Plaza Schedule

Katherine Martin will guide you through the 7 levels of tension, a method used in theatre to explore the dynamics of character and emotion, as an entry point into the physicality of mask performance. Masks are often seen as something to hide behind, but she will explore the intersection of embodiment and freedom by intentionally playing in the mask through the lens of defying the ordinary, creative permission and igniting the imagination into worlds previously unseen and unspoken.

Bhakti yoga, also known as the yoga of love and devotion, is one of the four paths to spiritual liberation as described in the Bhagavad Gita.  One of the core practices of bhakti is the chanting of the holy names.  The practice of chanting these ancient and sacred Sanskrit mantras helps to awaken the divine love within, which is our true nature.  During this session led by Emily Joan Smith, you are invited to either join us in chanting or to simply open yourself to the healing and sacred sounds through listening. 

Embrace Sacred Imagining with Erica Sartini-Combs in this 30-minute gentle movement meditation. Experience a transformative journey inward as we explore organic, non-linear pathways of movement to enhance the mind-body connection. This practice invites you to step out of the mind and tune deeply into your body, promoting introspection, re-sensitization, and a soothing of the nervous system. Discover how fluidity and embodiment can ignite your inner vitality and cultivate greater presence and insight. 

Following the imagining kinship workshop, participants will incorporate the guided imagery provided through the meditative process of reimagining our common humanity to create a visual representation of a new world. The ChooseWell Communities' kinship team will lead this expressive art experience, inviting the collaboration of a physical manifestation of this vision.  

In ancient times, yoga practitioners developed and honed their techniques during invasions, occupation, war, pandemics, famine and oppression. Laura Spaulding will introduce you to easy yoga techniques by which you can remain centered and calm in the most difficult situations.  This activation is suitable for individuals of any age or level of ability. 

Join Jenny Bell in brushing ensō, a form of sacred Japanese Zen Calligraphy, in which a circle of infinity is brushed with ink, to express a moment when the mind is free to let the body create. The ensō symbolizes enlightenment, the universe-thevoid, emptiness-fullness, the visible-the invisible, simplicity-profundity, as well as completeness of each moment + wholeness of experience. This sacred practice invites us to become one with the brush, one with the breath, ushering self compassion in this simple exercise of acceptance. 

Accomplished Tai chi instructor Dre Dawson will lead participants in this gentle exercise involving slow movements, deep breathing and a meditative state. This form of martial arts rooted in Chinese medicine has many potential physical and emotional benefits, such as decreased anxiety and depression and improved cognition. People of all ages and fitness levels are welcome to participate in this 30-minute activity.

Tigresse Bleu is a performance artist and poet who seeks to share their art form with others in an attempt to help them access deeper parts of themselves. This 30-minute workshop is a poetic therapeutic processing of emotions intended to unlock divinity within.