
The parties are over, the calories consumed and many of us have returned to our mundane work schedules. For those of us who are already in a dire need of a stress reliever, the Baltimore Museum of Art has the perfect solution for you. Beginning on Tuesday, January 13, 2009 at 6-7pm and 7-8pm, then continuing for six consecutive Tuesdays, the BMA will offer a winter yoga series based on the BMA's collection of American Art. Participants are asked to bring a yoga mat, water bottle and dress in comfortable, stretchy clothes, and to come with an open mind and heart.
Some might consider "museum yoga", also known as "artsy yoga" or simply "art yoga", as another strange yoga form to add to its never-ending list. However, I believe that this new setting to host a yoga class is not only a clever marketing tool, but also helps yogis reconnect to the roots of the practice. Spaces designed to honor “sacred”, important works of art can draw one into a state of reflection and awaken the creative muse within. Yoga is not only a fantastic physical exercise, but also a blend of meditation, postures and conscious breathing which enables you to integrate and balance your body, mind and spirit.
For those of you who feel as if blocked creative energy is preventing you from getting what you want in life, yoga in the art museum setting could also assist you in overcoming those restraints. The relationship between yoga and art-making/creativity (whether that means getting back into painting, starting your own café or thinking “out of the box” at work) has become one of popular study. Everyone was born to be creative, but many times, family, educators and members of society have discouraged us from doing so. When you truly learn to let go, focus on the present moment, and challenge yourself through a series of intense asanas, artistic breakthrough is inevitable!
So, grab your yoga mat and join us at the BMA to kick away the January winter blues! You will feel relaxed, restored and rejuvenated after doing a series of Surya Namaskars (sun salutation) in front of significant works of art!
To find out more about this unique program and to register, please call the museum at 443.573.1832 or e-mail programs@artbma.org. This course integrates yoga with art history, and will be taught by Brianna Bedigian, who has a BA in Art History and is a certified yoga teacher.
10 Art Museum Drive
Baltimore, MD 21218-3898