Afpa American Fitness Professionals And Associates

AFPA education and certification provides individuals with the information necessary to achieve long term success in the fitness, nutrition and wellness professions. Our dedication to high standards and progressive educational training programs follow the most current guidelines set forth by the most respected agencies!

Whether you are just getting started with your career or if you just want to expand your knowledge, AFPA looks forward to providing you with the education you seek and deserve!AFPA offers some of the most highly regarded personal trainer, fitness instructor, Pilates, Yoga, nutrition and sports conditioning certifications, education programs and educational opportunities available within the fitness industry. AFPA shares your passion to be the best you can be! It’s what sets you apart and makes you successful!AFPA brings you the most advanced, innovative education and certification programs; so you can reach your professional goals at a price you can afford!AFPA certification programs are centered around what aspiring fitness professionals need to know to succeed; they are designed to meet the evolving needs of your career and the fitness industry!

THE AFPA MISSION

Our mission is to provide students with affordable education that gives them the knowledge, skills and awareness necessary to enhance their own lives, the lives of others, and the community at large. We accomplish this through innovative program design, teaching, research and service focused on the professional practice of fitness, wellness, nutrition, health and physical education.

HISTORY

AFPA was founded in October 1994 to create and foster an educational environment conducive to the fitness enthusiast and professional. The launch of the AFPA organization brought educational courses directly to students in locations in the United States and abroad. Courses provided students with the opportunity to pre-study and then attend a resident portion for testing, in addition to providing distance learning through home studies. As technology improved, AFPA began to provide courses more distance learning options and online tools. In the past few years, AFPA provides the majority of its educational courses through distance learning.From the conception of AFPA, distance learning courses, conferences, and seminars provided members and prospects with up-to-date quality education in the U.S. and internationally.

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Our goal is to provide fitness, health, wellness and nutrition distance education programs and certifications that are of interest to those in the physical fitness, health, wellness and nutrition industry by way of offering quality, reasonably priced, updated and new distance education programs and certifications.

To enhance professional development of fitness, health, wellness and nutrition students by facilitating opportunities for learning and individual growth by way of creating opportunities for professional development through distance education, professional conferences and online learning.

To uphold established AFPA standards and guidelines for the delivery of a variety of quality services, to future students, students and graduates by way of updating record keeping services, business practices and ongoing support.

To work in partnership with public/private/national/international organizations, associations & businesses by way of the creation of distance education programs and services to improve overall awareness of fitness, health, wellness and nutrition education and that support the benefits of such to all individuals and the communities in which they live.

To interact with fitness, health, wellness and nutrition organizations and professionals toward progression and improvement of related education and professional practices by way of examination of current research findings through participation and the conduct of market research to advance fitness education and professional practices.

Art Of Pilates

We believe that the mind and body are not only interconnected but also serve as a guide to total wellness and balance. Our approach to our Pilates Reformer sessions through private sessions and group classes inspires the best version of yourself. Each of our instructors will challenge you to grow and achieve your optimal balance of strength, flexibility and overall health. We teach from a place of encouragement, inspiration, and shared knowledge. It is our goal through our several types of sessions and classes to offer something for everyone – whether you’re a beginner or Pilates veteran, a first-time expectant mother, or healing from an injury. Art of Pilates is in the heart of Playa del Rey, just one short block from the beach. Our boutique studio is a relaxing home away from home with vibrant restaurants and stores nearby. We emphasize privacy and individual attention to meet the unique needs of all of our clients and tailor our Pilates programs accordingly.

Our full range of Pilates equipment includes five brand new Allegro 2 Reformers, 2 Tower apparatuses, a fully equipped Cadillac/Reformer Converter, Wunda Chairs, Jumpboards, a ladder barrel, arc barrels, a trampoline for circuit training, rotating discs, foam rollers, Bosu Balance Trainers, magic circles, Therabands, weighted balls, poles, weights, a built-in ballet barre, and an array of stability balls, which will assist in education and strengthening your body. No two classes are the same and incorporate different pieces of equipment each time so your body will be continuously challenged!

Our goal at Art of Pilates is to provide a safe and supportive environment that is conducive to helping increase your body awareness and overall health. Click here to learn a little more about the wonderful instructors who bring our studio to life.

What is the history of Pilates?

Pilates (“puh-LAH-tees”), was created by Joseph Pilates who was born in Germany in 1883. He suffered from asthma, rickets, and rheumatic fever as a child. Determined to fight these ailments, Pilates studied anatomy, gymnastics, wrestling and acrobatics. He moved to England where he boxed professionally and taught self-defense techniques to Scotland Yard.

During World War I, Pilates, like many German citizens, was forced into an internment camp. It was here that he began integrating (and teaching other internees) the exercises he had taught himself into a comprehensive fitness method. He called this “Contrology” – the focus on concentration and one’s ability to control the muscles of the body. This sense of control also provided psychological benefits and was vital to maintaining physical and mental health during his internment.

Pilates moved to New York City between the two World Wars where his unique approach to fitness was quickly recognized and adopted by dancers to help with strengthening and combating their own ailments. Pilates devotees included the famous dancers and dance company founders George Balanchine and Martha Graham. Today, people from all walks of life are discovering (and loving!) the benefits of Pilates.

Buddhist Meditation Center Mahamevnawa

Mahamevnawa Bhavana Monastery of New Jersey is a non-profit organization that was inaugurated in December 2007 in expectation of learning and distributing the Dhamma for anyone in New Jersey USA. We are a branch of Mahamevnwa Asapuwa in Sri Lanka and all activities are carried out by the venerable monks from Mahamevnawa. Monks of the Order of Mahamevnawa Bhavana Monastery strictly follow the ancient Buddhist monastic code.

About Mahamevnawa Moanastery

Mahamevnawa (pron. “Mahaa-maeu-nava” is Sinhalese for the Pali word “Mahamegha” which lit. means “great cleansing rain shower” and was the name of the royal park in ancient Sri Lanka where the first Buddhist monk upon arrival on the island of Sri Lanka delivered a discourse of the Buddha by reciting from memory and thus instructing the listeners in the teaching of the Buddha) Buddhist Monastery is an organization of Buddhist monasteries, of Sri Lankan origin established to benefit the spiritual development of human beings using the teachings of the Gautama Buddha. Its main monastery is in Polgahawela, Sri Lanka, and Sri Lanka is home to 35 branches of the organization. Overseas branches are in Canada, USA, Australia, UK and Germany.

The founder and the chief Buddhist monk in charge of these monasteries is Venerable Kiribathgoda Gnanananda Thero, who is engaged in spreading Buddhism to both local and international communities, and in highlighting the aim of Buddhism: putting and end to Dukkha (suffering) or attaining Nibbana. Mahamevnawa is a reform movement and follows one simple yet profound ideal: to learn from the Buddha directly and put his very instructions into practice – a kind of Buddhist renaissance with the intention to discover the roots of Early Buddhism and to re-apply their timeless principles.

About New Jersey Branch

Mahamevnawa Buddhist Meditation Center of New Jersey Inc (MBMNJ) is a non-profit organization dedicated to the practice and teaching of Buddha Gotama known as Theravada Buddhism. MBMNJ is a New Jersey (US) branch of Mahamevnawa Buddhist Monastery of Sri Lanka.

It is our mission to advance the Buddha’s teachings of generosity, morality and meditation and to enhance the spiritual life of our members and the general public through cultivating friendship, compassion and wisdom. The services of this organization are open to any member of the public interested in learning and practicing Theravada Buddhism.

Wat Nawamintararachutis Meditation Center

Wat Nawamintararachutist

The NMR Buddhist Meditation Center (in short “Wat Nawamin”) was established in 2002 in honor of His Majesty King Rama IX of Thailand (King Bhumibol Adulyadej the Great) who is the only monarch to have been born in the United States, to celebrate the 60th anniversary of his coronation on June 9, 2006 and his 80th birthday on December 5, 2007. Wat Nawamintararachutis serves as a place for people of all races, nationalities, and backgrounds to benefit from Buddhist meditation and practice according to the doctrines of the Lord Buddha. Wat Nawamintararachutis also serves as a Thai-American cultural center. There are classes given in Thai language and etiquette, traditional Thai musical instruments and Thai dancing. These activities are not only designed to assist Thai-American community in preserving their traditional cultural heritage, but also many Asian-American have found comfort away from home at Wat Nawamin. Wat Nawamintararachutis (The NMRBuddhistMeditationCenter) At Wat Nawamintarachutis we enjoy many activities throughout the year. These include celebrations, ceremonies, and festivals. The year begins with the New Year celebration in January and Magha Puja Day in February or March.

We celebrate Thai New Year, the so-called Songkran Day in April and Visakha Puja Day in May. From July to October we observe the Rains Retreat Holiday beginning with Asanha Puja Day and Vassa (Thai: Wan Kao-Pansa) and ending with the Katina Festival. We commemorate the Queen’s birthday (Thai Mother’s Day) in August; Wan Piyamaharat and Ok-Pansa in October. We celebrate Loy Krathong festival in November and the King’s birthday (Thai Father’s Day) in December. You are cordially invited to join us during these special events.

There will be wonderful Thai cuisine, traditional Thai music and dance performances, and warm-hearted greetings from all of your new friends. Actual dates and times and details will be announced on the website: www.watnawamin.org prior to each event. For your spiritual growth, we offer a one-day meditation retreat every month and four week-long meditation retreats during the year. For the children, we offer Sunday school classes. There is tutoring in Thai language, Thai culture, and intensive activities of summer school program. For children and adults of all ages, we offer traditional Thai dancing lessons and instruction on classical Thai musical instruments. If you are interested in any of the above activities, please call the phone number or visit the website for more information regarding dates and times. Here are a few rules of etiquette to assist you with becoming familiar with Thai Buddhism and culture. We always take our shoes off when entering the main Buddha Hall and avoid sitting with our feet pointing at the Buddha statue. Monks may neither touch nor be touched by women and nuns may neither touch nor be touched by men. The best way of greeting is ‘wai’ – a slight bow with the palms pressed together in a prayer-like fashion. It is the act of courtesy that is greatly appreciated.

The Dailey Method Hershey

Welcome to The Dailey Method Hershey

We’re ready to help you transform your life. The Dailey Method is the fastest way to a strong, lean, sculpted body. Combining the best of Pilates, yoga, and ballet barre training, our classes are an ever-evolving mix of movement that offer extreme benefits for body and mind. Our classes are driven by fitness research and our students’ needs. We offer individualized attention in a group setting to give you the strength, discipline, and joy to find ultimate alignment.

In addition, our studio now offers Dailey Cycle, the bike-to-barre class that gives you more. Using The Dailey Method’s signature focus on alignment and form, this class delivers a balanced, full body workout resulting in a fun, high-calorie burn.

WHAT MAKES US DIFFERENT?

We are passionate about alignment. We ignite awareness through hands-on training and education. The result is better posture, better movement, and a more complete workout. We do in a single class what takes others a week.

It’s simple, but revolutionary. Proper alignment radiates outward from the spine, bringing balance. When we start with alignment the muscles engage in their correct positions, elongating, contracting, strengthening. Other workouts focus on movement first, they have you spinning your wheels, working harder than you need to, and never really balancing the body for optimal fitness and safety. The Dailey Method helps you work smarter.

The Dailey Method wasn’t started with venture capital or run by a corporation. It was a community effort that caught fire solely through word of mouth. People took the class (loved it) and told their friends, who told their friends and so on. Beyond the workout, it’s the supportive teachers and community atmosphere that sets The Dailey Method apart. Unlike a traditional large fitness class, clients receive individual education and 1-on-1 attention. The practice helps ground and center clients to transform their minds and bodies. That is all considered part of the hands-on holistic approach that makes the Dailey difference. Still looking for answers, Learn More about our signature method.

Wat Lao Dhammavanno Buddhist Temple

A Buddhist temple is the place of worship for Buddhists, the followers of Buddhism. They include the structures called stupa, wat and pagoda in different regions and languages. Temples in Buddhism represent the pure land or pure environment of a Buddha. Traditional Buddhist temples are designed to inspire inner and outer peace.[1] Its structure and architecture varies from region to region. Usually, the temple consists not only of its buildings, but also the surrounding environment. The Buddhist temples are designed to symbolize 5 elements: Fire, Air, Earth, Water, and Wisdom Buddhist meditation refers to the meditative practices associated with the religion and philosophy of Buddhism. Core meditation techniques have been preserved in ancient Buddhist texts and have proliferated and diversified through teacher-student transmissions.

Buddhists pursue meditation as part of the path toward Enlightenment and Nirvana.[a] The closest words for meditation in the classical languages of Buddhism are bhāvanā[b] and jhāna/dhyāna.[c] Buddhist meditation techniques have become increasingly popular in the wider world, with many non-Buddhists taking them up for a variety of reasons. Buddhist meditation encompasses a variety of meditation techniques that aim to develop mindfulness, concentration, supramundane powers, tranquility, and insight. Given the large number and diversity of traditional Buddhist meditation practices, this article primarily identifies authoritative contextual frameworks — both contemporary and canonical — for the variety of practices. For those seeking school-specific meditation information.

Nechung Dorje Drayang Ling Buddhist Temple

Center For Investigating Healthy Minds

What if our world were a kinder, wiser, more compassionate place? A place where we exercise our minds just like we exercise our bodies? A place where transforming your mind not only improves your own well-being, but cascades to the well-being of others in your community and around the globe?

We’re making this vision a reality at the Center for Healthy Minds at the University of Wisconsin–Madison. Faced with mental and physical health challenges at a global scale, we conduct rigorous scientific research to bring new insights and tools aimed at improving the well-being of people of all backgrounds and ages.

Our research, rooted in neuroscience, comes down to one basic question: What constitutes a healthy mind?To begin to answer this, we’ve investigated the science of emotions, contemplative practices and qualities of mind we suspect affect well-being, including attention, resilience, equanimity, savoring positive emotions, kindness, compassion, gratitude and empathy. The Center, part of one of the world’s top research institutions, benefits from cross-disciplinary collaborations in the arts and humanities, the physical and natural sciences, and the social sciences. We take pride in being a global hub for innovations in affective and contemplative neuroscience in addition to well-being across the lifespan.

FOUNDER OF THE CENTER FOR HEALTHY MINDS AT THE UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN–MADISON

Davidson is best known for his groundbreaking work studying emotion and the brain. A friend and confidante of the Dalai Lama, he is a highly sought after expert and speaker, leading conversations on well-being on international stages such as the World Economic Forum, where he serves on the Global Council on Mental Health. Time Magazine named Davidson one of “The 100 Most Influential People in the World” in 2006.

His research is broadly focused on the neural bases of emotion and emotional style as well as methods to promote human flourishing, including meditation and related contemplative practices. His studies have centered on people across the lifespan, from birth through old age. In addition, he’s conducted studies with individuals with emotional disorders such as mood and anxiety disorders and autism, as well as expert meditation practitioners with tens of thousands of hours of experience. His research uses a wide range of methods including different varieties of MRI, positron emission tomography, electroencephalography and modern genetic and epigenetic methods.

Hamilton Health Pilates Studio And Fitness

A unique Jersey City gym, we’re excited and proud to be a part of the growing Hamilton Park community. Located in beautiful Hamilton Square, we are a fitness facility committed to the building’s innovative eco-friendly design and construction, using recycled materials and energy-efficient processes. We feature an indoor lap pool, a fully-equipped Pilates studio (Project Pilates), cardio equipment, free weights, sauna, steam rooms, child care, and a large selection of group fitness classes including Yoga, Kettlebell, Indoor Cycling, Kickboxing, Water Bootcamp, and Pilates Mat/Reformer/Tower classes.

Taking a cue from historic Hamilton Park, we’ve kept things light, airy, green, and natural. Large thermal windows flood the space with light, and natural stone and wood finishes accompany the most advanced cardio and weight-training equipment. This contemporary, warm setting with an added focus on nutrition and wellness, enlightens and energizes even the most strenuous workout. An uncommon gym, we offer the most holistic gym experience in Jersey City.

In the 1920’s Joseph Pilates developed a system of precise movements designed to strengthen the core muscles and improve control and flexibility throughout the body without building bulk. The result is long, lean muscles, flat abs and better posture and movement. Pilates is great for muscle stamina, mental clarity and overall health, wellness, and awareness.

Project Pilates is located inside Hamilton Health & Fitness. Our studio is complete with a Cadillac, Reformers, Ladder Barrel, Wunda Chairs and Wall Mounted Towers. Private sessions, semi private sessions, group tower classes and group mat classes are available. And because no two bodies are alike, classes are taught using a variety of sequences and equipment. Not only will you stay motivated; you’ll look and feel better too!

We are the most unique Pilates studio in New Jersey. How? Included immediately before or after your class/session is full use of the Hamilton Health & Fitness facility.

PILATES EQUIPMENT:

If you are brand new to Pilates, we recommend one-on-one sessions or at least taking a few one-on-one sessions before starting group classes. We offer a discounted package of 3 private Pilates sessions for new comers, ask for The Intro Pack.Semi-private sessions for you and your partner are a great alternative to private sessions. For optimum results, partners should be at a similar level or in a similar condition (pregnant, postpartum). If private or semi-private sessions are not possible and you’re interested in group equipment classes, please start with Beginner equipment classes.

PILATES MAT CLASSES:

Our Basics for Beginners class is held once a month – the first Sunday of each month. We highly suggest this class!If you are ready to jump in and the first of the month has passed, start with one of our Beginner-Level Mat classes and speak to the instructor afterward. She can help you decide how to proceed.

Minnesota Buddhist Vihara Temple

ABOUT US

The Minnesota Buddhist Vihara is a Buddhist temple that serves all those interested in learning about the Teachings of the Buddha. We offer teachings for both children and adults. We welcome people from all traditions and cultures to ‘come and see’ and to share in practices such as meditation, discussion on the teachings of the Buddha and ritual and cultural events of the Buddhist community of Minnesota.

MISSION

The mission of the Minnesota Buddhist Vihara is to share the Buddha’s message of Peace and Happiness and help create peace and harmony within and ourselves and in the surrounding world. Vihara is open to people of all faith traditions and cultures. We welcome you come and see, to participate in spiritual practices such as meditation, observance of precepts, discussions of Dhamma (Buddha’s teachings) and community events.

Buddhism, one of the major world religions, founded by Siddhartha Gautama popularly known as the Buddha (the Enlightened One), is regarded as one of the three most widespread religions in the world today. Buddha was born in during the sixth century BCE into a royal family of the Sakyan clan. Though He had all the comforts for a good life with wealth, palaces for three seasons and so on He was not satisfied with them. He saw life as suffering due to impermanent nature of phenomena and determined to find a lasting solution to the problem of suffering. So he gave up all material things and became a homeless wanderer. He practiced severe self-mortification for six long years in the hope of realizing Nibbana in order to eradicate suffering. Having realized that there are two extremes with regard to religious practices, Siddhartha Gautama decided to follow the Middle Way (Majjhima Patipada). Through the combined practice of Tranquility (Samatha) and Insight (Vipassana) meditations he realized Nibbana and became Enlightened.

The basic teaching of the Buddha includes epistemology, theory of knowledge and ethics which is called Vijja (wisdom) and Carana (practice). Buddha’s basic teaching includes the Four Noble Truths, Three Signata (Tilakkhana), Karma, Dependent Origination, Nibbana, theory of perception. The foundation of Buddhist ethics is non-violence, compassion and loving kindness. He emphasized the self-analogous ethical theory which is more effective in solving social problems. In Buddhism there is room for investigation and inquiry.

In the hope of giving Buddha’s message we have founded the Minnesota Buddhist Vihara. The aim of our mission is to create a peaceful and harmonious world. Vihara is open to everybody. All are welcome to take part in our religious activities like meditation, observance of precepts, Dhamma discussions and so forth.

Buddhist Meditation Center Padmasambhava

The Padmasambhava Buddhist Center and Ven. Khenpo Tsewang Dongyal Rinpoche are honored to receive His Eminence Terton Namkha Drimed Rinpoche at Padma Samye Ling on Friday, August 26, 2016 to bless the Three Kaya Temple and bestow the empowerment of Guru Padmasambhava according to the lineage of the great Terton Taksham Samten Lingpa. Everyone is welcome to this very special event! On April 1, 2014 at Padma Samye Ling, Venerable Khenpo Tsewang Rinpoche gave a soaring introduction to Dzogchen meditation while he explained the title of the famous text by Lama Shabkar Tsokdruk Rangdrol, "The Flight of the Garuda: A Song Illustrating the View of Cutting Through, According to the Clear Light Great Perfection, endowed with the Power of Enabling One to Quickly Move Through All the Paths and Bhumis." This extensive teaching distills the complete meaning of Flight of the Garuda, and Dzogchen in general. Enjoy!

Clouds In Water Zen Center St Paul

ABOUT CLOUDS IN WATER

Clouds in Water Zen Center offers the opportunity for people to practice Zen Buddhism, whatever their background or faith may be. Zen Buddhism is about awakening the heart-mind to its own inherent wisdom and compassion.To facilitate this awakening, we offer classes and workshops, sesshins and retreats, individual meetings with the teachers, community meditation and chanting, family and youth programs, and support for practice in daily life.

We believe that guidance from experienced teachers and the support of a warm and open community are essential elements on the journey of opening the heart.Clouds in Water Zen Center welcomes people of every race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, creed, religious background, ability and disability. We welcome single people, people in committed relationships, families and children. We welcome you!

HISTORY

Our Founder: Dainin Katagiri-roshi Clouds in Water Zen Center follows in the lineage of Dainin Katagiri-roshi, a Soto Zen monk who came to this country in the early 1960’s, worked with Shunryu Suzuki-roshi for ten years at Zen Center in San Francisco, and came to Minnesota starting the Minnesota Zen Meditation Center in 1972.

The Early Years

Clouds in Water was founded by Dosho Mike Port who was the guiding teacher and executive director of Clouds in Water from 1994 to 2004. Byakuren Judith Ragir become the Guiding Teacher in 2007 and served the sangha until January 2015. The current Guiding Teacher is Sosan Theresa Flynn.In April, 2015 Clouds in Water moved to its current location at 445 Farrington St.in St. Paul three blocks from the Green Line – Western Station.

Clouds in Water Today

After a lengthy process of listening and discernment, the Board of Directors in 2014 voted to explore relocating from our home of 17 years in the Lowertown area of St. Paul. In the fall of 2014, the Board voted to acquire a building at 445 Farrington Street in the Aurora-St. Anthony neighborhood. After extension remodeling, the Clouds community joyfully moved in to their new temple on April 1, 2015.Clouds in Water Zen Center today offers a peaceful neighborhood facility for meditation, retreats, classes and family activities.