In need of a psychological boost? Why not engage in a little self improvement – it’s never to late to change how you see the world, and who knows, you might like the view. With free yoga classes and bootcamp sessions at NOMA, a mass participation eye-gazing event in Piccadilly Gardens, and free mediation sessions on Portland Street, there’s something for everyone.
1. Yoga and boot camp at Sadler’s Yard
Take part in free yoga classes with India Hewitt (every Wed 7am Plant NOMA) and bootcamp with Jamal Ajose-George (Tue & Thu, 7.15am Sadler’s Yard). No changing facilities.
Free tickets for yoga: plantyoga.eventbrite.com
Free tickets for bootcamp: sybootcamp.eventbrite.com
2. Eye gazing at Piccadilly Gardens
Apparently, gazing into someone else’s eyes for four minutes brings you closer than anything else can – and having tried it, we can confirm that it’s an experience unlike any other, that brings up feelings of humbleness and vulnerability as well as triggering a feeling of somehow ‘knowing’ the person you are looking at and feeling bonded to them, even if you have never met before. Conceptual and performance artist, Marina Abramović has popularised the practice of eye-gazing via residencies at MOMA and other art galleries. She also conducted a number of eye gazing workshops when she was taking part in MIF in 2009 at the Whitworth. However, there’s no need for an artist to guide you through the practice: simply turn up and experience the unique effects of this profound and intimate way of looking at another person.
Sat 17 Jun, Piccadilly Gardens, city centre, Manchester, noon-2pm, FREE, www.facebook.com
3. Free meditation session and talk at Kadampa Meditation Centre and Buddhist temple
Drop in in and take part in a free meditation session on Sunday. Aptly, its called All You Need is Love.
Sun 18 Jun, Kadampa Mediation Centre, 125 Portland Street, Manchester M1 4QD. Tel: 0161 861 7012, 11-11.45am, FREE, www.facebook.com
- Words:
- Ruth Allan
- Published on:
- Sun 9 Jul 2017
