Yoga Mala

Friends of Ballard Park is kicking off its Summer Yoga Series with a Yoga Mala Fundraiser on Saturday, June 16th from 1:00 to 3:30pm. Yoga therapist Liz Lindh of FLOW Natural Health has volunteered to lead the session, which will include music by whimsical art-rock band Castle. Participants are asked to donate $10 which will help fund free, family-oriented events like concerts and outdoor movie screening in Ballard Park this summer.

A Yoga Mala is the transformational process of moving through 108 sun salutations. It is traditional in yoga circles to perform 108 sun salutations upon the change of season in large groups as an offering of peace and unity. Why 108? A mala, a string of beads used for meditating, praying and chanting mantra in the Hindu and Buddhist traditions, has 108 beads on it and the number is highly significant in both traditions. Patti Confort of Innerlight Yoga and Mary Leonti of Newport Power Yoga will each lead 27 sun salutations while Dr. Lindh will lead two sets of 27 salutations. Participants will be invited to take a meditative walk in between each set. Anyone with a little yoga experience can participate as Dr. Lindh will offer modifications and time to rest as needed.

The Yoga Mala will be held in Ballard Park’s Quarry Meadow, which is best accessed through the Hazard Road entrance. Anyone interested in participating in the session should arrive at Ballard Park 15 minutes prior to the start of class to allow time for parking and to make their way into the Quarry Meadow. Participants should wear comfortable clothing and bring a yoga mat.