With focus on an under-served community need, Dew Yoga, in the Springdale section of Stamford on the 2nd floor at Bobby Valentines Sports Academy, 72 Camp Avenue, Stamford, has announced the start of a no-fee weekly yoga class. Beginning in June, the studio will offer the weekly class on Saturdays at 9:30 am. The class is open to all regardless of practice or ability level. No registration is required. Dew Yoga instructor and co-founder, Elysa DeMartini will be leading the class.
In nod to the challenging economic climate, co-founders Elysa DeMartini and Jen Irwin have dubbed the class Stimulus Yoga. “The underlying principle of what we are calling Stimulus Yoga, is central to Yoga and the wisdom of Yoga -- karma,” explains Elysa DeMartini. “Resting on the foundation of community, both large and small, karma is as relevant now as it was centuries ago. If you think you can’t afford Yoga, think again. If you think you don’t have time to help the community, think again.” The objective is to achieve both -- accessible, affordable yoga for all, and a gift of gratitude that flows back into the community.
“The principle is simple -- it is one of flow and wholeness” explains fellow studio founder and instructor, Jen Irwin. “In lieu of fees, we ask that participants bring what we call a “Karma donation” to class.” Specifically, Karma donations may be gently used clothes, canned food items, books, plants, money, services, pet supplies, recipes or even good will. No donation is too small. “In a graceful turn of the circle, the donations benefit the larger community.”
Dew Yoga will disperse donations to local charities throughout the community, among them The Wilson Memorial Food Pantry, Good Will of Stamford, Stamford Animal Care & Control Shelter. Monetary donations received by the studio will be used to offset overhead expenses or to provide further Yoga classes to others who may not be able to attend the Yoga Stimulus class.
Dew Yoga is the community-oriented partnership of Jen Irwin, R.Y.T. and Elysa DeMartini R.Y.T. Both are certified Kripalu Yoga instructors and have been teaching Yoga in the community at studios, school and fitness centers for many years. Dew Yoga’s mission is to build community through Yoga practice and instruction, wellness, fitness and meditation. Dew Yoga is committed to service and charity in Stamford and beyond.
