UPCOMING EVENTS
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200 Hour Teacher Training:
Winter/Spring 2025
January 2025 - May 2025
We are thrilled to announce Sarai’s second 200 Hour Yoga Teacher Training! This training will deepen your knowledge and broaden your scope of what yoga is and how to share it with others. It will be led in person by Sarai's founder, Samara Speller, as well as our other experienced and talented teachers. Not only is it for those who wish to teach but also for anyone looking to embark on a journey of self inquiry through consistent practice, intensive study, and a supportive community.
This training is unique in that it is divided into five 30 hour modules. We recognize that many of our students have an interest in gaining more knowledge about the practice of yoga but may not necessarily want to teach and so they may sign up for individual modules or the complete training to receive a teacher training certificate.
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PAST EVENTS
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Explore & Restore Workshop
A Restorative Yoga Workshop with Cat Meyer
Saturday, November 2nd, 5-6:30pm
We are so thrilled to welcome Cat Meyer back to Sarai for a very special restorative yoga workshop ☁️
Join Cat for a transformative 90-minute journey combining breathwork, gentle and mindful movement, and restorative yoga to explore and restore balance in your physical and energetic bodies.
Benefits of this practice include:
- Reducing muscle tension
- Experiencing pain relief
- Boosting the immune system
- Regulating the nervous system
- Releasing stagnation and stored stress
- Creating space for deep relaxation
This workshop is designed for all bodies and all levels to help you reconnect with yourself, unwind, and cultivate a sense of ease and renewal.
Enrollment is limited to 12 spots only to ensure plenty of space and attention for all participants.
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Summer in Portugal:
A Sarai Yoga Retreat
July 20th- July 27th, 2024
Join Samara and Alexandra for our next yoga retreat! It will take place on the breathtaking Atlantic coast of Portugal, near the charming fishing village of Zambujeira do Mar, in the Alentejo region, which is known for its long stretches of untouched coastline and charming white-washed villages.
We'll be staying at a gorgeous coastal farm/retreat complete with oversized hammocks, a wood fired pizza oven, and an outdoor practice space under the canopy of old growth pines. The ocean, with bluffs, trails, and sandy coves, is a 15 minute drive away.
Join us for:
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morning & evening yoga practice
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post-yoga dips in the lake
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nourishing farm to table meals
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excursions to local secret beaches
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opportunities for introspection/journaling/recharging as well as play/connection/adventure with new friends
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Sound & Silence:
a yoga workshop with Henry Kandel & Sierra Berkeley Fisher
Saturday, May 11th, 2024,3-5pm
Our commercial society pummels our senses until they are numb. Without awareness of how our senses interact with consciousness, we are pulled in a thousand directions as our frenzied minds seek distraction. We are immersed in sensory stimulation yet somehow more detached than ever from body and breath. Yoga supports integration of body, breath and mind.
In this workshop, sound will become a tool for harmonizing our energies, rather than a background source of distraction. As we flow through postures, we will synchronize our breath with motion to build and balance energy. Periods of live shamanic music, alternating with silence, will allow participants to immerse in pranayama and meditation, ultimately moving toward a state of both greater relaxation and stronger energetic flow.
This workshop is great for practitioners looking to deepen their understanding of yoga beyond just the poses.
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Spring Awakening:
a workshop with Linda Yung
Sunday, March 17th, 2024,12-2pm
Living in the season harmonizes your inner and outer worlds. Rise from the deep slumber of winter and open your awareness to the awakening of spring by tuning in with the body and synchronizing with the breath. Shift from the dreamy watery depths of winter and open your potential to the focused inspired determination of spring.
In this 2 hour workshop, we will:
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Learn longevity practices to release tension, breathe deeper, and balance energy
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Practice guided qi gong breath and somatic exercises to calm the mind and arrive in the present moment
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Play with mindful movements inspired by tai chi and yoga for stability and grounding, allowing spirit to rise
About your teacher:
Linda Y. Yung (@lettucespoon_) is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, healthy habiter, and mindful mover. She is a lifelong learner of meditation, tai chi, and Eastern philosophy trained in Katonah Yoga and Tantra Vinyasa. Linda is fascinated by longevity and plays with seasonal practices that support a sustainable lifestyle for optimal health.
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Yoga Nidra + Yin Workshop
with Alyssa Magsano
Sunday, March 3rd, 2024, 4-6pm
Do you want your body to feel at ease? Do you ever wonder where your mind goes in the space between sleep and awake? Do you want to get the benefits of a 4-hour nap in just 30 minutes time?
Whether you are trying to deepen your meditation practice or just want to learn how to lay still, this workshop will guide you through the practices of Yin and Yoga Nidra.
This 2 hour workshop will begin with some breathwork (pranayama), followed by Yin - a restorative asana practice that gets into the fascia and more subtle layers and energies of the physical body, and concludes with an extended savasana where you'll be guided through the practice of Yoga Nidra.
Yoga Nidra allows you to surrender the body in order to explore the more subtle layers of the mind, leading you into a place of deep yogic sleep: the hypnagogic state - suspended between the universe within you and the universe around you, collectively, the art of conscious relaxation.
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Beginner Yoga Workshop Series
with Brandi Brady
Sundays Feb 4, 11, 18, from noon - 2pm
Whether you are brand new to yoga or just want a refresher, this Beginner Yoga series is the perfect way to start or restart your practice. Learn the fundamentals of postures and breath in depth.
We'll go over:
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How to breathe during class and why the breath is so important
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How to vinyasa (chaturanga, up dog, down dog) and its variations
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All foundational postures like warriors one, two, & three, forward folds, backbends, twists, & hip openers
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How to make any pose accessible to your body and its current state
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basic anatomy
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yoga terminology like drishti, bandhas, asana, prana, etc.
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and much more!
You'll have plenty of time to ask questions and get personalized feedback so that you leave feeling fully confident to join our open level vinyasa classes.
The format will be broken up throughout the 2 hours. We will explore pranayama (breath work) & asana (movement) divided into segments with lecture & Q&A woven between the physical practice.
Plan to dress comfortably, bring layers & a journal or notebook as we vacillate between physically active & mentally active.
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Sarai's 2nd Anniversary Party +
2nd Annual Talent Show
Sunday Feb 4th, 6-8pm
We're turning two! Come celebrate our two year anniversary with us and perform in (and/or come watch) our second annual talent show! Acts can be up to 3 min long and all talents are welcome!
Possible acts include (but are not limited to) singing, dancing, acting, magic tricks, stand up comedy, improv, music, miming, impersonations, flair bartending, spoken word, athletic feats, juggling, beatboxing, karate, gymnastics, hula hooping, yo-yo tricks, ventriloquist acts, pet tricks, jump rope, puppet show, braiding hair, bubblegum blowing, hypnotism, etc. The more obscure, the better!
Journey to the Future Workshop
with Rita Murjani
See your future by meeting yourself there
Saturday, January 27th, 2024, 3-5pm
Yoga, pranayama, and visualization come together in this very special workshop to bring to light what your authentic self already knows. Transitioning from one year into the next is an opportune time to pause, re-orient, and re-align, so we can better navigate toward the future we desire.
Each layer of our body is its own library — storing ancestry, experiences, dreams and ambitions in an archive. In this workshop, we will travel through that archive via body, breath, and mind to bring all of these layers into alignment, clear the channel for going inward, and grant you access to your personal reservoir of internal wisdom (vijñānamaya and anandamaya koshas). Your subconscious knows where you're going, we'll just be focusing the lens so you can see.
This work can be life changing. As embodiment and energetic practices often bring a flurry of insight and information from the depths of our innermost self to the forefront of our awareness, the workshop will also include guided integration to help digest and process what rises to the surface. Expect to cleanse any leftover residue, incorporate the past, own your present, and see your future from a grounded, trusting, more intuitive space.
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Free Yoga Weekend
Saturday, January 20th & Sunday, January 21st, 2024
Join us for a weekend of Free Yoga Classes! Whether you have an experienced yoga practice or are a curious newcomer, this is your chance to discover the transformative power of yoga: calm the mind, strengthen the body, develop stability, and enhance your wellbeing.
Come meet our teachers, experience our space and bring a friend!
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The Pause:
A Reflection & Intention Setting Workshop
Saturday, December 30th, 2023, 2:30-4:30pm
Join Samara for an afternoon of breathwork, journaling prompts, conversation, tea, snacks, soft music, and community as we reflect on 2023 and prepare for the year ahead. A journal and a pen are included.
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Spinal Intelligence:
A Backbending Workshop with Maeva Boldron
Sunday, November 26th, 2023, 12-3:30pm
Our spines are an incredible combination of strength and flexibility. Strong bones and large muscles give us structure and protect sensitive nerves, while flexible ligaments and tendons allow the spine to move in all different planes.
With regular backbends we can help to protect this wonderful balance by increasing mobility while strengthening the supporting muscles around the skeleton.
In this 3.5 hour workshop we will begin with an energetic and physical preparation to open our senses and connect to the energy of the heart. We will mobilize each part of the spine working at times with a partner and will enter a sequence sprinkled with backbending postures in which we'll take time to isolate, integrate and physically express backbends of each category (contraction, traction, lever). We will finish with an unwinding into a profound relaxation. You will leave with a new understanding of how to move your spine safely.
For all levels of practitioners except for total beginners.
$75 for members, $80 for nonmembers
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Maëva Boldron was born in Paris, France. She discovered yoga at the age of 17 as she was dancing in Paris and soon after in New York City where she moved to study Ballet and Modern dance at the Alvin Ailey School.
Initially yoga was a way to rebalance her body and cross-train for her health. But very soon, deeper layers emerged. As she was pursuing a dance career, yoga became a way to deeply listen to herself, to find peace within chaos, and to rise from dark times to light with the help of her mentors and teachers. She is certified in Ashtanga Vinyasa yoga, mobility training : FRC (Functional Range Conditioning) FRA and Kinstretch.
Teaching in Paris and abroad, at festivals, workshops, and yoga teacher trainings, Maëva is known for her fluid and intricate way of sharing the practice. She utilizes locomotion techniques, dance, contact principles and improvisation while staying deeply connected to yoga philosophy.
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Hindustani Music
& Poetry Fundraiser for Gaza
Friday, November 3rd, 2023 7:30-8:30pm
Doors open at 7pm
We are honored to welcome back this incredible trio for a very special benefit concert. Join us for an evening of Apoorva Mudgal's vocals and compositions, Ria Modak's dreamy classical guitar weaves and Yacouba Sissoko's enlivening Kora (African harp).
As World Human Rights forums lobby for the opening of a humanitarian corridor to Gaza, all proceeds will be directed towards suppoirting relief efforts by the UNRWA (United Nations Relief and Works Agency) and Baitulmaal USA to those affected on the ground, about 1.1 million of whom are children. Their field workers inside Gaza are among the few who have accepted the risk of distributing life-saving aid during this crisis.
If you have the means: in light of current events and the Gazan population's dire need for life-saving resources, kindly consider paying a higher ticket price. $100 gets 1 family food for one month.
Chai will be served after the performance and you will get a chance to meet and chat with the artists.
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Discover Morocco:
A Sarai Yoga Retreat
August 31st- September 7th, 2023
Join Samara in Morocco for Sarai's first yoga retreat!
Marrakech is an enchanted city with one-of-a-kind experiences waiting around every corner. We will take you beyond the surface to discover its heartbeat and the people who make up the soul of the city.
We'll practice yoga and meditation each day as well as go on exciting group adventures including:
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cultural and historical tours through Marrakech
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hiking in the Atlas mountains
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hammam & spa treatments
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a Moroccon cooking class
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a sunset camel ride and dinner in the Agafay desert
This retreat is a special collaboration between Sarai and Meryem Chouirf-McClintock of Qarrya Retreats.
Born and raised in Rabat, Morocco, Meryem built Qarrya Retreats to transport yogis outside of their studios to further develop their practice while discovering the colorful and enchanting landscape that is Morocco. Meryem will be with us throughout the retreat as our guide and coordinator.
Join us for this once in a lifetime opportunity!
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An Evening of Hindustani
Music & Poetry
Saturday July 15th, 2023, 7-8pm
We are so excited to welcome back this incredible trio for a special live music performance. Join us for an evening of Apoorva Mudgal's vocals and compositions, Ria Modak's dreamy classical guitar weaves and Yacouba Sissoko's enlivening Kora (African harp).
This is a unique opportunity to gather around the musicians in an intimate setting, recline on our bolsters and blankets, and immerse yourself in a unique soundscape.
Chai will be served after the performance and you will get a chance to meet and chat with the artists.
$35/person
Members of Sarai receive special pricing of $30/person and can sign up on our class schedule.
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The Alchemy of Well-Being
Saturday, April 29th, 2023, 3-5pm
Join Nevine Michaan with Yogi Doli in the toolkit for a workshop on organs, glands, chemistry, emotions and personal outlook.
Understand the organization of being individual and also being part of the greater whole. Learn techniques that potentiate one's sphere of concentration and radiance. This workshop explores the chemistry of personal well being and how to tap into the chemistry of great nature to support personal revelations.
This workshop will guide you through breathing and meditative techniques to enhance personal equilibrium and well being. One Yogi Doli included in the price of this workshop.
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One Time, One Meeting
An Evening of Songs
Saturday, April 15th, 2023, 7-8pm
“One time, One meeting” is a translation of the Japanese proverb Ichigo Ichie, the concept of being present in all moments and understanding that these moments are fleeting and should be cherished.
Come join an intimate night of original songs by Kent Ishimoto as he shares his moments with people, his culture, and the gods that watch over him.
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The Art (and Science) of Adjustments
Sunday, April 9th, 2023, 2-4pm
Join Rita in exploring the art and science of adjustments! Hands-on yoga adjustments can be profound, revelatory experiences that help us move beyond the personal as we have the opportunity to explore new physical space within the body, redirect energetic currency, and see a different perspective while being held and supported.
In this 2-hour workshop, expect to sharpen your lens using Katonah Yoga® principles and metaphor, deepen your understanding of everyday poses, and break down a variety of postures. You’ll practice giving and receiving adjustments to create stable, grounded, voluminous, and easeful experiences within the shapes all designed to support a longevity yoga practice.
This workshop is open to students, teachers in training, and teachers alike and is recommended for anyone who’s curious about exploring asana through the transformational power of hands-on adjustments.
All hours with Rita are and bankable toward Katonah Yoga® Certification
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An Evening of Hindustani Music
Saturday, February 25th, 2023, 7-8pm
Join us for a live music performance featuring Apoorva Mudgal's vocals and compositions, Quebert Morrow on guitar, and Yacouba Sissoko on the kora (African harp).
This is a unique opportunity to gather around the musicians in an intimate setting, recline on our bolsters and blankets, and immerse yourself in the sound of Hindustani music.
Chai will be served post performance and you will get a chance to meet and chat with the musicians.
Sarai's One Year Anniversary Party & First Annual Talent Show
Sunday, February 5th, 2023, 6-8pm
We're turning one and we'd love to celebrate with you!
We will have snacks, beverages, music, and a raffle for some seriously good prizes including discounted memberships!
All Sarai students & teachers are invited to participate in our Talent Show. Acts can be up to 3 min long and all talents are welcome!*
Possible acts include (but are not limited to) singing, dancing, acting, magic tricks, stand up comedy, improv, music, miming, impersonations, flair bartending, spoken word, athletic feats, juggling, beatboxing, karate, gymnastics, hula hooping, yo-yo tricks, ventriloquist acts, pet tricks (upon approval), jump rope, puppet show, braiding hair, bubblegum blowing, hypnotism, etc. The more obscure, the better!
Journey to the Future Workshop
with Rita Murjani
See your future by meeting yourself there
Sunday, January 22, 2023, 2-4pm
Yoga, pranayama, and visualization come together in this very special workshop to bring to light what your authentic self already knows. Transitioning from one year into the next is an opportune time to pause, re-orient, and re-align, so we can better navigate toward the future we desire.
Each layer of our body is its own library — storing ancestry, experiences, dreams and ambitions in an archive. In this workshop, we will travel through that archive via body, breath, and mind to bring all of these layers into alignment, clear the channel for going inward, and grant you access to your personal reservoir of internal wisdom (vijñānamaya and anandamaya koshas). Your subconscious knows where you're going, we'll just be focusing the lens so you can see.
This work can be life changing. As embodiment and energetic practices often bring a flurry of insight and information from the depths of our innermost self to the forefront of our awareness, the workshop will also include guided integration to help digest and process what rises to the surface. Expect to cleanse any leftover residue, incorporate the past, own your present, and see your future from a grounded, trusting, more intuitive space.
The Collective:
Tessellating the Fractal Nature of Patterns
Saturday, January 14th, 2023, 2:30-4:30pm
Join Nevine Michaan for a 2 hour in person workshop surrounding the new 2023 Magic Calendar by Katonah Yoga. Calendars are magical in intent and possibilities. They allow us to plan ahead and reflect back, so that we can embody our visions.
In this workshop we’ll move through asana, breathing techniques and gain a better understanding of how you can use our calendar and your time to your advantage and as a cannon of personal religion.
Building characters and patterns of the collective, big picture and the year ahead is a recipe for joy and the theme of this year's calendar. To be well-oriented and well-organized is powerful!
*The Collective, 2023 Magic Calendar is INCLUDED with price of the workshop* $75 per person
Sound Bath
Friday, December 2nd, 2022, 7:30-8:30pm
Join us for our first Sound Bath experience led by James Muschler. Sound Baths help us to achieve deep relaxation of the body and mind, improving our mood, mentality, and well-being.
Attendees will be invited to lay down and rest (or sit comfortably) as they are immersed in the soothing and meditative soundscape of the gong, singing bowls, cymbals, and more.
$30 per person. Sign up on our schedule under "workshops."
Hums at Sarai:
An evening of Hindustani music & poetry
Saturday, September 24th, 2022, 7:30-8:30pm
Join us in welcoming back Apoorva Mudgal (voice), Ria Modak (guitar), and Yacouba Sissoko (kora) for their second live music performance at Sarai.
The musicians will give introductions & translations to the pieces they will perform before immersing us in the sound of their music & poetry.
Chai will be served post-performance.
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Liquid Dreams at Sarai
Friday, June 10th, 2022, 8-9pm
Join us for an evening immersed in the interplay of Fumie Matters' dreamy, playful, live visuals and Kent Ishimoto's vast musical repertoire: a colorful conversation of art and song.
Hums at Sarai
Saturday, March 12th, 2022, 7-8pm
Our very first live music performance will feature Apoorva Mudgal's vocals and compositions, Ria Modak's dreamy classical guitar weaves and Yacouba Sissoko's enlivening Kora (African harp) playing in the warmth of our studio.
This is a unique opportunity to gather around the musicians in an intimate setting, recline on our bolsters and blankets, and immerse yourself in a unique soundscape.
Chai and samosas will be served after the performance and you will get a chance to meet and chat with the artists.
Proof of vaccination is required and space is limited.
