We were all affected by the horrible tragedy that unfolded in Newtown, Connecticut last December that took the lives of 26 victims, a majority of them kids under the age of 10. As people and yoga folk, many of us were overwhelmed with heartbreak and compassion and were left wondering what could be done to help. In the face of tragic events the yoga community often responds by turning to what we do best: yoga. For Sandy Hook Elementary it will be no different.
A benefit yoga class is set for January 29th hosted by Newtown studio Yoga Dimensions with guest teacher and author Rolf Gates. The class will raise funds for Sandy Hook Promise a non-profit organization established in response to the tragic shooting with the mission “to support our own our families, our neighbors, our teachers, our community with dedication and love as well as the material and financial needs they will require in the days ahead.”
The organization, in living up to its name, also promises to turn the sad event into a cause for change and action in preventing anything like this from happening in the future by being a platform for conversation open to all sides (which we can presume will have a lot to do with the larger issues of public safety and gun control).
Says Gates about the event, via Yoga Journal Buzz blog:
“This is yoga off the mat. What they’re doing at Sandy Hook Promise is attempting to bring more wisdom and compassion to how things operate in the community. That’s the long-term goal of every Downward Dog—to bring more wisdom and compassion to how we conduct our daily lives.”
Do you agree?
The benefit class will be held:
Tuesday, January 29th
6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Reed Intermediate School, 3 Trades Lane, Newtown
Suggested Donation: $40
Call 203.364.9500 or e-mail yogadimensions@aol.com to register.
Read more about the event here.
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Earlier…
Whether this organization or event actually changes anything doesn’t matter. What matters is the intent to bring comfort, change and community. If they accomplish these things, thru down-dogs , chanting or sun salutes, it goes back to intention.