Lake Fellowship

Lake Fellowship of Unitarian Universalists
24575 Glen Road
Excelsior, MN 55331

Lake Fellowship is located one mile west of Excelsior in Shorewood, just off County Road 19 on Glen Road:


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Santosha, or contentment, points toward gratitude not as denial of hardship but as trust in life’s fullness. This teaching echoes the UU value of Generosity, which grows from gratitude and connects us with one another. I will lead reflection on how a spirit of contentment can nourish joy and balance in daily living. Together we will practice seeing life with eyes of appreciation.

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Compassion does not rest only in moments of warmth but asks for steady practice. The yogic practice of satya, or truthfulness, reminds us that honesty can deepen compassion when offered with care. Drawing from yoga philosophy and UU values of Love and Justice, participants will be involved to explore compassion as a discipline of the heart. Through mindfulness and breath we will practice turning tenderness into strength.

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This 5-week meditation group at Lake Fellowship offers a quiet space to pause and reconnect. Each week we’ll explore a different meditation technique, with time for guided practice, silence, and gentle reflection or sharing. The group follows the Kripalu tradition of compassionate awareness and draws on wisdom from many paths.

No beliefs required. You don’t need to be a Unitarian Universalist or have prior meditation experience. Everyone is welcome, whether you’re new to practice, returning after a break, or have meditated for years. Each session stands on its own, so you’re welcome to come to one or all five.

If you like sitting on the floor, bring a cushion or blanket. Chairs will also be available.

The intention of this group is simple: to practice together, to listen deeply, and to explore how meditation can bring steadiness, kindness, and clarity into daily life.

 

This group is free, but please register so we know how many to expect.

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Compassionate listening is a practice that can help relieve the suffering of another person. It integrates mindfulness and other techniques to foster deeper connections, reduce stress, and build resilience. This program, led by Lake Fellowship member Matthew Tift, explores practical tools like loving-kindness meditation, reflecting on strengths, and mindful listening — all backed by scientific research. Join us to learn how to listen with empathy, regulate your emotions, and enhance your well-being in personal and professional relationships.

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Part yoga class, part support group, part personal discovery, this group supports you through your grief. We provide a compassionate and safe environment for anyone who is experiencing grief. This group provides an opportunity for you to share your story, make meaning out of your experiences, and tend to your grief. We proceed from the understanding that it's possible to grieve and be grateful at the same time.

Together we practice gentle yoga, breathing, sound healing, and other relaxation techniques to help you connect with your body in a safe way, in a safe environment, and at your own pace. During these practices, choices are offered throughout. Stillness, movement, or rest are always options at any point. You don't have to be flexible, fit, or strong. No yoga experience or special yoga clothes are required.

Meeting structure (times are approximate)

  • 10 minute relaxation practice
  • 60 minute group discussion
  • 50 minute gentle yoga (movement) practice

Size

  • This group is limited to 12 people, and registration (below) is required.

Location

What to bring

  • Yoga mat (if you don't have one, we have a few available, so please let us know)

Cost

  • This event is offered freely in the spirit of generosity or "dana" in Sanskrit.

Evidence-based research into the benefits of yoga

Facilitators

Talia Singer, MSW, LICSW is a clinical therapist and private practice owner with a strong background in palliative care, hospice and healthcare. Talia has dedicated her career to helping people navigate the challenges of loss, transition, and grief.

Matthew Tift, PhD, RYT-500 leads yoga and sound healing classes at The Marsh, Spirit of the Lake, and the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum. He is Board Chair at onelove.yoga, a local nonprofit that brings yoga into schools. Learn more at matthewtift.com.

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Have you ever wondered if there is more to yoga than just postures? This program provides a brief overview to the history and philosophy of yoga. From premodern India to modern health and wellness, we'll survey yoga's historical purposes as well as the science-based benefits of modern yoga. You will get an opportunity to practice some basic yogic breathing techniques and experience their effects. This program is for anyone, from the experienced yogi to someone who has never set foot in a yoga class.