When Gypsy Jazz Meets Beatles

Thursday, June 7, 2018 at 7:30 PM to 10:00 PM

Miner Auditorium

San Francisco, CA

The world-renowned San Francisco institution of Gypsy jazz and a new trio featuring Mimi Fox, Mads Tolling, and Jeff Denson re-imagine classic hits of The Beatles.

The two best Bay Area string bands share a bill devoted to the timeless music of the Fab Four. Led by guitar master Paul Mehling, the Hot Club of San Francisco is the country’s longest running ensemble devoted to the Gypsy jazz tradition pioneered by Django Reinhardt. Mehling was first inspired to pick up a guitar when the Beatles launched the British Invasion on the Ed Sullivan’s show in 1964, so it was only a matter of time before he focused his creative mojo on Lennon and McCartney’s vast and enduring treasure trove of songs. HCSF recently released John, Paul, George and Django, a revelatory reimagining of classic Beatles tunes.

Cost: $25 - $55

https://www.sfjazz.org/tickets/productions/hot-club-of-san-francisco-sf-string-trio

Resilience in Polyamorous Families

Sunday, June 3, 2018 at 1:00 PM – 3:30 PM PDT

The Gronowski Clinic

5150 El Camino Real

D11A-B

Los Altos, California 94022

Training Objectives:

At the conclusion of this program, attendees will be able to:

1. Describe polyamorous relationships and distinguish them from monogamy and cheating.

2. List important elements of resilience theories about family functioning.

3. Analyze the impacts of polyamory on children and adults.

Presenter:

Dr. Elisabeth “Eli” Sheff is the foremost academic expert on polyamorous families with children. With a PhD in Sociology, Dr. Sheff specializes in gender and sexual minority families, consensual non-monogamy, and kink/BDSM. Sheff’s first book, The Polyamorists Next Door (2014 hardback and ebook, 2015 paperback and audiobook), details the findings of the first 15 years of her research on polyamorous families with children. Her second book, Stories from the Polycule (2015), is an edited anthology of writings by polyamorous folks. When Someone You Love is Polyamorous (2016) is Sheff’s shortest book that guides family members and significant others who are trying to understand a polyamorous loved one. Dr. Sheff is currently in her fourth wave of data collection for her 20+ year study of polyamorous families with children.

Cost: $110

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/resilience-in-polyamorous-families-tickets-43536777674

Being Danced. An experiment in communal Play!

Saturday, June 2, 2018 at 11 AM - 1 PM

Flowspace

6315 Doyle St,

Emeryville, California

"True play is revolutionary. While tradition conserves and preserves, play turns over a new leaf, turns things upside down, stands things on their heads. We’re urged to play around and not follow the rules, to take risks, to be spontaneous, open-ended, experimental and inventive. Play is accessible to everyone."

~from James Carse's

'Finite and Infinite Games'

Are you taking yourself too seriously?

Ready to remember what it feels like to play?

Willing to celebrate as a full participant in your life?

Being Danced is a vehicle for embodying presence and playfulness and a unique conscious dance experience with an artistic slant. The class is a hybrid of Ecstatic Dance and improvisational movement as an awareness building practice. We work together as an ensemble with an eye open for creating spontaneous composition, group mind awareness, and an overall celebration of playfulness. Then transition into an open score with a wave of music. Co-creating an alive response to our togetherness, using the tools and scores learned.

Cost: Sliding Scale: $15-$30 ~cash only~

https://www.facebook.com/events/2068612196736288/

Anna Halprin’S 38Th Annual Planetary Dance: Free Event

Sunday, June 3, 2018, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Santos Meadow, Muir Woods Road

2704 Muir Woods Rd

Mill Valley, CA  94941

Join us on June 3 for this annual community ritual, dedicated to peace among people and peace with the earth. Tamalpa Practitioners will also be presenting Planetary Dances worldwide throughout the year.

*** Parking Pass required to park in Santos Meadow ***

Sunrise Ceremony 5:40 am: Greet the day atop Mt. Tamalpais. Arrive by 5:15 am at peak parking lot, 45 mins. from 101 Stinson Beach exit. Climb to top is 15–20 mins. Bring $8 cash to park and a flashlight.

Main Event 11 am: Gather at Santos Meadow, Muir Woods Rd. All ages and abilities, children to adults, are invited to this community ritual. “When enough people move together in a common pulse with a common purpose, an amazing force takes over—a power that can renew, inspire, teach, create and heal,” states Anna Halprin.

Basic Info: The event happens rain or shine. Kids are especially welcome, but please no dogs. Dress in black or white; layered clothing is best. Bring your own food, beverages, blankets or something to sit on, for a picnic afterward. Please practice 'Leave no Trace'. The event is free, but donations are encouraged to cover costs.

Cost: Free

https://www.facebook.com/events/990221811126630/

Intensive Daylong with Gil Fronsdal

Saturday, June 2, 2018 at 6 AM - 9 PM

Insight Meditation Center

108 Birch St,

Redwood City, California

This is a great opportunity for a full day of immersion in silent Dharma Practice. Practicing mindfulness on retreat is one of the foundations for maturing insight meditation. The simplicity, silence and support of retreats contribute to letting go of many of the distractions that get in the way of clear seeing. Retreats also are a wonderful environment for developing a continuity of awareness for an extended period.

Fifteen-minute Interviews with Gil will be available on a sign-up basis.

You are welcome to come for the entire day or drop in for any part of the retreat. If you come for only part of the retreat, please enter the meditation hall only at the beginning of a scheduled sitting. If you come while a sit is in progress, sit in one of the chairs in the outer hall.

Bring breakfast and lunch. Light supper provided.

Schedule:

6:00 - 7:00 am Sit

7:00 - 8:15 am Breakfast

8:15 – 9:00 am Sit

9:00 – 9:45 am Walk

9:45 – 10:30 am Sit

10:30 – 10:45 am Walk

10:45 – 11:30 am Sit

11:30 – 12:00 noon Dharma Talk

12:00 – 1:15 pm Lunch

1:15 – 2:00 pm Sit

2:00 – 2:45 pm Walk

2:45 – 3:30 pm Sit

3:30 – 4:00 pm Walk

4:00 – 4:15 pm Dharmette

4:15 – 5:00 pm Sit

5:00 – 6:00 pm Supper/tea:

6:00 – 6:20 pm Temple cleaning

6:20 – 7:00 pm Sit

7:00 – 7:30 pm Walk

7:30 – 8:15 pm Sit

8:15 – 9:00 pm Dharma Talk

https://www.facebook.com/events/429112350864837/

Yogananda Fest: Free Event

Saturday, June 2, 2018 at 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM PDT

Mitchell Park Community Center

3700 Middlefield Road

Palo Alto, CA 94303

Yogananda Fest is an inspiring day-long yoga festival celebrating and sharing the teachings of the great Master, Paramhansa Yogananda.

Join us for a series of inspiring classes, guided meditations, yoga, vegetarian food, devotional music, spiritual community, and special keynote speakers, Swamis Jyotish and Devi on Be the Change.

The festival will include:

·         Classes in yoga, meditation, and yogic lifestyle

·         Chanting, group meditations, and guided energization exercises

·         Shopping bazaar hosted by Ananda businesses and friends

·         Key note speakers and events throughout the day

·         Talks by Jyotish and Devi Novak, Spiritual Directors of Ananda Sangha Worldwide

·         Inter-faith Panel, Be the Change: Cultivating Peace and Harmony

·         Yummy Vegetarian food

Cost: Free

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/yogananda-fest-tickets-42149410020

Cultivating Embodied Presence Workshop

Saturday, June 2, 2018 at 1 PM - 4 PM

Purusha Yoga School

3729 Balboa St,

San Francisco, California

We all share a basic human need to be truly seen and known. We all feel a deep soul desire for true connection and unconditional love. Join us for a transformative deep dive into practices that explore connection, intimacy and presence.

Using a variety of practices based in the traditions of mindfulness, tantra, yoga, and improvisational somatic movement, you will learn simple, yet powerful techniques to deepen intimacy with yourself, with others, and with your life. Come solo or with a friend or partner. All are welcome!

Facilitator: Lucia Grace Young

Cost: $45 in advance / $55 at the door

https://www.facebook.com/events/200339433907817/

Embracing our Shadows with Sezin Hason

Saturday, June 2, 2018 at 1 PM - 4 PM

The Center SF

548 Fillmore St,

San Francisco, California

Join us for an intimate and interactive journey of self-discovery!

The Shadow, said Jung, is the unknown ‘‘dark side’’ of our personality.

In this workshop we will use Points of You® Coaching Game and Faces to meet our shadows, bring them to light and embrace them.

The task in life which thus confronts everyone, according to Jung, is to become conscious of and integrate one’s shadow into one’s conscious personality: accepting it with open arms not as an abhorrent aspect of one’s self, but as a necessary and vital part of one’s being. To accept and embrace our Shadow Self is to go back and become “whole” again and thus taste a glimpse of what authentic “holiness” feels like.

POINTS OF YOU® METHOD

We use innovative, fun methods and tools to facilitate meaningful discussions, lessen conflicts and build bridges between people. A cornerstone of the Points of You® method is the interaction between the right brain, the intuitive and emotional half of the brain, and the left brain, focused on logic and analysis. This occurs when we look at a photograph and a word at the same time.

The photograph stimulates our right, creative, brain while the word activates the left, analytical, brain. The simultaneous stimulation of the two brain hemispheres creates a struggle between the emotional and the rational, momentarily “shorting out” the vigilant defense mechanisms of our mind. This “deliberate confusion” gives the mind a short respite from our preconceived ideas on how things “should” or “ought” to be, and allows our mind to open up to new places inside ourselves, shifting our point of view.

Our games are based on associative links between photograph, theme and the issue we have chosen. Each photograph depicted on the Points of You® cards was selected out of thousands of available photographs to achieve this one purpose: introducing a theme through visual stimulus that has no direct or obvious connection to it, thus stimulating our entire rational and emotional system. Doing that, we purposefully leave a space wide enough for personal interpretation, a personal inter-space. This unique inner motion creates a new response, resulting in emotions and insights that are new to our mind and heart.

The method is designed like a sine wave. At its starting point we are wide open and exposed to many points of view regarding our theme of choice: relationships, parenting, career, health or any other issue. After expanding our points of view, it’s time to focus. The focusing process involves being precise and selecting the most significant insight for our specific issue. In the last stage we take our insights into the practical world – tachles, and outline actions to achieve our goal.

Cost: Early Bird $25 // Doors $30

https://www.facebook.com/events/1049037628569656/

2 Day Seed of Transformation Workshop

June 2 – 3, 2018 (Saturday – Sunday)

The Center SF

548 Fillmore Street

San Francisco, CA

In the ‘energy world’, what can be done at a short distance, can be done at a long distance... and what can be directed at one person, can be directed at many.

There is NO Time and Space.

These events are intended to serve as an alternative to private Regenerating Bodywork Sessions, and allow individuals to experience and receive the benefits of Regenerating Energy Work in a group setting, at a discounted rate. It’s like having a whole group of people, all having their own “session”, all at the same time.

About Regenerating Energy work:

Regenerating Energy Work provides an opportunity for men and women to reconnect with their intrinsic nature by experiencing the natural flow of their sexual energy throughout their bodies, free of any agendas and expectations.

This Energy Work is designed to raise the capacity for experiencing increased Bliss and to assist in the eliminating of any general or sexual traumas stored in the body, as well as opening energy channels and pathways that have been obstructed since childhood.

It facilitates women in reconnecting with their positive pole (the heart), while assisting the men in reconnecting with their positive pole (the genitals), thus realigning both to their natural polarity.

Regenerating Energy Work assists in:

removing trauma from the body

·         re-sensitizing the body

·         opening the energy in the body for more intense, full body orgasms

·         releasing fears, anxiety, feelings of unworthiness

... and much more

Facilitator: Sasha Cobra

Cost: $475

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/sasha-cobra-2-day-seed-of-transformation-workshop-tickets-44694628838

Free 42nd Annual Union Street Music Festival

June 2 - 3, 2018 (Saturday – Sunday, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily)

Union Street ~ Gough to Fillmore

San Francisco, CA

In its 42nd year, The Union Street Music Festival is one of San Francisco’s largest annual FREE events!  For the 2nd year in a row it will feature over 24 live bands sprinkled throughout the 5 blocks of the festival.  The entertainment areas will showcase five different genres: Jazz, Blues, Country, Bluegrass and Local Bands!

The Festival will also include the traditional elements that have made this event stand out over the years, including Arts and Craft Exhibitors, unique Sponsors, Festive Food Vendors and Community Groups.  The Festival will feature full pours of tasty beers and fine wines in each of our beverage gardens.

The Festival is held on San Francisco’s fashionable Union Street where historic Victorians have been transformed into popular boutiques, art galleries and restaurants.

Cost: Free

https://www.sresproductions.com/events/union-street-festival/

Energetic Boundaries: Develop Your Ability to Work with Subtle Energies

June 2 – 3, 2018 (Saturday – Sunday)

IONS Earthrise Center

101 San Antonio Rd

Petaluma, CA 94952

This class teaches you how to open or deepen your ability to read and work with the energies of the human system. If you sense energies and want to sharpen and tune your skills for working with them, this workshop is for you. If you have always wanted to experience energies directly, this workshop can open the door to a new world.

Learn how to contact the energies of the human being directly and effectively, and how to improve your accuracy in reading these energies. You will learn how to move directly into your own core so that you unleash your capacities for finding, feeling and moving subtle energies. The course will also show you how to connect deeply while maintaining healthy personal boundaries so you do not “pick up” energies from others. This is must-have self-care for energy healers.

You will learn simple techniques to accomplish the following:

·         Quiet the mind and open your access to subtle energies

·         Create a clear, focused state of mind for working with energies

·         Practice “energy hygiene” by cultivating healthy personal boundaries with others

·         Bring in healing energy for yourself or others in a clean, clear way

·         Take care of yourself in the energy world

·         Access a clear, direct experience of your own chakras

Skills are more useful when they come with ideas that help you to think in new ways. You will learn the following concepts:

·         What the body-mind connection is really like

·         How to understand energy anatomy

·         Specific details of chakra anatomy

·         Why we need a new kind of psychology to support healing and transformation

During the workshop, you will participate in group and partner exercises designed to lead you to direct, tangible experiences of the skills that are presented. This is the first workshop in a series of self-development courses that also leads to professional certification in energy healing techniques. This workshop fulfills the Energy Awareness course requirement for the Sacred Centers Certification Program. This class grounds the principle of Energy Healing and the chakras with potent and advanced techniques of clearing, opening, and balancing chakras, as well as energy hygiene for self-protection and more.

Facilitator: Jacqueline Chan

Cost: $645 - $715

http://anodeajudith.com/immersion/

Live Jazz & Swing Dance with the Silver Bell Jazz Band

Friday, Jun 1, 2018, 8:30 PM – 12:00 PM

Italian American Social Club

25 Russia Avenue

San Francisco, CA 94112

Let's dance the night away! We've got this beautiful community ballroom and a spectacular jazz band, The Silver Bells. All we need is YOU to help celebrate. What are we celebrating? I don't know... Fridays, the month of June, the fast approach of summer...

This venue has old school glam and features an awesome throwback bar & vintage cocktails & restaurant/ family style Italian dinner from 5-9 (reservations recommended). Details to follow.

8:30 Drop In dance lesson
9p-12a Live Music with the Silver Bell Jazz Band
DJ'd band breaks by Gerry Thrash

Cost: $10 in advance (Eventbrite); $15 at the door (cash)

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/live-jazz-swing-dance-with-the-silver-bell-jazz-band-tickets-44710734009

Barrio Manouche Debut Album Release Party at The Chapel

Thursday May 31, 2018 at 9pm to 11pm

The Chapel

777 Valencia Street

San Francisco, CA

Barrio Manouche is presenting its first full length album at The Chapel. La Banda sin Nombre will be opening the show.

Banda Sin Nombre is a five-piece street band from San Francisco's Mission District dedicated to performing folk music from around the world. Mixing rich vocal harmonies with acoustic instruments including guitar, fiddle, charango, cajon, and bass, the band's inspirations range from Peruvian chicha to Catalan rumba and Appalachian old time to cumbia.

Barrio Manouche is an acoustic San Francisco-Based International Septet (Spain, Quebec, France, Brazil and California), playing music that will take you on a magical journey, frequently joined by artist from all over the globe. The band's latest collaborations include Flamenco dancers Bianca Rodriguez and Fanny Ara, and Afro~Brazilian dancer Tulani Masai as well as Colombian singer Iván Rondón.

The ensemble has been recognized for its surprise concerts, innovative style, complex technique, and their passion for their musical improvisation.

The band performs a repertoire of original, mostly instrumental compositions with a unique sound that it’s difficult to classify but instantly recognizable, deeply influenced by a range of musical traditions, from the swing of Louis Armstrong and Sidney Bechet, to the Hot Jazz of Django Reinhardt and Stéphane Grappelli, the Gypsy soul of Eastern Europe, the Nuevo Flamenco of Paco de Lucía and Camarón de la Isla to the Avant-Garde sounds of Miles Davis, Ornette Coleman and John Coltrane.

Cost: $18

https://www.facebook.com/events/163803164334293/

Extended Full Body Orgasm - Live Demo, Instructions, and Mindfulness Practice

Friday, June 1, 2018 at 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM PDT

San Francisco, CA

What most of us associate with Orgasm is seconds of deep pleasure, release and the post- release relaxation and joy. Even in multiple orgasms the way most people experience them, it is mostly about getting aroused and 'reaching' orgasm again and again in irregular intervals.

With Extended Full Body Orgasm we use a whole different paradigm. The whole experience is an ongoing orgasm. We don't 'try to 'get there' in order to have a pleasurable ecstatic release ...we go Into the State Of Orgasm and Let Go into it.

Psychotherapist and Relationship Coach Meriana Dinkova is bringing in Erwan Davon, who played a fundamental role in the creation of One Taste (he is the "Buddhist Monk" in Nicole's story of how One Taste and OMing was started), and his wife Alicia, who will explain the principle of Extended Full Body Orgasm and demonstrate it live.

The live demonstration of a woman being brought to an Extended Full Body Orgasm by her partner and experiencing it will be front of the whole group. There will be genital exposure of her, so you can see the techniques as they are being explained and practiced

By coming you are agreeing that you are comfortable with that kind of experiential life demonstration taking place.

There will be no nudity or sexual touch between participants

Singles and Couples are welcome.

Cost: $25

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/extended-full-body-orgasm-live-demoinstructions-mindfulness-practice-tickets-44243465396

CONVERGENCE – Ecstatic & Fusion Dance Campout: Featured Event

June 1 – 3, 2018 (Friday – Sunday)

Wheatland, CA

Take a Deep Dive into Movement Medicine and Community.

This weekend long camp out merges the Ecstatic Dance and Partner Fusion communities for an unforgettable somatic experience.

Here are some of the offerings of the weekend:

* Ecstatic and Fusion dance DJs, including Justin Riley, Wren LaFeet, Joe Gray and Chrissy Mehnert.

* Dance/Movement/Playshops: Wren LaFeet (Fusion Dance), Justin Riley (Fusion Dance), Raina Satori (Contact Improv), Joe Gray (Hip-Hop), Chrissy Mehnert (Yoga), Usha Rose (Fusion), Wendy Phares (SoulMotion), Jill Beamers (Dragon Dives), Water Contact Play (Beam and Wendy)

* Somatic Playground

* Lakeside music, swimming and water contact play

* Four catered organic, healthy and delicious meals

* On-site camping- bring all your own camping gear

Bodywork and hot showers available at additional cost

The intention of Convergence is to bring together our varied movement and dance communities for more fun, play, connection, growth, inspiration, and expanding love. All are welcome with an open mind and heart at whatever level of experience or skill. May we learn and grow together for a deeper experience of community.

Cost: $250 - $275

https://www.facebook.com/events/780611385465150/

Firedrums Festival 2018

May 31 – June 3, 2018 (Thursday – Sunday)

Blue Mountain Event Center

7250 Mitchell Mill Road

Wilseyville, CA 95257

4 days and 3 nights of world-class workshops, music, shows and performances, vendors, special guests, friends, flow, glow, and the original FireDrums Fire Circle!

This event is for 18 + of age. Anyone under 18 must have their parents/guardians submit a special application. Contact info@firedrums.org for more information. Firedrums 2018 is a NO PETS event. A fire festival is no place for a domestic animal.

Link to the full schedule:

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1Lhzy3OHljWmPGpv-num-3qbY1rpRBKdSAxJGHnAcVis/edit#gid=0

Tickets are non-refundable but they can be transferred to another adult up to 1 week before the event begins.

Cost: $125 - $200

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/firedrums-2018-tickets-39242324850

Orgasmicness as a healing modality

Wednesday, May 30, 2018 at 7:30 PM – 10:00 PM PDT

The Center SF

548 Fillmore Street

San Francisco, CA

Sasha will be sharing the beauty and power of Regenerating Energy Work in a 2-hour experiential introductory event.

These Introductory events will be an opportunity for men AND women to become better acquainted with Regenerating Energy Work, Sasha, and the work in general.

Sasha will speak about how Regenerating Energy Work utilizes orgasmic states for healing and transformation, as well as the process and the benefits of the work.

The event will also include a mini group energy session, allowing the participants to have their own felt sense experience of the work.

... and of course, plenty of Q&A time.

Facilitator: Sasha Cobra

Cost: $49

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/orgasmicness-as-a-healing-modality-intro-experience-with-sasha-cobra-tickets-44694591727

Pericles: Free Stanford Shakespeare Company Show

Saturday, May 26, 2018 at 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM PDT

The Stanford Oval

420 Serra Mall

Stanford, CA 94305

The Stanford Shakespeare Company brings the tale of Prince Pericles to life, exploring the power of relationships across time and distance. The play follows Pericles and his family as they journey across the Mediterranean, finding love and facing tragedy, with the power of the family's bonds overcoming all. Experience a thrilling dell-arte-inspired aesthetic that transports the audience into another world while telling an intimate story that holds meaning for us all.

The house will open at 7:30, and seating is open. The show runs 2 hours, with a 15 minute intermission.

The show features brief moments of mild violence.

The performance is outdoors with provided blankets, and the venue is ADA accessible. Parking is available in the Stanford visitor parking around Palm Drive and The Oval. Please meet at the south end of the oval, where signage and ushers will direct you to the performance space.

Cost: Free

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-stanford-shakespeare-company-presents-pericles-tickets-45965087815

"BYOB" Cannabis & POTluck Meetup

Sunday, May 27, 2018 at 1 PM - 4 PM

Our Sacred Space Wellness Center In Willow Glen

2075 Lincoln Ave Ste B & C,

San Jose, California 95125

Bring your own Bud and Please join us @ Our Sacred Space Sunday May 27th from 1-4. Our summer monthly cannabis meet up will be outdoors in our beautiful Sacred Garden courtyard featuring YOU💜 Superwater and massage tools such as Reiki, Aromatherapy, Sound Healing, Meditation, and maybe even some card readings provided by Our Sacred Space & Conscious Kitchen SJ. This is a sacred space for you to come and enjoy your own medicine while seeing what techniques work for you. We will be using cannabis products to see what works for cronic pain. We would greatly appreciate it if you would bring a snack or dish to add to our POTluck. We look forward to all the smiles and especially all the connections we will make. Invite others who may enjoy as well.

NOTE: This event is for responsible adults w/good vibes. No products will be sold here. Our intention is to connect you w/the right resources.

Cost: Free

https://www.facebook.com/events/198524470754256/

Restorative Yoga with Essential Oils and Hot Stones

Friday, May 25, 2018 at 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM PDT

The Center SF

548 Fillmore Street

San Francisco, CA 94117

Restorative yoga is an all level gentle practice comprised of long-held supported poses and calming breath work. This experience is designed to activate the body’s innate relaxation response which invites healing and restores balance. Most postures are done on the ground with multiple props so that the body is completely supported at all times. This supportive practice allows the nervous system to calm, and the mind to rest. The calming characteristics of restorative yoga soothes the mind-body, while allowing room for breath and deep relaxation. As an added layer of relaxation, there will be hot stones and essential oils for balance and aromatherapy.

Incense initiation prepared by Alingo Loh with all-natural mixed agarwood incense, to facilitate the opening and calming of body and mind for the restorative experience.

Cost: $30 presale, $40 doors

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/restorative-yoga-with-essential-oils-and-hot-stones-tickets-44851381690

Temple Dancer Play Party

Saturday, May 26, 2018 at 12:30 PM – 5:00 PM PDT

Iron Giant Loft

1080 23rd Ave

Oakland, CA

Have you ever fantasized about being immersed and inspired by a safe, cozy, and inspiring environment to explore the edge of your Tantric sensuality and kink sexuality?

Do you desire to share intimate space with others from a place of deep self-love overflowing through you?

Would you like to connect with likeminded and sexy souls on a emotional, physical, spiritual and kink level?

And to experience being more in your orgasmic body before connecting with others?

Allow iX-Chel Sandivel to guide you through grounding and transcending Tantric breathing techniques and Intuitive Technique as she co-leads Oakland's first Temple Dancer Play Party with Alex Sebastian Morgan!

It’ll be a day to remember being led by two amazing facilitators who love everything sacred and kinky about sexuality. Come dance, play, be witnessed, celebrated in your yum raw sexual power! Explore your inner devadasi, Tantric temple dancer as we celebrate the divinity of the body in all its flavors, kinks, and colors. Bring your toys, rope, floggers, blind folds, friends, and an open heart to the sweet intimacy and transformation possible at this event.

For new folks: If you’ve never had the opportunity to play with toys and are inspired to do so, please bring, borrow, buy some. Allow yourself to be inspired by your intuition to bring a toy that could be fun to play with!

This is an invitation to dive deeply into yourself and each other in ways you may have been afraid to do in the past. This is the play party you want to come to even if you've never been to a play party before.

We create an expansive, feeling-full environment charged with electricity, yet warmly grounded and earthy. A safe and sacred container for exploring connective play in a relaxed, sex-positive space. This play party encourages your curiosity about taking your own sensual play space to the next level.

Let us guide you through a series of Tantric techniques and conscious connective touch interactive games as we begin to take you on an intimate exploration of yourselves through one another.

Then, let us lead you through a welcome circle where a room of strangers slowly opens up and winds up on the same page, creating a consent-focused container – and setting intentions for the evening in a way that makes it easy to find compatible people to play, flirt, and connect with!

The evening is a celebration of imagination and curiosity, so you may experience as many flavors as you dare. Come dressed in something that makes you feel special, decadent, and sexy!

Cost: $28 - $65

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/temple-dancer-play-party-tickets-45510555296

A Carnival Night of Jazz, Ecstatic Dance, Tea, and Conversation

Saturday, May 26, 2018, 7:00 PM – 12:00 AM PDT

Chateau Ubuntu

860 Fell Street

San Francisco, CA 94117

Celebrate with us the night of Carnival. A benefit for Vaughn and Scott who will be biking from San Francisco to LA to raise awareness and critical funding for people struggling with HIV/AIDS. Suenos will host a Jazz Jam for the event with some of the finest up-and-coming jazz musicians in SF. DJ Tal and crew have you covered with Ecstatic Dance. Mark and Kosti will be hosting a Tea House. BYOB. No corking fee, tea, music, song, dance, great conversation and celebration included.

It’s a life-changing 7-days ride—not a race—through some of California’s most beautiful countryside. AIDS/LifeCycle is designed to advance interest to reduce new HIV infections and improve the quality of life for people living with HIV/AIDS. As part of this event, thousands of people participating as either Cyclists, Roadies, Volunteers, or Virtual Cyclists raise critically needed funds for HIV/AIDS-related services and bring to light the fact that HIV/AIDS is still a devastating disease in our society, particularly the LGBT community and communities of color.

Cost: $20

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/a-carnival-night-of-jazz-ecstatic-dance-tea-and-conversation-tickets-46043299749

Shipyard Swing Dance with Lavay Smith

Saturday, May 26, 2018 at 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM PDT

SS Red Oak Victory

1337 Canal Boulevard

Berth 5

Point Richmond, CA 94804

Come and dance to live 40s and 50s music on the 1944 SS Red Oak Victory historic ship on Memorial Day Weekend! And just to top that off, you will be dancing to one of the hottest and most popular swing bands in the country-- Lavay Smith and Her Red Hot Skillet Lickers!

Not only can you swing the night away but you can also tour the Red Oak Victory historic ship-- visit the bridge, the chartroom, the Captain's quarters, and look down into the engine room. You can even have our radio operator send a message to your friends and family using the ship's original Morse code-only radio!

Cost: $30

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/shipyard-swing-at-the-ss-red-oak-victory-with-lavay-smith-tickets-44242417261

Deeper and Deeper - Guided relaxation and meditation with Pradeepa

May 26 – 28, 2018 (Saturday – Monday)

Mission San Luis Rey de Francia

4050 Mission Avenue

Oceanside, CA

Pradeepa took sannyas in 1975, and was asked by Osho to start the Vipassana retreats when the Multiversity was initiated at the end of that year. She had previously been sitting in Vipassana in England, Sri Lanka and India. A year later, Osho asked her to also start Zazen retreats.

After the Multiversity divided into faculties, Pradeepa became co-director of the Meditation Academy. and as a meditation group leader she had ample opportunity to personally receive Osho’s guidance on different aspects of meditation. Over the years, Osho began to direct people to Pradeepa when they had questions on meditation.

Osho gives zen stick to Pradeepa

Since the 70’s, Pradeepa began creating many diverse meditation groups and trainings, continually adjusting the flavour and content, as the experience of sharing with so many friends continued to grow.

Meditation is not only sitting practice, but also the way in which life is lived, so she created some extra structures and games to deepen the watching as simply and easily as possible.

Pradeepa was a medium for Osho during the energy darshan’s in the 70’s and organized the mediums in the 90’s.

She has offered meditations in Pune, all over Europe, , Mexico and the United States. She became known for her love, meditation and sense of humor.

Deeper and Deeper (guided relaxation and meditation)

These days offer space though relaxation techniques, guided meditation and vipassana sitting and walking, to remember our Buddha nature. Relaxing the three layers of body, mind and heart are preparation for witnessing – the essence of meditation. This is a time for exploring how to bring meditation into everyday life. Relaxation is the climate for being less identified with events from the past or future, being more available to fall deeply in tune with this moment—the here now.

“Relaxation can transform you to such beautiful heights…. meditation is the name of the deepest relaxation”. ~OSHO

Cost: -$149 for meditation workshop. If you plan to stay at the retreat center, the cost is $100 per person per night in a double occupancy room which also includes 3 meals. Please contact us at the earliest if you plan to stay at the retreat center as we have booked only limited rooms. Single occupancy rooms can be provided at additional cost.

https://www.meetup.com/Southern-California-Meditation-Center/events/243818989/

Radiant Intimacy: 4-day experiential workshop

May 25 – 28, 2018 (Friday – Monday)

1440 Multiversity,

800 Bethany Drive

Scotts Valley, CA 95066

We all long for love. We long to be intimately connected to others and ourselves. We all want to be seen and known as we are. For some, a partnership or marriage is the natural outcome of this longing. Others find alternative styles of intimacy more fulfilling. For many of us, love and sexuality can be complex and confusing.

Radiant Intimacy is an emerging field of exploration, bringing awareness to the topics of relationship, sexuality and love. We will explore radiant intimacy through the lenses of neuroscience, integral psychotherapy, attachment theory and the Tantric and Advaita spiritual traditions.

Through carefully crafted exercises, keynote lectures, targeted workshops, potent meditations, you will engage the concept of radiant intimacy, and how to express and integrate into daily living. We will explore:

·          What can we learn from neuroscience about love?

·         How do our attachment styles impact our relationships?

·         How can we create deeply fulfilling relationships with life, with another and with ourselves?

·          What are the shadow elements within a relationship?

·         How does early developmental trauma impact our capacity for relating?

·         How can our sexuality open us to the experience of our true nature and of unity consciousness?

·         How is self-knowledge reflected in our relationships?

This four-day experiential workshop is designed to expand our understanding and experience of intimacy, while giving us tools to create deeply fulfilling relationships. Through carefully crafted exercises and potent meditations, we will taste expanded aliveness and intimate attunement.

Workshop facilitators: Esther Perel, Michaela Boehm, Steve James, Lorin Roche, Camille Maurine, Sasha Cobra, Justin R. Garcia and Amanda N. Gesselman.

Cost: $525 (accommodation cost not included)

https://www.scienceandnonduality.com/radiant-intimacy/

Holotropic Breathwork Weekend Retreat

May 26 – 27, 2018 (Saturday – Sunday)

Russian House #1

9960 HWY1

Jenner, CA 95450

Energetic practices, Intense music and light food for your flight to Unknown

"The therapeutic benefits of [Stanislav Grof’s] Holotropic Breathwork are remarkable. The healing of illness, anxiety, depression and conflict, the release and healing of trauma and abuse, the reintegration with family and community, the opening of compassion, forgiveness, courage and love, the reclaiming of purpose, the finding of our lost soul and the higher insights of spiritual understanding all come spontaneously from the unfolding of this powerful process."

– Jack Kornfield, Author of A Path With Heart and 11 other books, Meditation Teacher, Founder of Spirit Rock Meditation Center

Holotropic Breathwork is a modality developed by Dr. Stan Grof to allow participants to access the healing potential of non-ordinary states of consciousness through breath and music. This brings you a personalized experience that can result in such things as more joy and freedom in personal relationships, resolution of childhood trauma, a transpersonal satori type of breathwork/breathing experience of union with the universe, a deeper understanding of the purpose and meaning of your life, a sense of being more grounded and centered in your life, and a more profound sense of connection to the world around you.

Facilitator: Tatiana Ginzburg

Cost: $150 (including accommodation)

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/holotropic-breathwork-weekend-retreat-tickets-45870284255

Spring Rejuvenate Retreat

May 25 – May 28, 2108 (Friday – Monday)

Sierra Hot Springs

521 Campbell Hot Springs Rd,

Sierraville, CA

Nourish yourself this Memorial Day Weekend with a rejuvenating 4-day retreat at Sierra Hot Springs! Join seasoned retreat leaders Alok and Anjuli who weave their experience as yoga teachers, massage therapists, and contact dancers into each retreat. Their seasonal Rejuvenate Retreats offer a balance of focused morning yoga classes, free time to soak in the healing springs, and creative afternoon therapeutic classes with sound healing.

Sierra Hot Springs is truly an inspiring place where it’s easy to surrender to the overwhelming sense of tranquility. The sacred healing waters soothe away tension, while immersion in the crisp alpine air revitalizes your spirit. Camping in the spacious forest is included or you can book a room in the historic hotel.

Instruction:

Anjuli and Alok offer a unique blend of therapeutic practices that include partner stretching, connection exercises, contact improvisation, and ZenThai Shiatsu. You can expect nourishing, elemental yoga classes in the morning followed by a delicious brunch. In the afternoon, we'll offer a creative session that includes partner and group Contact Yoga and massage. All levels of experience are welcome. Come solo or with a friend or partner as we encourage working with the whole group throughout the retreat. Generally, our retreats are a mix of singles and couples.

What is included?

*Camping among the pine trees or sleeping indoors in the cozy practice space

*3 delicious catered organic brunches on Saturday, Sunday, and Monday

*Full use of Hot Springs and sauna 24 hours/day

*Morning meditation and hatha yoga flow

*Creative Contact Yoga afternoon classes

*Thai Massage Instruction

*Kritan and Dance Journey evening program

*Guided ecology hike on local trails

*Fire Circle ​

*Sound Healing

Tentative Schedule

May 25th: Friday

(Suggested Departure by 1pm if leaving from the Bay Area) Arrive by 5pm if possible

4:30-6:30 pm: Check-In

6-8 pm: Dinner at Cafe or BYO

8-9:30 pm-- Introductions + Opening Circle: Connect and Restore Practice

May 26th: Saturday

8:30-9 am- Sound Healing

9-10:30 am: Morning Yoga

11 am: Brunch

3-5 pm: Contact Yoga & Thai Massage

6:30-8 pm: Dinner at Cafe or BYO

8:00 pm: Possible Fire Circle

May 27th: Sunday

8:30-9 am: Sound Healing

9-10:30 am: Morning Yoga

11 am: Brunch

3-5 pm: Contact Yoga & Thai massage

6:30-8 pm: Dinner at Cafe or BYO

8-10 pm: Kirtan + Dance journey

May 28th: Monday

8:30-9- Sound Healing

​9-11:45 am: Morning Yoga & Closing Circle

12 pm : Brunch

Cost: $550

https://www.contactyoga.org/info.html