Tari's School of Dance is proud to welcome Rhett Peterson back from his studies in India to teach yoga classes at the studio, beginning in August 2013. Yoga, the Sanskrit word commonly translated as "to unite; to reconnect" is not only a practice, but also an entire lifestyle, that dates back many thousands of years to the ancient cultures of the Indus Valley, or present day India. The study and practice of Yoga has proven over millennia to be one of the highest forms of physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health. When combined with Prana, which can be interpreted as "breath" or "vital life force", the practice of Yoga can be an unparalleled tool in creating union with the Self and the ever-constant motion of Universal energy. Rhett Petersons is so excited to share with Baton Rouge the amazing experiences and knowledge gained from his time spent in India. Rhett spent 4 weeks in Rishikesh, a truly remarkable city located in the foothills of the Himalayan Mountains, known as the "Capitol of Yoga", learning the path of Traditional Hatha Yoga and meditation under the guidance of Indian Swamis and highly respected teachers, which resulted in a 200 hour level Yoga Teacher Certification. Rhett has also been trained as a dancer for over 10 years, studying with Tari Trosclair, Dianna Jones, Kris Cangelosi, and the world renowned director, producer, and choreographer Debbie Allen in Los Angeles. Rhett and Tari Trosclair, owner of Tari's School of Dance, have decided to bring this timeless art to her studio so that anyone, regardless of age or experience level, can experience some of the many benefits of a regular Yoga practice. Classes being offered include:
*Traditional Hatha Yoga- a slower-paced , beginner level class that focuses on incorporating physical movement and postures (asanas), simple breathing exercises (pranayama), and short meditation. Each Hatha class is designed to increase strength and flexibility by holding various postures for a short period of time, as well as bringing awareness to the mind-body connection through relaxation techniques. This class is suitable for all levels of experience, but perfect for those who are unfamiliar with yoga so that a basic understanding of the postures can be gained through detailed instruction and hands-on adjustments by the teacher and regular practice in a small group environment.
*Ashtanga Vinyasa- a flowing, dynamic style of Yoga that links the breath with various sequences of postures, generating internal heat and strong bonds between the mind and body. Although Vinyasa styles of Yoga are typically more fast-paced and upbeat, ideal for body purification, weight loss, and physical strength, there is also a meditative quality to each class, since the focus is on synchronizing dance-like sequences of movement with specific breathing techniques to create a truly integrative method of "exercise". This class is also suitable for all levels, however some experience and familiarity with specific postures is preferable, but not required.
*There will also be various other specialized classes being offered bi-weekly or monthly, including Yoga Nidra ("yogic sleep"), Chakra Tuning Meditations, Kundalini Yoga Kriyas (cleansing techniques) and meditations, Friday night Candlelight classes with live music, and many more.
*Rhett will also be available for private lessons, home classes (individual or small group), energy healing, and personalized lifestyle counseling. We look forward to this beautiful journey ahead of us, and hope to be of service to you as you begin to explore this ancient path of Yoga. For more information, please send us an email at pranayogabr@yahoo.com or call Tari's School of Dance at 225-767-4495. Namaste (The Divine in me honors the Divine in you)
