Kitcharee is the quintessential Ayurvedic dish for full protein nourishment and ease of digestion. While we can look up a recipe, sometimes we just need the diksha (transmission) from someone who has made it countless times.

Together we will cook and taste these wonderful dishes together. 

#1. A Spring kitcharee, made with traditional ingredients including moong dal, basmati rice, Indian spices, and seasonal vegetables. This version will be non-vegan; cooked with ghee. 

#2. Bio-regional variation, made with local heirloom beans, local heirloom corn, and warming spices to aid digestibility. Everyone living in Colorado/New Mexico should make friends with Bolitas & Chicos. Vegan.

#3. Rasam. Complete with all 6 essential rasas (flavors), Rasam is the perfect complement to an Ayurvedic Cleanse. Rasam is a light, flavorful, immune-boosting soup from South India. Made with coconut oil. Vegan.

* This cooking class will be held in the newly renovated kitchen at the DYU Headquarters. All supplies will be provided and the community will learn, prep, cook, eat, and clean up together.

This event is part of an ongoing series designed to bridge yogic practices beyond asana into daily life. Through ritual, reflection, and embodied tools, participants are invited to cultivate greater clarity, balance, and resilience. The practices shared are practical, accessible, and intended to support both personal nourishment and longer-term integration, including preparation for deeper seasonal cleansing work, including our upcoming Annual Spring Cleanse launching in April.

Dates & Details:

• Saturday, April 11

• 10am to 12:30pm

• Northwest Denver, address shared after registration

• Contribution: $65

• Repeat Cleansers Reg: $50

Indriyani is the Sanskrit word for the senses. When unmanaged, they behave as wild horses, trampling peace. The senses are also gifts, portals into life and wisdom. Pratyahara practices work specifically with the senses, purifying and blessing them.

Join us for an evening dedicated to cultivating right relationship with the senses through:

• Song

• Asana

• Agnisar Dhauti (fire wash)

• Abhyanga of feet, heads, and hands

• Nyasa (mantra placement)

• Prana-vayu Meditation

Agnisar Dhauti: Literally fire washing. This is a practice of deep belly movement with breath retention at the bottom of exhalation; a skill we encourage during our Ayurvedic cleanse.

Abhyanga: The Ayurvedic practice of tissue massage with oils that have been decocted with Ayurvedic or Western herbs. Another skill we encourage during a cleanse and something that can be done daily to anoint the body.

Nyasa: The root word of Vinyasa, literally to place, install, or deposit. This practice places sound vibrations in specific places in the physical body. Mantras are offered to each of the senses, including senses that are beyond the common five.Prana Vayu Meditation:  A meditation to increase the robustness of pranic movement inside and beyond the body, mind, and energy field.

This event is part of an ongoing series designed to bridge yogic practices beyond asana into daily life. Through ritual, reflection, and embodied tools, participants are invited to cultivate greater clarity, balance, and resilience. The practices shared are practical, accessible, and intended to support both personal nourishment and longer-term integration, including preparation for deeper seasonal cleansing work, including our upcoming Annual Spring Cleanse launching in April.

Dates & Details:

• Saturday, March 28

• 2pm to 4pm

• DYU HQ – 3250 E. Sixth Ave. Upstairs.

• Contribute: $30

This Winter,  align with the gifts of prolonged darkness while held in the warm gaze of hand made ghee lamps.  We will craft our own candles, practice pranayama, chant the Gayatri mantra, and perform Tratak (practice of flame gazing). The evening will finish with an enlivened round of Omkar, to reinforce the collective vibration and to seal in the inner light. 

We will craft a little and make our own
ghee candles.  All supplies provided.

Gayatri Mantra:  Originating from the Rig Veda, this mantra is dedicated to the Sun God, Savitr. Savitr, the force that illuminates, warms and supports life on Bhu Devi (Mother Earth). Repetition increases the inner light of awareness in the mind.

Tratak:  This open-eyed meditation is done while staring into the flame of a candle. While any flame will do, the ghee flame has particular gunas that are exceptionally good for cleansing the vision on physical and subtle levels. 

Dates and Details:

• Thurs. Feb. 26th, 6-8pm

• 3250 E. Sixth Ave. Upstairs.

• Contribute: $30

NEW YEAR’S DAY GAYATRI MANTRA

WELCOME THE LIGHT OF THE NEW YEAR

There are many ways to mark transitions and make life a bit more purposeful. This New Year’s Day, I invite you to enter the new year on a mindful and sacred note. And to attend our annual New Year’s Day Gayatri Mantra Workshop.

The Gayatri Mantra is a prayerful petition to awaken the light of clear perception and soul within. It is also revered as the embodiment of sacred knowledge and reflection of the maternal aspect of life – the Divine Mother. 

The revised format now includes asana and pranayama practice, before chanting the Gayatri 108 times.

Join DYU Guest Instructor, Gurupriya Beth Sanchez, as she leads this timely and sacred gathering into the new year. 

Dates & Details

• Thursday, January 1st

• 8:30am to 11am

• DYU HQ – 639 East 19th Ave.

• Denver, CO 80203

• Sug. Donation ~$25

During this season of change into colder temperatures and higher winds, we need to draw our energy in and down. Fortunately, nature is always there, offering her wisdom and gifts. This meal is vegetarian but Vegans can be accommodated.

A quintessential Ayurvedic fall meal to repeat in its many variations through the season. You will learn about kitcheree varieties and principles to adjust it per the season and per your vikruiti (current condition). Also, we will learn the art of making ghee (fully clarified grass-fed organic butter), a simple process but there are some technical tricks!

Tridoshic Yam Kitcheree with Greens

Ghee (liquid sunshine)

Oven Roasted Fall Veggies in Herbs and Ghee

Ojas Building Shake (an almond cardamon smoothie to boost your innermost vital energy)

This class will be held in the Sloan’s Lake Neighborhood of Denver. Directions will arrive after registration.

$65
You can pay Beth via Venmo @bethsanchezyoga (look for a purple lotus) or reach out to pay cash or check. Current Denver Yoga Underground YTT students receive this class for a discount.

Join Crissy Horiuchi and Beth Gurupriya Sanchez for a 2 hour long Restorative Class with Body Work and Hands-On Reiki.

Crissy Horiuchi is a Reiki Master, retired nurse, sometimes yoga teacher, and full-time elf.  Her happiest place is out in nature with her family and friends.

Beth Sanchez is a Master Restorative Yoga Teacher who will guide the practice and offer multiple Hands- On Assists for those interested in receiving bodywork.

This event will take place at Karma Yoga Center located at 1705 South Pearl Street and E. Mexico in the Wash Park Neighborhood in Denver.. THIS CLASS IS LIMITED TO 16 PEOPLE SO SIGN UP EARLY.

Join us for a soulful day of yoga, reflection, and connection as veteran Denver teachers Beth Gurupriya Sanchez and Derik Purna Eselius return to guide another powerful Urban Yoga Retreat. With over 50 years of combined teaching experience, Beth and Derik are deeply committed to uplifting the best in our community through authentic yogic practice. Come replenish your body, mind, and spirit — and reconnect with what truly matters.

Event Details:

• A circle of sincere yogis

• Bhakti-infused lunch 

• Dedicated yoga practice, pranayama, song, meditation and dharma

• Reminders to feed the very best in ourselves 

• Support for ongoing personal practice 

• Grounded, seasoned teachers dedicated to sacred community in place 

Retreat Dates & Details

• Sunday, September 7

• 8:30AM to 4:30PM

• DYU HQ - 3250 E Sixth Ave. Denver

• COST – Fair Market or Pay-What-You-Can

• Learn more about pricing and payment options here. 

Totally Vegan

 Another great summer meal, Mexican style. I will be sharing the Ayurvedic principles in this meal even though it is not Indian food. Ayurveda is not actually about Indian cuisine, it is about elements, tastes, seasons, doshas, and actions in the body. As such, the principles can be applied to any cuisine.

• Tostadas (not as ordinary as you may think! includes chile sin carne/bean spread)

• Salsa Verde con Aguacate (chunks of avocado floating in a poblano tomatillo bath)

• Mango Corn Salsa

• Jicama Cucumber Salad with Cilantro Lime Dressing

• Vegan Crema Mexicana (more like creme fraiche than sour cream)

• Te de Jamaica (bright pink hibiscus tea with mint)

$75.

Reach out to Beth if you do not have Venmo.

• Based on Ayurvedic Protocol 

In Person, Online & Recorded

Fair Market or Pay What You Can

This Fall, take deep reset and renewal with DYU teachers Beth Sanchez and Derik Eselius. Based on Ayurvedic methods, this gradual elimination and reintroduction diet will be coupled with regenerative herbs, ayurvedic treatments, fasting, group support, and up to five bonus yoga classes!

Ideal for People Who:

• Have an interest in yoga, ayurveda and spiritual practice

• Need a habit and lifestyle reboot

• Feel ready to engage in wholesome discipline

• Want to give and receive collective support

Stages & Dates:

#1 Intro. & Set Up – Wed. Oct. 15, 7:15-8:30 pm
Get an overview of what’s to come, the supplies you need and build a sacred, supportive container for your cleanse. We will also chant Mantra to strengthen the community of fellow cleansers.

#2 Launch! – Sun. Oct. 19
Begin the process of a gradual elimination diet, lifestyle hygiene, and fortifying a full commitment for everyone’s success.

#3 Online Yoga Class #1 - Tues. Oct. 21, 7:30-8:30am - Online yoga class available. Receive nourishing camaraderie and practice with fellow cleansers.

#4 In-Person or Online Master Yoga Class #2 - Wed. October 22 - 5:45PM to 7PM - Join a weekly Master Class at DYU HQ or online. Taught by Derik Eselius, the weekly evening Master Class is an opportunity to study classical Hatha Yoga in a dedicated format. Each month focuses on a dedicated theme. 

#5 Deep Cleanse – Sat. & Sun. Oct. 25-26
A weekend of deep healing during the 2-3 day liquid-only, or fast phase. Take time for meditation, rest, reflection, prayer, journaling, intention setting, atonement. 

#6 In-Person Restorative Yoga Class #3 - Sat. Oct. 25, 9-10:30
In-person Restorative Yoga class available at Denver Yoga Underground Headquarters. Receive nourishing camaraderie and the medicine of restorative yoga alongside fellow cleansers. 

#7 Online Yoga Class IV- Tues. Oct. 28, 7:30-8:30am - Online yoga class for more support and togetherness on the path.

#8 In-Person or Online Yoga Class V - Wed. October 29 - 5:45PM to 7PM - Join a weekly Master Class at DYU HQ or online. Taught by Derik Eselius, the weekly evening Master Class is an opportunity to study classical Hatha Yoga in a dedicated format. Each month focuses on a dedicated theme. 

#9 Reflections & Celebration – Sat. Nov. 1, 12:30-1:30
All cleanse participants are invited back to DYU Headquarters - 6th Avenue UCC at 3250 E. Sixth Ave. in Denver for a Potluck Gathering to share discoveries and celebrate! e

Your Guides: Beth Sanchez & Derik Eselius - Veteran Denver Yoga & Ayurveda teachers with over 48 years of combined teaching experience in Denver and beyond.

Detail Summary:

• Wed. Oct. 15 – Sat. Nov.1, 2025

• Online, Recorded & In Person Instruction & Up To 5 Classes

• Initial Gathering and In Person -  UCC - 3250 E. 6th Ave. 80206 - Denver, CO

Investment:

Option #1: Fair Market Value

Some people would rather just have it all settled before the workshop gets started. If that’s you, you can pay the market value of $245 in advance.

Option #2: Pay What You Can

Submit a $100 deposit to secure your space in the cleanse (let us know if you can’t swing that).  The deposit is refundable up until two weeks before the Cleanse. At the end of the cleanse, Pay What You Can in addition to the deposit, it’s up to you.

Repeat Cleansers: Daily step by step instruction on the Canvas App and support by teachers and fellow cleansers.  Please join again for a flat rate of $75.  Cleansing gets easier the more you do it!

I am honored to offer a fantastic morning of Summer Yoga at the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheater in collaboration with Better Buzz Yoga and Servicios de la Raza.

This large public class will be taught in English and Spanish to expand our worldview, our compassionate hearts, and our sense of Familia y Comunidad.

Please arrive at 6:30 for the very best experience.

VEGAN

The Summer season in Colorado can be intense because our high elevation enhances the sun's heat. This class will help you navigate the hot months with ease and comfort, reduce physical and emotional inflammation. This meal is particularly helpful for the Fiery Pitta, Combo-Pitta types or anyone who wants a more easeful Summer.

• Chana Masala (mildly spiced chickpeas with greens)

• Golden Basmati Rice Pilaf (aromatic and colored with anti-inflamatory tumeric)

• Jicama, Cucumber, Lime Salad (a fresh, cool, brightness)

• Coconut Chutney (a South Indian touch)

• Hibiscus Rose Tea

$75

If you do not have Venmo, reach out to Beth for alternative payment.

.

Satsang theme: right relationship; honoring the web of life

Satsang literally means "Gathering of Truth"

Break the mold of the studio model 60-minute asana classes and set aside a complete Saturday morning to connect with fellow seekers, and steep in dedicated practice.

Saturday Satsang is a celebration of two essential elements: Community & Yoga. This monthly event is a way to gather as a community and renew our connection to the deeper spirit of yoga through dedicated practice: chanting, pranayama, meditation, song, story, theory and sharing.

SATURDAY SATSANG FORMAT

Start with a prescribed practices of chanting, pranayama & meditation

Move into a all levels asana class

Then reflect on yogic teachings, sing kirtan, share &/or hear stories

Informal lunch is optional

TEACHERS:

Derik Eselius, Beth Gurupriya Sanchez and guest presenters.

LOCATION:

3250 E. Sixth Ave. Denver, 80206 – Inside of church, upstairs

Satsang theme: cultivating ojas, your generative power

Satsang literally means "Gathering of Truth"

Break the mold of the studio model 60-minute asana classes and set aside a complete Saturday morning to connect with fellow seekers, and steep in dedicated practice.

Saturday Satsang is a celebration of two essential elements: Community & Yoga. This monthly event is a way to gather as a community and renew our connection to the deeper spirit of yoga through dedicated practice: chanting, pranayama, meditation, song, story, theory and sharing.

SATURDAY SATSANG FORMAT

Start with a prescribed practices of chanting, pranayama & meditation

Move into a all levels asana class

Then reflect on yogic teachings, sing kirtan, share &/or hear stories

Informal lunch is optional

TEACHERS:

Derik Eselius, Beth Gurupriya Sanchez and guest presenters.

LOCATION:

3250 E. Sixth Ave. Denver, 80206 – Inside of church, upstairs

NOTE: THIS SATSANG IS IN THE PROCESS OF BEING RESCHEDULED AS OF 3/4/25. PLEASE CHECK BACK NEXT WEEK.

Will contain some dairy on the side; dishes are vegan

In the Spring season, nature supports us to shed accumulations from the slower, colder Winter season. While it is ideal to fast or do Panchakarma (5 actions cleanse) in the Spring, these are some foods that will help you manage a more gentle cleansing and acclimating for the season.

• Cleansing Kitcheree (a moong dal & basmati rice spiced porridge, the classic Ayurvedic dish)

• Liver Cleanse Subji (a cleansing vegetable dish with carrots, beets, daikon, and bitter greens)

• Indian Sprout Salad

• Ghee (liquid sunshine)

• Parsley Chutney (to cleanse the blood)

This class will be held at my home. Address will be sent after payment is received.

Limit 9 students, $70. Denver Yoga Underground Students can pay per the syllabus.

Dharma, the Guiding Force

Saturday, March 1, 2025

8:30am – 5pm

Sixth Ave UCC – 3250 E. Sixth Ave.

Pay-What-You-Can

Beth Gurupriya Sanchez and Derik Purna Eselius invite you to gather in the spirit of retreat, right here in our beloved city. Together we will empower one another to break through the often heavy energy and patterns of daily urban life and remember how to listen to the Dharma that is always being spoken.

Connect. Practice. Give and receive support.

One Day Urban Yoga Retreat Experience:

• Dedicated yoga practice, pranayama, song, meditation, dharma

• Wholehearted time together indoors and out (weather permitting)

• Support for ongoing personal practice

• Grounded seasoned teachers dedicated to sacred community in place

Includes:

• A bhakti-infused lunch with teachings on right relationship to food

• Circle of fellow yogis, sharing hearts and breaths

• Nourishment from the land that is our home

• A deep reminder that a break from the norm is available in the here and now

Event Details:

Where: 6th Avenue United Church of Christ. 3250 E. 6th Avenue, Denver, CO 80206, Upstairs. We will also practice walking meditation outdoors for part of the day, depending on the weather.

Cost:  Pay What You Can!  PWYC is an equitable format that allows everyone to participate according to their means while honoring the commitment, and dedication of the teachers.

Option #1: Fair Market Value Upfront: Some people would rather just have it all settled before the retreat gets started.

• One day retreat market value: $120

Option #2: PWYC: Submit a deposit to secure your place, at the end of your retreat contribute any additional amount based on the value you received and your means. If you can’t swing the deposit, reach out; no one turned away for financial reasons.

• One day retreat deposit: $65

Satsang theme: cultivating prana, from breath to cosmos

Satsang literally means "Gathering of Truth"

Break the mold of the studio model 60-minute asana classes and set aside a complete Saturday morning to connect with fellow seekers, and steep in dedicated practice.

Saturday Satsang is a celebration of two essential elements: Community & Yoga. This monthly event is a way to gather as a community and renew our connection to the deeper spirit of yoga through dedicated practice: chanting, pranayama, meditation, song, story, theory and sharing.

SATURDAY SATSANG FORMAT

Start with a prescribed practices of chanting, pranayama & meditation

Move into a all levels asana class

Then reflect on yogic teachings, sing kirtan, share &/or hear stories

Informal lunch is optional

TEACHERS:

Derik Eselius, Beth Gurupriya Sanchez and guest presenters.

LOCATION:

3250 E. Sixth Ave. Denver, 80206 – Inside of church, upstairs

Are you ready to experience the luxury of deep rest this winter season? Join us for an extended 2.5 hour exploration of restorative yoga paired with all of the (optional) hands-on assists and Reiki you could possibly want to receive to help you truly recharge. Veteran Restorative Yoga teacher Beth Sanchez will help ground the body and guide the breath into all of the nooks and crannies of your being while Veteran Yoga Teacher and Reiki Master Rossi Dimitrova moves the subtle energy of the body and shared collective space, bringing release, repair and deep relaxation.  

Exchange: $69 |  Restorative Yoga and Hands on Assists offered by Beth Sanchez , Reiki Energy Work and Hands of Assists offered by Rossi Dimitrova.  

Bring a mat, eye pillow, water, or anything else that would support your practice of rest!

Satsang theme: cultivating tejas, your inner brilliance

Satsang literally means "Gathering of Truth"

Break the mold of the studio model 60-minute asana classes and set aside a complete Saturday morning to connect with fellow seekers, and steep in dedicated practice.

Saturday Satsang is a celebration of two essential elements: Community & Yoga. This monthly event is a way to gather as a community and renew our connection to the deeper spirit of yoga through dedicated practice: chanting, pranayama, meditation, song, story, theory and sharing.

SATURDAY SATSANG FORMAT

Start with a prescribed practices of chanting, pranayama & meditation

Move into a all levels asana class

Then reflect on yogic teachings, sing kirtan, share &/or hear stories

Informal lunch is optional

TEACHERS:

Derik Eselius, Beth Gurupriya Sanchez and guest presenters.

LOCATION:

3250 E. Sixth Ave. Denver, 80206 – Inside of church, upstairs

Satsang theme: Light in the Dark

Satsang literally means "Gathering of Truth"

Break the mold of the studio model 60-minute asana classes and set aside a complete Saturday morning to connect with fellow seekers, and steep in dedicated practice.

Saturday Satsang is a celebration of two essential elements: Community & Yoga. This monthly event is a way to gather as a community and renew our connection to the deeper spirit of yoga through dedicated practice: chanting, pranayama, meditation, song, story, theory and sharing.

SATURDAY SATSANG FORMAT

Start with a prescribed practices of chanting, pranayama & meditation

Move into a all levels asana class

Then reflect on yogic teachings, sing kirtan, share &/or hear stories

Informal lunch is optional

TEACHERS:

Derik Eselius, Beth Gurupriya Sanchez and guest presenters.

LOCATION:

3250 E. Sixth Ave. Denver, 80206 – Inside of church, upstairs

Satsang literally means "Gathering of Truth"

Break the mold of the boutique-studio model of a 60-minute asana class and set aside a complete Saturday morning to connect with fellow seekers, and steep in dedicated practice

Saturday Satsang is a celebration of two essential elements: Community & Yoga. This monthly event is a way to gather as a community and renew our connection to the deeper spirit of yoga through dedicated practice: chanting, pranayama, meditation, song, story, theory and or sharing.

Saturday Satsang Format

Start with a prescribed practices of chanting, pranayama & meditation

Move into a all levels asana class

Then reflect on yogic teachings, sing kirtan, share &/or hear stories

Informal lunch option

Teachers:

Beth Sanchez, Derik Eselius and guest presenters.

Location:

3250 E. Sixth Ave. Denver, 80206 – Inside of church, upstairs

THIS EVENT WILL TAKE PLACE AT COURAGEOUS YOGA ON 13TH & SHERMAN, UPSTAIRS AT THE END OF THE HALL

Join Veteran Restorative Teacher, Beth Gurupriya Sanchez and Reiki Master, Rene Sand for a luxurious soak in deep healing and rejuvenation.

This 2 hour Restorative Yoga Practice, coupled with Reiki energy work, will help you release and draw in for the Fall and Winter Seasons.

Rene Sand is a Reiki Master, yoga teacher, and hair guru who loves to bring healing on all levels and in all realms.

Beth Gurupriya Sanchez has been teaching yoga for over 20 years. She specializes in Restorative Practice, Hands on Assists, and Ayurveda. Beth will renew teaching Restorative with Bodywork every Wednesday at Courageous Space from 6:45- 8:00pm starting October 2, 2024.

Pricing at Courageous Yoga is tiered:

POC Only Minimum- $20

Workshop Minimum Donation - $36

Suggested Donation - $52

Advocate Donation- $70

Limited to 36 yogis

A 3 hour gathering with Derik Eselius, myself and a GEM of a Guest Teacher

Join Derik Eselius, myself, and special guest Kaira Jewel Lingo for a luxurious 3 hour practice in Denver on Saturday morning, June 15.

Kaira is a deeply skillful Buddhist Dharma teacher and former Nun of 15 years in the Plum Village Tradition under Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh.

She is also the author of numerous articles, podcasts and two wonderful books entitled, We Were Made for These Times and Healing Our Way Home, available through Parallax Press.

You can learn more about Kaira at her beautiful website.

She will be leading us through a Dharma Talk/Practice on working with difficult emotions.

As always in Satsang, we will have asana, pranayama, and meditation practice, in addition to singing and building our collective energy for the good of all. You are welcome to stay afterwards for a light bite to eat and some tea.

Location: 6th Avenue United Church of Christ, 3250 E. 6th Avenue, Denver, CO 80206. Please come upstairs.

Pre-registration is appreciated but not required here. You can also just come and drop a donation in the basket or donate via Venmo.

As always, this offering is made on a Pay What You Can basis.

Take a day long local retreat with a multitude of talented Denver Yoga Teachers, Ayurvedic practitioners, and Sound Magicians.

Beth will offer a class at 11:15 am focussed on Yoga As Union through the classic Yogic Teachings, Buddhist perspectives, and direct experience through the voice. Indeed, we will sing together!

• Includes a delicious lunch

• Sound Healing Sessions

• Kirtan in the evening

• Kirtan only tickets are available as well

• Limited to 108 Yogis

Early Bird Pricing: $108 for the day or $199 for a double. Early Bird Pricing expires March 6 at 11:59pm

Standard Full Day Pass is $128

Welcome the light of the New Year gathered in beloved community.

Together we will practice asana, pranayama and 108 repetitions of the Gayatri Mantra to set our intention and to honor the effulgence of illumination.

This event is co-sponsored by my great friend and colleague, Derik Eselius of Denver Yoga Underground.

Join us upstairs at the United Church of Christ, 3250 E. 6th Avenue (the SW corner of 6th & Adams) OR join us online (Zoom link will be sent after you register)

Market rate donation is $25, but as always, there are other options.