"Namaste" is a Sanskrit word meaning "I bow to the divine in you." This project is for students who want to explore ways to lead happy and healthy lives. Join us in a journey of self exploration through a variety of traditional practices, including Yoga, Tai Chi, Shambhala meditation, philosophies of self understanding, massage therapy, and nutrition for well-being. Each day will include a balanced program of activities designed to stimulate mental, physical, and spiritual enrichment. We’ll travel to neighborhood centers, including the Chicago School of Massage Therapy, Gilda’s Club, and the Jungian Institute of Chicago, and we we’ll have specialists come to Latin to lead us in Yoga, Tai Chi, Reiki, and meditation. Lunches will highlight healthy fare from local restaurants.

This project is led by Elise Brooks, Upper School counselor who has an interest in yoga and meditation, and Thom Bowers of the Upper School theatre department, whose background in theatre movement includes Yoga, Grotowski work, and Viewpoints.

Our abbreviated itinerary follows:
MONDAY, MARCH 10--Yoga, catered lunch, and tour of Shambhala Meditation and Buddhist Temple.
TUESDAY, MARCH 11--Tai Chi (see photos below), visit Gilda’s Club, scavenger hunt and lunch at Whole Foods.
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 12--Dream workshop with Dr. Judith Cooper from the Jungian Institute, lunch (Fresh Choice), massage workshop with New School of Massage Therapy.
THURSDAY, MARCH 13--Reiki workshop with Rose Mattax, lunch (Chicago Diner), movie or yoga in afternoon.
FRIDAY, MARCH 14--Yoga, video presentation, silent meditation walk.