INSTRUCTOR: Gisella Ferreira

DATES: Saturday, June 14th

TIME: 12:00pm - 1:00pm

LOCATION: 3603 Portola Drive – Dance Studio

COST: regular dance class rates | $20 Drop In

DESCRIPTION:

Brazilian Samba Dance Class. Open to all levels.

This Samba Dance class will break down Samba, develop and strengthen your Samba skills through Samba Drills and build your strength and stamina.

Come learn, train and get in the spirit of Rio's Carnival!

Learn to dance Brazilian Samba with the First USA Samba Queen: Gisella Ferreira.

Gisella will break down the top key moves to Samba in a fun and playful learning environment. This is for anyone who has ever wanted to try Brazilian dance.

This class explores Samba No Pé (Rio style Samba) as well as Samba de Roda (Samba roots community circle). This class is about raising your vibration, building community, getting in touch with your inner Samba spirit and letting go through dance. Come shake it!

All levels welcome. Class is done barefoot or with comfortable shoes and dance clothes you can move in.

INSTRUCTOR BIO:

Gisella Ferreira, a Brazilian-American performance artist and instructor specializes in: Samba, Afro-Brazilian, Capoeira, Hip- Hop, Burlesque and Brazilian Baile Funk. Her titles include: The first Samba Queen USA/ Rainha do Samba, Musa do Brazilian Day , Hollywood Carnival Queen, and currently a passista do Salgueiro (one of the most prestigious dance positions and Samba Schools in Rio).

Gisella studied at UCLA's Dept. of World Arts and Cultures, focusing on dance choreography and performance, as well as on art activism. She began teaching dance at age twelve in Santa Cruz CA and has taught in Rio de Janeiro (Brasil), Salvador (Brasil) and started her own dance company and studio in Los Angeles CA.

She tours and performs worldwide and trains extensively in the U.S. as well as Brasil in many dance forms including Capoeira, Samba and Hip-Hop. She was named one of "LA's Hottest Trainers" and has been active in Health day LA as well as Let's Move LA for many years, dedicating time to help the LA community become more active and inspired through dance.She can also be found performing at The Floor Show and improv nights around LA. Gisella now lives in Santa Cruz, where she performs and teaches Samba.

Gisella Ferreira loves sharing her passion for life through artistic movement expression, and dances as a form of energy work & healing for herself and others. She is inspired to live each day in joy and gratitude and help to give back to the world through dance.

www.gisellasambista.com
IG @Gisellasamba

INSTRUCTOR: Gisella Ferreira

DATES:

• Saturday, June 14th

TIME: 11:00am - 11:45am

LOCATION: 3603 Portola Drive – Dance Studio

COST: regular dance class rates | $20 Drop In

DESCRIPTION:

Samba no pé basics, Roots + foundation. Beginner Level.

Learn to dance Brazilian Samba with the First USA Samba Queen: Gisella Ferreira.

Gisella will break down the top key moves to Samba in a fun and playful learning environment. This is for anyone who has ever wanted to try Brazilian dance.

This class explores Samba No Pé (Rio style Samba) as well as Samba de Roda (Samba roots community circle). This class is about raising your vibration, building community, getting in touch with your inner Samba spirit and letting go through dance. Come shake it!

All levels welcome. Class is done barefoot or with comfortable shoes and dance clothes you can move in. 

INSTRUCTOR BIO:

Gisella Ferreira, a Brazilian-American performance artist and instructor specializes in: Samba, Afro-Brazilian, Capoeira, Hip- Hop, Burlesque and Brazilian Baile Funk. Her titles include: The first Samba Queen USA/ Rainha do Samba, Musa do Brazilian Day , Hollywood Carnival Queen, and currently a passista do Salgueiro (one of the most prestigious dance positions and Samba Schools in Rio).

Gisella studied at UCLA's Dept. of World Arts and Cultures, focusing on dance choreography and performance, as well as on art activism. She began teaching dance at age twelve in Santa Cruz CA and has taught in Rio de Janeiro (Brasil), Salvador (Brasil) and started her own dance company and studio in Los Angeles CA.

She tours and performs worldwide and trains extensively in the U.S. as well as Brasil in many dance forms including Capoeira, Samba and Hip-Hop. She was named one of "LA's Hottest Trainers" and has been active in Health day LA as well as Let's Move LA for many years, dedicating time to help the LA community become more active and inspired through dance.She can also be found performing at The Floor Show and improv nights around LA. Gisella now lives in Santa Cruz, where she performs and teaches Samba.

Gisella Ferreira loves sharing her passion for life through artistic movement expression, and dances as a form of energy work & healing for herself and others. She is inspired to live each day in joy and gratitude and help to give back to the world through dance.

www.gisellasambista.com
IG @Gisellasamba

INSTRUCTOR: Gisella Ferreira

DATE:

• Saturday, June 7th

• Saturday, June 14th

TIME: 12:00pm - 1:00pm

LOCATION: 3603 Portola Drive – Dance Studio

COST: regular dance class rates | $20 Drop In

DESCRIPTION:

Brazilian Samba Dance Class. Open to all levels.

This Samba Dance class will break down Samba, develop and strengthen your Samba skills through Samba Drills and build your strength and stamina.

Come learn, train and get in the spirit of Rio's Carnival!

Learn to dance Brazilian Samba with the First USA Samba Queen: Gisella Ferreira.

Gisella will break down the top key moves to Samba in a fun and playful learning environment. This is for anyone who has ever wanted to try Brazilian dance.

This class explores Samba No Pé (Rio style Samba) as well as Samba de Roda (Samba roots community circle). This class is about raising your vibration, building community, getting in touch with your inner Samba spirit and letting go through dance. Come shake it!

All levels welcome. Class is done barefoot or with comfortable shoes and dance clothes you can move in.

INSTRUCTOR BIO:

Gisella Ferreira, a Brazilian-American performance artist and instructor specializes in: Samba, Afro-Brazilian, Capoeira, Hip- Hop, Burlesque and Brazilian Baile Funk. Her titles include: The first Samba Queen USA/ Rainha do Samba, Musa do Brazilian Day , Hollywood Carnival Queen, and currently a passista do Salgueiro (one of the most prestigious dance positions and Samba Schools in Rio).

Gisella studied at UCLA's Dept. of World Arts and Cultures, focusing on dance choreography and performance, as well as on art activism. She began teaching dance at age twelve in Santa Cruz CA and has taught in Rio de Janeiro (Brasil), Salvador (Brasil) and started her own dance company and studio in Los Angeles CA.

She tours and performs worldwide and trains extensively in the U.S. as well as Brasil in many dance forms including Capoeira, Samba and Hip-Hop. She was named one of "LA's Hottest Trainers" and has been active in Health day LA as well as Let's Move LA for many years, dedicating time to help the LA community become more active and inspired through dance.She can also be found performing at The Floor Show and improv nights around LA. Gisella now lives in Santa Cruz, where she performs and teaches Samba.

Gisella Ferreira loves sharing her passion for life through artistic movement expression, and dances as a form of energy work & healing for herself and others. She is inspired to live each day in joy and gratitude and help to give back to the world through dance.

www.gisellasambista.com
IG @Gisellasamba

INSTRUCTOR: Gisella Ferreira

DATES:

• Saturday, June 7th

• Saturday, June 14th

TIME: 11:00am - 11:45am

LOCATION: 3603 Portola Drive – Dance Studio

COST: regular dance class rates | $20 Drop In

DESCRIPTION:

Samba no pé basics, Roots + foundation. Beginner Level.

Learn to dance Brazilian Samba with the First USA Samba Queen: Gisella Ferreira.

Gisella will break down the top key moves to Samba in a fun and playful learning environment. This is for anyone who has ever wanted to try Brazilian dance.

This class explores Samba No Pé (Rio style Samba) as well as Samba de Roda (Samba roots community circle). This class is about raising your vibration, building community, getting in touch with your inner Samba spirit and letting go through dance. Come shake it!

All levels welcome. Class is done barefoot or with comfortable shoes and dance clothes you can move in. 

INSTRUCTOR BIO:

Gisella Ferreira, a Brazilian-American performance artist and instructor specializes in: Samba, Afro-Brazilian, Capoeira, Hip- Hop, Burlesque and Brazilian Baile Funk. Her titles include: The first Samba Queen USA/ Rainha do Samba, Musa do Brazilian Day , Hollywood Carnival Queen, and currently a passista do Salgueiro (one of the most prestigious dance positions and Samba Schools in Rio).

Gisella studied at UCLA's Dept. of World Arts and Cultures, focusing on dance choreography and performance, as well as on art activism. She began teaching dance at age twelve in Santa Cruz CA and has taught in Rio de Janeiro (Brasil), Salvador (Brasil) and started her own dance company and studio in Los Angeles CA.

She tours and performs worldwide and trains extensively in the U.S. as well as Brasil in many dance forms including Capoeira, Samba and Hip-Hop. She was named one of "LA's Hottest Trainers" and has been active in Health day LA as well as Let's Move LA for many years, dedicating time to help the LA community become more active and inspired through dance.She can also be found performing at The Floor Show and improv nights around LA. Gisella now lives in Santa Cruz, where she performs and teaches Samba.

Gisella Ferreira loves sharing her passion for life through artistic movement expression, and dances as a form of energy work & healing for herself and others. She is inspired to live each day in joy and gratitude and help to give back to the world through dance.

www.gisellasambista.com
IG @Gisellasamba

INSTRUCTOR: Eoin Finn of Blissology

DATE: Tuesday, June 3rd

TIME: 5:30pm - 7:00pm

LOCATION: 3707 Portola Drive – Yoga Studio

COST: $22 Drop In / Passes & Memberships Apply

DESCRIPTION:

Join us for an uplifting Blissology experience that’s more than just a yoga class—it’s a journey to unlock your inner joy.

In this transformative masterclass, we’ll explore movement principles from Yoga, Optimized as we tap into the body’s innate wisdom to heal and thrive. Expect moments of challenge to build strength and flexibility, balanced with time to reset your nervous system through deep stretches and breathwork, offering a profoundly soulful experience.

With plenty of modifications for beginners and an inspiring sampling of advanced poses, this practice is open to all. Come ready to feel deeply loose, free, and happy

About Eoin Finn: Life changing, a thought leader, mystical, shamanistic, radical and hilariously funny, Eoin Finn is a globally renowned yogi, surfer and Blissologist who has been carving his original tracks through the metaphysical worlds of yoga, philosophy and movement since 1989.

Yogi, Surfer, Author + Blissologist

The Canadian native is a globally renowned yogi, surfer and Blissologist who has been carving his original tracks through the metaphysical worlds of yoga, philosophy and movement since 1989.

Lauded by Yoga Journal as the “Thoreau of Yoga” for his eco-activism and dedication to connecting yogis more deeply to the spirituality of nature; and by Oprah as “one to watch,” Finn’s Blissology Yoga style centers on the simple idea of sharing happiness.

Eoin has studied Anatomy + Physiology at Harvard Medical School and Exercise Physiology at the University of California, Berkeley. While rooted deeply in yoga’s therapeutic and transformative alignment and physiology, his down-to-earth, modern spiritual insights refresh like cool water. He firmly believes that to find bliss, you must “seek quiet solitude in nature.”

A passionate ocean-activist, he started the Blissology EcoKarma project in 2014 raising aid and awareness through yoga and activism for the world’s precious but imperilled coral reefs.

INSTRUCTOR: Shane Thunder

DATE: Sunday, June 1st

TIME: 6:00pm - 7:30pm

LOCATION: 3603 Portola Drive – Dance Studio

COST / SEATING OPTIONS:

• HAMMOCK / FLOATING: $45 Early Bird / $50 Regular

  FLOOR: $30 Early Bird / $35 Regular

  *EARLY BIRD VALID THROUGH 5/23/25

DESCRIPTION:

Come Float Your Stress Away! Join us for this special Floating Sound Meditation experience w/ Shane Thunder! Utilizing a plethora of gemstone crystal bowls, planetary & elemental gongs, chimes, and other instruments, you are in store for a blissful and uplifting journey! No experience necessary, all paths are welcome!

Benefits of Hammock / Floating Seating:

The sound healing is different when you are in hammock because of the way you experience it. Instead of being on the ground, experiencing the sound healing, you are floating, like you are in space, so its more zero-gravity experience, or like being in a cocoon.

INSTRUCTOR: Alison Chesley

DATES:

• Sunday, May 25th

• Sunday, June 1st

TIME: 11:15am - 12:45pm

LOCATION: 3603 Portola Drive – Dance Studio

COST: $25 Each

DESCRIPTION:

IN THIS PERFORMANCE WORKSHOP, Alison will be teaching us a simple and fabulously fun jazz dance routine to Love in Real Life by Lizzo that we will be performing at Dominican Oaks on June 14th. Although you do not have to perform, we highly encourage you to do so because it is so FUN and you are FABULOUS!

CARDIO FUNK is a high energy all level choreography dance class to upbeat music where we build a fun and accessible dance routine over the hour for some serious satisfaction by the end. Starting with a warm-up then breaking down moves with a continuous cardio flow that includes some gut and ab toning, Alison’s clear and experienced style makes dancing our way to wellness AWESOME and available to all levels with no dance experience necessary!

INSTRUCTORS: Dayākar Dās & Living Devotion

FEATURING: 

• Dayākar Dās – Harmonium & Vocals

• Steve Robertson – Tabla

• Anne Cleveland – Flute & Vocals

• Robert Hansen – Sarod, Guitar & Vocals

• Corinne LeBlanc – Harmonium & Vocals

DATES: Saturdays

• May 17th

• August 16th

• November 15th

TIME: 7:30pm - 9:30pm (Doors Open at 7:15pm)

LOCATION: 3707 Portola Drive – Yoga Studio

COST: $15-$30 sliding scale at the door*

*No one turned away for lack of funds

ABOUT THE MUSIC OF YOGA:

Kirtan is a spiritual service with five parts that is found in the path of Bhakti Yoga. One of the parts is the chanting of Sanskrit healing and empowerment mantras and the singing of devotional songs called bhajans. Kirtan is a musically guided meditation practice. Practicing this yog calms the mind, relaxes the body and energizes the Spirit. Reciting mantra with a devotional attitude, especially the singing of bhajans, has a calming effect on the brain, quieting the mind so that we can experience the opening of our hearts, allowing us to taste the blissful reality that is our true nature.

Come dive into the depths of your own heart in this safe, supportive environment. No previous yoga, meditation or singing experience is necessary to participate.

Practice is led by Dayākar Dās who is a Certified Ashtanga Yoga Teacher and practitioner of 32 years, who has been teaching meditation for over two decades.

https://sites.google.com/site/livingdevotionsite/

INSTRUCTOR: Shane Thunder

DATE: Sunday, May 4th

TIME: 6:00pm - 7:30pm

LOCATION: 3603 Portola Drive – Dance Studio

COST / SEATING OPTIONS:

• HAMMOCK / FLOATING: $45 Early Bird / $50 Regular

  FLOOR: $30 Early Bird / $35 Regular

  *EARLY BIRD VALID THROUGH 4/25/25

DESCRIPTION:

Come Float Your Stress Away! Join us for this special Floating Sound Meditation experience w/ Shane Thunder! Utilizing a plethora of gemstone crystal bowls, planetary & elemental gongs, chimes, and other instruments, you are in store for a blissful and uplifting journey! No experience necessary, all paths are welcome!

Benefits of Hammock / Floating Seating:

The sound healing is different when you are in hammock because of the way you experience it. Instead of being on the ground, experiencing the sound healing, you are floating, like you are in space, so its more zero-gravity experience, or like being in a cocoon.

INSTRUCTOR: Kayla Copeland

DATE: Sunday, May 4th

TIME: 12:00pm - 1:00pm

LOCATION: 3707 Portola Drive – Yoga Studio

COST: FREE!

DESCRIPTION:

Free Info Session on our upcoming The Embodied Breath: 200hr Yoga & Breathwork Teacher Training Costa Rica & Santa Cruz, CA Hybrid Training

Come meet your lead instructor, Kayla Copeland, learn about the training, guest teachers, what to expect, ask questions, and help us pull out any stops to get you there! SAVE $400 off Tuition!

Join Kayla for Strong Bhakti Flow Practice beforehand from 10am – 11:30am (regular pricing).

INSTRUCTOR: Susanna Barkataki

DATE: Wednesday, April 30th

TIME: 6:00pm - 9:00pm

LOCATION: 3603 Portola Drive – Dance Studio

COST: sliding scale registration price of $40 / $80 / $120

DESCRIPTION:

• A deep dive into yoga ethics (Ahimsa, Satya, and beyond) and their relevance in today's world

• Practical tools like meditation, breathwork, and mindful movement to embody peace and power

• Space for participants to reflect, connect, and leave inspired to bring yoga into their everyday lives and communities

• Book signing of Ignite Your Yoga

This workshop aligns beautifully with AAPI (Asian American and Pacific Islander) Heritage Month in May, honoring yoga's roots while empowering the community to connect deeply with yoga's values.

Susanna Barkataki’s Bio:

SPEAKER. AUTHOR. TEACHER TRAINER. YOGA CULTURE ADVOCATE. IGNITE YOUR YOGA.

A teacher, inclusivity promoter, and yoga culture advocate. I see a world where yoga unites us all and excludes no one . . .But that wasn't always my understanding.

I’ve been practicing yoga for as long as I can remember. Rooted in my Indian and British background, as an immigrant to the US I experienced a lot of violence because of my race and culture. The very things I was made fun of for later became the tools for my liberation. Yoga helped me decolonize and love myself.

The way we do yoga in the West often continues to create competition and separation with ourselves and others. Instead, original yoga exists as a way to connect us all - dissolving separation within and without. Through personal experience and an educator and activist, I know that yoga is here for us to cultivate power and transcend our limitations, personally and socially.

I know that my passion is to help others bridge the gap between yoga as an exercise and yoga as a lifestyle... Because true yoga is so much more than just the poses. It’s an age-old practice that serves us all!

Today, I work to showcase yoga in action, spread the message of diversity and inclusion, and help people connect through yoga to live a happy, fulfilling life for themselves and others. And I’d love for you to join me in this mission!

We can learn authentic yoga culture as a vessel for shaping change now. Together, I know we can live a more fulfilling life - socially, physically and spiritually!

INSTRUCTOR: Lisa Barretta

DATE: Tuesdays on April 22 thru July 8th

TIME: 5:30pm - 6:30pm

LOCATION: 3603 Portola Drive – Dance Studio

COST: $215 Full Series

$20 Drop In allowed on 4/22 and 4/29 with the option to convert to full series

Class Passes & Memberships Apply

DESCRIPTION:

• Develop your dance technique in this Beginner friendly class that focuses on your understanding of fundamental movements, building a strong foundation, and developing musicality through practice and exploration.

• Each class will include a Warm Up + Stretching.

• Barre + Center floor work where proper body placement and technique are emphasized.

• Across the Floor Progressions where basic skills, steps and turns are learned and eventually combined with various tempos and syncopation.

• Class concludes with a short cool down.

• Great for beginners or anyone looking to freshen or polish their technique and understanding of dance.

Instructor Bio:

Lisa Barretta, former professional dancer and instructor, found her way into leading Barre Fitness classes when she discovered a genre of exercise that beautifully combines her loves: Yoga, Pilates, Conditioning, and of course Ballet.

While teaching both dance and fitness for many years in Silicon Valley, Lisa and her husband recently relocated to Santa Cruz and is thrilled to have found a home in Pleasure Point Sanctuary. She is excited to continue to share her style of Barre with her new community.

INSTRUCTOR: Shawna Rodgers

NEXT DATE: Sunday, April 27th

DATES: Last Sundays Monthly

• April 27

• May 25

• June 29

• July 27 

• August 31 

• September 28

• October 26

• November 30

• December 28

TIME: 2:15pm - 3:45pm

LOCATION: 3603 Portola Drive – Dance Studio

COST: $22 Drop In | Class Passes & Memberships Apply

DESCRIPTION:

This once monthly class will be led by Shawna Rodgers, who has been practicing sobriety and the 8 limbed path of yoga in conjunction since 2012. On the last Sunday of every month at 2:15pm in Pleasure Point Sanctuary's Dance & Movement Studio (3603 Portola Drive, Santa Cruz), we will meet to practice asana, meditation, and lecture around yoga, sobriety, nutrition, neuroscience, and more. There will be an opportunity to take notes and journal.

You need not be practicing sobriety to attend, but you must be sober at the time of our class.

Disclaimer: Always consult a medical professional or licensed doctor before changing your lifestyle. Shawna Marie Yoga LLC is not providing medical advice or consulting through Pleasure Point Sanctuary.

INSTRUCTOR: Lisa Barretta

DATE: Tuesdays, April 22 - July 8

TIME: 5:30pm - 6:30pm

LOCATION: 3603 Portola Drive – Dance Studio

COST: $215 Full Series / $20 Drop In on First Class Only with option to convert to the Full Series

DESCRIPTION:

Develop your dance technique in this Beginner friendly class that focuses on your understanding of fundamental movements, building a strong foundation, and developing musicality through practice and exploration.

Each class will include a Warm Up + Stretching.

Barre + Center floor work where proper body placement and technique are emphasized.

Across the Floor Progressions where basic skills, steps and turns are learned and eventually combined with various tempos and syncopation.

Class concludes with a short cool down.

Great for beginners or anyone looking to freshen or polish their technique and understanding of dance.

Instructor Bio:

Lisa Barretta, former professional dancer and instructor, found her way into leading Barre Fitness classes when she discovered a genre of exercise that beautifully combines her loves: Yoga, Pilates, Conditioning, and of course Ballet.

While teaching both dance and fitness for many years in Silicon Valley, Lisa and her husband recently relocated to Santa Cruz and is thrilled to have found a home in Pleasure Point Sanctuary. She is excited to continue to share her style of Barre with her new community.

INSTRUCTOR: Seva Ashram

DATE: Saturday, April 19th

TIME: 10:30am

LOCATION: 2900 N Rodeo Drive, Soquel, CA 95003

COST: $25

DESCRIPTION:

Traditional Temple Kirtan

You are invited to our friends at Seva Ashram in Soquel for a Traditional Temple Kirtan!

Start your weekend in meditation with Kirtan

• Kirtan - Bhajans (Traditional songs, prayers, and Mahamantra chanting).

• Q+A - Ask questions and learn the meaning of the songs and authentic Bhakti yoga philosophy.

• Prasad treat if you join in person

• Access to replay

INSTRUCTOR: Dance Studios Across the County (including OURS!!!)

DATE: Thursday, April 17

TIME: 5:30pm - 9:00pm

LOCATION: Pacific Avenue, Santa Cruz, CA

COST: FREE! All Ages event!

DESCRIPTION: Dancing in The Streets

For 16 years, Santa Cruz dancers have hit the streets of Downtown for Dancing in the Streets.

Join us as we celebrate the joy of dance and the strength of our community through an unforgettable afternoon of free performances in the heart of Downtown Santa Cruz from 5:00pm-9:00pm.

Pleasure Point Dance’s Performance:

Set Time : 6:10pm - 6:20pm

Location: Stage 1 - Pacific Ave x Church St (in front of Urban Outfitters)

Our studio will performing a 10 minute set, choreographed by 6 of our incredible Dance Teachers with a total of 40 students, showcasing that dance is for EVERY BODY! Our piece is SO FUN and eclectic! Get your pom poms out as we take you on a journey through our class dance styles ranging from a Cheerleader inspired crowd pleaser to a dramatic Lady Gaga repertoire then across the globe as we move to the infectious beats and gorgeous movement found in Africa, Brazil, the Caribbean, and across Latin America! Please come root us on as we demonstrate the true JOY of dancing!

INSTRUCTOR: Kelsey Lettko

DATE: Sunday, April 13th

TIME: 2:30pm - 3:45pm

LOCATION: 3707 Portola Drive – Yoga Studio

COST: $22 Drop In | Class Passes & Memberships Apply

DESCRIPTION:

The Hypno and Healing Circle

A monthly gathering to use the power of hypnosis to rewrite our inner narratives, rewire our brains, and remember our power.

The subconscious mind is the most powerful tool when it comes to making meaningful change in our lives. This is where our deepest beliefs, wisdom, intuition, creativity, and patterns live, and it makes up 95-98% of the mind! When we make change at the subconscious level, it ripples out into the rest of our lives and we get to witness our reality transform around us. 

Using imagery, metaphor, guided relaxation, and visualization, we can communicate directly to the subconscious mind to move beyond limiting beliefs, heal old narratives, and rewire your brain in service of helping you embody the person you truly are, and the life you want to live. Hypnosis offers a pathway to rapid yet gentle change, and helps us remember that we are in the driver’s seat of our lives.

What to expect:

Each month we’ll focus on a specific theme to weave into the subconscious mind in service of your growth, healing, and evolution. You can expect to leave each session feeling expanded, relaxed, and reminded of your power. 

Gatherings include:

• Journaling and self-reflection on the topic

• Group hypnosis journey co-created with the group

• Discussion and reflection 

• Turning it into action and leaning into the shift

Hypnosis FAQs

What is it?

Hypnosis is a natural, focused state of awareness when the critical mind is not in the driver’s seat, and we have easier access to the power of your unconscious mind. The unconscious makes up 95-98% of the mind. This is where your beliefs, wisdom, intuition, earliest programming, and creativity live. Through hypnosis, we can tap into the beautiful depths of your unconscious mind to move through blocks, rewrite narratives, and rewire your brain to help you live in alignment with your authenticity.

How does it work?

The brain doesn’t really know what’s real and what’s imagined. It’s why when you watch a scary movie, you’re scared even though you know it’s not real. Through hypnosis, we can show the subconscious mind a new movie, story, or scenario that’s in alignment with what you want. We can speak the language of the subconscious — emotions, imagery, and experience — and heal whatever is holding you back.  Along the way, we are also rewiring your brain by connecting new neural pathways that, through repetition, will get stronger until they become your new default.

Is it safe?

YES. A state of hypnosis is completely natural, and you can't get stuck. It's like the moment right before you wake up and fall asleep — awake but a little dreamy. You are in control the entire time and can never do anything that you don't want to. Think of it as guided relaxation and visualization.

Can anyone be hypnotized?

Anyone can be hypnotized as long as you want to. While some people have an easier time dropping in than others, everyone is able to experience the benefits. Your conscious mind might still produce thought, and that’s ok! Everyone’s experience is different, but I suggest giving yourself permission to relax and let your imagination take over.

What are Kelsey’s qualifications?

Kelsey is a certified Theta Hypnosis Healer

INSTRUCTOR: Renee Menard

DATES:

• Tuesday, April 8th

• Tuesday, April 15th

TIME: 5:30pm - 7:00pm

LOCATION: 3603 Portola Drive – Dance Studio

COST: $25

DESCRIPTION:

IN THIS PERFORMANCE WORKSHOP, Renee will be teaching us a Latin Dance inspired dance routine to No Lie by Sean Paul feat. Dua Lipa that we will perform at Dancing in the Streets on April 17th! Performing is not required but highly encouraged because it is so FUN and you are FABULOUS!

RENEE TEACHES LATIN SPICE:

Tuesdays: 9am - 10am

Wednesdays: 5:30pm - 6:30pm

INSTRUCTOR: Kayla Copeland

DATE: April 6th

TIME: 12:00-1:00PM

LOCATION: 3707 Portola Drive – Yoga Studio

COST: FREE!

DESCRIPTION:

Free Info Session on our upcoming The Embodied Breath: 200hr Yoga & Breathwork Teacher Training Costa Rica & Santa Cruz, CA Hybrid Training

Come meet your lead instructor, Kayla Copeland, learn about the retreat, ask questions, and help us pull out any stops to get you there!

Join Kayla for Strong Bhakti Flow Practice beforehand from 10am – 11:30am (regular pricing).

The Embodied Breath
200Hr Yoga & Breathwork Teacher Training
Costa Rica & Santa Cruz, CA Hybrid

TRAINING DATES:

• Santa Cruz : May 16 - 18 (kickoff) and July 25 - 27 (graduation)

• Costa Rica : June 21st - July 5th

INSTRUCTOR: Shane Thunder

DATE: Saturday, April 5th

TIME: 6:00pm - 7:30pm

LOCATION: 3603 Portola Drive – Dance Studio

COST: *Early Bird Pricing good through March 26th

• FLOATING & SILK HAMMOCK: $45 Early Bird / $50 Regular Rate

• FLOOR: $30 Early Bird / $35 Regular Rate

DESCRIPTION:

Come Float Your Stress Away! Join us for this special Floating Sound Meditation experience w/ Shane Thunder! Utilizing a plethora of gemstone crystal bowls, planetary & elemental gongs, chimes, and other instruments, you are in store for a blissful and uplifting journey! No experience necessary, all paths are welcome!

Benefits of Hammock / Floating Seating:
The sound healing is different when you are in hammock because of the way you experience it. Instead of being on the ground, experiencing the sound healing, you are floating, like you are in space, so its more zero-gravity experience, or like being in a cocoon.

Location:

3603 PORTOLA DRIVE - located in our DANCE Studio to the LEFT of our Main Yoga Studio, in the same complex but located at the leftmost end, next to Dynasty Chinese Restaurant.

Logistics:

Doors open 15 mins before event start time. We will guide you on how to get into your hammock. This takes about 15 minutes to get all you beautiful bodies comfortably nestled into your cocoon. Plan for a full 90 minus with a full 75 minute Sound Meditation.

What to Bring:

An Open Mind for your Journey, Water. The event usually Sells Out, and I have props for each of you. However, some of us prefer our own snugly items to help settle in, such as Eye Pillow, Blanket, Bolster / Pillow. Optional items to bring:

Floaters:

Eye Pillow, Blanket, Bolster, Pillow

Floor Meditators: 

Optional Props: Yoga Mat, Eye Pillow. Again, we have props for you but if you have your own, we welcome you to bring them.

Bio: 

Shane Thunder is a California-based Master Sound Alchemist residing in Santa Barbara, CA. After self-inducing a kundalini awakening in Dec. 2011, he has traveled throughout the country for the last 8 years offering his 432hz Spirit Metacine in the passionate belief of unifying the body, mind, and spirit thru the healing arts. He has held space for workshops, instructional classes, and ceremonies guided by his Higher-Self to share his musical gifts with the crystal Gemstone singing bowls and many more instruments.

INSTRUCTOR: Gisella Ferreira

DATES:

• Saturday, April 5th

• Saturday, April 12th

TIME: 12:00pm - 1:15pm

LOCATION: 3603 Portola Drive – Dance Studio

COST: $25 Each

DESCRIPTION:

Samba Dance Performance Workshop for Dancing in the Streets with Gisella Ferreira.

Meets for Open Class Thursdays 6 PM - 7 PM + 30 minute rehearsal after class. 

INSTRUCTOR: Joy Smith

DATES:

• Saturday, April 5th

• Saturday, April 12th

TIME: 12:00pm - 2:00pm

LOCATION: 3603 Portola Drive – Dance Studio

COST: $25 Each

DESCRIPTION:

IN THIS PERFORMANCE WORKSHOP, Joy will be teaching us a polished and stylish Street Jazz / Hip Hop / Jungle Vibes inspired dance routine to Na La (Phaxe Remix by Omiki) that we will perform at Dancing in the Streets on April 17th! Performing is not required but we highly encourage you to do so because this routine will have formation changes and flare Joy is known for! plus it is so FUN and you are FABULOUS!

Please consider attending her classes ahead of time to familiarize yourself with her stylish choreography:

• Mondays 10:15-11:15am : Hip Hop & Zumba Basics

• Wednesdays 10:30-11:30 am : Cardio HH & Zumba

• Thursdays 9-10am : Cardio HH & Zumba

INSTRUCTOR: Shawna Rodgers

NEXT DATE: Sunday, March 30th

DATES: Last Sundays Monthly

• March 30 

• April 27

• May 25

• June 29

• July 27 

• August 31 

• September 28

• October 26

• November 30

• December 28

TIME: 2:15pm - 3:45pm

LOCATION: 3603 Portola Drive – Dance Studio

COST: $22 Drop In | Class Passes & Memberships Apply

DESCRIPTION:

This once monthly class will be led by Shawna Rodgers, who has been practicing sobriety and the 8 limbed path of yoga in conjunction since 2012. On the last Sunday of every month at 2:15pm in Pleasure Point Sanctuary's Dance & Movement Studio (3603 Portola Drive, Santa Cruz), we will meet to practice asana, meditation, and lecture around yoga, sobriety, nutrition, neuroscience, and more. There will be an opportunity to take notes and journal.

You need not be practicing sobriety to attend, but you must be sober at the time of our class.

Disclaimer: Always consult a medical professional or licensed doctor before changing your lifestyle. Shawna Marie Yoga LLC is not providing medical advice or consulting through Pleasure Point Sanctuary.

INSTRUCTORS: Kayla Copeland, E-RYT 500, MA, Psychotherapist and Kate Bentley, MA, Ayurvedic Practitioner at Mount Madonna Institute

DATES:

• March 29th, 2:00pm - 5:00pm (In-person)

• March 30 - April 7, 2025 (Online)

PLEASE NOTE: Personalized Ayurvedic Consultations will happen in-person on Saturday, March 29th at Pleasure Point Sanctuary’s Yoga Studio

LOCATION: Online and Pleasure Point Sanctuary’s Yoga Studio (3707 Portola Drive, Santa Cruz, CA)

COST: $150

DESCRIPTION:

Step into deep renewal with a nine-day Ayurvedic cleanse guided by Kayla Copeland, E-RYT 500, MA, Psychotherapist and Kate Bentley, MA, Ayurvedic Practitioner and Instructor at Mount Madonna Institute. Designed to reset your physical body, soften your mind, and awaken your spirit, this at-home cleanse is rooted in classical Ayurveda and enriched by Kate’s deep experience in holistic healing traditions and Kayla’s long-standing practice in yogic and mindfulness-based therapeutic studies.

Aligned with Navaratri, this sacred journey will help you release stagnation and restore balance through Ayurvedic nutrition, herbal support, and daily rituals. Experience the power of physical, mental, and spiritual renewal while honoring the divine feminine energy of this transformative time.

You will be provided with an Ayurvedic consultation with Kate, all the details for cleansing safely and effectively using Ayurvedic diet and herbs based on your constitution, yogic exercises to support your experience, a loving and supportive group container with live check-ins with Kate and Kayla throughout the experience.

WHAT TO EXPECT:

- Personalized Ayurvedic Consultation with Kate Bentley
- Guided Recorded Daily Yoga Practices with Kayla
- Easy-to-follow Ayurvedic recipes personalized to your constitution
- Optional personalized herbal formulas
- Daily grounding and heart focused practices to promote deep release and renewal
- Live check-in calls with Kayla and Kate
- Supportive and like-minded community

MORE ABOUT NAVARATRI:

Navaratri, the nine nights of the Divine Feminine, is a sacred time in the Vedic calendar to go within and cleanse the body, mind, and spirit. Traditionally observed during the change of seasons, this period holds immense significance as nature transitions, inviting us to align with its rhythms. Navaratri begins on March 30 and concludes on April 7, woven around the astrological events of the total lunar eclipse on March 13–14. And partial solar eclipse on the 29th. Lunar eclipses tend to impact emotions, relationships, and inner transformation. They encourage introspection and often bring about changes in personal relationships or self-awareness. This solar eclipse marks a time for bold new beginnings, aligned with authenticity and courage.

These celestial shifts amplify the potency of purification practices, offering an ideal time to reset and rejuvenate.

Navaratri honors nine aspects of the Goddess, each representing distinct psychological and spiritual aspects within us. By aligning our practices with their energies, we transcend limitations and awaken to our highest potential. Through cleansing rituals, disciplined living, and devotion, this time becomes an alchemical process of shedding old layers and inviting renewal.

Kayla Copeland’s Bio:

Kayla Copeland - E-RYT 500, MA, Psychotherapist

Kayla Copeland has been a student of yoga since the early 2000s and has incorporated yoga into her daily life ever since. She has trained extensively with Aimee Nitzberg in Santa Cruz, California and Sri Dharma Mittra in New York City. She is also greatly inspired by Eoin Finn, Richard Freeman, Meghan Currie, David Swenson, and many more. Kayla is certified ERYT-500 and has received over 500 hours of yoga training.

Fast-forward nearly 20 years, Kayla’s classes focus on well-being, self-love, and mindfulness. Alongside fluid movement and breath awareness, she believes yoga to be a holistic tool and a transformational method from the inside out.

Amidst teaching for public and private clients and hosting local and international retreats, Kayla is an artist and a master’s student of Mindfulness-based Counseling Psychology. She delicately weaves an essence of creativity, self-awareness, embodiment, and inspiration into every one of her sessions.

You can find out more about Kayla’s offerings, background and art at https://www.kaylatahani.com/

Kate Bentley's Bio:

Kate Bentley - MA, Ayurvedic Practitioner and Instructor at Mount Madonna Institute

Kate Bentley is a passionate Ayurvedic Practitioner, Faculty Instructor, and Clinical Supervisor at the College of Āyurveda – Mount Madonna Institute. Deeply rooted in the classical teachings of Āyurveda and Yoga, she draws inspiration from her teacher Baba Hari Dass and integrates the wisdom of Peruvian Shamanism and Tantric healing practices into her work.

Kate is committed to guiding individuals on their wellness journey through physical, mental, and spiritual detoxification, combining Ayurvedic nutrition, herbal therapies, and detox protocols to address issues like energy depletion, sleep disturbances, digestive imbalances, weight fluctuations, and aging vitality. She empowers her clients to cultivate balance and harmony in their lives, helping them achieve long-lasting health.

As a clinical practitioner at Kaya Kalpa, Mount Madonna’s wellness center, and an active member of NAMA (National Ayurvedic Medical Association), Kate also teaches and mentors students in the School of Yoga and Ayurveda. Her approach blends ancient wisdom with modern life, offering transformative support for those seeking resilience, vitality, and lasting well-being.

INSTRUCTORS: Vaidehi Amair & Friends

DATE: Saturday, March 29th

TIME: 7:00pm - 8:30pm

LOCATION: 3707 Portola Drive – Yoga Studio

COST: $22 Drop In / Passes & Memberships Apply / No one turned away for lack of funds

DESCRIPTION:

An evening of chanting Kirtan, as it is, and has originally been presented by the inaugurator of Bhakti Yoga, Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. The Mahamantra is known to be the greatest of all mantras and the Yuga Dharma, (Duty of this age) of Kali. It is the only mantra that can give not only from this material world, but engagement in devotion to Sri Krishna, the Adi purusa, the source and origin of all incarnations. The crest jewel of the Vedas is Bhakti, devotion, and the mahamantra is directly tied to Bhakti Yoga as one of the principle processes of Bhakti. Come and learn the original and traditional practice of Kirtan as it is, with a clear and direct representation and experience of the practice in its most authentic form.

INSTRUCTOR: Alison Chesley

DATES: Sunday, March 23rd

TIME: 11:15am - 12:45pm

LOCATION: 3603 Portola Drive – Dance Studio

COST: $25

DESCRIPTION:

IN THIS PERFORMANCE WORKSHOP, Alison will be teaching us a simple and fabulously fun jazz dance routine that we will be performing at Dancing in the Streets on April 17th! Although you do not have to perform, we highly encourage you to do so because it is so FUN and you are FABULOUS!

Alison will be breaking it down step by step so dancers can really pull it together in a polished way, feel confident while dancing, and enjoy dancing together in community!

CARDIO FUNK is a high energy all level choreography dance class to upbeat music where we build a fun and accessible dance routine over the hour for some serious satisfaction by the end. Starting with a warm-up then breaking down moves with a continuous cardio flow that includes some gut and ab toning, Alison’s clear and experienced style makes dancing our way to wellness AWESOME and available to all levels with no dance experience necessary!

INSTRUCTOR: Joss Jaffe & Emily Perry

DATE: Saturday, March 22nd

TIME: 7:00pm - 9:00pm

LOCATION: 3707 Portola Drive – Yoga Studio

COST: $22 Drop In | Class Passes & Memberships Apply / No one turned away for lack of funds

DESCRIPTION:

Join Joss Jaffe and Emily Perry for a night of heart centered music and chanting.

Kirtan is call and response chanting from the Bhakti Yoga tradition, a joyful practice of devotion.

Kirtan is a spiritual practice of Bhakti (devotional) Yoga, a musically guided call-and-response chanting of Sanskrit mantras of healing and empowerment. It's a musically guided meditation practice that calms the mind, relaxes the body, and energizes the spirit. Some say, it's like singing to your highest self or to your angels or to The Universe or to God (whatever resonates most to your heart as this is a very personal and sacred practice).

Kirtan is not a performance, but a collective group prayer. Together we will use our voices to participate in this uplifting and cathartic experience of chanting mantras.

Come experience the uplifting and heart opening affects of Kirtan, in a safe and supportive evening of sacred mantras and glorious harmony of call-and-response chanting.

No previous yoga, meditation or singing experience is necessary to participate.

All Voices Welcome!

About Joss Jaffe:
Joss Jaffe performs as a Vocalist, Tabla player and Multi-Instrumentalist. As a composer and producer he has created innovative albums including Svara Mandala, Echosystem and Dub Mantra to critical acclaim. He has toured throughout multiple continents, bringing his music to an international audience. Joss’ work been critically acclaimed by LA Yoga Magazine, the UK’s Om Magazine, and other prominent publications. Joss Jaffe’s music is rooted in his desire to unite people through spirit, love, joy, community and consciousness. Joss creates innovative songs that bring international artists from different cultures and languages into a nexus where new music is discovered. His music invites the audience into a space of spontaneous joy.

About Emily Perry: E-RYT500, MTOM
Emily Perry holds a Bachelor of Arts in Biology from Hamilton College and a Master of Traditional Oriental Medicine from Emperor’s College. With over thirty years of experience in yoga, mindfulness, and energetic healing systems, Emily has become a Master Teacher and teacher of teachers. Trained as an Acupuncturist and Herbalist in California, Emily’s deep immersion in Breathwork, Ayurveda, Buddhist meditation, and yogic science naturally led her to guide yoga teacher trainings. She is recognized for her expertise in blending energetic alignment, Bhakti (devotion), and soulful vinyasa flow practices. Her meditation journey began as a teenager in Los Angeles, exploring Zen and Tibetan traditions before discovering yoga through the transformative book Light on Yoga. Emily’s continued practice draws from non-dual spiritual and devotional lineages, and her work is deeply informed by teachers Janet Stone, Chandra Easton, and Scott Blossom. Emily has trained teachers worldwide, integrating energetic systems into her yoga teachings. As a sought-after speaker and retreat leader, she has shared her teachings at festivals, retreats, and trainings globally, as well as on platforms like YogaAnytime and Insight Timer.

INSTRUCTOR: Deborah Yates

DATE: Sunday, March 16th

TIME: 11:15am - 12:45pm

LOCATION: 3603 Portola Drive – Dance Studio

COST: $25

DESCRIPTION:

IN THIS PERFORMANCE WORKSHOP, Deborah will be teaching us a flashy  / cheerleader moves, inspired dance routine to A.P.T. by Rose' & Bruno Mars that we will perform at Dancing in the Streets on April 17th! Performing is not required but we highly encourage you to do so because it is so FUN and you are FABULOUS!

Deborah will be breaking it down step by step so dancers can really pull it together in a polished way, feel confident while dancing, and enjoy dancing together in community!

INSPIRE DANCE is a recipe for a delicious dance cardio experience. Move to your favorite popular songs combining dance styles from hip-hop, funk, jazz and contemporary while spicing it up with a bit of musical theater. Class includes breakdowns and sweat sesh with no pro skills needed. Just bring your passion for dance, love of music and your desire to move!

INSTRUCTOR: Sidney Nicol & Vega Bluem

DATES: Saturday, March 15th

TIME: 5:00pm - 8:00pm

LOCATION: 3603 Portola Drive – Dance Studio

COST: $60 Early Rate / $65 Day of Event

DESCRIPTION:

Under guided instruction, we will explore giving and receiving assisted stretching and weightless floating massage in aerial hammocks. This unique experience of anti-gravity massage, rocking compression and swaying movements will lull away tension and offer a flowing sense of body awareness. Practices for greater mindfulness and communication will be playfully included.

INSTRUCTORS - SIDNEY NICOL & VEGA BLUEM

Sidney Nicol

Founder of The Temple of Touch and Certified Massage Therapist for over 20 years, Sidney is deeply inspired in sharing therapeutic touch and sacred presence with non-professionals. Everyone benefits from knowing how to massage their loved ones with playfulness and ease! She has taught Thai Massage workshops at Stanford University, privately, public events and at many yoga studios throughout the Bay Area. She is also a long time instructor of Hatha Yoga, Brazilian Dance and practitioner of Qigong. Her studies of Thai Massage began in 2006 at the Wat Pho Temple in Bangkok, Thailand. Further study and apprenticeship at Twin Lakes College of Healing Arts and Spirit Winds School of Thai Massage. Be in TOUCH...
https://www.facebook.com/thetempleoftouch

https://www.instagram.com/thetempleoftouch/

Vega Bluem

Vega Bluem provides physiotherapy, personal training, and life coaching services at her Volo Volo studio in Santa Cruz. Vega holds a B.S. in Biology from Tufts University, a Masters in Physical Therapy from the University of Delaware, and an MBA from China Europe International Business School/Fletcher School of Law & Diplomacy/Harvard Business School. Vega is a certified mat and aerial yoga instructor with Trauma Informed and Ayurvedic training. She was a Division I scholarship track + cross-country runner, and a Varsity soccer player in college. When she is not in the studio, you can find her acro-jamming, running and hiking trails, surfing waves, flipping in her aerial yoga hammock, lifting heavy things, cooking with plants & fungi, practicing world languages, and hanging out with her two amazing adult daughters.

INSTRUCTOR: Gisella Ferreira

DATE: Saturday, March 15th

TIME: 11:00am - 12:30pm

LOCATION: 3603 Portola Drive – Dance Studio

COST: $20 Drop In | Class Passes & Memberships Apply

DESCRIPTION:

 11-11:30am: Brazil Fit: Active Wear by Gisella Clothing Sale!!! 

Come shop the gorgeous and flattering Brazilian active wear by Gisella! Then stay for a Vibe Brazil Dance Class afterwards and try out your new style.

 11:30-12:30pm: Vibe Brazil: Brazilian Dance + Fitness class, including Baile Funk, Samba, and Axé. Come join the fun and catch the vibe!