PORT TOWNSEND — Whether you’re into yoga, dance, massage or all of the above, this Sunday brings not only the winter solstice but also a couple of hours of pleasure for a good cause.
So promises Shayann Hoffer, an organizer of “Light the Heart Fire,” the Madrona MindBody Institute’s solstice celebration and benefit for Jefferson County children in foster care.
The event at Madrona, aka Building 310 on the Fort Worden State Park campus, will get started at 9 a.m. with a yoga practice open to all. Then comes dancing, in the Soul Motion style offered weekly at the institute, beginning at 10 a.m.
Admission is a donation of $10 to $20, with proceeds to go to the Department of Social and Health Services’ foster care network. Donors can also enjoy massages and palm readings, Hoffer added, with an ensemble of practitioners who will set up their chairs and tables at Madrona.
Sunday’s event will close with meditation and singing bowls, all to wrap by 11:30 a.m. as beverages and treats are laid out.
The yoga hour will be structured with an opening meditation, 12 sun salutations, other poses and the savasana relaxation, Hoffer said.
Then comes the dance, a chance to loosen up. Madrona cofounders Aletia Alvarez and Allison Dey will lead the frolic to a diverse mix of music: from African to rhythm and blues and pop.
“This is an annual thing that’s a little different this year,” added Madrona spokeswoman Nelia Swayze. “We’re trying to reach out to more people, and get the yoga and dance people together.”
Past solstice celebrations at Madrona were all about doing 108 sun salutations, she said. That’s been reduced to make room for the dancing, and to make the party more appealing to those at varying levels of yoga practice.
“Kids are welcome, but it’s not a kids-running-crazy event,” Swayze added. Children who are old enough to participate in Alvarez and Dey’s dance can join in, while the younger ones can come to Laura McKim’s creative movement program from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Admission is $5 per child for the dance and crafts session.
The yoga teachers and massage practitioners are donating their time, Hoffer noted, adding that if patrons want to contribute more toward the foster care network, they’re welcome to do it.
More information about Sunday’s event awaits at Madrona: 360-344-4475 and www.MadronaMindBody.com.
