On a lovely Thursday afternoon, I walked through the doors of The Spa Room seeking a place of refuge. My day was long, draining, and my backed ached from my redundant routine of sitting in front of a computer. Usually I go alone when I make a trip to a spa, but this time I decided to bring along a woman who is very special to me: my mother.
This particular day, we took an introduction class entitled “Relaxation 101.” I figured we both could learn a lot of useful information about making life more peaceful and soothing. Class creator and instructor Ilana Silverstein says the purpose of Relaxation 101 is to learn new ways of unwinding with your partner, relative, or friend. Also, it is meant to increase awareness of the different ways you can move your body.
Silverstein came up with the idea for this class, along with spa owner Mary Szegda and colleague Katie Harris Banks. Together, they combined their expertise and passions for dance and meditation. Silverstein says that this class is a safe haven to increase flexibility with the support of your partner without feeling hesitant and to receive individual attention. This 90-minute session is a combination of yoga, meditation and self-expression. Unlike a typical yoga class, the objective of Relaxation 101 is to teach skills that you can use at home, so you can develop a regular practice without feeling dependent on a teacher to lead you every time.
The class was an enjoyable experience for both my mother and I. One of my favorite parts of the class was when my mother and I learned how to use our bodies as support for each other to do various back stretches. As we strolled away from The Spa Room, we both felt at ease and happy. My mother stated she was “more centered and rejuvenated by the end of the session.” That evening I was able to rest very well. And I believe it was due to all of the techniques I learned from the class.
Relaxation 101 is still being offered for anyone who will like to learn stretches they can use on daily basis with a partner. The class is available for private lessons or as a semi-private session for up to three couples. Also, a mother and daughter special class will be offered in honor of Mother’s Day on Thursday, May 12, 2011. Make sure to reserve your space in the class today!
4115 Wisconsin Avenue, NW
Suite 202
Washington, DC 20016
(202) 241-6095
Comments