The tragedy at Sandy Hook Elementary School rocked America to its core and devastated many, many families. With the new year comes new ways to support those who were directly impacted in its wake—and Philadelphians can lend a hand, too. Focus Fitness is hosting a Sandy Hook Donation Class to raise funds for the Newtown Parent Connection. The all-level vinyasa yoga class will be an hour and a half long and incorporate reiki, a “laying on hands” Japanese treatment for stress reduction and relaxation that also, appropriately, promotes healing. All donations will go directly to the Newtown Parent Connection. Register and learn more here (click the Series/Workshops tab).

$20 minimum donation, January 26th from 12:30 to 2 p.m., Focus Fitness Main Line, 1111 East Lancaster Avenue, Bryn Mawr.

>> Have a health or fitness event you want to share with Be Well Philly readers? Email eleaman@phillymag.com with details.

New Year’s Eve Yoga and Mochi at Studio 34
When: December 31st from 8 to 10 p.m.
Where: 4522 Baltimore Avenue, Philadelphia.
What: An all-levels community yoga class with seated and standing poses and a time of brief meditation. After class, enjoy hot tea and mochi (sweet Japanese rice cakes) in the lounge.
Cost: Sliding scale, $7 to $15.

New Year’s Eve Special Class at Bikram Yoga of Philadelphia
When: December 31st at 11 p.m.
Where: 1520 Sansom Street, third floor, Philadelphia.
What: From the class description: “Start 2013 with a sweaty hot mess of a celebration at Bikram Philly.” Need we say more? Oh, fine. More: the class will be followed by a vegetarian potluck, so bring your favorite dish.
Cost: $20.

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Here’s one not to miss, yogis: On Saturday, December 22nd, Off the Mat, Into the World’s Philly and South Jersey chapter is hosting a Hurricane Sandy benefit class with OTM founder and internationally recognized yoga instructor Seane Corn, who’s also a New Jersey native. In addition to the class, there will be a silent auction with items like spa treatments, treacher trainings and yoga classes at area studios. Participants are encouraged to bring a gently used toy or a gift card that will be distributed to families affected by Hurricane Sandy prior to the holidays. Proceeds from the class go to the Hurricane Sandy New Jersey Relief Fund and Global Green USA. More info and a registration link are here on Facebook; be sure to bring your own mat.

$25, December 22nd from noon to 3 p.m., Atlantic City Convention Center, 1 Convention Center Boulevard, Atlantic City.

>> Have a health or fitness event you’d like to share with Be Well Philly readers? Email eleaman@phillymag.com with details.

On December 7th, join Sara Ronsvalle at Philly Power Yoga as she leads a special charity-yoga class to benefit homeless animals at the Morris Animal Refuge in Center City. Stretch in downward-facing dog and other animal-inspired poses as you set your intentions for the practice. Bonus: the event will feature adorable, adoptable animals from the neighborhood animal shelter!

For more than 135 years, the Morris Animal Refuge has been accepting every animal looking for a home. Almost 2,000 animals are brought to the refuge every year, and finding loving homes for these pets is always a challenge. All funds raised from this event will benefit the shelter.

After class, there will be a member-appreciation party full of cocktails and finger foods, plus you’ll get a chance to meet the adoptable pets. No prior yoga experience is necessary. Mats, towels and water will be available at no charge, courtesy of Philly Power Yoga. Find more info here; sign up here.

$20 for class only, $25 for class and party, $15 for party only; Friday, December 7 at 6:15 to 9 p.m., Philly Power Yoga, 2016 Walnut Street, Philadelphia.

>> Have a health or fitness event you want to share with Be Well Philly readers? Email eleaman@phillymag.com with details.

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