Sound Yoga

Interested in delving deeper into
the Yoga Sutras? Join our
beginner-friendly yoga study
group to uncover the rich history
and philosophy behind this
ancient practice. No prior
experience required. Opt for
either Zoom or in-person sessions,
with recordings available.

We offer a variety of small group classes under the guidance of Certified Yoga Teachers in the tradition of Krishnamacharya. Each class is specifically designed for the group depending on their physical, energetic, and therapeutic needs. The main component of all classes is breath linked with movement for the optimal experience of mind body balance.

We are so sure you’ll enjoy the SoundYoga experience, we’re offering your first class for free. *Only for people who are new to SoundYoga.

At SoundYoga, we believe that Yoga is for everyone, regardless of experience level. Whether you're a beginner or have been practicing for years, our Certified Yoga Teachers are here to guide you on your journey. By following the Krishnamacharya tradition, we ensure that each class is a unique experience tailored to the specific needs of the participants, allowing for a personalized and enriching practice. Our sessions are designed to help you connect with your inner self, promote relaxation, and improve flexibility and strength.

Join us starting on May 6th for a transformative experience where you can cultivate a sense of peace, balance, and well-being. Let's come together to celebrate the beauty of spring and nurture our bodies and minds through the practice of Yoga.

Interested in delving deeper into the Yoga Sutras? Join our beginner-friendly yoga study group to uncover the rich history and philosophy behind this ancient practice. No prior experience required. Opt for either Zoom or in-person sessions, with recordings available.

It's still possible to join our winter Yoga series! Our classes resume on Tuesday, Jan. 2, 2024, but you can join us anytime!

Today's featured class with Chris Dormaier is one of our favorites. This Yoga I-II class is for students with prior experience with Yoga I classes who are ready for an advanced class. In this class, you will have the opportunity to practice basic postures in more demanding ways, which will enhance your strength, flexibility, and balance.

If you have any questions regarding any of our upcoming classes at SoundYoga, please don't hesitate to contact us at www.soundyoga.com

It's still possible to join our winter Yoga series! Our classes resume on Tuesday, Jan. 2, 2024, but you can join us anytime!

Today's featured class with Chris Dormaier is one of our favorites. This Yoga I-II class is for students with prior experience with Yoga I classes who are ready for an advanced class. In this class, you will be able to practice basic postures in more demanding ways, enhancing your strength, flexibility, and balance.

If you have any questions regarding any of our upcoming classes at SoundYoga, please don't hesitate to contact us at www.soundyoga.com

Happy New Year from all of us at SoundYoga!
As we say goodbye to the previous year, we welcome the new year with open arms and hearts full of hope and positivity. We at SoundYoga are committed to providing a safe and welcoming space for all our students to practice yoga.

Whether you are new to yoga or a seasoned practitioner, we invite you to join us on this journey toward greater health and well-being. In the coming year, we will offer various classes and workshops designed to help you deepen your practice and connect with your inner self. From Vinyasa flow to restorative yoga, we have something for everyone.

Thank you for being a part of our community, and we look forward to seeing you in the new year!

To learn more about our upcoming winter series, go to: www.soundyoga.com.

Karie's yoga classes are crafted to leave you relaxed, yet engaged, with a greater feeling of ease in your body. Her passion is helping yoga students learn to inhabit their body, be playful and most of all, move.

This class uses a combination of dynamic as well as static postures (asanas) to help build flexibility & strength. The practice will change from week to week progressing to a deeper level of relaxation, increasing stamina and expanding energy. Beginners are always welcome!

Register for Karie's upcoming classes at www.soundyoga.com.

Introducing Strong Bones Yoga™: An online Yoga class for building stronger bones!

Created by Chris Dormaier, a certified Yoga therapist, experienced Yoga teacher, and holistic health advocate, Strong Bones Yoga™ is a 90-minute online class designed to enhance your overall well-being and includes the following benefits:

- Building bone density and preventing osteoporosis
- Increasing overall strength without added bulk
- Improving balance, coordination, and flexibility
- Boosting energy levels throughout the body

Go to www.soundyoga.com to register for the upcoming winter series!

Get Ready for our Happy Hippy Class – Everyone's Invited!� Don't let the name fool you – you don't have to be a hippy to join us! 😂

This gentle Yoga for Your Hips class is a unique and fun way to stay active and healthy. The class focuses on promoting flexibility, balance, and core strength through a variety of yoga-inspired exercises. Whether you're a seasoned yogi or a beginner, this class is suitable for all levels of fitness and experience.

So, come and join us for an online class filled with positive energy, good vibes, and a welcoming community. Trust us, your body, mind and hips will thank you! 🙏

Go to www.soundyoga.com to register for the upcoming winter series!

Maria Mannisto is passionate about the powerful combination of yoga and sound. Having chosen in 2003 to make a career out of her lifelong love of singing, she discovered yoga a few years later and quickly incorporated it into her daily life as an essential counterpart to her voice work. Maria’s classes combine asana, pranayama, meditation, and mantra, with a goal of clearing the way for the recognition and authentic expression of the true self.

Register for Maria's upcoming virtual SoundYoga class today at: www.soundyoga.com

Are you ready to kick off the new year with a healthier and happier you? Join Chris Dormaier's online Yoga II class and experience the fantastic benefits of yoga from the comfort of your own home.

This class is designed for students with some experience in the basics of yoga and who are interested in furthering their knowledge with the practice of asanas, pranayama, and meditation.
NOTE: Requires three months prior experience.

Register today at: www.soundyoga.com

Gift your body the healing energy it deserves in a gentle Yoga class with Chris Dormaier.

This gentle class integrates both dynamic and static movement as we explore the therapeutic benefits of Yoga. Moving slowly with the breath allows you to feel each posture deeply. Each class is specifically designed for the group depending on their physical, energetic, and therapeutic needs and includes sound in movement, seated breathing and meditation.

Beginners are always welcome!

It's not too late to give the gift of health! Gift certificates are always available!

If you’re new to Yoga or simply looking for the right place to stretch your body and mind, SoundYoga is for you. We offer a variety of small group classes under the guidance of Certified Yoga Teachers in the tradition of Krishnamacharya. Each class is specifically designed for the group depending on their physical, energetic, and therapeutic needs. The main component of all classes is breath linked with movement for the optimal experience of mind body balance.

Go go www.soundyoga.com for more info!

Beginners Welcome! This class uses a combination of dynamic as well as static postures (asanas) to help build flexibility & strength. The practice will change from week to week progressing to a deeper level of relaxation, increasing stamina and expanding energy.

Register for the winter series at: www.soundyoga.com

When I was young, growing up on an apple orchard in Eastern Washington, winter was a special time for us and there was usually lots of snow. I can remember just standing outside, all bundled up, deep in the snow, just listening. No one was working in their orchards. It was so quiet. Peaceful. Now as an adult, I can put myself in that place, sit quietly and feel that peace. I encourage you to reflect on a time when you were young and felt a similar sense of peace. Let it fill your being.

Peace within brings peace without.

Wishing everyone a peaceful holiday season, and may that peace extend throughout the year.

FREE Yoga Sutra Class with Chris Dormaier

The Yoga Sutras are an ancient text that is the foundation of Yoga. They offer us wisdom, from another perspective, to help us navigate life’s challenges and have been proven to be as relevant today as they were 2000 years ago.

These teachings have been passed down through the years from teacher to student. I will share the teachings I received from my teacher who learned from her teacher.

This introductory class is an overview of the history and philosophy of Yoga. No experience necessary of Yoga or Yoga philosophy.

Date: Saturday, December 2
Time: 1:00-3:00pm
FREE!

Space is limited in our new studio, you will be given location information after you register at soundyoga.com.

Change is in the air! 24 plus years ago I wandered West Seattle looking for a place to open a Yoga studio. No one would rent to me because they didn’t think Yoga was a viable way to make a living, so my husband Tim and I decided to extend our law office building to include a Yoga studio. I felt very blessed at that time and still do. I love this space and all it has been for the last 24 years to me and all of you.

Seven years ago, we sold the building when Tim decided to retire. We made a deal with the new owner that I could stay, knowing one day that could change. Well, that day has come and the owner decided to move his business into the entire building, with the exception of the West Seattle Chamber, who will stay. Many things went through my mind, but I knew, for sure, we would survive this shift. For the last two years we have flexed with all that COVID brought us. While teaching on Zoom has not been ideal, it has allowed us to continue doing what we all love, Yoga.

We all know that SoundYoga is more than just a place. Whenever we are together there is the feeling of being in a supportive community. A sanga that brings comfort to our challenges, nourishment to our ever growing minds and spirits and teachings that will continue to serve us as we move through life's journey. Our last day in the studio will be November 30, 2022, just short of our 25th anniversary in this space, February 2, 2023. However, I am networking with my fellow health practitioners in West Seattle to find a space to rent hourly for the few classes that will come back in person. Our Zoom studio and classes will continue as we have for the last two plus years.

I’ve added a few more in person options in the September – October schedule. You may want to come back and enjoy the space and see others in person for one more series.

It is my plan to take the month of December off to rest and regroup. Karie, Shelly and Maria will continue their classes on Zoom. Many of you have asked me from time to time when I am going to retire. I love teaching Yoga and plan to continue until I don’t.

I can’t count how many times I have thanked you all for supporting me and SoundYoga. Once again, from the bottom of my heart, thank you for your continued support to not just SoundYoga but to realizing how important Yoga is in your life and what it has given you.

In peace,

Chris

Have you ever wondered how our minds get spun into places we didn’t intend to go and we feel stuck there? It could be an outside influence like the news or an internal influence like worry. In the Yoga Sutras Patanjali talks about these mental sufferings, the klesas, which have been with us since the beginning of time. There are five main afflictions, but today I am going to focus on the one we might be feeling right now, fear, abinivesah.

The death and destruction of the Ukrainian people, their homelands and families elicit our own fear of death and the samskaras around it. Does this trigger our own abhinivesah? Does it paralyze us or can we show compassion and empathy while still maintaining our life and keeping our own klesas at bay.

I have heard of so many positive stories of people who have made a difference in the Ukraine. For instance, driving people to family and safety outside of the country, setting up food tents and feeding people and providing medical supplies and health care to serve those in need. I am part of a travel group that has personal contacts in Poland that are helping Ukrainians find refuge for as long as necessary.

By hearing these other acts of compassion and care we can change our perspective, focus on something positive and make some small steps ourselves. This will help us navigate our own feelings, reframe the fear we may be feeling and help to change our perspective and focus on the positive.

Sanga

At this time of year, I always reflect on a big date. On February 2, SoundYoga celebrated its 24th birthday. It also reminds me that 2 years ago on March 18 we moved to Zoom because of the pandemic. The longevity of SoundYoga is due to the commitment and interest you all have in continued learning and practice. The sanga that has been built over the years could not be diminished even on Zoom.

We may not be together in person when we meet for Yoga classes, but no matter what the medium or location, we are still truly together. We still share life events and talk about how we feel, both physically and mentally. What I also found out from students was how they had formed their own communities outside of Yoga, BC (Before Covid). Getting together for coffee, walks or other outings and importantly, supporting each other in times of need. This warmed my heart, because one of my visions when I started SoundYoga, was to bring people together in hopes of making new friends and creating sanga. While the pandemic limited in person gatherings of friends, many were able to adapt to in person gatherings on Zoom.

Sanga is about like-minded people coming together for shared experience. Sanga is also about support and being supported. It is so important to stay connected not just for our mental health, but for our soul. I think we have all done a great job in maintaining this connection and it is my hope as spring approaches, someday soon, we can feel and be free to meet in person.

In peace,
Chris

“Within you, there is a stillness and a sanctuary to which you can retreat at any time and be yourself” - Hermann Hesse


For me, this time of year brings up the desire to create space in my life for deeper reflection. The days are shorter, it’s a bit darker and nature is sleepy. This quieter time allows for true introspection where we can reflect on the past year's events and the changes we would like to create moving forward. It also returns me to the feeling of PEACE. Not just a theme to ponder once a year, but the inquiry of how and what I can do to create more peace in my life and how I may bring a bit more peace into someone else's life.

At times creating and being at peace may feel like a daunting task, especially given the busy-ness of our lives and the nature of division in the world. I know for me, when I reflect on peace, my heart softens and my mind becomes less agitated. I can reach out to the world from a calmer place. But this takes effort and most importantly, setting a clear intention so it can become part of our daily lives. Once that occurs, we no longer need to be reminded of it once a year or on a special holiday. I believe most people would like to live in a peaceful world and it starts with each of us, and each and every day.

Take the time during this holiday to reflect on peace and what it means to you. How can you cultivate that inner peace? What does that look like for you and how can peace manifest in your relationships, environment and ultimately the world.

I wish you and everyone in your pod much peace for this holiday season and the hope for Peace on Earth for this year and the years to come.

In peace,
Chris

Śraddhā (faith) is essential for progress,
whether in Yoga or any other endeavor.
It is a feeling that cannot be expressed or intellectually discussed.
It, however, is a feeling that is not always uncovered in every person.
When absent or weak,
it is evident through the lack of stability and focus in a person.
Where present and strong,
it is evident through the commitment, perseverance
and enthusiasm the person exhibits.
For such a person, life is meaningful.”
T.K.V. Desikachar



The above translation of the word Sraddha by TKV Desikachar, is full of meaning, insight and concepts which aid my self-reflections every day. I made several changes in my life over the last year and a half, as the world and environments seemed to dictate I do so. As our state forced us into isolation I began to slow down. When feeling lonely, depressed or isolated, I would use the above definition of sraddha as a reminder of what was still deep inside me.

As I took time for myself, maybe a nap, maybe to sit quietly or maybe to just stare out the window, I realized that Sraddha may be hidden, but it is still deep within each of us. It is reflected and present as we continue our daily work and care for others. It may have been weakened a bit by the world’s events, but it is evident as we maintain our relationships with others. It is Sraddha that helps us progress in this new environment, whether it be a new way of teaching or learning a new hobby or other creative endeavor. It also allows us to have courage to let go of things that may not have been serving us and to embrace our new paths which feed our soul. For many, it reminds us of our connection to God or what is highest for us.

So, if you find yourself a bit weakened, know that Sraddha is just under the surface, waiting to help us progress to the next step or phase in our life, whatever that may be. We are all rich in so many ways. Finding a way to give back or pay it forward or share your talents might be the next chapter in this exciting time called life.

in Sraddha,
Chris

Boy, I don’t know about you but I have been taken on a roller coaster ride lately with all the corona virus news. It is unsettling to say the least.

Since the beginning of the pandemic, our reliance on truthful and useful information has been essential for us to maintain safety measures and ultimately good health. However, it’s been a bit confusing because of the varying data and viewpoints being disseminated.

Once again turning to Patanjali’s Yoga sutras I am reminded of two concepts, satyam and rtam. Satyam is truth that is communicated in a way that does not add to misinformation and does not cause harm. Rtam is truth that is pure, unadulterated and not filtered through the lens of our mind which is riddled with memories, patterns and misunderstandings. I think we are experiencing a bit of both.

The truth can be painful to us and whether it something we want to hear or not, we still have to accept reality. If it is raining, we can see and feel the rain, there is no question. I read something, think it is true, then I hear someone else with a convincing argument against what I just read, and add that into my thought process. Sometimes it is a question of getting more information that makes us move forward. Sometimes it is fear that drives our decision and we cannot act at all. This back and forth can be exhausting.

I find it really helps to let my brain rest. A daily practice of exhale focused Pranayama and meditating on space in your life will allow you to take a fresh look at what really affects you and what you need to do to stay safe and healthy.

I send my best wishes to all of you and hope to see more of you on my walks and in the parks. I miss just hearing you all laugh and enjoy each other.

In peace,
Chris

PS SoundYoga will continue to hold classes only on-line until the end of the year.

Seeking Refuge

I am sure we all agree, especially after the last year plus, that we are not in control of everything that happens to us. As a result of the pandemic and all that came with it, I felt like I had to keep it together for everyone else. At first that was easy but as the year plus rolled on, I realized I needed more than my Yoga practice, good food and working in my garden to support me. This got me thinking and reflecting about the concept and idea of seeking refuge. The word 'refuge' is found in many Vedic chants, the Bible, as well as in Buddhist chants. According to its definition, refuge is a condition of being safe or sheltered. When I was feeling so vulnerable, overwhelmed and unprotected, the thought never occurred to me that I could give this away or turn it over.

Where do we seek refuge, in our home, our Sanga or our churches? Was that feeling of safety stripped away during the last year? Is it enough to say just breathe and let it go? These are some of the questions that have been swirling around my head for a while. Even in the midst of practice and good self-care, I totally missed I was not seeking refuge!

If you are having any of these thoughts or feelings, here is a suggestion to help you explore what refuge might be for you. If you could give your depression, anxiety or uncertainty away, where would it go? Although this is a universal concept spanning many years and ideologies, it is also highly individual and worth contemplating. Who or what would happily receive it?

I have found this missing piece for me. When I take refuge in my concept of God and I chant the very specific notion of seeking and being given refuge, I feel a lightness, a sense of truly being able to let go and relax. Knowing that I actually have someone or something that would take this from me, allowed me to feel protected and safe and my ability to let go, increased. This was a totally new revelation for me.

I hope you reflect and find the refuge you seek. May Yoga and Sanga support your journey and fill you with lightness and peace.

Namaste,
Chris

Spring is upon us and I always feel so much better when the sun is shining. Sunshine not only lifts our spirits, but creates and gives us more energy. I am sure this is true for most of us, especially after a long, dark winter and the many changes that we have endured.

As we enter into the spring, I am reminded of the ancient cultures and how the sun played an important role in their tradition and rituals. According to the vedas, which are approximately 5000 years old, the outer sun is represented as the giver of light, illumination, health and spirituality, while the inner sun represents our energy (or prana ), which manifests as our breath. So not only is this symbolic, but in reality we could not exist or see without the sun itself.

There are many practices, chants and rituals around the sun. Classically in yoga, the suryanamaskar is the most well known. In some of my classes I teach a variation of the classic sun salute. This type of practice builds energy and allows us to feel grounded and connectied to the earth. It is also a great way to honor this season while paying homage to the sun itself as a source of light and life.

When practicing sun salute (whatever modified version that is comfortable for you), face towards the sun. This could be near a window or corner of your room. Connect to your breath as you begin, and as you move reach up toward the direction of the sun. After each round stop, take a relaxed breath or two and link to the sun and its energy. The movements and rounds will be slower and more meditative. This will support a deeper connection to the life giving properties of the sun itself, while instilling a deep sense of gratitude in our hearts for the suns' many life giving properties.

So whatever asana or movements you perform, hold the sun as a point of focus in your mind and heart this season. Let it help add to your individual renewal, give the energy needed to accomplish your goals, and most importantly, create happiness and peace so that your own light may shine brightly for yourself and others.


Happy Spring and Good health to all.

Namaste,
Chris

Parinama / Change and practice

I am sure some of you have heard me say how I love a good rut. I am not a happy changer. This last year has been crazy with change. It is interesting how I/we have adjusted to it all. Sometimes I can really dig my heals in and resist change and sometimes I can just move with it.

How do you react when there is change? Does it throw you for a loop, or does it create a positive perspective? There is change that is thrust upon us too quickly and there are times when it is too slow to satisfy us.

The Yoga Sutras talk about these different kinds of change and how they manifest. There is the idea of change that comes from things we implement or are responsible for, such as going a on a diet and then actually losing weight. Then there are changes that come from outside ourselves such as in nature, a storm or the corona virus. And lastly there is change that comes from someone else, like a spirit of generosity that changes and enhances your life in some way. Each sequence of events transforms us in some way.

In the Yoga Sutra Patanjali also speaks about change as part of the natural process of life. But it is with practice that we gain the awareness of the eventuality of change, how to weather it, act in a patient way and adapt accordingly if need be.

I think the last year has given all of us the opportunity to reflect on how we have dealt with change and to see the potential positive side of taking new steps. It is a mixed bag. Many times, these changes have made life easier. For me, moving to Zoom and a paperless environment wasn't easy some of the time. I am lucky to have the support of three of the most amazingly patient women in Shelly, Karie and Maria, and all of you to keep SoundYoga alive for 23 years. Thank you!

Namaste,
Chris