Yoga Flow & Glow Event

Last week I attended an event called Yoga Flow & Glow. It was a glow in the dark yoga class suitable for all fitness levels. I had to check it out.

The event was organized by Mind & Body Complete to raise funds for a non-profit ladies retreat center and was kindly hosted by CrossFit Remedy. Once I had checked in, I  made my way towards the table full of glow in the dark items.

The organizers had thought of everything. Along with glow in the dark wrist bands, head bands, glasses, paint and paint brushes, they also supplied us with yoga mats, towels and bottles of water. There was a buzz in the air as everyone excitedly painted dots and stripes onto their bodies and posed for pictures. There was a steady stream of both men and women filing in and filling out their names on small forms for the raffle drawing later.

I had a few minutes before the class to look through the Lululemon showcase.

The room was getting warmer. It was being heated to between 80-90°F – not sweltering but warm enough to work up a sweat.

Shortly after, the lights were turned down and Yoga instructor Jennifer Dean promptly started the class. I know Jennifer from the CrossFit classes I take and knew she taught yoga but this was the first time I had her as a teacher. Though it was dark, her voice easily transitioned us from one position to the next.

As a newbie to yoga and not knowing the names of every position, I had no problems following along as Jennifer explained each step. I also loved her choice of music for the class – hello downward dogging it to Snoop Dogg! I was having so much fun, it wasn’t until the routine slowed down a bit that I realized my body was actually getting a great workout.

What sets yoga apart from other forms of exercise is that it’s not just physical, but a combination of mental and spiritual disciplines as well. We ended the class with stretching and a meditation. Sometime while my eyes were closed, fragrant essential oils were sprayed around the room and the entire experience was extremely relaxing. The class ended and I felt completely renewed. Not at all how I’m used to feeling on a frantic weeknight!

After the class I got to chat with Shannon Jamail, the founder of Mind and Body Complete. She told me she had recently purchased land in Southern California and was raising funds to build a facility where women could attend retreats to focus on their health and wellness. Women too often, focus on everyone and everything else in their lives and don’t prioritize their own health. This resonated with me because I’m guilty of it too. The center would provide workshops for women to find balance and enable them to become better at doing amazing things. What a wonderful mission and I’m so glad I was able to help towards this goal. If you are interested in learning more about retreats being hosted around the country you can find them here.  Also, figure out a way you can take me with you!

Have you ever attended a glow in the dark yoga event? I really enjoyed the class and I think I will be trying to make it out to a yoga class at least once a week from now on.