People to “Pose For Peace” in Epilepsy Fundraiser

By MADDY VITALE After a tumultuous 2020 and a continued fear of the COVID-19 pandemic, remaining calm could be a bit difficult for anyone. But maybe the ocean waves lapping onto the shore, the warm sand, the sun and some good company may ease the nerves. On Monday, Sept. 6, all are invited to give relaxation a try during NJ Beach Yoga’s ninth annual “Pose for Peace” yoga fundraiser in Sea Isle City. The event takes place on the beach at JFK Boulevard, beginning at 7:30 a.m. Proceeds will go toward the National Epilepsy Foundation. Teri O’Connor, who owns NJ Beach Yoga, is hosting the event. “I am super-grateful to be able to teach people outside in a safe way,” she said in an interview on Tuesday. “This year especially, I am focusing on the meditative and restorative portions of yoga. I want people to work on their breathing. It is all about relaxation.” O’Connor chose the Epilepsy Foundation because of a family member. Her niece, Brigid McManamon, 34, of Huntington, Pa., suffers from the disease. Over the last few years, the fundraiser has benefited the Epilepsy Foundation. People have raised more than $1,000 annually for the worthy cause, O’Connor said. “I would love to reach $1,500. It would be great to reach that,” she noted of this year's goal. All the longtime yoga instructor requests is a $20 donation to attend the class. O’Connor has been under contract with Sea Isle City to offer yoga classes year-round for Beach Yoga classes and Full Moon Yoga classes.  Because she has a great working relationship with the city, she is able to host a successful fundraiser year after year, she added. Yogis enjoy the outdoors and the relaxation of doing yoga. Sea Isle Public Information Officer Katherine Custer said, “Teri O’Connor is a wonderful asset to Sea Isle City, and she is well known for her kind heart and willingness to support good causes -- just as she does with Pose for Peace." Custer continued, "The City’s Division of Recreation is very happy to have a solid relationship with NJ Beach Yoga, and we look forward to having Teri run yoga classes on the sand for many years to come.” During this event, participants will share a peaceful flow that blends breathing, movement and meditation, while uniting. All participants will be spaced apart for safety during Pose for Peace. Online pre-registration is required by Sept. 4 at www.njbeachyoga.com . The fundraiser continues to grow, and a typical fundraiser includes about 150 participants. But people may still give to the cause if they cannot attend, O’Connor noted. “If you cannot make the class and wish to donate, you may contact me at [email protected],” O’Connor said. She pointed out that each year people come out who have never experienced yoga before, but because they wanted to give to the Epilepsy Foundation. “Some people have come to this fundraiser because they saw where the funds were going to and said that they would like to give,” she said. “I do it because I feel like you have to give back.” For more information visit www.njbeachyoga.com or call or text Teri O’Connor at 609-602-3398. Teri O'Connor, left, strikes a pose.