February 2016: Best Holistic and Entertaining Events in San Francisco Bay Area and Around

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Introduction to Tantra for Men

Tuesday, February 2, 2016 from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM (PST)

3490 20th Street.
3rd Floor.
San Francisco, CA 94110

Men, are you looking for a way to experience mindful embodiment and experimentation with other men on a group level? The rich experiences of Tantra are waiting for you!

In this 2-hour introduction you will learn about the Principles of Tantra, the Foundation Stones for better embodiment, and the Chakra System.

Tantra is a belief system, which originated in India, practiced by a small number of Hindus and Buddhists. Tantra has become a synonym in the West for unbridled sexuality; however, sexuality per se is only one facet of this elaborate spiritual practice, as a representation of the union of the soul with the Goddess. Rather, this attitude reflects the spiritual vacuum of mainstream Western religions when it comes to sacred sexuality. A deep study of Tantra can take a lifetime… Check if that is for you!

Cost: Suggested donation $25 (sliding scale)


More February 2016 events:

New Moon Wild Woman Dance

Friday, February 5, 2016 at 7 PM - 10 PM

Menlo Pilates & Yoga
1011 El Camino Real,
Menlo Park, California 94025

This New Moon Dance is a place for us sisters to come together, to (Re)member the original blood sacrifice - our monthly menses, ending the "curse" and shame and all the other taboo about the process that brings all of us life.

Brothers, please read my note below. We are still inviting you to participate in this community with us on these nights!

When we as women do our "work" of (re)member the power of OUR blood, which we shed for ALL along with the lunar calendar, when we settle back into our roots of what makes us biologically different, when we learn that our emotions ARE ALL AS THEY SHALL BE - according to our inner rhythm - we find freedom. We find our Voices, and we will help share this (re)membering with our brothers and our children.

I have learned so much about our Blood Mysteries that I am bursting to share the power of them with you - and know we each carry a piece of the Mysteries within us. That when we (re)member that which has been shamed is actually that which gives us our power… we will be able to dance wildly, unabashedly, with fervor.

We will come together as women to shed that which is dying, dead - and to plant the seed for the next cycle. Life to death to life - the cycle never ending.

BROTHERS: Please note that we sisters are inviting you to STILL be part of this night with us. We would love you to energetically hold the space for us, either outside of Menlo Pilates, or outside, wherever you are. We actually - as sisters - have dreams that you would start your own Moon Lodge and hope this will inspire you!

Sisters:
7-7:20 - co-create the Red Tent/Moon Lodge together (if you can!)
7:20 Change into Sarong (if feel led, symbolic of shedding the outside world to enter our Tent)
7:30-8:30ish circle time
8:30ish-9:30 Wild Woman Dance/cuddle/love on each other in sisterly love
9:30 - closing circle
9:50 - pack up
10 pm - head home feeling juiced up, alive and RADIANT!

Bring
* Red colored fabrics, linens, curtains
* Altar items
* Bring red colored clothes like skirts, dresses, sarongs
* A pillow to sit on
* If you are bleeding and would like to donate blood to return to Mother Gaia at the end of our night, please bring some in a sealed glass jar.
*Your voice, your DANCE, your wisdom your Power
*Full Self.

Cost: $15 - $20


Secrets of Unstoppable Confidence

Friday, February 5, 2016 @ 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM

1440 Oak Rim Dr.,
Hillsborough, CA

Everyone wants more confidence, but most attempts to get it often drives it away. What is confidence and how do you create more of it? Why is it so fleeting and how can your harness it and own it?

Affirmations rarely if ever work and when they do what little confidence you get from them is often shattered by the slightest criticism. That's not real confidence. I'll show you how to cultivate real confidence that will withstand criticism. Not only that, I will show you how to use criticism to strengthen your confidence.

Most people try to work at confidence directly. In this workshop I'll show you why that's going at it all wrong and why that approach actually will make you more self-conscious and insecure.

The only real confidence is effortless confidence.

Cost: $10


Beginners Weekend Tantra Seminar

February 5-7, 2016
Santa Cruz Mountains, CA

Learn 22 Tantra Techniques that will transform your sexual love life into one of ecstatic pleasure, harmony and deep emotional connection! No prior knowledge or experience is necessary. There is no nudity in the seminar. The at-home Saturday night practice is optional.

Tantra: The Art of Conscious Loving seminars provide the education we never had and always needed in order to have wonderful, real and lasting love, and to rediscover the full potential of our sexual energy. "Rather than a "touchy-feely" course about sex, Tantra: The Art of Conscious Loving is a spiritual yet practical guide to being present and intimate with the most important person in your life. Sure there was a lot of discussion of sex, but only in the context of celebrating yourself, your partner, your love and of life itself...this should be required learning for all people."

Have you ever felt there must be something more to sexual loving? In just a few days, you will discover the ancient secrets of female and male sexual ecstasy.You will learn to use sexual energy for increased intimacy, spiritual connection, pleasure, harmony and freedom. Turn sex into a relationship practice of healing energy, renewal and transformation.

Are you tired of chasing weak orgasms? Women can experience longer, deeper, faster and more powerful orgasms. Men can orgasm without tiring ejaculations. You can tap into an endless, spontaneous flow of creative, love energy.

In Ancient India, Tantric sex was taught as an art form that every conscious person must master. Now you can learn these ancient and proven skills translated as a 21st century art form and experience harmonious, joyful union.

No explicit sexual activity or nudity takes place in class; optional homeplay is assigned.

Cost: $495


Love: Supported by the Four Divine States

Saturday, February 6, 2016 @ 9 am - 4 pm

San Francisco Zen Center City Center,
300 Page Street,
San Francisco, CA 94102

We all want love. And, having and holding love and loving feelings may be challenging at times, perhaps especially when we’re in the midst of a relationship.

Join us in exploring how love can be when expressed in conjunction with the qualities of the Four Divine States:
* Loving kindness
* Compassion
* Inclusive Joy
* Balance of Heart/Mind

Let’s explore how these qualities can offer us ways which can promote more mindfulness and ease. Traditional meditation practices on these qualities along with other contemporary means will be shared and practiced, giving us tools and practices to learn how to access and cultivate these qualities within ourselves and with another.

Both individual and relational exercises will be used. Open to all expressions of partnered relationships, including but not limited to friendships, parents/children, siblings, intimate sensual/sexual significant others, roommates, etc.

Cost: $80; or $64 for students with limited income (lunch, tea and an afternoon snack will be provided).


Two-Become-One Partner Yoga: Free Workshop in Sausalito

Saturday, February 6, 2016 from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM

Point Bonita YMCA
981 Fort Barry
Sausalito, CA 94965

OMMM! Open up your heart and learn simple stretches done in pairs. Learn to expand any relationship in a fun & creative way by connection through breath, play and touch. Enjoy this FREE yoga workshop as a sample of the yoga classes Point Bonita YMCA provides. Sign up with a partner or meet someone new!

Fee: Free


Intimacy Magic Tantra Workshop in Mountain View

Saturday, February 6, 2016 from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM (PST)

Mountain View, CA 94040

Intimacy Magic Tantra Workshop is a safe container for you to experience deep connection with yourself and others for greater presence, pleasure and awareness. You will let go of things that prevent you from being fully presence through active release practices, increase your vitality by moving the energy so you can drop deeper into your own body, heart and spirit. And from that place of contentment and peace in yourself, you will be guided into connection with others through a serious of playful exercises in conscious embodiment, communication, breath, sound and energetic connection.

What you can expect during this workshop:
* Mingling around the room and sharing hugs and eye contact.
* Sitting down with a partner for heart-felt communication exercises.
* Waking up your sensitivity to energy through guided practices.
* Sharing conscious and respectful touch with each other.
* Working alone, in partnership with one other person and in groups.
* Learning Tantric breathing.
* Sounding mantras.

There will be no nudity, and all the exercises are only an invitation to explore. You are welcome to step aside and observe. Please know that even though I will do my best to gender balance the group, you might end up working with a person of your own gender. All the touch we are going to share is of non-sexual nature and you can always say No Thank You. But please know that you might be in a group with people of your gender or even paired up with someone of your own gender.

Couples and singles are welcome. Couples can stay together if they choose to, though it can be beneficial to connect with others at least for some portion of the workshop.

Fee: $22 - $27


Float On: Arm Balance Workshop

Saturday, February 6, 2016 from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM (PST)

The Center SF
548 Fillmore Street
San Francisco, CA 94117

If you've been waiting for a chance to learn or deepen your practice (all levels welcome!) with floating, gliding, flying into arm balances, this is the workshop for you.

Sometimes, the most powerful shifts in our practice on the mat happen when you realize you can do something you didn't think was doable. You tap into the power of your mind's potential over what you thought you were physically capable of, and find yourself in a whole new realm of possibility
And when you surprise yourself - you feel a sense of accomplishment, optimism and gratefulness that flows into other facets of your life!

This workshop focuses on pranayama breathing exercises and short meditation, then on to strengthening sequences and exercises to create muscle memory that will help you transition into a number of creative and challenging arm balances.

With conscious muscular engagement combined with fluid movement, a little bit of shoulder / core / hip awareness and a sense of humor you will be floating into arm balances including (but not limited to):
-Flying pigeon (eka pada galavasana)
-Sage Koundinya pose (eka pada koundinyasana b)
-Eight angle pose (astavakrasana)
-Crow pose (bakasana)

By anatomically breaking down the form and alignment, we'll make these poses fun and accessible!
All this and more while remembering that there is no deadline or reward for achieving any pose - embrace the journey (rather than destination) and you'll be floating before you know it!

Cost: $35


Sex as Meditation: Recognizing and Breaking Out of the Box

Saturday, February 6, 2016 from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM (PST)

2269 Market Street
San Francisco, CA 94114

Daily, we are bombarded with social norms that tell us how we ought to be, act and perform and most of us are completely unaware of how they are shaping our behavior. These norms also influence how we behave sexually. Many of us hold beliefs about sex and what it "should" be like that are unhelpful, unsexy and sometimes even harmful to our relationships.

We invite you to join us for this 4 hour Sex as Meditation workshop where we will examine how these norms put us into boxes that may or may not fit us. We will bring mindful awareness to how we get trapped in these boxes and how this runs our lives in our self-expression, our gender, our relationships and our sexuality.  In this process, we will gain awareness about how to start breaking out of these boxes in ways that are truest to ourselves, and our hearts' desires.

This workshop does not include any nudity or explicit sexuality. All genders and sexual orientations welcome.

Fee: $135


Casanova's Carnevale Ball

Saturday, February 6, 2016 @ 6:45 pm to 11:00 pm

Alameda Elks Lodge
2255 Santa Clara Ave,
Alameda, CA

It's Carnevale in Venice - the holiday you Americans celebrate as Mardi Gras. Join the World's Greatest Lover at the best Carnival party of the season!
Bangers and Mash will play a variety of exquisite waltzes, elegant 18th century country dances, and completely anachronistic polkas (but with authentic 18th century music!). If you are not familiar with the Contredanse Anglais (English Country Dance), fear not. There will be a pre-ball workshop at 7 p.m. with Alan Winston and all country dances will be taught and called at the ball. Formal dancing follows from 8 p.m. to midnight. What you do after midnight, my friends, is YOUR affair!

18th century costume from Giacomo Casanova's lifetime (1725 - 1798), Carnival fancy dress, fantasy attire, or modern evening dress is admired but not required. Everything from period costume to simple domino robes is welcome! Masks (hand-held or worn) are also admired but not required.  (We'll even have a box of Carnival masks for our guests to choose from and take home as party favors!)

The ball will be held on two levels: we'll be dancing downstairs in the Lodge's atmospheric Rathskellar, which also boasts an excellent full bar, but guests may also mingle in the fully lit parlour on the ground floor and enjoy light refreshments and desserts (Your potluck contributions are welcome). The parlour with its stunning white columns is a beautiful pseudo-Baroque back-drop for photography and for socializing and swanning about in your fancy dress costumes!

Cost: $20/advance; $25/at the door


I Love You - You Drive Me Crazy!

Saturday, February 6, 2016 @ 7:00 PM to 9:30 PM
Center for Spiritual Living, Peninsula
611 Veterans Blvd, Suite 106,
Redwood City, CA

In this workshop, Sonika & Christian teach a radical new paradigm for relating. Their unique insights and innovative practices will explode your current thinking and catapult you into brand new possibilities to up-level ALL of your relationships.

You’ll relate with everyone in your life - partner, dates, ex’s, parents, kids, boss, friends - in ways that create deep connections and happy results.

In today’s world, our relationship needs have changed, yet we haven’t upgraded our “operating system” to meet those new needs. Our only training was from our parents and the media, and the tools we use to improve relationships usually make them worse. We are set up to fail!

That’s why Sonika and Christian are passionately committed to shifting the current relationship paradigm from blame, resignation and disconnect, to one of expansive, joyous co-creation and endless possibility. They offer leading-edge relationship tools that are uplifting, fun and effective.

Cost: $10


Prenatal Belly Dance Workshop

Saturday, February 6, 2016 from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM (PST)

Desert Dream Dance Company Studio
1025 Water Street
Santa Cruz, CA 95062

Belly dance is an ancient dance form used by women during birth. The workshop includes instruction in basic moves that are particularly helpful to relieve common discomforts of pregnancy and to aid women in labor. This workshop is supportive and celebratory! No dance experience necessary!

Cost: $30 online, $35 at the door.


Stanford Dance Marathon

February 6 -7, 2016 (Saturday – Sunday)

Arrillaga Alumni Center
326 Galvez Street,
Stanford, CA 94305

Join us for 24 hours of dance, fun, education, speakers, activities and performances by dance and musical groups from parts of Stanford campus and beyond.  Dance with us as we join the global community in the fight for health care as a human right. 

Stanford Dance Marathon is Stanford's largest student-run philanthropic event and a 24-hour dance party that raises money for Partners In Health: Rwanda. Partners In Health is an international health organization that works to uplift community health efforts across the globe, and we specifically benefit their efforts in Rwanda.

Cost: $20


Art of Feminine Presence: Love Your Essence Workshop

Sunday, February 7, 2016 from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Mind Body Movement Center
1136 Ballena Blvd
Suite D
Alameda, CA 94501

Come nurture your heart, awaken the senses, and relax into the natural pleasure of your body. You are invited to experience a wonderful workshop designed to express your feminine magic through the power of women's circle, embodied movement, and self-love enhancing practices. In this intimate setting, Marcela will guide you in ways that will help you feel sexy, enlivened, and nourished. Each workshop is unique, restorative, and based on a selection of the 22 fundamental practices of the Art of Feminine Presence.

In this workshop, you will tune into your sacred sensual side and create a beautiful connection between your heart, mind, body and soul — they come together to express that magnetic energy that is uniquely yours —alluring and attractive in every way.
In this 1-Day Intensive, you will:
* Express your inner essence through unique practices
* Tune into and expand the feminine energy within you
* Express creative energy through your body
* Gain deeper access to love and intimacy
* Engage in self-love ritual
* Receive essentials on essences for self-care
* And much more...

Nourishing snacks and refreshments will be provided. You are welcome to bring your own as well.

Fee: $100 -$200


Attract and Enjoy a Loving Relationship

Thursday, February 11, 2016 @ 7:30 PM to 9:00 PM

Intra Health Center
21020 Homestead Road, Suite 2,
Cupertino 95014

In this fun and profound event, you will learn important insights and solutions to creating and maintaining a loving, long term, healthy relationship. You will also be guided through empowering, healing HART processes to help you remove the blocks that cause relationship problems. You can create and maintain the successful relationship you desire and deserve. Go for it!

Helene Rothschild, MS, MA, LMFT, is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (MFC 16586), intuitive counselor, workshop facilitator, speaker, and published author for over 30 years. She has helped many individuals and couples create loving relationships. Helene offers transformational, international telephone and in-person counseling sessions.

This is a very popular workshop and space is limited, so submit your payment now to confirm your place. Bring a pad to take notes.

Cost: $20 ($25 at the door).


Salsa Rueda Festival

February 11 - 14, 2016 (Thursday – Sunday)

Hotel Whitcomb
1231 Market Street,
San Francisco, CA 94103

Salsa Rueda Festival celebrates the dance and music of Cuba. In addition to social dances and formal dance performances, the festival hosts classes, workshops and lectures to teach the art of Cuban dance to people with varying levels of skill. There are also evening parties and shows with Cuban bands and DJs providing live music.

We are proud to feature over 75 workshops and classes for all dance levels in Rueda, Salsa, Casino, Folklore, Rumba, Son and more. Learn real social dance skills from the best Cuban Salsa instructors in the world. Party until the wee hours of the morning with the largest community of Cuban Salsa lovers on the West Coast.

At The Historic Hotel Whitcomb in downtown SF…
5 classes to choose from every class slot
The best of Cuba, Europe, The U.S., and The Bay!!
3 Live bands, 5 DJs, multiple rooms of Social Dancing

Cost: $22/workshop; $20-$45/party


2016 Women's Winter Rejuvenation Retreat

Friday, February 12, 2016 at 4:00 PM - Sunday, February 14, 2016 at 1:00 PM

Mt. Madonna Center
445 Summit Road
Watsonville, CA 95076

4 PM Friday February 12 to 1 PM Sunday, February 14, 2016...
...a group of women arrive at Mt Madonna, happy to spend a weekend engaged in rejuvenation, community building, learning, living, fun and healing at the beautiful Mt. Madonna Center in Watsonville. We are here to cherish our spirits, nurture our bodies, open our hearts, and share what is alive in us in a safe and supportive environment.

Calling all women to join us at this spacious mountain retreat center for our sixth annual weekend of reflection and connection. We envision a restorative and contemplative retreat with writing, art, song, and play woven with NVC for a relaxing and rejuvenating experience to start off your year. And yes, it's "Valentines Weekend" as well, so come to enjoy the heartfelt connections and leave in time on Sunday to continue to celebrate with your Valentines at home.

This is, truly, always a delightful event, with huge satisfaction from all of us. Feel free to plan to bring a sister, mother, daughter, and/or friend for exponential satisfaction. If you want more fun, more honesty and more compassion, bring it on and welcome the New Year with an exquisite women's weekend.

Here is what you can expect:
* Writing, art, song, play
* Facilitated practices for integrating compassionate communication at home and at work
* Support for moving through stuck places
* Time to cherish your spirit, nurture your body, open your heart and share what's real
* Mountain hikes, hot tub, and wholesome, delicious food
* Time to connect with new and old friends
* Fun, fun, fun, and even more fun.

Fee: $175 - $425


Simple Steps to a Love That Lasts

Friday, February 12, 2016 from 7:30 PM to 9:30 PM (PST)

Fort Mason Center
2 Marina Blvd.
Room C205
San Francisco, CA 94109

What does it take to go from OK to AMAZING in your relationship?
Do you want to learn how to bring more passion and intimacy to your love life?

Love is not enough! If you want a great relationship, learning the essential skills for intimacy and connection is a must. If you don't want to settle for "just OK" in your relationship, this is the talk for you.

Small changes can make a big difference. By learning just a few key principles, you can improve your relationship and feel closer and more at ease with your partner. Once you hear these principles, you’ll ask yourself, “How did I not know about that before?

In this talk, Gal & Liron a married couple and founders of The Couples Center, will discuss the principles of creating great relationships and give you practical skills for lasting love. For a truly fun pre-Valentine's night, join us for the talk and enjoy wine and cheese afterward!

The talk will include:
* The 7 dimensions of exceptional relationships
* The two destructive patterns to watch for—and what you need to do to avoid them
* Step 1: The secret ingredient for deepening your connection
* Step 2: How to stop fighting over the small stuff—and discover what you really want or need
* Step 3: Sensual touch – a simple yet powerful tip for more pleasure
* Step 4: How to set powerful intention that will help your relationship grow
* BONUS: Test your relationship! Get a free copy of our 7Dimensions quiz.

Couples of all genders and sexual orientations are welcome! Your partner can't make it? No problem! Come solo for a discounted price.

Cost: $23/person


PantheaCon 2016

February 12-15, 2016 (Friday –Monday)

San Jose Doubletree Hotel
2050 Gateway Place,
San Jose CA

Join our huge and varied Pagan, Heathen, Wiccan, Reconstructionist, Indigenous, spiritual and magical groups in education and celebration. As usual, we fill the whole hotel with over 14 function rooms for workshops, rituals, and presentations including 4 ballrooms for Vendors along with open house parties.

Fee: $40 / day, $20 / evening only


Valloween: A Love-Soaked Cabaret

Saturday, February 13, 2016 at 9:00 PM - Sunday, February 14, 2016 at 2:00 AM (PST)

GUAVA,
4210 Holden Street,
Emeryville, CA

Let the love soak in with the sexy irreverence we're curating for your body, soul, and heart's delight.

FEATURING: InTents, The Whiskey SlapDance™, The Biting Booth, The Armpit Smelling Booth, and much more!

Doors at 9pm
Cabaret at 11pm
DJ before and after!

COSTUMES ENCOURAGED! Wear your scary-sexy best. And you might want to leave your neck exposed...just sayin'. Extra (fake) blood available at the door. No street shoes allowed inside of Guava, so come prepared with socks/slippers!

While we love "love," Valloween recognizes and parodies the scariness of the commodification and expectations around LOVE. It is a Valentine's Day event that welcomes everyone (aged 21 and over) regardless of relationship status or type.

Cost: $17 - $22


Buddhist Mindfulness Meditation: Daylong Retreat

Saturday, February 13, 2016 from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM

First Unitarian Universalist Church & Center
1187 Franklin St
San Francisco, CA 94109

This daylong is appropriate for all who wish to deepen their practice in a group context. People of all ethnic backgrounds, sexual orientations, and gender identities are welcome.

Fee: $25 - $75 (sliding scale)


Jedi Warrior of Love Training for Men and Women

Saturday, February 13, 2016 from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (PST)

Palo Alto, CA

This Workshop gives groundbreaking information, techniques and tools to increase your understanding, confidence and success in love, life and relationships. We are meant to know love - deep love of self and the beloved. The master traditions have given us invaluable information on how to be in sacred relation with the masculine and feminine. This event will open you to the beautiful, elegant and sensual world that you can share with yourself and the man or woman of your dreams. 

Show her or him that you care by educating yourself on the fineries of love...

A once in a lifetime opportunity: This information will be with you blessing you and your beloved for the rest of your life. Some of these things I will share with you this special day was once reserved for royalty, high level sages and the educated courtesans.

Fee: $150-$200


Bodywork & Dessert Party – Featured Event

Saturday, February 13, 2016 at 6:00 PM - Sunday, February 14, 2016 at 1:00 AM

The Center SF
548 Fillmore Ave
San Francisco, California 94117

Join us, dear friends, for the annual Bodywork and Dessert Party, and come share an indulgent night of sensual touch, decadent desserts and hip shakin’ live & produced music!

Open new doors of mind/body connectivity through engaging mini-workshops, and spend the evening sharing these new and familiar delights with an amazing group of friends and lovers...whether bringing a sweetie or arriving solo, you'll find plenty of opportunity to nourish and be nourished...

With three distinct spaces, you will have the opportunity to engage in a range of activities and moods at any given moment. Enjoy acro flight, sensual touch & massage in our Embodiment Room; share a chocolate strawberry and conversation over a cup of rose petals & damiana in the Tea & Dessert Lounge, or shake your tail feathers to downtempo electronica and soul singers in the Groove Space – there is plenty of room to play and create as you desire.

Bottomless cups of signature aged puers and aphrodisiac teas included in your ticket price – yum!

Dress in unrestrictive clothing of gold, red & violet & be ready to fly, dance, massage and cuddle all night! Complimentary coat-check provided for all your gear and goodies.

Cost: $30 - $55


The Love Bomb! Love Yourself and Change Your World!

Saturday, February 13, 2016 @ 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM

97 SHEEREN PLACE,
Campbell, CA

Join us as we set off an inner LOVE BOMB that will make you feel unstoppable AND MORE ALIVE! We all know that our REAL spiritual work is to learn SELF LOVE and that our relationship with Higher Self, God, Divine is the ultimate love connection. When you know ‘that feeling’ of SELF LOVE, it will guide and protect you fully, in every way. This only happens when you devote time and energy to SELF LOVE.

Join us for this half day immersion filled with self-love ritual as we ignite an inner love bomb that will explode from the inside out! Come learn how to love yourself completely, trust that the universe is on your side. Understand and believe that you are enough in and of yourself, honor your own needs through receiving love, without seeking outside approval!

Oh, and did we also say it’s going to be a ton of FUN?! Well, we have that covered as well.

Cost: $30


1950’s dance – Free Valentine's Day Sock Hop

Saturday, February 13, 2016 from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM

Presidio Officers' Club
50 Moraga Avenue
San Francisco, CA 94129

Due to popular demand, last year’s tremendously successful Valentine’s Day dance returns! Hop back to the 1950s at the Presidio. Be there or be square with live music from The Ely Brothers & The Doubletake Band, dancing, and retro cocktails available for purchase from Arguello restaurant.

The renowned San Francisco Jitterbugs will perform throughout the evening. Doors open at 6:30 pm, dancing begins at 7 pm. Come shake, rattle, and roll!

Fee: Free with RSVP


Sacramento Brazilian Carnival 2016

Saturday, February 13, 2016 from 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM (PST)

E.Claire Raley Studios for the Performing Arts
2420 N Street
Sacramento, California 95816

The Brazilian Center for Cultural Exchange of Sacramento is hosting the sixth annual Brazilian Carnaval 2016. This cultural extravaganza will feature SambaDá, Danilo Portugal and Namorados da Lua, the Capoeira group Agua de Beber, the Fenix Drum and Dance Company, Mistura Brasileira, Unidos De Capital, and Gerardo Zumba Sacramento.

There will also be a special Samba de Roda and a percussion workshop lead by Dandha Da Hora ($15.00 - not included in the general admission).

Cost: $17


Be My Valentine – Free Dance Party in San Francisco

Saturday, February 13, 2016 at 9:00 PM - Sunday, February 14, 2016 at 2:00 AM (PST)

Barbarossa Lounge
714 Montgomery Street
San Francisco, CA 94111

Whether you are single or in a relationship join us for an unforgettable night of celebration and drinking. There will be fresh cocktails, live music and few surprises to make this night memorable.

The admission is complimentary for this event but you need to RSVP on Eventbrite as the space is limited.

Looking forward to celebrate this special night with you!

Cost: Free


Provocateur Valentine's Day Party

Saturday, February 13, 2016 at 10:00 PM - Sunday, February 14, 2016 at 2:00 AM (PST)

Harlot
46 Minna Street
San Francisco, CA 94105

Join us on Saturday, February 13th for Provocateur Valentine’s Day party at Harlot!

It is ok to be a little provocative in a classy way! Please wear red or lace, and let us dance to beats by Amy Robbins! Amy Robbins is the official DJ for the 49ers; she has performed for the NHL, Pixar, America’s Cup.

She will be spinning the best Top 40 and Electro House.

Raffle with prize from Agent Provocateur, dancers and other surprises will be there for you!

Cost: $17 - $22


ThetaHealing Basic DNA - Level 1 Training

February 13, 2016 at 10am - February 15, 2016 6pm
               
South Berkeley, CA

Become a ThetaHealing Practitioner. Create your own reality. Change the world.

What is ThetaHealing?

ThetaHealing is a meditation process that we believe creates physical, psychological and spiritual healing using the Theta brainwave. With the ThetaHealing technique, we are given tools to heal old wounds, create our own reality, and change the world.

ThetaHealing uses the Theta brainwave to connect to the Energy of All That Is - the same life force energy that enlivens each and every atom - in order to effect substantial shifts in our reality. When we remember that we are a part of this Energy and connect to it directly, we are able to clear physical, psychological and spiritual blocks. The technique helps us reprogram our subconscious, which has been steeped in limiting beliefs we’ve picked up from our current lives, ancestors, culture, and past life memories.

Using techniques like belief work, feeling work, and instantaneous healing, we are able to unlock more of our abilities, potency, and agency. Through the development of intuitive abilities (that we all have access to!) and using the ThetaHealing technique, we can remember who we are, why we came to this planet, and how to easefully step into our deepest calling, our truest purpose, and live the life we dream of with joy.

Basic DNA, The Foundation of ThetaHealing:

In this 3-day workshop you become acquainted with (or further hone) your own intuitive abilities, and the foundational elements that make ThetaHealing one of the fastest growing spiritual and healing modalities in the world.

Here is what you'll learn:
- The incredible story of how ThetaHealing began
- The power of your thoughts, as energy and as things, and just how influential your thoughts can be on your life
- The 4 levels of Belief systems, and how to replace limiting beliefs
- How to get into the Theta brainwave in seconds
- The philosophy of the Seven Planes of Existence
- Intuitive readings
- Instantaneous healing
- Group Healings
- DNA Activation
- Guardian Angel Readings
- Future Readings
- Manifestation

...and more.

Certification as a Basic ThetaHealing Pracitioner provided upon full attendance and completion of the course.

Prerequisite: A belief in a higher power - creator, life-force, source, life-energy, yaweh, allah, god, goddess - or any other word we use to name the energy of all that is.

Cost: $444


Pillow Fight 2016 in San Francisco

Sunday, February 14, 2016 - 5:50 pm
               
Justin Herman Plaza
1 Market Street,
San Francisco, CA

Feathers will fly at this fun, flash-mob type event which takes place annually on Valentine’s Day. It’s Pillow Fight.

In the past, nearly 1,000 San Franciscans descended on Justin Herman Plaza with feather-stuffed pillows to run Braveheart-like at full speed at one another to lovingly beat the crap out of each other until the whistle blows.

Top Tips:
* Bring a mask or bandanna to cover your mouth – it’s easy to choke on flying feathers.
* Bring a synthetic pillow (not one with feathers). Trust us.. it’s much more enjoyable this way.
* Bring a garbage bag – have fun and then help clean up afterward – the price of having fun is keeping your city clean and makes it much less likely for the fuzz to shut this thing down.
* Build up your arm strength – your arms will be sore after this… trust us.
* It’s worth repeating… HELP CLEAN UP AFTERWARD – we can’t stress this enough so that we can continue having fun anarchy like this.

Cost: Free


Feathers of Fury 6: A Valentine's Day Pillow Fight in Downtown San Jose

Sunday, February 14, 2016 at 12 PM to 3 PM

Downtown San Jose (TBD)

Since 2011, San Jose has held our own massive pillow fights, inspired by the Great Pillow Fights of San Francisco, and ever since we've joined the fun we've had tremendous success. This City is becoming more awesome by the year. Let us continue this tradition to liven up our beloved DTSJ with fun and cheer for this Valentine's day. So let the anticipation begin for you veteran pillow pugilists and let the curiosity start for the first-timer feather throwers.

An AIRHORN or WHISTLE or TOWER will signal the beginning of the event. We will proceed to charge a la Braveheart and let the flailing of laughter ensue. How long will it last? Well, that all depends on you.

THE RULES:
-Tell everyone about the Pillow Fight.
-Bring a pillow
-Wait until the whistle/airhorn signal to begin.
-Soft pillows only!
-NEVER swing at people without pillows or with cameras.
-Tell EVERYONE about the Pillow Fight.
-Remove glasses beforehand!
-Don't hit people with a pillow unless they want it.
-Swing lightly, many people will be swinging at once.
-This is not a little kids event.
-If you don't want to participate, go outside the "play" area and you will be respected.

Cost: Free


Create Your Dream Relationship Workshop

Sunday, February 14, 2016 from 9:00 AM to 9:30 PM

Villa Torino - Community Room
28 Bassett Street
San Jose, CA 95110

Do you want a relationship that rocks?
Do you want a partner that is all that you have dreamed of and more?
Do you want to clear blocks that may be keeping you from your dream relationship?

If you are single, in a relationship, straight, gay, married, divorced...and answered “Yes” to any of the above questions then Create Your Dream Relationship is for you!

What will you be doing?
What will you get?

In this workshop, you will:
* Discover and clear out any blocks that may be keeping you from your ideal relationship.
* Clarify what you truly want and need in a fulfilling relationship.
* Rediscover your value and celebrate you!

Cost: $185 - $300 (depending on time of workshop booking)


Epic Sex - A Valentine's Workshop for Couples

Sunday, February 14, 2016 from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM (PST)

Luna Dance Institute
605 Addison Street
Berkeley, CA 94710

What is Epic Sex?! Imagine a blend of intimacy, sensitive touch, roaring passion and long lasting orgasmic pleasure...

In this workshop, you will learn simple tools that allow you and your lover to slow down and create an easy ritual of connection that opens the heart. Tools that encourages your sexual energy to flow and passion to build. Learning the art of conscious touch makes your lover wild with anticipation and desire, building the orgasmic energy and pleasure potential. Next, we will learn some simple breathing practices that prolong ejaculation in men and cultivate passionate states in women. I am going to share life changing breath work that will give you control over your pleasure and build it up for extended orgasms. Epic Sex is a journey into conscious, intimate, pleasure producing states of love.

Simple techniques and playful exercises will give you practical tools to take out of the classroom and straight into the bedroom.

Fee: $160 / couple


AcroYoga FUNdamentals Workshop

Sunday, February 14, 2016 from 12:00 PM to 2:30 PM (PST)

BayAcro,
3274 Mission Street,
San Francisco

In this workshop, we will cover the fundamental concepts of AcroYoga, such as proper body mechanics, core containment, spotting, and counter-balancing.

AcroYoga will challenge and strengthen your sense of balance, coordination, and body awareness in a way that really lets your yoga practice really take flight! No experience necessary, just a willingness to do amazing new things and have some fun!

Cost: $35 early bird ends 1 week before event date; $40 after


FOREPLAY on Valentine’s Day at Citadel

Sunday, February 14, 2016 from 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM (PST)

SF Citadel
181 Eddy Street
San Francisco, CA 94102

Start your Valentine’s Day with a little FOREPLAY! Join us for a little afternoon delight on Sunday February 14 from 1-6pm at the SF Citadel.

* FREE TOY for the first 50 guests!
* Dungeon tours for newbies from 1-2!
* Sensual Massage workshop offered at 2pm!
* Learn to make a cloth flogger (4pm)!
* Kinky Cupid will be livening the party up with his icebreaker arrows!
* Watch a live demo to learn something new!
* Drink love potion, and maybe you will fall in love forever (or long enough for a scene)!
* Experience our Sensation Station to feel something amazing!

The dungeon will be in full force, so you can feel the sting of Cupid’s arrow or get beaten with a heart shaped paddle. You will find the lounge transformed into a place of love, luxury and lavishness. Savor a delicious shot of our secret love potion, specially designed to intensify your desire. Stroll into Kinky Cupid’s workshop and make a kinky toy to try out in the dungeon. Watch a live demo to get some new ideas. And... don’t forget to stop by the sensation station!

Cost: $40/single; $70/couple

Yoga & Detox in Central Coast

February 18 – 21, 2016 (Thursday – Sunday)

Dancing Deer Farm
2975 Vineyard Drive,
Templeton, CA, 93465, USA

We fill our bodies and minds with toxins everyday in small and big ways.  Let us help clear and reset you at our beautiful retreat held in the Central Coast of California.  You will be able to revitalize your body and soul, boost your health and immune system, relax, lose weight (if desired), detox, and de-stress all while enjoying a gorgeous serene environment on over 30 acres of hills and beauty.

Cost: $549


The Divine Within ~ A Free Evening of Meditation and Healing
Thursday, February 18, 2016 @ 7:30 PM to 9:30 PM

IntraHealth Chiropractic
21020 Homestead Rd,
Cupertino, CA (map)

The Divine Within is a monthly evening of meditation and healing guided by Archangel Metatron and Divine Mother. We invite you to join us as we take divinely inspired journey's into our own great self, creating peace, healing, expansion, and self-awareness. These powerful, channeled meditations and healing's are created for exactly what is needed in the present moment and are sure to awaken and empower you!

Metatron and Mother will be offering hands-on healing for those in need at the end of the meditations.

Your hosts, Wendy Gayle and Connie Viveros, invite you to join them for these evenings of beautiful blessings and healing!

Cost: Free (Donations accepted)


Black Sapphire Puja

Friday, February 19, 2016 from 6:30 PM to 10:00 PM (PST)

Oakland, CA

Join Caroline Carrington & Charlie Glickman for their Black Sapphire Puja to sample the sweet, savory & spicy delights that the fusion of Tantra and Kink has to offer.  This evening will tantalize your senses, show you new ways to embrace the heart, expand your intimacy and connection skills, all while getting high on energy itself. 

Caroline & Charlie will guide you through an evening exploring your heart, energy, sensations, desires, and a deeper connection with yourself and others.  We combine the energy & breathwork of Tantra with the dance of power & surrender in Kink/BDSM.

The Black Sapphire Pujais an interactive experience where you will have the opportunity to enjoy guided exercises including breath work, energy play, and conscious touch with a variety of partners through the evening.

You are invited to explore this modern version of an ancient Tantric ritual as a couple or join as a single to enjoy this Tantric version of speed dating.

This is the perfect place to come and explore Tantra whether you are dipping your toes in for the first time or a seasoned pro!

Cost: $45 - $55; $65.00 at the door (if tickets available)


"Conscious Living" Level 1 Retreat

February 19 – 21, 2016

Awareness Institute
722 Alhambra Blvd.,
Sacramento, CA 95816

“Conscious Living” retreat provides nothing short of a profound, accelerated experience in self-awareness and transformation. The weekend is about honestly assessing and taking responsibility for the life you have lived…and finding the courage to discover what is real and true for you.
Genuine empowerment is simply knowing and living the truth.

This retreat is a down-to-earth, yet comprehensive, intuitively choreographed experiential process. It will help you get in touch with what is real, relevant, and inspiring about you and your life.

Your Retreat Price Includes:
* Workshop tuition
* Meals & lodging for two nights
* Organic meals for the weekend
* Experiential self-awareness

Your participation in the “Conscious Living” weekend will serve as a powerful turning point in how you experience yourself, your relationships, and the way you choose to live. Wherever you are in your life, this weekend can open up a deeply transforming experience of boundless joy and openhearted loving. The weekend will help you to:
* Relax and gain perspective on yourself and your life
* Release the roots of frustration, stress and anxiety
* Discover your unrealized potential – align your life with your values
* Deepen your connection with yourself

Cost: $595 (10% off with early registration, ends 2/5)


Noise Pop Festival 2016

February 19-28, 2016

San Francisco, CA

Held in San Francisco, the Noise Pop Festival is a celebration of all things indie. Featuring art, film and music, the event provides a platform to promote the work of artists who are just starting out. Many of the artists who have participated in the festival have gone on to have extremely successful careers and receive national recognition. This includes musical acts such as The White Stripes, Death Cab for Cutie and Modest Mouse. In addition to the live music, Noise Pop showcases films that highlight the similarities between art, music and film and the areas where they intersect.

Lineup:
METRIC  •AMERICAN FOOTBALL  •DRIVE LIKE JEHU  •THE MOUNTAIN GOATS CARLY RAE JEPSEN  •NEON INDIAN  •PARQUET COURTS  •VINCE STAPLES BILL CALLAHAN  •KAMASI WASHINGTON  •GARDENS & VILLA THE CAVE SINGERS  •RINGO DEATHSTARR HAMILTON LEITHAUSER AND PAUL MAROON  •ESCORT  •THE THERMALS LA SERA  •MITSKI  •CAYUCAS  •PAINTED PALMS  •KNEEDELUS  •FILM SCHOOL DIANE COFFEE  •THE SOFT WHITE SIXTIES  •GEMS  •WILD ONES  •BEACON ASTRONAUTS, ETC.  •HEARTWATCH  •PALEHOUND  •JOHN MORELAND JULIEN BAKER  •JOYWAVE  •NATASHA KMETO  •DJ AARON AXELSEN

Fee: $175


Cupid’s Undie Run – Famous Underwear Run

Saturday, February 20, 2016 from noon to 4:00PM

Pedro's Cantina
128 King Street
San Francisco, CA 94107

Cupid’s Undie Run is a mile(ish) run in your bedroom-best on Valentine’s weekend. It includes a half-naked run in the street and a party at Pedro’s Cantina for age 21+.

Be a part of something great. Last year Cupid’s raised over $3.5 Million to #EndNF and we’re relying on YOU to join and make this year’s fundraising (and party) the biggest and best yet.
Start a team, join a team, or just run solo and make some new friends!

Noon – Doors open & the party starts!
1:00 PM – Awards ceremony
2:00 PM – UNDIE RUN
3:30 PM – Earned open bar closes
4:00 PM – Bag check closes, Cupid’s officially ends

Fee: $30 - $55


Organic Frequencies Festival in Lupin Lodge

February 20, 2016 at 6 PM to February 21, 2016 at 10 AM

Lupin Lodge
20600 Aldercroft Hts,
Los Gatos, California 95033

Come along for the journey as we totally transform a beautiful resort in the Santa Cruz Mountains for a night of bliss. Organic Frequencies 5 is the first event brought to you by Ancient Machines and Organic events. We are coming together to create something new for all of us to enjoy. Something to take underground music even farther. Join us for this special evening as we push music and creativity to new heights!

To help enhance the entire experience we will feature multiple technologically advanced sound systems, stimulating lighting displays, and creative spaces in 5 areas! That is right, we are bringing out 5 stages for this!

This price includes the following

- Clothing optional venue
- Free camping!
- Heated pools and sauna
- Hot tube
- 5 areas of sound
- pk sound system (main room)
- turbosound rig designed by function one (side room)
- Silent disco
- Art Gallery/ Live Art experience hosted by Dream Team
- Vendors
- Projection mapping
- Custom stage
- High power laser's by Game changer
- Intelligent lighting
- Free hugs
- 50+ dj/producers!!
- Art install by Octopus Garden

Cost: $40 - $60


Holistic Health Saloon Extravaganza

Sunday, February 21, 2016 from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM (PST)

The Center SF
548 Fillmore Street
San Francisco, CA 94117

Discover a new world of healing. Experience mini sessions in bodywork, massage, yoga, acupuncture, reiki, coaching, tarot, personal growth workshops, sound healing, a local artisans crafts fair, tea and delicious, healthy food available all day long.

There are many paths to well-being. Come find yours. We will the Bay Area's best alternative health practitioners and healers offering mini sessions of thier work. Join us for a day of relaxation, rejuvenation and well-being!

SCHEDULE

12-12:15 pm Opening Circle

12:30-5:45 pm  - a wide array of natural wellness practitioners offering mini sessions in modalities including:
*Massage
*Breema Bodywork
*Sound Healing
*Tarot
*Coaching
*Reiki
*Counseling
*Nueromusclar Therapy
*Arometharpy
* and more!

12:30-5:45 pm - Workshops
55 Minute Workshops on a wide variety of holistic health related topics,  such as yoga, self-care, coaching, qi gong, massage and ancestral wisdom.

6:00-6:30pm - SOUND HEALING CONCERT

You can also expect to enjoy a crafts fair held by local artists, as well as delicious and nourishing food sold.

Cost: $28 - $33


San Jose Jazz Winter Fest

February 25 - March 8, 2016

San Jose, CA

San Jose Jazz Winter Fest is a concert series that focuses on emerging jazz artists who are exploring the genre in new and innovative ways. In addition to the musical performances, the fest emphasizes the importance of education and features master classes with industry professionals. The event strives to create a platform for young artists to showcase their work and progress the genre further.

Fee: Varies


South Bay Salsa & Bachata Party

Saturday, February 27, 2016 at 8:00 PM - Sunday, February 28, 2016 at 1:00 AM (PST)

New Susan's Dance Studio
422 North Capitol Avenue
San Jose, CA 95133

We Celebrate we have Grizzly to join the studio to teach the lesson DJ Dannyg & DJ Rulas to play the music all night!!

Salsa lesson 8pm-9pm
Bachata 9-10pm
Dance party until 1am

Cost: $15 for lesson and Party; $10 for party


An Afternoon of Training in Compassion – Free Workshop

Saturday, February 27, 2016 from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM (PST)

Point Reyes Presbyterian Church
11445 Shoreline Highway
Point Reyes Station, CA 94956

Norman Fischer will lead a workshop based on his book Training in Compassion: Zen Teachings on the Practice of Lojong. The theme of the afternoon is training the heart to reduce self-centeredness and increase compassion. We will practice guided meditations, contemplate teachings, and engage in discussion and imaginative exercises designed to bring the material home to the particularity of our lives today. Point Reyes Books offers 10% off this book to participants. Presented by Point Reyes Books and Black Mountain Circle.

About Norman Fischer: Fischer holds an MFA from the University of Iowa Writer’s Workshop and a masters from the Graduate Theological Union at the University of California at Berkeley. He has been a Zen Buddhist priest for nearly 30 years, serving as abbot for the San Francisco Zen Center from 1995-2000. Founder and teacher of the Everyday Zen Foundation, he is one of the most highly respected Zen teachers in America, regularly leading Zen Buddhist retreats and events. He periodically leads creative writing workshops and gives poetry readings and has taught at Harvard, Yale, Brown, and Stanford universities.

Fee: Free


The 39th Annual Viennese Ball

Saturday, February 27, 2016 at 8:00 PM - Sunday, February 28, 2016 at 1:00 AM (PST)

Santa Clara Marriott
2700 Mission College Blvd
Santa Clara, Ca 95054

Viennese Ball is an exciting Stanford tradition with social dancing, live music, performances, and live contests. It was started in 1978 by students returning from the Stanford-in-Austria program, who were inspired by the vibrant balls which took place in Vienna. These Viennese balls usually began with a lavish opening ceremony featuring honored dignitaries, costumed dancers, and handsomely-clad young couples. Stanford's first Viennese Ball, held in Toyon Hall, was attended by 350 students. Since then, the ball has blossomed into a prestigious formal affair held at magnificent off-campus ballrooms.
Viennese Ball is first and foremost a time for celebration and merriment with friends. Though the ball emphasizes social dance, you need not be an experienced dancer to have a good time — with frequent performances, live music, and ample refreshments, there's always something to do. In addition, we offer complimentary social dance classes at the Stanford campus in the weeks before Viennese Ball to get you up to speed.  Don't worry about transportation either!  Shuttles to and from the Stanford Campus to the hotel are included in your ticket!  Take this opportunity to try something different, magical, and uniquely Stanford.

Cost: $48 - $85


2016 Santa Cruz Ragtime Festival

February 27 -28, 2016

Santa Cruz, CA

The first Santa Cruz Ragtime Festival will take place on February 27-28, 2016.

Saturday and Sunday evening concerts will be held at the Kuumbwa Jazz Center. The events at Kuumbwa will feature a sampling of all the artists from the festival.

Music will be performed throughout the weekend at the following venues: Santa Cruz Veterans Hall, Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History, Calvary Church, Lúpulo Craft Beer House, and outside on Pacific Ave.

While the rich musical tradition of ragtime will be at the heart of the festival, plan to be dazzled by interpretations of jazz, swing, boogie-woogie, stride and novelty piano classics, performed by some of the best musicians in the world.

Cost: $90/full; $50/1 day; $25/Kuumbwa concerts


Body & Soul - Movement / Music / Ritual

Sunday, February 28, 2016 from 7:30 PM to 7:30 PM (PST)

The Center SF
548 Fillmore St
San Francisco, CA 94117

"Elevate your vibe. Meet your tribe."

You belong here.

Women are craving a place to feel free and connect to our bodies, souls... and a community of like-minded women.

Body & Soul is an inclusive and enlivening experience for you if you want to:
* live a healthier, more holistic or conscious lifestyle
* feel comfortable and confident in your body
* feel free to express yourself
* feel more connected to your femininity
* connect to a group of women who will raise you up.

In this class, you will learn how to exude a magnetic feminine presence through yoga, meditation, sensual dance and women's circle elements.
 
You will get a chance to explore your body from the inside-out.  This is about feeling good... damn good.
The modern, sensual and enlivening music will help to wake up the part of you that is craving to feel expressed and alive in your body and spirit.  You will learn new ways of moving to help you embody confidence and trust your intuition. 

We will open and close with an intimate women's circle, group discussion and time for connection. The guided conversation will give you a safe space to be yourself and be heard. You will leave feeling liberated, fulfilled and empowered with a new friends you can call sisters.

Note: You don't need prior yoga/dance/circle experience to attend.

Cost: $22 - $28