Stretching Beyond the Mat

Extend your knowledge of yoga past the physical postures with a photography slideshow, film screening, and meditation workshop

By Kate Lundquist

When I moved here from the bay area last fall, where I'd been teaching yoga full-time and was immersed in the healing arts world, I was concerned that the wellness mecca I experienced out west would not be present. However, Western North Carolina is meeting those high standards; events and classes are bountiful. Here are three opportunities to learn a bit about the ancient practice of yoga and relax into deep meditation.

Inspirational Roots
As the birthplace of yoga, India serves as a destination pilgrimage for many practitioners. Neighborhood Yoga in Boone is presenting a slideshow that follows local teachers and students who traveled there in March. Live music by Aradhna will take place at 7:30 p.m. for attendees to enjoy classical Indian melody and devotional music fused with folk and rock. Unwind and be transported to another culture.
Neighborhood Yoga, 212 Water St., Boone; Wednesday June 20, 7 p.m.; $15, $12 students; www.neighborhoodyoga.net

Yoga Night Out
Prepare for a night of relaxation and investigation into the essence of yoga tradition. The Fine Arts Theatre in Asheville hosts a screening of Yoga Unveiled, a commentary about the history of yoga, the many branches of the ancient system, and the medical benefits of the practice, while cinematography captures the beauty of the moment. After the film, a panel of teachers from top WNC yoga studios, including Cat Matlock, Stephanie Keach, and Michael Johnson, will offer insight. Film director Gita Desi will be in attendance to answer questions and connect with the local yoga community.
Fine Arts Theatre, 36 Biltmore Ave., Asheville; Thursday, June 21, 7 p.m.; $10; www.fineartstheatreasheville.com

Reverberating Peace
Considered one of the most healing methods to combat stress and high blood pressure, meditation helps clear the mind and refresh the body by focusing on the breath. Black Mountain Yoga provides a calming space to take an hour and do just that. The center provides bolsters and blankets to get comfortable and unwind to the sound of the gong. The vibrations relax the nervous system and prompt deeper relaxation. Joy Yackley, a Kundalini teacher from Florida, will lead the meditation. This class is free, though the center asks for a donation to help keep these types of workshops on the schedule.
Black Mountain Yoga, 120 Broadway St., Black Mountain; Friday, June 29, 7 p.m.; $10 suggested donation; www.blackmountainyoga.com