TESTIMONIALS

At the end of the week, I am happy to find my way to SOMA. In a peaceful, ambient setting, each class is led by a thoughtful instructor whose intentions seem set on making every man feel welcome and nurtured. I have been at ease trying new things. Yoga, movement, and meditation in a community of nude men is a rich experience that challenges, encourages, and satisfies. A wonderful way to spend a Friday evening in Manhattan!
-Bruce

FAQ

What does SOMA mean?
There are two sources for the word "soma" in world languages.
1. In Greek, soma means "of the body" as distinguished from the mind or psyche; it can also mean "the living body" as distinguished from the germ cells.
2. In Sanskrit, soma is the word for the holy drink of the gods. It's also the ritual beverage used in ancient Hindu religious ceremonies. The source and ingredients for the beverage are no longer known, though many believe it had psychoactive properties.
Both definitions are appealing and evocative of the experience we're creating through your participation.

Are there benefits to practicing nude?
In the opinions of the teachers of SOMA classes, there are several benefits to practicing nude.
1. It's informative. Clothes conceal a wealth of information about the position and alignment of the body. The students who share this information with their teachers will receive more detailed and accurate corrections in their postures and alignments. The teachers who share this information with their students will provide more detailed and accurate demonstrations of both correct and incorrect actions.
2. It's unrestrictive. The body moves best when it's unconfined. Try this simple experiment: put on a collared shirt & tie and turn your head side to side; then switch to a turtle neck and turn your head side to side again; finally undress your torso and turn your head one more time. Now imagine the same thing for your entire body.
3. It's healing. For many of us, the naked body is closely associated with shame and fear. We armor our bodies with clothing, and in the process we armor our minds against the possibility of being unclothed except in carefully controlled circumstances. A practice of mind/body/spirit awareness without clothing presents a valuable opportunity to find personal acceptance, comfort and integration with the body.

Are these naked practices a recent phenomenon or is there a historical tradition for it?
We're aware of two major historical traditions for naked practices.
The Digambar or "sky-clad" tradition among the Jain monks of India. When Alexander the Great encountered these ascetics during his travels, he named them Gymnosophists or "naked philosophers" (Greek gymnos: naked; sophist: knowledge).
The Freikšrperkultur or "free body culture" of Germany dates back to the beginning of the 20th century, which presented nudity as an integral element of physical and social health. If you'd like to do further reading, we recommend Empire of Ecstasy: Nudity and Movement in German Body Culture, 1910-1935 by Karl Toepfer.

Do you have a co-ed event?
Not at the moment, but the producers of SOMA are actively working on a version of the SOMA experience for men and women to attend together. If you'd like to receive information and updates about a co-ed version of SOMA, please send an email request to be added to the mailing list to: coed AT somaoasis DOT com

Is this event for gay men only?
No, SOMA is for any and all men regardless of sexual orientations, preferences, or proclivities.

What if I get an erection?
Erections are natural and can be brought on by both conscious and unconscious stimuli, not all of which are sexually based; however, many men were raised and conditioned to feel self-conscious or embarrassed by their erections. SOMA provides a safe environment for men to experience their bodies without embarrassment or judgement, including the presence or absence of erections. So if you get an erection at SOMA, take this as an opportunity to be present for the sensations, emotions and thoughts that come up. And if you don't get an erection, you too can take this as an opportunity to be present for the sensations, emotions and thoughts that come up.

Can I bring a friend?
Most definitely! SOMA is a social community, and it's a great experience to share. The support of a friend can make entering a new group less stressful. You might also enjoy sharing your thoughts about SOMA afterwards.