Winter Solstice Benefit: Live Sound ft. Aurora & Antheia + Slow Flow for Kalamazoo Loaves & Fishes at kalamazoo backyard yogis
Join us for a slow, immersive, live-sound yoga experience honoring the winter solstice and supporting Kalamazoo Loaves & Fishes. We’ll move through 90 minutes of slow, accessible practice accompanied by live meditative music performed in the studio by Aurora & Antheia, a trio devoted to exploring the beauty of melodic and rhythmic sound, texture, and in-the-moment improvisation. Their music creates immersive soundscapes that foster peace, self-reflection, and connection.
Aurora & Antheia features violinist Cori Beth Somers, cellist and multi-instrumentalist Laurie A. Jarski, and percussionist Carolyn Koebel. Together, they bring over a century of collective experience and have spent decades studying and performing diverse styles—including folk, jazz, classical, rock, and global traditions from Eastern Europe, Asia, India, and Africa. Their work draws on centuries of wisdom surrounding vibration, resonance, and frequency—recognizing music’s ability to restore balance, open emotional landscapes, and create shared presence. Formed in 2023, the trio first composed a full-length work for Wellspring/Cori Terry & Dancers and has since expanded their reach across Michigan, recently releasing their debut full-length recording, Sonic Intimacy (available on Spotify and Bandcamp).
Saturday, December 20
6 PM session led by Quinn Laird
8 PM session led by Salina Johnson
Held at Kalamazoo Backyard Yogis inside Jerico, in partnership with The Clover Room and The Harmony Room. Doors open five minutes before each session.
What to expect
A gently lit space, live music, and slow, unhurried movement designed to help you feel into each posture and linger in sensation. You’ll be guided to move as much or as little as you’d like—each class open to all levels of experience. Some hands-on adjustments will be offered in the 6 PM class.
After practice, we’ll gather for a cup of hot wassail tea prepared by Angie Jackson, the Traveling Elixir Fixer and Jerico resident of The Harmony Room. Wassail is a traditional spiced cider served warm—a blend of seasonal fruit, citrus, and aromatic spices like cinnamon, clove, and nutmeg. It’s often associated with warmth, community, and good health during the cold months. While its effects can vary, sipping something warm and gently spiced may help the body unwind, support circulation, and bring a sense of comfort as we close the evening together.
Practice length is 90 minutes (75 minutes of movement and sound, with time for tea and transition). Mats, bolsters, blocks, straps, blankets, and pillows are provided—no need to bring your own. Wear comfortable, layered clothing and feel free to bring blankets, socks, or anything that helps you rest more fully.
The Clover Room and The Harmony Room will also be open before and after the classes for tea and connection. Guests attending the 8 PM session are invited to arrive early to enjoy tea and explore before practice begins. Guests from the 6 PM session are welcome to stay after class to linger, commune, and experience the space.
This event marks the first of what we hope will be many collaborations between Kalamazoo Backyard Yogis, The Clover Room, and The Harmony Room—a chance to connect with one another, with sound, and with the changing season.
Why the solstice?
The winter solstice marks the turning point from darkness toward light. As writer Bridget Anna McNeil reflects, “The solstice marks a turning point, a threshold moment between dark and light where we pause, breathe, and remember that renewal is already on its way.” Together, we’ll pause in that space—connecting with each other, with sensation, and with the rhythm of the season.
Community impact
A portion of all proceeds benefits Kalamazoo Loaves & Fishes, whose mission is to feed hungry people and engage the community in the fight to end hunger. This gathering is both a celebration of light returning and an act of care for our neighbors.
Tickets and details
Sliding scale rates:
$25 supported
$35 base
$45 community
All tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable between sessions, though you may give your ticket to someone else if you cannot attend.
By purchasing a ticket, participants acknowledge that yoga involves some physical activity and agree to release Kalamazoo Backyard Yogis, The Clover Room, The Harmony Room, and all instructors from liability for any injury that may occur during participation.
Kalamazoo Backyard Yogis exists to build community, foster well-being, and provide an equitable space for those most often left out of yoga. Celebrating all bodies. You are good.
JERICO
KALAMAZOO BACKARD YOGIS
1501 FULFORD ST, SUITE 2 KALAMAZOO, MI 49001