcakes and candy, not today anyway, but Body Sugaring! The healthy way to remove unwanted hair using 100% natural, pure ingredients. The room temperature sugar, lemon and water paste leaves you naturally smooth and soft! Sweet 185 is the sweet spot on Upper King offering sugaring, organic facials/skin care and massage. Book an appointment with our fav sugarist Jenn Garrett, she is highly skilled in the art of masterful hair removal without a lot of pain:) Not into the hair removal scene? Jenn also offers amazing organic facials that will leave your skin looking 10 years younger, and add on a foot massage by Lauren while you are getting your facial for the ultimate pampering experience! Support local Upper King business and check out Sweet 185 today! Tell Jenn we said hi!
Sweet 185 476 King St 843-329-3500
http:/www.mysweet185.com

Let Your Inner Bad-Ass Out by: Emily Watson

2011-10-03T05:39:00.000-07:00

I taught a class a while back and got feedback that, while it was a good class, I was playing it safe. My friends said, “Emily, you’re a little badass but you didn’t let that shine”. Wow, I was offended. I told myself I did great! I didn’t play it safe! But for some reason, I couldn’t get over this feedback.

I reflected back on my teacher training a year ago and my feedback from a very smart and genuine man was, “Emily, take the lid off”. I instantly put up a wall. He doesn’t know me! What the hell does that mean!?

Now as I think of this feedback I’ve gotten, it hits me… I do play it safe. I put walls up so no one can hurt me. I have cleaning day on Saturday. I balance my checkbook every day. I think of canceling with friends if they invite me to do something outside of my “norm”. Sometimes I just don’t want to take a chance and risk f***ing up. I don’t want to look stupid or imperfect. I took Beth’s class last night and she talked a lot about how we put walls up to protect ourselves and how we’re not perfect. I almost stood up right then and there and said, “Beth YES I AM!” But what is perfection really? The textbook definition describes it as freedom from fault or defect. But aren’t those little imperfections what make us perfect? Because of our life experiences and our attitudes, we’re each unique and perfect in our own way. I digress.

Sometimes we play it safe because we want to appear that we know it all or that we don’t ever screw up. But that’s how we grow. As babies, we didn’t just pop out walking. We stood for a few seconds, wobbled a little bit, fell over, cried, and tried again. Why as adults are we afraid of busting out? Why are we so afraid of falling? The thing is, each person has something amazing to share. If we don’t let out our inner badass, whatever that may be, we’re doing a great disservice to the world. So maybe it’s scary teaching a new sequence or speaking my truth, but if I don’t, how do I know what I’m capable of? Maybe it’s scary trying headstand or handstand, but if you don’t, will you ever know if you can?!

Humans are such organic creatures that it’s simply amazing. We have the ability to change and grow every single moment of every day. We are faced with challenges and experiences that give us opportunities to evolve. If we take chances and put ourselves out there, sure it may be scary, but what might be possible if we do?! What’s so bad about shining our inner badass? Don’t hold back. Bust out of the boundaries you’ve set for yourself (and yes we all set them for ourselves). We are limitless!

lululemon Salutation Nation 9.10.11

2011-09-19T11:49:00.000-07:00

Thank you lululemon Charleston for bringing so many amazing yogis together for this community event!! Over 200 people gathered to flow together at Brittlebank Park and it was a picture perfect day. We all need to step out of the walls of our individual studios to come together to support and inspire other like minded peeps in our community. It doesn't matter where you practice, what style of yoga you love, or your experience level, we all come to our mats with the same intention and from the same heart! I for one hope the Charleston yoga communtiy can come together more often, no matter how busy we may be. We are all students and we are all teachers, I need you and you need me... Namaste Charleston!

Sweet Carolina - Charleston Power Yoga

2011-09-14T12:37:00.000-07:00

Are you Done? by Jessica Kenny

2011-08-29T11:50:00.000-07:00

My brother has won every fight we’ve ever had since we were little. I would try really, really hard to win. I’d scream at torturous decibels, say spiteful things, even throw large objects. He would stand there, silent, unfazed. And every fight, at the first moment of quiet, he would calmly ask me, “Are you done?”

That question really fucking pissed me off.

I’m a fighter. And not in a hot Mark-Wahlberg-meets-Million-Dollar-Baby kind of way. I used to fight everyone, on everything, especially myself. Whether it was to save face, or to continue a cycle of denial/resistance that felt comforting and familiar, or simply to keep others from seeing something about me, I never really needed a reason. It had become second nature. A slippery, ego-driven, well-worn slope. But, once I’d start, even though I knew that it would pointless, it would feel impossible to turn back. The idea of giving up sounded so much worse.

Any time I felt vulnerable, raw, exposed, or weak, I fought to appear fine. Any time a friend suggested loving advice that felt like a threat to my cycle of fighting, I fought to stay right. Any time my ego felt scared or small, I fought.

I was in a war in which no one else was participating. And I was losing. Bad.

When I found yoga, my cycle of fighting become much more apparent to me. I would fight with the teacher who held me in a pose longer than I wanted to be. I would rebel by not taking wheel, if I didn’t want to. I would silently fight the girl next to me who seemed more beautiful, graceful, or together. It was My Way, or No Way. But, I didn’t do anything about it at first. I would leave class feeling more tired, more angry, and alone. I started to realize how often I met the people in my life with my dukes up. Even with the people I love, and who love me, I would sit feigning openness, but I had a six-shooter in my bra, just in case they crossed me. I was always preparing for a fight, and I started realizing I was always going to lose.

As I chose to step onto my mat more and more, I started choosing to fight less. I took the teacher’s suggestions, I listened more openly, and entertained the possibility that there could be another way than my way. Some of the best yoga practices, classes, or meditations came when I felt tired: I didn’t have the energy to fight.

The more I rolled out my mat--and, eventually, my heart in teacher training--the more unavoidably clear it became that my pattern was keeping me depleted, heavy, and alone. My brother may as well have not been in the room, because I was really just fighting with myself. Fighting with all the things I hated about me, all the things I refused to make peace with, I was fighting love.

It occurred to me: What if all the energy I wasted fighting went to something else? What if I became a lover, not a fighter? What if I did, in fact, give up?

(Whoa. Ego didn’t like that.)

Just as my ego found my brother’s question to be infuriating, my heart felt the truth of what he was truly saying: “Don’t you see how ridiculous and useless all this fighting is? When are you going to give up?” “NEVER!!!!” Ego would yell, blindly waving her Samurai sword. But, the real Me started growing more attracted to being “done.” It sounded like rest, and freedom. So, I started giving up the fight.

Fighting takes a lot of different forms: control, defensiveness, resistance, reactivity, or just straight up fighting. But, they all boil down to the same thing. They are all the ego’s way of keeping us stuck and exhausted so we stay smaller than it. My brother won every fight by not participating in it. I stayed in the same place by fighting.

Start to notice the areas in your life where you put up a damn good fight. Where you come out, guns blazing. On your mat, or off your mat. In a pose, in your relationships, toward yourself. What if you were “done?” What if the war was over?

You have officially been given permission to stop fighting. You will not lose, but gain. Hey. We just may find out, together, that giving up is the greatest victory of all.

Level 1 with Baron Baptiste! by Sarah Frick

2011-08-17T11:00:00.000-07:00

Last week I began my training to become a certified Baptiste teacher. I attended level one with Baron Baptiste in the Catskills of New York Aug 6th-13th. I was scared, resistant (to say the least :), and beyond excited to learn, grow, and share my flow! The first three days of training I felt super resistant to the process. I was all up in my head and trying to "just get through it"... and then it ALL hit me! This is how I have been showing up in my life in so many ways... teaching, loving, eating, practicing, living etc... rushing from one thing to the next! I have been 'surviving' my life instead of being fully present and living and breathing every little second of it in! I have let certain instances over the past 3 years rule my life in a way of anticipation, sadness at times, and anxiety to get it all done and just get through it. Rushing around no longer serves me... nor does saying 'Yes' to every invitation keep me present and really connected because I am always thinking of what I have to do next. I decided last week to literally ground myself through my asana.. taking time to have a full breath (or 8 :) in each pose... taking time to really see the people around me- no longer hiding in my life or piling on all the 'stuff' so I am not exposed! I have learned to empower those around me and fill them up with love, honesty, truthfulness, and above all happiness! If you want good people around you... help them create a sense of love in their own lives. We did a lot of transformative work that I won't get all into (can't spill all the level one beans.. you gotta go for yourself!) and it totally helped me open up and let go of the 'story' I have been living. We worked on new ways of being and how to live this life and inspire others on and off the mat! All in all it was one of the best weeks of my life (I drank the kool-aid- I kinda did keg stands of it really :).. once I dropped the BS story in my head, and got into my heart I realized I am whole, loved, and perfect just as I am! From pure space I create and commit to my new way of being which is of speaking my mind, saying 'no'!, and being totally and utterly HAPPY! Come see me in class... I want to give you a hug and fill you up with lots of love and stuff!! :) http://www.baronbaptiste.com/

Drop Your Expectations

2011-07-30T17:38:00.000-07:00

This has been an intention of mine for years! The first time I was introduced to this idea was in my first training with Baron Baptiste. He had us each tell what we expected to get out of the week, and then asked us to Drop Our expectations. Really? I paid a lot of money for this training and had lots of expectations! But what seem ridiculous to me at first was exactly what I needed.

My whole life has been planned out in my head, in great detail. Every job, relationship, vacation, training, day off, you name it. But this was me having a certain idea of how things had to go in order for me to be happy, feel safe, or loved. And if things didn't live up to my expectations (and how could they?), I was always disappointed, frustrated and even more determined to have a better plan next time. What a vicious cycle.

Many vacations, special events and moments have been ruined by something not going according to my grand perfect plan. And rather than embracing the authenticity of each moment, I resisted and rejected what I viewed as flawed. I have pushed people away because they did not live up to my inflated expectations of the perfect BFF, Sister, Boyfriend, etc. I have given up on myself more times than I can count because I was not as perfect as I thought other people expected me to be.

Over time I have come to see that when I approach each day with no expectations, what I actually receive is freedom and possibility. The moments that have gone off track have been the most fun, most adventurous moments of my life. I now allow people to show up as they really are, not how I want them to be. I allow situations to unfold in an organic way, manifesting love and truth. A great man once told me "When you hold on to Nothing, you can receive Everything" This would be impossible to do if we hold on to our great expectations.

My biggest challenge now is dropping my idea of what I think people expect of me. I am trying to allow myself to show up authentically, flaws and all. I'm not the perfect teacher, or yogi, or friend or daughter. But I am no longer willing to limit myself through over inflated expectations, and I am ready to embrace every day as it comes, and get washed in the natural flow of life. What other people think of me is really none of my business.

Through Dropping Our Expectations we are even taking steps toward non judgement and acceptance. It is only our expectations that cause us to label a situation or a person as Good or Bad. We have no control over other peoples actions, we can control our reactions to them.

When we are free from Expectations, we allow the rest of the world to be free as well! My Mantra this month is "Good Day or Bad Day, no Expectations". Cant wait to see what blossoms!

Beth Thomas

Namaste Ya'll Gets Down with Jessica at CPY!

2011-06-16T12:21:00.000-07:00

Empower Yourself Lowcountry Style!

If you are planning a trip to the Lowcountry anytime soon, please save time to stop into Charleston Power Yoga for a class. Charleston, South Carolina has always been know for great historical sight seeing, fabulous beaches, and incredible southern cooking, but recently Charleston is emerging as a leader in the southern yoga community. Charleston is a town of just 120,000 folks but supports a "big city yoga scene."

Charleston Power Yoga, a Baptiste Power Vinyasa Affiliate Studio, brings a message of personal empowerment and growth to the Holy City. If you love power yoga, please visit Charleston Power Yoga while in the lowcountry. The space and the teachers are both inspired and inspiring! CPY is located in historic downtown Charleston tucked in between hip pubs and shops on King St directly across from Super Bad. The building itself is a historical masterpiece, you can almost feel the energy of thousands of souls that have passed through the structure during its lifetime.

I attended the Saturday morning Power Vinyasa class (the studios signature class) taught by instructor Jessica Kenny. The class was challenging like all Baptiste style classes but the delivery was truly inspired. Jessica is so kind and gentle and her directive is so supporting that the message of personal empowerment rounds off the sharp edges of the Baptiste sequence. Her message is simple, leave your fear based like behind (like now). I left Jessica's class feeling invigorated and inspired, but most of all this class reminds me of all the reasons I love yoga so much.

If you need a good workout, a good stretch, and a reconnection to your personal power, check out Charleston Power Yoga. If all the instructors are as inspiring as Jessica, then CPY is going to have to expand soon. Do not miss this southern jewel. Baron Baptiste himself should be proud to be affiliated with this "powerful" little studio. Have you lost your personal power? My guess is you'll find it on King St.

Taken from Namaste Y'all, written by Brantley Beene-Crowder. Check their site for everything Yoga in the South!

Emily Watson looks at CONTROL

2011-06-05T13:08:00.000-07:00

A lot of thoughts have played over and over in my mind that I’ve accepted to be true. I never tried to challenge these thoughts. I didn’t know I could. For example, one of the many lies I’ve told myself is that “I need to be in control”.

Does this sound familiar? When did I become God? I have learned that I’m NOT in control. Who knew? Things happen everyday that I have no input on, even if I want it. For example, my husband lost his job in the same month that we bought a house and my transmission went. In my small world, that was catastrophic. I worried and worried. After everything worked itself out, I learned that no matter how I reacted to those things, the outcome was as it should be, without me causing it. The outcome happened just the same regardless of my reactions, so why not take a deep breath and enjoy each moment?

It’s actually pretty reassuring that I’m not in control. When I look back on things that happen, the way that it turns out is way better than if I had planned it. That also helps me remember that I am NOT God and there is someone more suited for the job causing and solving issues in my life.

Island Trike Rentals on Folly Beach. SC

2010-07-22T20:04:00.000-07:00

If you are looking for something new and different to do on a date, or while on vacation in our beautiful city, check out Island Trike Rentals. These one of a kind 3 wheel bikes for two are a great way to spend the day, and a lot of fun! Unlike other tandem bikes, Island Trikes have you seated beside your pedaling partner, so no more hanging out on the back seat getting a free ride:) This allows you to actually talk to the person you are pedaling with, great for a first date or with that favorite cousin you haven't seen in years! Folly Beach is slim on parking spots , but these bikes can be parked pretty much anywhere, and they come equipped with locks and lights for a unique evening out. And best of all, they are super affordable, only $25 a day ($25 for 24 hours!), or $100 for a whole week. You can help but smile at the simple fun of riding a bike with the wind in your hair, and its Eco Friendly, so you'll raise your Karma with every pedal! Call and reserve your Trike today!! Island Trike Rentals, Folly Beach , SC 843-513-3149

Yoga for Your Hair

2010-06-15T12:51:00.000-07:00

Okay, I know, I'm a yoga teacher so the last thing I should be worried about is frizzy hair. I should be able to drop my Ego, and know its no big deal to have unruly locks that frizz at the slightest hint of humidity. That I should be okay with unmanageable hair that has a mind of its own , and let my inner light shine. But instead, I have spent years of my life trying to coax my hair into laying straight and smooth. I have spent hundreds of dollars on the newest products and tools, only to have it frizz up as soon as I stepped out into the steamy Charleston summer day. But then I found the Keratin Complex, and it changed my life. Yea, I know, it sounds shallow, and I'm okay with that. Yoga has changed my life too, in countless amazing ways! And I am thrilled that I no longer have to leave a heated yoga class with frizzy hair, and I have added hours back to my life now that I no longer have to blow out, flat iron and straighten my hair! That leaves me more time to practice, to relax and enjoy life. Keratin is kind of like yoga for your hair!

Keratin Complex is an All Natural treatment that will straighten and de-frizz your hair without damaging it or chemically altering the texture. Keratin is the natural protein found in your hair, skin and nails. Frizzy hair girls like me have less Keratin, than those blessed with sleek, straight hair. The Keratin is brushed on to your hair and left in while it is blown straight and flat ironed. The process takes 2-3 hours, depending on hair length and volume and you have to leave it in for 72 hours before washing. Avoid sweating, getting it wet or pulling it back during that time period. A pain, I know ( I have to take 3 days off work!) but it is SO WORTH it!! Your hair will be super straight and flat for those 72 hours, but once you wash it (preferably with Keratin Complex Shampoo and Conditioner), you will be amazed at how quickly you can dry it and how silky, shiny and smooth your locks have become. You can let it air dry and still have some wave, but the frizz is gone! I finger dry mine with a blow dryer for about 8 mins (compared to the 30 it used to take me before I flat ironed it) and it is smooth and sleek with no hassle! The treatments last 3-5 months, depending on what products your use and if you spend a lot of time in the pool.

I know the big question is... how much does it cost? Bigger salons charge upwards of $300,which I understand, their overhead is high, the product is expensive and it takes a lot of time. But that's a little out out of my price range. However, James, my other half, has finally made the move from the Outer Banks to Folly Beach (yay!) and his prices start at $200 (slightly more for longer/thicker hair). BUT for anyone with a Charleston Power Yoga key tag, he will take $25 off your first treatment! A little bonus for those of you have supported us this past year:) He can even come to your house if that works better with your schedule, just add $25 to the price of your service.

Come by CPY and check out my silky, smooth locks and sweat out those toxins from all the fun summer parties you've been invited to! Make your appointment today for your Keratin treatment and see what all of the fuss is about! You will wonder what took you so long! Call me at 843-513-3400 to set up a time for you before he is all booked up!

Check out a quick video of a CPY Power Hour

2010-03-28T21:21:00.000-07:00

A BIG Thank You to one of our All Star Flow Junkies, Sarah Jones, for this fun video of a sweaty Power Hour here at Charleston Power Yoga. Check out her site for all things Charleston: events, history, people, business.... where ever, who ever, what ever, Sarah Jones is ALL OVER IT!

http://alloverit.org/

2010-01-11T12:14:00.000-08:00

Yoga As It Applies To Me
Sarah Finn

For me, yoga is a practice. It is not a performance, not an on-again-off-again thing, nor is it perfect. In this practice I have found a lifestyle–a way of moving and flowing and being that keeps me and my ego in checkity-check mode!

We all have them–egos that is. But what do we do with them? To me, humility is huge. Humility is being brought to my knees after falling down a time or twenty in handstand and getting back up. It is coming right back to my mat with a smile and tear after my mother’s death, expressing that loss in the form of movement and receiving energy from the practice. It’s moving deeper into my faith after many sleepless nights, on hands and knees in deep prayer and meditation after a longtime relationship fell apart, then picking up the pieces (or lessons) from it all, understanding and taking what I need from that moment, inhaling a deep breath, then moving on. Most can relate…right?

I believe yoga should be accessible to all types of hearts, souls, bodies, and minds. Many of us start our yoga journey on the mat…we then take the choice of conscious movement and intention and apply it to other areas of life–eating, socializing, sharing, speaking, loving, and connecting. On the mat, we deepen our understanding of compassion for ourselves and then dedicate that same expression of compassion to the rest of the world as a whole. Personally, if I come to class and take care of myself, then once I roll my mat up and go back out onto the street and see someone who needs a hand, a dollar, a ride, or a meal, I feel more open to give. And in turn, when I am down, I feel deserving of receiving that same love.

Power Yoga also pushes me to my edge, takes me right out of my comfort zone and challenges me. This too is a HUGE help in my life off the mat. When I am in a situation that is uncomfortable or challenging, I no longer run away or get pissed off, but rather breath and see the lesson in it all.

The practice of yoga is so humbling and beautiful and whole. Yoga can touch all areas of our lives, leading to a greater understanding of liberation from attachment, faith, connectedness, love, and so much more. I believe a strong dedication to the physical practice–every day on the mat, moving energy and cleaning out the body–is a huge tool in creating a sense of balance and well being. I really could go on and on, however, I have a class to get too so with that being said… I hope to see you on the mat soon or on the street for a chat and hug!

Sarah and Charleston Power Yoga on YouTube

2009-12-24T19:58:00.000-08:00

2009-12-24T19:50:00.000-08:00

Thank you for voting Charleston Power Yoga Reader's Choice in the Charleston Home Magazine Best Dressed Window Contest! Check out other winners and stop by to see our award winning window for yourself. While there, why not come in a Sweat out some of your holiday cheer in one of our amazing Power Yoga Classes! Theres still time to get back to your mat in 2009!

www.charlestonpoweryoga.com

2009-11-22T13:06:00.000-08:00

Must have OMcandy Jewelry and the NEW line of 'Liquid Flow' Tanks!!
written by: Sarah Finn

Here I am wearing one of my favorite pairs of Ashley Reid's OmCandy hoops with gold bird shaped beads hanging down. I wear these (and all my omcandy) when I teach and when I dress up- they flow well with an active hip lifestyle. These pieces are so cool and look earthy yet funky and fun! Ashley's parent company Clewis Reid is an eco-friendly take on fashion - www.clewisreid.com. All her pieces have gold filled clasps, are long lasting, and easy to wear with all your fav pieces. Get yours today!
I have decided to blend my two loves: yoga and comfortable effective fashion into one great line of shirts called "Liquid Flow". The shirt itself will be the soft alternative apparel burnout material we all know and love and the sayings will be consistent with what you are hearing on your mat and what you want to continue to flow with on the street! They will have sayings like: shift happens, grace. , centered, and more!! We look forward to introducing the line early December. Call now to reserve yours as first batch is a small order!!

Yummy new shower products!

2009-11-16T10:04:00.000-08:00

Charleston Power Yoga now features all natural shower essentials from Paul Mitchell! The Lavender Mint moisturizing shampoo, conditioner and body wash is just the treat you deserve after a hot sweaty power class! Lavender relieves anxiety and eases tension, while Mint revitalizes the spirit with a fresh outlook. Put the two together and you've got the perfect combo to rescue you from stressful days and frenzied schedules. The rich moisturizing ingredients replenish hydration and and calm dry, stressed out skin and hair. All Paul Mitchell products are made from pure natural ingredients, tested by hairdressers, never on animals! As if you needed another reason to practice at CPY, we make sure your yoga experience is special and we pay attention to the little details, because you deserve only the best! Hope to see you on the mat soon~ http://www.charlestonpoweryoga.com/

Why I am addicted to lululemon.....

2009-11-01T08:52:00.000-08:00

Hi, my name is Beth, and I am a lululemon addict. I simply can not get enough! From Groove Pants to Shape Jackets, Scoop Neck Tanks to Crops, Bags, Hats, Pocket Puffys, you name it... I LOVE lululemon!! It all began at my first major teacher training with Baron Baptiste. After a grueling 3 hour practice, I was a sopping mess, my cotton crops and tank were clinging to me, drenched with sweat, practically falling off. But somehow, the majority of the room still looked put together in their super cute yoga gear. How could this be? Then I noticed thier gear all had the same omega-like symbol, where did they get these magic clothes?? In asking around I learned this ultra exclusive line based out of Canada, could only be bought in lululemon stores, the closest to me being 800 miles away. I was determined to get my hands on some of these fantastic clothes! Thanks to some friends on the West Coast, I blindly bought my first lulu crops and tank. From the moment I put them on, I was hooked. The first thing I loved was how small they made my butt look!! Amazing! And the luon fabric really hugs your body with no visible lumps and bumps. Then I practiced in them and thought I must be dreaming! The pants don't ride down (no more worries about your crack showing in down dog!) and the tanks don't ride up exposing your belly, but the best is they wick all the moisture off your body so you aren't a sopping mess after a heated class! You can actually stop in Whole Foods on the way home with out looking like you peed your pants:) Very important to a girl who spends 99% of her time in yoga gear. The colors are bright and fresh, the designs flattering, even a little sexy, they make you feel like a million bucks! Most pants are reversible (2 for the price of 1!) and every piece I have ever owned is still in prime condition, no shrinking, no fading, no pilling! lululemon is an investment in your health, one you will not regret. You will WANT to go workout just to wear these clothes! You will love the 4 way stretch, moisture wicking, flat seamed, super cute line. And, lets be honest, pants that make your booty look this great? They are worth every single penny!! Come see why I love lululemon and start your addiction today at Charleston Power Yoga! New lulu just dropped, and it won't last long.
http://www.charlestonpoweryoga.com/

Looks whos using a Jade Mat!

2009-10-27T11:30:00.000-07:00

That's right! Baron Baptiste practices on Jade, and now you can get yours at Charleston Power Yoga on King St! We are delighted to offer the Jade Harmony Yoga mats in both the 1/8" thick and 3/8" thick sizes, and lots of great colors. These eco friendly mats are made with natural rubber, a renewal resource, with no PVC or ozone depleting substances, AND they are made in the USA! As if that wasn't enough, Jade, in conjunction with Trees for the Future, plants one tree for every mat sold! So you can do something great for your yoga practice and the environment! Jade mats make excellent Christmas gifts for that yogi in your life! Give the gift of health to you or someone you love!

www.charlestonpoweryoga.com

2009-10-20T09:28:00.000-07:00

On October 15th Charleston Power Yoga participated in the Upper King St. design walk! We had a great turnout of people who came out and bought some of our awesome retail (lululemon, alternative apparel, jade yoga mats, and more), learned about power yoga, and snacked on WONDERFUL food provided to us by Wild Flour Pastry (63 Spring St.- Charleston, SC). We also had some of our wonderful yoginis doing window yoga! Check out Megan Fischer and stop by one of our classes to learn how to do these poses and MUCH, MUCH, MORE!!! ~Nama'~

2009-10-01T11:35:00.001-07:00

Teacher Training in Park City, Utah with Baron Baptiste!!! What an amazing journey of surrender, strength, sweat, and flexibility in mind, body, and soul. Allison Zimmerman, Angela Finley, and myself (Sarah Finn) all had the pleasure of traveling up to beautiful Park City, Utah last week to move and shake things up with Baron and his team of wonderful assistants. The City is so beautiful , earthy, and coooool! Baron kept things heated and fun... we learned how to "stay liquid" while still be rooted and grounded in our space. The biggest take-away for me was about surrender... after the 12th full wheel and 157th time jumping into handstands it finally hit me.. "stop trying to guess whats coming next and control things... ride this wave... be here now.. and surrender into the energy that is! Its not a "work-out" but a "work-in"... I had more energetic shifts in my body in this one weekend then I have had in the past year...no joke! AMAZING!". Allison says her "intention is to inspire the students to come to class and find true health and sense of wholeness. And my biggest take away is "if you can, you MUST!" and "If not now, when? If not you, who?" And the frog kicks for Handstand!! Loved them!! =)"!!! Angela really resonated with all the inspiring talk of breath and letting go... she too loved all the challenging 3 hour practices and the sweat and flow that came with them! For MORE come check out our classes at CPY... sure to inspire and lift you up and out of your comfort zone and into a place where energetic shifts happen organically! See ya on the mat!

2009-09-06T08:56:00.000-07:00

Charleston Power Yoga is proud to annouce we are now a Baptiste Affiliate Studio, one of only 40 worldwide!! Affiliate Studios are studios that have a primary offering of Baptiste Power Vinyasa Yoga taught by teachers trained by Baron Baptiste. The studios have an on-going relationship with the Baptiste Power Yoga Institute to maintain the quality, standards and effectiveness of the Baptiste Power Vinyasa Yoga practices and principles.

Come check out one of our 23 heated power classses, or our 2 unheated power 1 classes this week!! As always, first class is free for locals and we have great rates for students!

Where Flow Junkies Come to Sweat!!

www.charlestonpoweryoga.com

Wide Open and ready to Make you Sweat!

2009-07-28T13:03:00.000-07:00

Charleston Power Yoga is WIDE OPEN on Upper King St and ready to make you SWEAT with amazing powerful vinyasa classes! Come in and see what all of the hype is about, first class is FREE with local id. And if powering up your practice isnt enough to get you through the door, the chilled lavender towels in savasana are a don't miss. Come a few minutes early to check out fresh new gear from Spiritual Gangster and lululemon athletica, or just stop in to shop, retail hours are 11-5 Mon-fri and 11-4 on Saturdays. CPY is heating up the Charleston Yoga scene.... be there NOW!

You've Come a Long Way Baby....

2009-07-07T11:48:00.000-07:00

Heres a sneak peek inside Charleston Power Yoga, we've come a LONG way in the past 2 months. If you could have seen the dirt floors and plaster peeling walls, you would truly be amazed! Thank you Richie, Brian and the whole Buxton Construction crew, John Frick, Andy from Charleston Paint Co, Suzanne Allen of Wallcandy, Mr Finn, James Caldwell (my love) and everyone who pitched in and gave CPY life. We can't wait to have you come and sweat it out with us and infuse this amazing space with your energy and love.

Great Article in June 30th Post and Courier

2009-07-04T05:40:00.000-07:00

Teachers bounce back after store closing
With support and persistence, studio set to open this week in Charleston
By David Quick (Contact)
The Post and Courier
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Times were so uncertain for yoga teachers Beth Thomas and Sarah Finn that they applied for jobs out of desperation.
Thomas, who has a history degree, sought one at a local museum, one where she'd wear period costumes. And Finn was going to answer phones at an orthodontist's office.

Their professional lives had kind of turned on a dime, in the wrong way.
Last December, they had given up a fair share of yoga classes at local gyms and studios to take a chance at opening a Lululemon Athletica store in Charleston. The hip, Vancouver-based label of active wear seemed to be a perfect fit.
While the line is sold at other locations in town, the company had plans to open 37 new stores across North America and were testing certain markets.
Thomas, 37, and Finn, 27, opened a small, temporary store called a Lululemonade Stand and quickly drew a following — helped, to a degree, by offering free yoga classes every week. After thinking they'd take their Christmas-New Year's run into the spring, Lululemon informed them that the store was closing.
Lululemon offered them a transfer, but, like so many in their situation, Thomas and Finn wanted to stay in Charleston.
Buoyed by the support of students and customers, who launched a "Save Charleston Lululemon" Facebook campaign, Thomas and Finn floated the idea of opening their own power yoga studio.
"In the back of our minds, we've always wanted to open a studio," says Thomas. "We decided, 'We should do it now.' "
Finn adds that they had the benefit of a "buzz" created by the Lululemon store.
With their training in the style of athletic, vigorous "vinyasa" yoga, they had a special niche, especially since they wanted to be on the Charleston peninsula. They chose a site on Upper King Street two doors away from O'Malley's Irish Pub and named it Charleston Power Yoga. (http://www.charlestonpoweryoga.com/.)
While they planned to open in June, they now expect to open this week. A grand opening will be held once the fall semester begins.
"We're really gearing it toward downtown," Thomas says in reference to college students, "Type A professionals" and the active set. "We didn't have to install showers but decided to (do so) because if we really want people to come to yoga on their lunch break or after work before going out, we needed to be able to get them cleaned up and out the door."
Thomas and Finn will offer special rates not only to college students, but to other yoga teachers. They will carry on the Lululemon tradition of free weekly yoga classes, to be held on Fridays.
"We're trying to make it as accessible as possible," says Thomas

Opening late June....

2009-06-02T06:21:00.000-07:00

Charleston Power Yoga is almost ready to make you sweat! Our build out is nearing the end, and we wanted to share with you some of our progress... Just a few short weeks ago we started with a dirt floor and plywood front. Now we have a beautiful storefront, two bathrooms and showers, a detoxing heating system, and we are ready to paint! Andy from Charleston Paint Company on Upper King street recommended an Eco Friendly paint and our amazing cork floors will be the icing on the cake. As we put the finishing touches on our studio, we wanted to let you know we will have a full service boutique that will be open for your shopping pleasure Monday- Friday 11-5 and Saturday 11-4. We've got your booties covered with hip styles from lululemon athletica, Spiritual Gangster, OmMade, Om Candy Jewelry and Yogitoes. Sign up for our newsletter online to be the first to know about our opening date and upcoming workshops! Get 20% off packages when purchased online before we open!! But hurry this offer is over once our doors open!! www.charlestonpoweryoga.com

Yoga on the Roof w/CPY

2009-05-05T10:57:00.000-07:00

Can't wait to get your Asana on with Beth and Sarah? Wait no longer...we are taking Charleston Power Yoga to the beach until we open!! For the month of May join us for FREE classes on Sullivan's Island every Tuesday and Thursday at 8:30 am and Wednesdays at 5:30pm. Email info@charlestonpoweryoga.com for more details. Imagine a roof top deck, breeze on your face, sun on your back and birds chirping.... an amazing way to start the day and reconnect to your POWER!! See ya on the roof~ Beth and Sarah www.charlestonpoweryoga.com

Never say never......

2009-04-30T18:07:00.000-07:00

If you had asked me five years ago if I would ever take a class with Baron Baptiste, I would have said Never! Who wants to sweat like that and do all of those vinyasas?? Yet here I am, the only certified Baptiste instructor in SC. If you had asked me last year if I ever wanted to own a studio I would have said Never! Who needs that responsibility, risk and headache? Yet here I am, opening a power yoga studio in downtown Charleston. I guess what they say is true, Never say Never!

When I look back on the path my life has taken these past 10 years, with all the ups and downs, stops and starts, it has all led me here, to this space, where I am about to embark on the scariest, most exciting, insane yet oddly sane thing I have ever done. Its as if every decision I made, even the most ludicrous ones, every person I have met, even those who knocked me down, every job I had and even lost, was all necessary to bring me here. And I could not be more blessed!!

Even though I didn't realize until recently Charleston Power Yoga was my dream, everything has been falling into place to show me that this is where I am meant to be, and this is my path. Isn't it ironic the things that break our heart the most when they don't work out are often the best things that have ever happened to us because they open doors that we would have never seen. I guess its true that its never to late to be the person we might have been.

Thank you Charleston yogis for allowing me to teach these past three years and making such a huge impact on my life, and letting me know that this new studio is possible. And thank lululemon addicts for bringing Sarah and I together to form this dream team and for letting us know that you love us and will support us wherever we are. We are so grateful and can't wait to share our vision with you!

Join us on Facebook and check out our website www.charlestonpoweryoga.com to sign up for our email list so we can keep you updated on the amazing adventure of opening a studio! We will be posting on the blog weekly to give you the latest updates, pictures, and the trials and tribulations of becoming studio owners:) Get ready Charleston! The yoga scene is about to get hotter!!

xoxo Beth

2009-04-30T18:03:00.000-07:00

Hola my sweet friends and yogis!!
I am so happy to announce the opening of Charleston Power Yoga! It is a dream come true and I can't wait to share the love with y'all as we create community and flow for all in downtown Charleston! Yoga has been a constant in my life... something that has challenged me daily and made me face my self at the worst of times and the best, carried me through happiness, sadness, relationships, jobs, and yet through all of it kept my attention the whole way... kept me focused, humbled, with ego in check!! ... quite an amazing physical and life practice I should say :) I can't wait to see all of you on the mat again real soon- so please stay tuned for updates as we open and where we will be movin' and groovin' until then!
~Om Shanthi ... Namaste'~
Sarah