Welcome Cosy Makes Studio

June 12, 2012
Posted by Sharon
Leave a comment

Starting later this summer, you will notice some changes in the studio space at Yoga Matrika as we welcome Cosy Makes Studio to share our little space at 1406 S. Negley Avenue.  We know that change can be hard and be stressful, even when that change means wonderful things.  So, I want to share with you what this change means for you so you can prepare.

The biggest change is that, starting in the fall, Yoga Matrika will no longer offer “drop-in” classes.  All of our classes will require registration for a series of classes for a “semester”.  Classes that do not meet a minimum pre-registration will be cancelled and all classes will have strict maximum attendance so that we can make sure that all students are comfortable and safe when they come to practice at Yoga Matrika.  For years, this has been our specialty—–small, intimate classes where students receive the highest quality instruction.  There are so many benefits to making a commitment to a series of classes and practicing in this way that it would be hard to even name them all, but I’ll name a few just to ease any upset that you may be having at the idea of not having drop-in classes anymore:

#1: If you make a commitment and pay up-front, you are more likely to actually attend class.  If you know you can’t beg for more time on your class package and that you must show up for a specific class at a specific time, you are likely to put that class on your calendar and actually attend.  No excuses!

#2: In a class that runs in a series, the instructor can plan a curriculum for that class and add new skills each week knowing what you did the previous week.  This makes it a higher quality class because the instructor can prepare in a more specific way.  As a student, you will also see progress in your practice and be able to learn new skills in a valuable way.

#3: You will get to know your teacher and fellow students and this makes practice more intimate and safe.  Relieve yourself of the constant flow of new faces and needs and special requests………your instructor will be able to tailor each practice to the group that has registered and you will have the support and space required to truly relax into your practice without distractions.  The student-teacher relationship is very important in yoga and by making a commitment to a particular class and with a particular teacher, you allow this relationship to prosper.

#4: I don’t know about you, but I’m pretty tired of trying to keep track of class packages, special deals, cancellations, substitutes, etc.  This registration policy liberates us all from these concerns.  Register and attend.  There will not be another GROUPON, LIVING SOCIAL, coupon code, discount rate, unlimited……nothing.  The series are all scheduled so that there is a minimum of one week at the end so that, if the instructor has to cancel a class, there will be a make-up class added.  If YOU miss a class, you can purchase a make-up class package and take any other class on the schedule that has room to make up for it during that semester.  Or, well, you just missed a class.  It will be OK!

The other big change is that we will be sharing the space with a fiber artist.  Trust me, this is WONDERFUL news.  And, not just ANY fiber artist—-it’s our very own Cosy!  Cosy could teach my fish how to knit and if you are a knitter, hooker or just fiber curious, Cosy is going to offer at least three classes a week for a variety of levels that will be perfect for you.  Also, the front reception area will become a retail outlet for Cosy’s patterns, hand-dyed wool, kits and much, much more.  You can purchase yarns, patterns and kits before or after classes or when Cosy has events and groups or by appointment.  Cosy does private lessons too!

So, here is the least you need to know:

#1: You can continue to take fabulous, small-group yoga and meditation classes at Yoga Matrika with your favorite instructors this fall.

#2: You will be able to learn to knit, learn new knitting skills and purchase unique and hand-made yarns and patterns at Yoga Matrika starting this fall when Cosy Makes Studio opens at 1406 S. Negley Avenue.

Working the Knots: Yoga and Yarn

June 1, 2012
Posted by Sharon
Leave a comment

NOTE: This is an “older” post from 2012.  I AM offering this workshop on November 15, 2014 at Indie Knit and Spin in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.  Check out the Indie Knit and Spin website for details and registration information.

 

 

Working the Knots: Yoga and Yarn
Sunday, January 27th, 4:00-5:30 pm
Location: Yoga Matrika
Facilitated by Sharon Rudyk (YOGA) and Cosette Cornelius-Bates (YARN)

Tuition: $15
Pay on-site with any credit/debit card or personal check.

 

Join Sharon  (YOGA) and Cosy (YARN) for this delightful workshop for yogis and knitters of all levels.  The workshop begins with some stretches that are helpful for knitters and techniques for enhancing knitting and creativity in general through meditation and visualization.  Once we are warmed up with all our creative juices flowing, we will explore the sensual and social sides of knitting by discussing our current projects and ideas together and receiving guidance from Cosy on a variety of unique techniques for materials, color work and pattern interpretation.  Then, we’ll knit together and close our workshop with a deep relaxation guided by Sharon.  You’ll leave the workshop feeling both inspired and relaxed!  No experience with yoga or meditation required.  If you are a knitter, we invite you to bring whatever project you are working on currently (or perhaps something from deep within your stash……..) and this is what you will work on during the knitting part of the workshop.  We also invite you to bring any questions that you have about knitting in general, materials, reading patterns or a technique that you have been interested in and/or can’t quite figure out.  If you have never knit before or are a genuine beginner, then we invite you to bring the following materials and we will work with you in a special break-out group for absolute beginner knitters during the knitting time: worsted weight yarn and size 7 or 8 needles (straight or circular is fine).  While this is not a “learn to knit” workshop, due to the nature of the workshop, it is only important that you are knitting curious and not that you know how to knit already.  We hope that this workshop will be inspirational for everyone!

Meditation in Pittsburgh

May 30, 2012
Posted by Sharon
Leave a comment

So….Bhante Pema is traveling in Asia and we are missing the Monday night meditation classes at Yoga Matrika.  Please note that Bhante Pema’s fall meditation class series is filling fast and not only is there a $40 discount when you register for the series before July 1st, 2012, but registering for the series now is the only way to guarantee yourself a space in this amazing class series.  Yoga Matrika offers intimate meditation classes with Bhante Pema for $175 (early bird registration before 7/1/12 makes tuition just $135) for the 12-week series.  There is no other meditation class in Pittsburgh like these.  The environment is calm and supportive and the small-group class series allows you to receive personal attention and build your skills over time.

If you need some guidance and inspiration for your practice this summer, why not try an online course?  An online course in meditation will allow you to enjoy the sun, go out and play, and study and practice meditation at your convenience.  It’s hard to come inside and focus when all you really want to do is run through the sprinkler, garden and enjoy time outdoors with your friends, family and loved ones.  So rise early and study or take some time for yourself in the evening when the day of play is done.  This online meditation course is 12-weeks, just like our class series—-so you’ll be all set and ready for class when September 10th comes.  While it may seem now that the summer lies before you as a great expanse, you know that fall will be here in the blink of an eye. 

Just in case you are curious about some of the benefits of meditation, please check out the amazing benefits of meditation here.  Do you ever feel like a victim of your genes?  Read here about how meditation can change genetic expression. 

Posted by Sharon Fennimore Rudyk, owner and director of programs at Yoga Matrika, a boutique yoga center in Squirrel Hill, Pittsburgh, PA 15217.  Small group classes, private sessions, teacher training programs, workshops for all levels and more!

Good Reads for Kids

May 30, 2012
Posted by Sharon
Leave a comment

So far, I’ve limited my “good reads”* list to books for adults.  But,, as my 5-6 year old son has started to expand his capacity for narrative, we’ve been reading longer books and we’ve recently found a few true gems.  I’m inspired to offer my dear readers some lovely books to share with a child.  Even if it is just your “inner child”……ENJOY!

*Please note that ALL of my “good reads” can be found at the Carnegie Public Library of Pittsburgh.  I know because that is where I found them!  I just provide some links below to Amazon so you can find out more about the book (you know, I’m friends with a lot of librarians so I know how important an ISBN number can be to some people…….).  I’m not suggesting that you buy the books, but I imagine these would make wonderful gifts for a child in your life.

1. The No. 1 Car Spotter by Atinuke and illustrated by Warwick Johnson Cadwell

This was a really amazing book to read outloud to my 6-year old son and I imagine that a 2nd grader would probably be able to read it themselves and enjoy it too.  The main character lives in Africa and I was delighted to use this book as an opportunity to talk about Africa, show my son where it is on a globe and talk about culture and language.  The stories are interesting and the characters are well-developed so that the stories can be enjoyed by many different ages on different levels.  The stories address issues of language, gender, age, social responsibility, political economics and other very complex ideas while also just being “good stories.”  The main character is so cute, intelligent and sincere, that I want to reach right into the book, pull him out and give him a big hug.

2. My Father’s Dragon by Ruth Stiles Gannett and illustrated by Ruth Chrisman Gannett

This is a very special story.  Magical.  Magical and special and full of wonder and delight and adventure.  This may be my favorite book that I have read aloud to my children so far.  I’m going to buy it and read over and over again.  And, the illustrations are so soft, kind and inviting.  My six year old son loved it, but my 11-month old daughter paid attention too……..it’s wonderful for everyone.

3. I also recommend the following two board books for the infants in your life:

Recommended by my friend Kate—-and my 11-month old LOVED it is Dear Zoo by Rod Campbell.   My daughter especially liked it when she would open the flaps and my son and I would make the sound of the animal behind the flap.  She thought that was pretty awesome. 

Who’s in the Forest by Phillis Gershator and illustrated by Jill McDonald is beautiful and there’s something about the circular hole in the book that creates a kind of peek-a-boo effect with the illustrations that my 11-month old really appreciated. 

Enjoy your good reads kiddos!

Posted by Sharon Fennimore Rudyk, an avid reader, writer, yogini, mother and owner of Yoga Matrika, a boutique yoga studio in Squirrel Hill, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania offering small-group classes, private sessions and workshops for all levels.

I Hope You Dance

May 24, 2012
Posted by Sharon
Leave a comment

Yoga Matrika now offers two very unique classes that are not traditional yoga or, at least, different from what you might expect from a yoga class.  In my discussions with some students in the community recently I have heard comments that reflect some fear of trying these different classes and the fear seems to be based entirely on the names of the classes.  These classes both have some dance terms in their names and it seems as though the idea of dance is terrifying for many adults.  It seems to me that it might be helpful to think about what yoga is and put these “dance” classes within the context of traditional yoga philosophy.

At first glance, or perhaps even after some deeper consideration, classes with names like “Yoga Dance” and “Yoga Booty Ballet” may not seem like real yoga classes.  Yoga is sitting around on the floor chanting Om or doing downward facing dog or back bends or sun salutations—-right?  So, what is the relationship between dance and movment that is not asana-based and yoga?  I invite you to consider the definition of yoga provided by Patanjali in his Yoga Sutras:

1.2

yogash chitta vritti nirodhah

 Yoga is the control (nirodhah, regulation, channeling, mastery, integration, coordination,
stilling, quieting, setting aside) of the modifications (gross and subtle thought patterns) of the mind field

yoga = of yoga, union; literally, to yoke, from the root yuj, which means to join; same as the absorption in samadhi

 chitta = of the consciousness of the mind-field

 vritti = operations, activities, fluctuations, modifications, changes, or various forms of the mind-field

 nirodhah = control, regulation, channeling, mastery, integration, coordination,understanding, stilling, quieting, setting aside of

 

 If yoga is the control of the modifications (movement) of the mind away from the constant distraction of the hamster wheel of your mind activity (you know, what happens when you sit down to meditate and you are immediately flooded with memories, your to do list, picking your toes, plans for the future—all at the same time!), then these classes that require focus on creative movement, sensation in the body and intention are most definitely yoga.  While we may have come to equate the practice of asana (physical postures) with the defnition of yoga, the truth is that many different things can, by Patanjali’s definition be yoga.

Dance is the loss of inhibition—-it is letting go, in this moment, of concerns about how you look and allowing your body to respond to the rhythm of the music and to the pleasures of the movement itself.  Dance is an invitation for breath to move not only in and out of the body, but through every cell of the body as you enliven your limbs and the extensions of your spine.  Dance is not some tortured experience of your memory of some fall social gathering in a church basement.  That memory is exactly the mind-stuff that holds you back from the liberation that you are likely to experience in a yoga-based movement or dance class.  This is not about uncomfortable shoes, clammy hands or a date with two left feet and a bad attitude.  This is not about you feeling uncoordinated—-this is about allowing yourself to explore pleasure through movement. 

All of the fears that you have about trying a new type of class or about dancing are sourced in the movements of the mind—–and these mental gymnastics are what keep you from living fully.  If you have these mental movements in response to the idea of taking a movement-based yoga class, I encourage you to see them as just that—-mental movements.  Do not allow them to control your decision—–try the Yoga Dance class you are so curious about!  Try the Yoga Booty Ballet class!  What is the worst thing that can happen?  What is likely to happen is that you will be nervous and for the first few minutes of class, you may question how you got yourself into this ridiculous situation.  While you learn the movements and try to find your ground in the first few minutes of class, you may feel clumsy or like you don’t know what you are doing.  Then, you will begin to focus on what is happening in the moment as you become immersed in the activity.  Slowly, slowly you will release your commitment to the movements of the mind and engage with the movement of your body, the sounds of the music, the feeling of breath and—–all of a sudden, you are doing it and it is yoga.  After class, you will feel centered, open and liberated—–not just because of the joyful nature of the class, but because you did not allow the movements of your mind to stop you from giving the class a try.  You tried it and you survived and nothing bad happened—–as a matter of fact, you think you’re going to come back next week!

I really hope you give our two movement-based yoga classes a try.  They are a wonderful and fun way to improve the health of your body, heart and mind.  These classes will also help you expand your definition of yoga as you strengthen and tone the body.  When can you take these wonderful classes this summer?

Monday Evenings
7:30-8:45 pm
Yoga Booty Ballet (YBB) with Aleta Howard

Tuesday Evenings
7:30-8:45 pm
Yoga Dance with Alexis Shaw

Written by Sharon Rudyk, owner of Yoga Matrika.   If she can do it, so can you! 

All this Graduation Energy

May 17, 2012
Posted by Sharon
Leave a comment

Has all this graduation energy got you feeling, well, OLD? 

Flexibility is youth—-strong, long and lean muscles and bodies in alignment radiate youth.  It’s not to be found in a bottle, tube or powder…….practice yoga daily for a month and you will find yourself looking younger and feeling younger the following month.  Not only that, but without denying yourself one May night ice cream cone, your clothing will fit better.

All yoga classes at Yoga Matrika are now $10 each for the whole summer.  Want to test my flexibility is youth hypothesis?  Try unlimited yoga for 25-days for $40 and try to prove me wrong.  I’m not, but go ahead and try—it will make you feel better.

See you soon at Yoga Matrika!

Yoga Studies with Sharon

May 17, 2012
Posted by Sharon
Leave a comment

Yoga Studies with Sharon

Sharon Fennimore Rudyk, MA, E-RYT, R-PYT

Inquiries
Please send an e-mail to Sharon at: sharon@yogamatrika.com if you have any questions, wish to discuss the program or need information before you sign up. You can also call Sharon at 412-855-5692.

Tuition
This 6-month Yoga Studies program (September 10, 2012 through March 2013) is $1,200. Tuition is paid in monthly $100 payments for 12-months starting with the date of registration. Tuition is non-refundable and non-transferable and payments must be made regardless of your actual participation in scheduled classes and workshops.

Register Here
This is an intimate program with a maximum of ten participants for each cohort. The program starts in September of each year, but you are encouraged to register and save your space as soon as you decide to make a commitment to the 6-month program of yoga studies. Register by signing a program contract HERE.

6-Month Yoga Studies Program Tuition Includes

Classes

Up to two-classes per week with Sharon Rudyk. Options include:
Tuesday night 5:45 to 7:00 pm
Saturday morning: 9:00 to 10:15 am

Workshops

One two-hour special topics class per month with Sharon Rudyk per month. Each month, Sharon will offer at least two options, one evening and one weekend for a special topics workshop. Topics include: yoga philosophy, energy, pranayama, different yoga traditions, asana alignment and practice techniques and more. All the juicy stuff you don’t have time to explore in drop-in classes! One per month is included in your tuition, but you can always sign-up for more and pay for them a la carte.

Curriculum for the Yoga Studies Program

In 6-months of Yoga Studies with Sharon, you can expect to learn:

  • Learn Sanskrit names, alignment principles, cues and variations and modifications for 30-basic asanas
  • Read and discuss Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras
  • Learn about the central channel, movement of prana and the chakra energy centers
  • Explore the anatomy of breath and learn basic breath awareness, uijayi pranayama, kapalabhati, nine cleansing breaths and nadi shodhana
  • Use energetic awareness and breath in asana practice
  • Explore the relationship of the mind, skeletal system, organs and endocrine system in asana
  • Learn about Chinese meridian energy theory and Yin Yoga practices
  • Learn about therapeutic applications of yoga and yoga for seniors, yoga during pregnancy and to support common student complaints (hips, back, knees and shoulders)
  • Learn about Mantras, Chanting and the use of Sanskrit in yoga
  • Choose a kriya and mantra meditation to practice for 40-days
  • Explore your own practice, limitations and strengths with personalized direction and support
  • Learn common obstacles to home practice and examine different ways to overcome obstacles and make your yoga a part of every day
  • Learn how to make adjustments and modify asana so you can continue your practice through your life

Tuition Details

The Yoga Studies program requires a contract of agreement for 12-payments of $100 that will be automatically charged to your credit card once per month. You are obligated to maintain these payments regardless of your actual class attendance or participation in workshops and training sessions. There are no refunds for any reason and this program tuition is not transferable.

Yoga Studies for Teacher Training

If you wish to complete this program as a teacher training program, then you must complete, in addition to the Yoga Studies course:

  • 18-hours of anatomy training workshops with Mark Chandlee Taylor (Embodied Anatomy for Yoga Instructors I,II, III)
  • a minimum of three additional workshops of your choice at Yoga Matrika
  • take a total of 50 classes (25 must be with Sharon and 25 can be completed anywhere upon Sharon’s approval). The classes that are included in the Yoga Studies program count towards this total. Any other classes that you wish to take must be paid for separately.
  • complete a teaching skills/practicum training weekend (will be scheduled for March 2013)
  • complete an online course that includes significant writing assignments that require reading, observing and practice teaching (available in September 2012). This online course will cost $100.
  • teach a minimum of one practice class that is open to the public and observed by Sharon
  • a minimum of two private sessions with Sharon ($60 each)
We are a Registered Yoga School (RYS®) with Yoga Alliance and graduates of our 200-hour Teacher Training Program are eligible to register with Yoga Alliance as a Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT®).

Readings Syllabus for Yoga Matrika’s Yoga Studies Course

A suggested reading list will be posted in July 2012 for the September 2012 cohort. Please note that if you are taking this Yoga Studies course for teacher training, you will be required to complete the readings and writing assignments as outlined in the online course.

A Little Guidance Please

May 16, 2012
Posted by Sharon
Leave a comment

Guided relaxtion recordings are a wonderful way to incorporate meditation into your daily life at your convenience.  You can listen during your lunch hour on headphones and take your relaxtion with you on the go—–airports, hotels…..just not for in the car while you are driving!  These meditations will bring you all the benefits of meditation and you can enjoy the convenience of being able to practice anywhere at any time.

Enjoy!

Summer Yoga Schedule

May 14, 2012
Posted by Sharon
Leave a comment

Summer Schedule 2012 June through August

  • Please note that ONLINE REGISTRATION is required.

If classes do not meet minimum enrollment during the summer, they are likely to be cancelled.  Please make sure we know of your intention to attend class.  There is no penalty if you sign-up online and then do not make it to class.

  • The summer schedule will change from week to week depending on instructor availability and enrollments.  Please make sure that you check the online schedule weekly for any changes.  Your instructors need vacation time too!

 

Summer Schedule 2012 June through August
Monday
6:00pm Matrika Flow w/Heather Open Level
7:30 pm Yoga Booty Ballet w/Aleta Open Level

Tuesday
5:45 pm Matrika Flow Plus w/Sharon Open Level
7:30 pm Yoga Dance w/Alexis Open Level

Wednesday
10:45 am Mom & Baby Yoga w/Rachel Gentle
6:00 pm Prenatal Yoga w/April Gentle
7:30 pm Matrika Flow w/Marilyn Open Level

Thursday
10:00 am Yoga I w/Heather Beginner/Open
5:30 pm Yoga for Balance w/Alexis Gentle/Open

Friday
10:00 am Prenatal Yoga w/April Gentle

Saturday
9:00 am Matrika Flow w/Marilyn Open Level
10:30 am Calm Flow w/Sharon Open Level