ASTRO.GONG.YOGA Offers Solutions for Connection and Practice
Part of the role of Yoga studios is their service as places of refuge and support to many on their path of enhancing physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. The current footprint of how people are able to access in-person yoga is going through some major shifts in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic. In contrast, ASTRO.GONG.YOGA, a sound healing and Yoga Center with an astrology-informed approach, is emerging with an in-person presence in Mid-City Los Angeles.
ASTRO.GONG.YOGA merges a trilogy of proven ancient healing modalities designed to rejuvenate and rebalance mind, body, and spirit, while supporting you on the path to understanding yourself. Their offerings are widely diverse and yet interwoven to provide a holistic experience. These include: Astrology workshops, Gong Sound Healing events and in-depth training with co-founder and Gong Master Lou Maurer.
The schedule at ASTRO.GONG.YOGA also features a variety of yoga classes that allow everyone to discover the yoga style most suitable for their individual needs. These three methods are blended together in their bi-monthly Moon Time Ceremony and Workshop.
The physical environment of AGY is spacious and light and is a complete contrast to the hustling and bustling La Brea Ave. The interior consists of two studios, one which is home to 27 Gongs. Fortunately, AGY also has a large outdoor rooftop where all their current socially distanced offerings are taking place.
ASTRO.GONG.YOGA Cofounder Emily Johnston
Authenticity and Inclusivity
Opening in the Summer of 2020, during the coronavirus pandemic meant that founders, Emily Johnston and Lou Maurer, needed to be imaginative and inventive.
ASTRO.GONG.YOGA Co-Founder Lou Maurer
At this time, they were determined to offer a little sense of normalcy through ASTRO.GONG.YOGA. As the yoga community reorganizes, Emily and Lou are focusing their efforts on serving by bringing together an authentic and inclusive community that revolves around yogic philosophy, sacred sound, and wisdom.
Despite – or maybe because of – the intensity we have all felt throughout 2020 (and into the beginning of 2021), people are attending the in-person outdoor classes and workshops at AGY. The team has seen that individuals are actively searching for in-person socially distanced yoga that will enable them to maintain their self-care routine while maintaining the health of their community. Higher levels of anxiety and increased time spent online have left people seeking to engage with and be a part of a meaningful community that makes a positive impact in the world and supports each other. It is with the support of this emerging community that AGY is able to give back and contribute.
ASTRO.GONG.YOGA Boutique
Their indoor communal space is decorated with a gallery supporting local artists and cultural non-profits, fundraisers and community classes (on the rooftop) are offered regularly, and their in-house boutique offers ethically and locally sourced wellness products to support small business.
Hope and Connection
AGY’s story is one of hope. Hope that the essence of yoga, community, and connection is unreplaceable despite all the challenges that we are currently facing in Los Angeles and beyond. Connection and co-regulation are a vital part of our self-care routines. Perhaps more than anything the pandemic has taught us how connected we all are, reaffirming that those precious moments of coming together through breath and movement that make the practice feel meaningful will sustain.
Learn More About ASTRO.GONG.YOGA
To learn more about AGY offerings, health protocols, and to pre-book a class visit: www.astrogongyoga.com
Find AGY at 145 N La Brea Ave. Unit E. Los Angeles, CA 90036
Keren Eshed is an LA-based Yoga teacher, student, and a Yoga therapist in training who is passionate about sharing the gift of Yoga. IG @keren.eshed