DAY FIVE
Well, this party's almost over. Today's the last day of the 5-day Teacher's Intensive training. We'll work from 9-1 today, then we're done. I will stay for the weekend workshop, where emphasis will be experiencing John as he teaches -- watching the master.
This week has been a transition for many of us; moving from the technical aspects of teaching to the languaging. Purpose: To connect with each student, on a higher level than just the physical. That doesn't mean preaching; it's more guiding them to see a better picture of themselves (and ourselves). It's a challenge, because I can get pretty technical in my teaching. I'm a pretty black & white kind of person.
We didn't practice much yesterday -- lots of listening, note-taking, demos, teaching each other (I guess you can call those activities 'practice'; but not practice like we're used to). We did, however, do a few poses towards the end of the day. (I now have a longer list of poses to work on.) As John taught one pose, he stayed in front of me - walking back and forth 5-10 students on either side - and his repeated message was that we have to let go sometimes and just move.
One of the teachings yesterday was the qualities of a great yoga teacher. Most of us have heard this, but - as a reminder - they are:
This week has been a transition for many of us; moving from the technical aspects of teaching to the languaging. Purpose: To connect with each student, on a higher level than just the physical. That doesn't mean preaching; it's more guiding them to see a better picture of themselves (and ourselves). It's a challenge, because I can get pretty technical in my teaching. I'm a pretty black & white kind of person.
We didn't practice much yesterday -- lots of listening, note-taking, demos, teaching each other (I guess you can call those activities 'practice'; but not practice like we're used to). We did, however, do a few poses towards the end of the day. (I now have a longer list of poses to work on.) As John taught one pose, he stayed in front of me - walking back and forth 5-10 students on either side - and his repeated message was that we have to let go sometimes and just move.
One of the teachings yesterday was the qualities of a great yoga teacher. Most of us have heard this, but - as a reminder - they are:
- Studentship -- the teacher is always a student
- Humility -- remember the source of our knowledge
- Trustworthiness - do not waver in the conviction to serve students
- Empathetic - sensitive to the feelings of students
- Aspire to excellence - a desire to get better & better as teachers (and students)
- Agility of mind - ability to assimilate and process information quickly; then communicate just as quickly
Though there were 139 other students in the room, as John paced in front of me, he appropriately placed emphasis on #6. Maybe someone else was behaving similarly, but just maybe he was addressing my limitations, my tendency to hold back, and - knowing me - decided I need a gentle prod to 'kick it up'. If it was intended for me -- message received.
Enjoy your Friday,
SHORTER & SHORTER & SHORTER
Blog entries this week have been short, I hope anyone reading out there will understand.
Sitting on the floor for 4-5 hours each day; practicing for 2-3 hours; up-down, up-down to teach or discuss; writing notes; then typing notes. All this leaves one in a bit of a brain fog.
What am I learning? Hard to quantify, but I have copious notes and over the months and years to come, pieces of the knowledge being transmitted will percolate to me and on to students.
Yesterday's teaching revolved around the theme of pulsation (i.e. yes & no, remembrance & forgetting). In the afternoon that teaching was particularly applicable to me (and probably others in the room). Those of us who wonder if we're good enough.
As we taught each other poses, using the theme of remembering our goodness & letting go of limiting thoughts, it was wonderful to inhale and hug in to the remembrance that I am a good teacher and person with lots to offer the community around me. Then, to exhale the limited vision I have of my own self. Finding the balance between the two, gives me a new vision of myself.
Hope this makes sense (remember, the brain fog),
Sitting on the floor for 4-5 hours each day; practicing for 2-3 hours; up-down, up-down to teach or discuss; writing notes; then typing notes. All this leaves one in a bit of a brain fog.
What am I learning? Hard to quantify, but I have copious notes and over the months and years to come, pieces of the knowledge being transmitted will percolate to me and on to students.
Yesterday's teaching revolved around the theme of pulsation (i.e. yes & no, remembrance & forgetting). In the afternoon that teaching was particularly applicable to me (and probably others in the room). Those of us who wonder if we're good enough.
As we taught each other poses, using the theme of remembering our goodness & letting go of limiting thoughts, it was wonderful to inhale and hug in to the remembrance that I am a good teacher and person with lots to offer the community around me. Then, to exhale the limited vision I have of my own self. Finding the balance between the two, gives me a new vision of myself.
Hope this makes sense (remember, the brain fog),
ACTION
I came to Tucson with the attitude of studying more about the effective teaching of Anusara™ yoga, and to connect with old and new friends. I have aligned myself with that attitude by putting myself in a training designed to give me more knowledge.
Now, the action:
Now, the action:
- I practice each day, alongside old and new friends (not to mention the opportunities to chat before, between and after each day's sessions).
- I listen to John's words reflecting his years of experience - both before and within Anusara™.
- I ask questions (years of experience have taught me that no question is 'dumb', and there are probably others in the room wondering the same thing -- so, ASK).
- I take copious (sometimes illegible) notes.
- Now, I'm typing those notes into my laptop.
Action is the result of our attitude and our alignment. If done mindfully and with good intention, it will feel good -- magic will happen.
The 'magic' doesn't mean I'll know everything after this training; but I will know more; more will percolate into my brain cells; and I will be a better teacher after this training.
Just like our practice on the mat -- we don't often get the pose perfect on the first try. It takes practice; it's always a practice.
Looking forward to Day Three,
DAY TWO
Nervous, jittery, a bit of trepidation, excitement -- all describe my feelings as I arrived at the "Y" for the first day of the Teacher's Intensive training with John Friend. Not unusual, but why nervous - after many of these trainings?
I guess it's because we never know how we'll be tested, how we'll 'perform', or - perish the thought - will we embarrass ourselves. Not abnormal feelings, but you'd think we'd get used to this by now, unless it's the first or second one of these you've attended (NOT my circumstance). However, once we placed our mats, gathered for introductions and John's opening remarks, the jitters had settled and I felt at home -- back in the company of good friends, soon-to-be-made friends, and teachers, and ready to learn and practice.
This training will expand on the philosophy and the languaging we use to transmit our themes, heart qualities, messages to our students. All directed at conducting a class where the students leave a class feeling (1) greater insight / awareness of their deeper essence, (2) better about themselves and others, and (3) that they were well taken care of (safe).
Looking forward to Day Two -- I think I'll pass on that next cup of coffee; that could have been part of the 'jitters' plaguing me yesterday (duh!).
Enjoy Tuesday,
I guess it's because we never know how we'll be tested, how we'll 'perform', or - perish the thought - will we embarrass ourselves. Not abnormal feelings, but you'd think we'd get used to this by now, unless it's the first or second one of these you've attended (NOT my circumstance). However, once we placed our mats, gathered for introductions and John's opening remarks, the jitters had settled and I felt at home -- back in the company of good friends, soon-to-be-made friends, and teachers, and ready to learn and practice.
This training will expand on the philosophy and the languaging we use to transmit our themes, heart qualities, messages to our students. All directed at conducting a class where the students leave a class feeling (1) greater insight / awareness of their deeper essence, (2) better about themselves and others, and (3) that they were well taken care of (safe).
Looking forward to Day Two -- I think I'll pass on that next cup of coffee; that could have been part of the 'jitters' plaguing me yesterday (duh!).
Enjoy Tuesday,
TUCSON
In Tucson, at my mother-in-law's home, having arrived yesterday early afternoon.
Spent the afternoon relaxing, but also read Christina Sell's blog describing the sequence the participants in John's Advanced Intensive are doing. Wow! Someday . . .
We start this morning at 9 a.m. The first challenge will be getting to the 'Y' (venue) which is located close to the University. Normally, this wouldn't be a problem, but for years the freeway has been under construction. I noticed as I drove past usual exits that they are all CLOSED. So, I'll give surface streets a try. Leave early and hope everyone going to work on Monday a.m. takes another route.
A note of APPRECIATION: Each time I start one of these trainings, it's important for me to remember all the people who support me in this work to be a really effective teacher of Anusara™ yoga. First, there's my husband, who's home alone with 3 dogs, 2 cats, and 2 birds -- all needing care & feeding (not to mention, feeding himself). Second, all my instructors who step in and cover classes, keep the studio in shape, and take care of the phone while I'm gone, etc. Third, my mother-in-law, who gets to put up with me for 8 days. Granted, I'm not here to get in her way for most of the day, but when you're used to being alone - company is nice, but I realize it could get old after 2-3 days. I would not be able to do this without all of their help and support, THANK YOU.
Continuation of the 3 A's - check in tomorrow, I may have fresh material after today!
Take care,
Spent the afternoon relaxing, but also read Christina Sell's blog describing the sequence the participants in John's Advanced Intensive are doing. Wow! Someday . . .
We start this morning at 9 a.m. The first challenge will be getting to the 'Y' (venue) which is located close to the University. Normally, this wouldn't be a problem, but for years the freeway has been under construction. I noticed as I drove past usual exits that they are all CLOSED. So, I'll give surface streets a try. Leave early and hope everyone going to work on Monday a.m. takes another route.
A note of APPRECIATION: Each time I start one of these trainings, it's important for me to remember all the people who support me in this work to be a really effective teacher of Anusara™ yoga. First, there's my husband, who's home alone with 3 dogs, 2 cats, and 2 birds -- all needing care & feeding (not to mention, feeding himself). Second, all my instructors who step in and cover classes, keep the studio in shape, and take care of the phone while I'm gone, etc. Third, my mother-in-law, who gets to put up with me for 8 days. Granted, I'm not here to get in her way for most of the day, but when you're used to being alone - company is nice, but I realize it could get old after 2-3 days. I would not be able to do this without all of their help and support, THANK YOU.
Continuation of the 3 A's - check in tomorrow, I may have fresh material after today!
Take care,
ALIGNMENT
Got a few minutes before I have to finalize packing for Tucson, so I should be able to knock out something about alignment. Ha! I notice that my writing, reading, editing, re-reading, repeat, repeat, repeat -- always seems to take much longer than it should. But, I'll give it a shot.
For me, a simple definition of alignment is setting the body in a specific way to create a pose that is effortless (almost), and feels good -- I know when it feels good, because I can hold it, I can breathe, I can really experience the organic extension.
Step back to attitude for a moment. Reflect on your practice. How easy is it to align your body, if the open, generous, strong attitude is not present? For me, one depends on the other. Lackadaisical, effortless poses are 99.9% of the time not aligned well because we lack the attitude to move them towards our optimal blueprint and an action that 'sings'.
Off our mats, we can make the same correlation.
I have on my home page, a quote section that comes up each morning with inspirational offerings. One of my favorites is: 'if you don't have time to do it right, when will you have time to do it over' (author unknown). Doing it 'right' is the alignment we make in life (and in our yoga practice).
Now go back to my urdhva dhanurasana efforts (this blog involves a lot of flashbacks). I know, because I've been told, that my alignment towards the pose is good. So, what's the problem? Maybe it's my attitude. I always dread the pose, I always used to think here comes another failure, or - worse - "everyone's watching me and thinking 'how did she get in here -- didn't the application say straight arms?'". That's my attitude stopping me from carrying the alignment into action.
So, alignment is our path to action, but depends on our attitude. Pretty simplistic, but it makes sense to me.
Next installment: Action
Have a nice Sunday
For me, a simple definition of alignment is setting the body in a specific way to create a pose that is effortless (almost), and feels good -- I know when it feels good, because I can hold it, I can breathe, I can really experience the organic extension.
Step back to attitude for a moment. Reflect on your practice. How easy is it to align your body, if the open, generous, strong attitude is not present? For me, one depends on the other. Lackadaisical, effortless poses are 99.9% of the time not aligned well because we lack the attitude to move them towards our optimal blueprint and an action that 'sings'.
Off our mats, we can make the same correlation.
I have on my home page, a quote section that comes up each morning with inspirational offerings. One of my favorites is: 'if you don't have time to do it right, when will you have time to do it over' (author unknown). Doing it 'right' is the alignment we make in life (and in our yoga practice).
Now go back to my urdhva dhanurasana efforts (this blog involves a lot of flashbacks). I know, because I've been told, that my alignment towards the pose is good. So, what's the problem? Maybe it's my attitude. I always dread the pose, I always used to think here comes another failure, or - worse - "everyone's watching me and thinking 'how did she get in here -- didn't the application say straight arms?'". That's my attitude stopping me from carrying the alignment into action.
So, alignment is our path to action, but depends on our attitude. Pretty simplistic, but it makes sense to me.
Next installment: Action
Have a nice Sunday
I'M TOO BUSY . . .
I really am. Too busy to continue my 3 A's discussion (this should have been Alignment), as the morning has been dedicated to getting ready to teach in a few hours. Don't worry, tho, it's on my list.
What this blog provides me is a ready source of themes and topics for classes. Just guess what my class this morning will hear? Right, a short discourse on the 3 A's, related to listening to one's body as we practice. Heart quality: mindfulness. I've already handwritten a couple of journal pages to get my head around what I would like the students to hear. (Up early, to get this done before husband & dogs join me - just like last week.)
Now to finish -- alignment principle(s) to work on, apex pose, sequence. Then walk the older dog, get ready, go in to the studio early to make sure it's ready, teach class, meet prospective teacher. Come home to continue getting ready for 7 days in TUCSON.
This will be my fifth year of going to Tucson for a weeklong training and weekend workshop with John Friend, founder of Anusara™ Yoga. It's always fun and rewarding -- a chance to re-connect with friends and learn more from John. Besides being fun, it always presents a challenge for me -- 7 days of yoga and lectures, lots of difficult poses and then there's the philosophy, working its way through brain circuits that were wired for 50 years to be very conservative. I always come back energized and ready to share my teachings, tho. What fun!
NOTE TO UP AND COMING TEACHERS: I have overheard conversations recently expressing the concern that they may never be accepted into a John Friend event. I do not believe that. If your studentship is sincere and dedicated, your efforts will be noticed and you will get in. It might not happen on the first application, but it will happen. Remember this: if you do not apply, you will not get it in. Now, that doesn't mean bombarding the office with unlimited applications. Review John's schedule on the Anusara™ website, www.anusara.com. Determine which ones are within your reach, and apply. Nothing ventured, nothing gained.
What this blog provides me is a ready source of themes and topics for classes. Just guess what my class this morning will hear? Right, a short discourse on the 3 A's, related to listening to one's body as we practice. Heart quality: mindfulness. I've already handwritten a couple of journal pages to get my head around what I would like the students to hear. (Up early, to get this done before husband & dogs join me - just like last week.)
Now to finish -- alignment principle(s) to work on, apex pose, sequence. Then walk the older dog, get ready, go in to the studio early to make sure it's ready, teach class, meet prospective teacher. Come home to continue getting ready for 7 days in TUCSON.
This will be my fifth year of going to Tucson for a weeklong training and weekend workshop with John Friend, founder of Anusara™ Yoga. It's always fun and rewarding -- a chance to re-connect with friends and learn more from John. Besides being fun, it always presents a challenge for me -- 7 days of yoga and lectures, lots of difficult poses and then there's the philosophy, working its way through brain circuits that were wired for 50 years to be very conservative. I always come back energized and ready to share my teachings, tho. What fun!
NOTE TO UP AND COMING TEACHERS: I have overheard conversations recently expressing the concern that they may never be accepted into a John Friend event. I do not believe that. If your studentship is sincere and dedicated, your efforts will be noticed and you will get in. It might not happen on the first application, but it will happen. Remember this: if you do not apply, you will not get it in. Now, that doesn't mean bombarding the office with unlimited applications. Review John's schedule on the Anusara™ website, www.anusara.com. Determine which ones are within your reach, and apply. Nothing ventured, nothing gained.
Enjoy your weekend,
THANK YOU, UNIVERSE
As I said earlier, topics to write about just keep popping up. Guess I better make a list, because - even tho possible dementia will be delayed (see yesterday's post) - my memory still fails me at times.
I went back to read BJ's comment on my blog entry re: listening. After re-reading the entry, it occurred to me that the 3 points I made about listening line up with the 3 A's of Anusara™ Yoga.
Pay attention = Attitude; make eye contact = Alignment; listen = Action.
I got so excited upon realizing that connection, that I immediately e-mailed BJ to tell her. Her response (typically 'teacher-like'): "Good - now, can you expand on that?"
What - expand? Isn't it enough that I noticed? Apparently not. In any case, though my first thought was to politely ignore the challenge; it keeps plaguing me -- can I expand on that?
To expand on all 3 would take a lot of writing (and reading); so, let's start with ATTITUDE.
I know what Attitude means to me (in layman's terms), but to give you a long, philosophical definition and application may not happen here. Back to the books -- re-reading John's segment from the training manual on Attitude. Maybe I could copy some of it -- no, too many of you would know. So, here goes:
Attitude, to me, is the manner in which we approach our mat, our teaching, our lives (that includes how we listen).
I believe that when we attempt anything in life, if we do so with an attitude of openness, generosity, and strength, good things happen.
Take listening -- if we are open to meeting or engaging with people new to us, our world expands. If we are generous with our time (how many times do you hear "I'm too busy ..."), we may just learn something from listening that we didn't know -- either about the person or the topic being discussed. If we do it from a position of strength, we can control the extent to which we get involved -- because, while we want to be open and generous, we still need to be somewhat protective; there are people out there that are 'energy vampires' (taken from song lyrics by the 4 Bitchin' Babes).
When we approach our yoga mat, we do so open to whatever presents (that's our beginner mind). We don't put ourselves in 'danger', but we are generous with our efforts -- giving things a try, accepting the outcome. We do all this from that position of strength -- the yes & no, the muscular and organic energy of our practice.
The elements of openness, generosity and strength are already within us; we just have to realize that, cultivate them, and then let them out, let them grow, show them off to the world. Attitude, expanded on by Leslie.
There you go, BJ -- give me your best shot! (This is so much fun!)
Take care,
I went back to read BJ's comment on my blog entry re: listening. After re-reading the entry, it occurred to me that the 3 points I made about listening line up with the 3 A's of Anusara™ Yoga.
Pay attention = Attitude; make eye contact = Alignment; listen = Action.
I got so excited upon realizing that connection, that I immediately e-mailed BJ to tell her. Her response (typically 'teacher-like'): "Good - now, can you expand on that?"
What - expand? Isn't it enough that I noticed? Apparently not. In any case, though my first thought was to politely ignore the challenge; it keeps plaguing me -- can I expand on that?
To expand on all 3 would take a lot of writing (and reading); so, let's start with ATTITUDE.
I know what Attitude means to me (in layman's terms), but to give you a long, philosophical definition and application may not happen here. Back to the books -- re-reading John's segment from the training manual on Attitude. Maybe I could copy some of it -- no, too many of you would know. So, here goes:
Attitude, to me, is the manner in which we approach our mat, our teaching, our lives (that includes how we listen).
I believe that when we attempt anything in life, if we do so with an attitude of openness, generosity, and strength, good things happen.
Take listening -- if we are open to meeting or engaging with people new to us, our world expands. If we are generous with our time (how many times do you hear "I'm too busy ..."), we may just learn something from listening that we didn't know -- either about the person or the topic being discussed. If we do it from a position of strength, we can control the extent to which we get involved -- because, while we want to be open and generous, we still need to be somewhat protective; there are people out there that are 'energy vampires' (taken from song lyrics by the 4 Bitchin' Babes).
When we approach our yoga mat, we do so open to whatever presents (that's our beginner mind). We don't put ourselves in 'danger', but we are generous with our efforts -- giving things a try, accepting the outcome. We do all this from that position of strength -- the yes & no, the muscular and organic energy of our practice.
The elements of openness, generosity and strength are already within us; we just have to realize that, cultivate them, and then let them out, let them grow, show them off to the world. Attitude, expanded on by Leslie.
There you go, BJ -- give me your best shot! (This is so much fun!)
Take care,
ALWAYS LEARNING
As I move further into this 'high-tech' world of blogging and facebook, I am presented with new learning opportunities. For example:
1. Several of my readers ('my readers' -- doesn't that sound impressive) want to comment; how do they do it? Well, I just changed a setting that will open up comments to everyone. I did retain the option to moderate them, prior to publishing to eliminate unsavory entries. I hope that solves the problem, and more of you will comment.
2. I thought it would be nice to put a picture of myself on the blog without a fish -- I do have one reasonable photo of me and Jack (1st birthday party). So, I uploaded it. It's so huge, that I'm having second thoughts and would like to take it off, re-size it and maybe put it back on. That, apparently, is not possible. Once you upload a photo to an entry, you're stuck -- if I delete the photo, I delete the entry, comments, everything associated with that blog entry. I am so happy to have gotten a comment on the entry, that deleting it is not an option. You'll just have to look at my big face until yesterday's blog moves to 'older posts'.
3. Then, there's facebook. I'm up to a grand total of 7 friends. As I look at other participants, they all have hundreds. (Kind of reminds me of my experience in high school.) But, until I figure facebook out, I'm happy to have seven friends -- I can give them some quality time. It IS fun to connect with friends, tho. In fact, I'm anxiously waiting for BJ Galvan to accept my invitation.
All this to say, that at my age (59), working towards Anusara Certification, blogging, facebooking (a little), running a studio, and carrying on the rest of my life, should certainly hold off any dementia for a while.
Going to Tucson on Sunday for the Teachers Intensive week and then the weekend workshop. No way my practice is ready for the Advanced Intensive -- though I know I could pull it off with some degree of integrity from a far corner of the room; however, that would not be an affirming way for me to start a valuable week with John & friends.
Enjoy the day,
1. Several of my readers ('my readers' -- doesn't that sound impressive) want to comment; how do they do it? Well, I just changed a setting that will open up comments to everyone. I did retain the option to moderate them, prior to publishing to eliminate unsavory entries. I hope that solves the problem, and more of you will comment.
2. I thought it would be nice to put a picture of myself on the blog without a fish -- I do have one reasonable photo of me and Jack (1st birthday party). So, I uploaded it. It's so huge, that I'm having second thoughts and would like to take it off, re-size it and maybe put it back on. That, apparently, is not possible. Once you upload a photo to an entry, you're stuck -- if I delete the photo, I delete the entry, comments, everything associated with that blog entry. I am so happy to have gotten a comment on the entry, that deleting it is not an option. You'll just have to look at my big face until yesterday's blog moves to 'older posts'.
3. Then, there's facebook. I'm up to a grand total of 7 friends. As I look at other participants, they all have hundreds. (Kind of reminds me of my experience in high school.) But, until I figure facebook out, I'm happy to have seven friends -- I can give them some quality time. It IS fun to connect with friends, tho. In fact, I'm anxiously waiting for BJ Galvan to accept my invitation.
All this to say, that at my age (59), working towards Anusara Certification, blogging, facebooking (a little), running a studio, and carrying on the rest of my life, should certainly hold off any dementia for a while.
Going to Tucson on Sunday for the Teachers Intensive week and then the weekend workshop. No way my practice is ready for the Advanced Intensive -- though I know I could pull it off with some degree of integrity from a far corner of the room; however, that would not be an affirming way for me to start a valuable week with John & friends.
Enjoy the day,
Remember Letters?
I wrote my grandson, Jack, his first letter 10 days ago. Jack is 2 yrs, 3 mos. old, and lives in Carlsbad, CA (just north of San Diego). (Did I mention he's also extremely cute and VERY intelligent?)
Because we live so far apart, it is important to me to keep the connection between us strong and to make it feel more permanent than the weekly phone calls, where he yells "I you, Baba" (translation: I love you, Baba). I know, Baba is what Indian children call their fathers; but, I like it -- it makes me feel special and, besides, he came up with it himself.
So, letters seem to be in order. I wrote the first one and anxiously waited for the reaction. 7 days later, the letter had not arrived, and I was feeling pretty disappointed. Then, finally, the letter arrived. The family read the letter together, all seated around Jack's train table. Reaction: Jack walked around with the envelope all day. His mother, who is wonderful about making sure memories and traditions are well guarded, is keeping the letter in a safe place for the future.
Anyway, I am so excited that my small effort created such excitement for Jack (and his family). I mailed the second letter today; this is as much fun for me as it is for him!
Why am I blogging about this, you ask? Because, as I age, I continually am reminded "nothing ventured, nothing gained". Just like this blog -- response has been good and I love the potential of hearing back from you in the comments. But, it took a lot to put myself out there, let you see my 'underbelly', so to speak.
I believe that if we do things like this with our good intentions at the center of our thought process, we can't go wrong.
Take care,
Because we live so far apart, it is important to me to keep the connection between us strong and to make it feel more permanent than the weekly phone calls, where he yells "I you, Baba" (translation: I love you, Baba). I know, Baba is what Indian children call their fathers; but, I like it -- it makes me feel special and, besides, he came up with it himself.
So, letters seem to be in order. I wrote the first one and anxiously waited for the reaction. 7 days later, the letter had not arrived, and I was feeling pretty disappointed. Then, finally, the letter arrived. The family read the letter together, all seated around Jack's train table. Reaction: Jack walked around with the envelope all day. His mother, who is wonderful about making sure memories and traditions are well guarded, is keeping the letter in a safe place for the future.
Anyway, I am so excited that my small effort created such excitement for Jack (and his family). I mailed the second letter today; this is as much fun for me as it is for him!
Why am I blogging about this, you ask? Because, as I age, I continually am reminded "nothing ventured, nothing gained". Just like this blog -- response has been good and I love the potential of hearing back from you in the comments. But, it took a lot to put myself out there, let you see my 'underbelly', so to speak.
I believe that if we do things like this with our good intentions at the center of our thought process, we can't go wrong.
Take care,
LISTENING . . .
When I started this blog, I read that the way to encourage readership was to post regularly (like, every day) and to keep blog entries short. That almost discouraged me, because - I thought - how am I going to find something to write about EVERY day? (No problem, however, keeping them short.)
So far, 11 days and 11 posts later, the Universe keeps providing material.
Yesterday I had an appointment with a physician new to me. He's very well-known and respected in the community (in fact, it took 2 months to get an appointment). His looks and demeanor said "very intelligent".
Now to the topic - Listening. Naturally, he asked a lot of questions. EVERY time, I could barely get the answer out before he was interjecting his thoughts / reasons for what my answer was.
Now reflect on conversations you've had -- are you thinking about the next question before your friend has finished their answer? are you thinking about what to cook for dinner? or, are you thinking about who to talk to next who might be more interesting, more fun. Worse, are you on the receiving end -- trying to answer a question, make conversation, etc., and feeling like the person you're talking to would rather be any place other than talking to you?
We have a lot of power when talking with people. Power to make them feel good and valued; power to make them feel 'less-than'.
Just like we listen to our bodies while we practice yoga, we also need to practice our listening skills when off the mat. Pay attention, make eye contact, LISTEN (attitude, alignment, action). Our yoga practice is always with us.
Enjoy your Tuesday,
So far, 11 days and 11 posts later, the Universe keeps providing material.
Yesterday I had an appointment with a physician new to me. He's very well-known and respected in the community (in fact, it took 2 months to get an appointment). His looks and demeanor said "very intelligent".
Now to the topic - Listening. Naturally, he asked a lot of questions. EVERY time, I could barely get the answer out before he was interjecting his thoughts / reasons for what my answer was.
Now reflect on conversations you've had -- are you thinking about the next question before your friend has finished their answer? are you thinking about what to cook for dinner? or, are you thinking about who to talk to next who might be more interesting, more fun. Worse, are you on the receiving end -- trying to answer a question, make conversation, etc., and feeling like the person you're talking to would rather be any place other than talking to you?
We have a lot of power when talking with people. Power to make them feel good and valued; power to make them feel 'less-than'.
Just like we listen to our bodies while we practice yoga, we also need to practice our listening skills when off the mat. Pay attention, make eye contact, LISTEN (attitude, alignment, action). Our yoga practice is always with us.
Enjoy your Tuesday,
LETTING OFF THE BRAKES -- Too Much
Skiing was fun -- I'm a bit out of practice in that activity, this was just my second time on the slopes this year.
Second run, I got a bit overconfident (remember my earlier blog about being dangerous to ourselves). Going fast, trying to go faster by reducing turn radius. Oops! There goes one ski, now what? Result: face plant, right under the lift. Since it was a groomed slope, my face went down on unforgiving, groomed snow; OUCH! End result: sore pec muscles this morning -- it WAS a full, spread eagle, face down on the slope.
Pushing the envelope is a good thing sometimes; but, I am reminded of a valuable lesson (one I teach all the time). Don't push the envelope so far open that you fall in.
Enjoy your day,
Second run, I got a bit overconfident (remember my earlier blog about being dangerous to ourselves). Going fast, trying to go faster by reducing turn radius. Oops! There goes one ski, now what? Result: face plant, right under the lift. Since it was a groomed slope, my face went down on unforgiving, groomed snow; OUCH! End result: sore pec muscles this morning -- it WAS a full, spread eagle, face down on the slope.
Pushing the envelope is a good thing sometimes; but, I am reminded of a valuable lesson (one I teach all the time). Don't push the envelope so far open that you fall in.
Enjoy your day,
GOING SKIING
Busy day yesterday - but fun.
I taught a 9 am class -- that went well. My teaching, to date, has been pretty laid back. This class requires that I kick it up a notch - a good thing for me. The students had not been introduced to Anusara™ before, so I have lots of material to work with (and, so do they). I also have some who have faithfully been coming each week since I started teaching this class; a good sign that I am so thankful for.
Then, I did a one-hour orientation to a group of 70-80 year old women at one of our Wards (aka church, for those of you outside of Utah). A little pranayama, working with their feet, shoulder stretches, some seated postures, some balance - then questions & answers. This is a similar population to one of my weekly classes at the studio - older, with compromised movement from whatever (hip/knee replacements, bad backs, never exercised, etc.); the main difference is that this new group has not been moving much and has NO knowledge about yoga and its benefits. A population segment that can really benefit from yoga, but because of their age, restricted mobility (vehicles), and lack of knowledge of yoga's benefits, gets left out. Bummer! We need to work on that.
On to a practice at Kula Studio (co-owned by Adam Ballenger and Matt Newman). Adam's in Seattle with John, so Matt and Jen conducted the event. WHAT FUN! I left feeling giggly and good all over, even though some of the poses are not in my range yet. That's what yoga ought to feel like -- good, even if you can't do everything! Kudos (sp?) to Jen & Matt.
Then, to a movie and dinner with my husband. Today we're going skiing!
Enjoy your Sunday,
p.s. It's not 4:10 am, as I post this; it's 5:10. If you're looking at the time, I don't want you to think I never sleep. Need to figure out how to change that setting
I taught a 9 am class -- that went well. My teaching, to date, has been pretty laid back. This class requires that I kick it up a notch - a good thing for me. The students had not been introduced to Anusara™ before, so I have lots of material to work with (and, so do they). I also have some who have faithfully been coming each week since I started teaching this class; a good sign that I am so thankful for.
Then, I did a one-hour orientation to a group of 70-80 year old women at one of our Wards (aka church, for those of you outside of Utah). A little pranayama, working with their feet, shoulder stretches, some seated postures, some balance - then questions & answers. This is a similar population to one of my weekly classes at the studio - older, with compromised movement from whatever (hip/knee replacements, bad backs, never exercised, etc.); the main difference is that this new group has not been moving much and has NO knowledge about yoga and its benefits. A population segment that can really benefit from yoga, but because of their age, restricted mobility (vehicles), and lack of knowledge of yoga's benefits, gets left out. Bummer! We need to work on that.
On to a practice at Kula Studio (co-owned by Adam Ballenger and Matt Newman). Adam's in Seattle with John, so Matt and Jen conducted the event. WHAT FUN! I left feeling giggly and good all over, even though some of the poses are not in my range yet. That's what yoga ought to feel like -- good, even if you can't do everything! Kudos (sp?) to Jen & Matt.
Then, to a movie and dinner with my husband. Today we're going skiing!
Enjoy your Sunday,
p.s. It's not 4:10 am, as I post this; it's 5:10. If you're looking at the time, I don't want you to think I never sleep. Need to figure out how to change that setting
PREPARATION
I've been up since 3:40 this morning -- my best preparation time. Quiet time before husband and dogs join me; a good time for me to read, study, meditate, plan.
Saturday mornings are a new class for me, and a bit of a challenge. My first real 'stepping out' or into the limelight (if you can call Saturday mornings 'the limelight'). They should, however, be one of the larger classes of the week. Hence, the challenge -- can I grow the class? will my presence and my teaching skills pull students in AND keep them? Scary to find out the answers.
So, preparation - as with all classes - is needed to meet the challenge.
I have a 3-ring notebook (affectionately called my lifeline), in which I store notes from past workshops and trainings. My method for notes: try to write as much as effectively possible during the training or workshop, then transcribe asap, read copiously, place in notebook, re-read. The information will percolate in; if not immediately, then after one or a few readings.
I also include in this notebook copies of evaluations (Certified Instructor feedback from class observations), my own pertinent notes picked up along the way, and notes shared with me by students who also attended the same trainings/workshops as I.
I've skimmed through the book, now for some journalling -- what will be my theme, my heart quality, my apex pose, my alignment principle(s) to emphasize, my sequence, related anecdotes. Journalling is a valuable tool -- when I do it well, classes develop and are taught with much less effort.
Noticed the trend here -- TOOLS.
Have a great weekend.
Saturday mornings are a new class for me, and a bit of a challenge. My first real 'stepping out' or into the limelight (if you can call Saturday mornings 'the limelight'). They should, however, be one of the larger classes of the week. Hence, the challenge -- can I grow the class? will my presence and my teaching skills pull students in AND keep them? Scary to find out the answers.
So, preparation - as with all classes - is needed to meet the challenge.
I have a 3-ring notebook (affectionately called my lifeline), in which I store notes from past workshops and trainings. My method for notes: try to write as much as effectively possible during the training or workshop, then transcribe asap, read copiously, place in notebook, re-read. The information will percolate in; if not immediately, then after one or a few readings.
I also include in this notebook copies of evaluations (Certified Instructor feedback from class observations), my own pertinent notes picked up along the way, and notes shared with me by students who also attended the same trainings/workshops as I.
I've skimmed through the book, now for some journalling -- what will be my theme, my heart quality, my apex pose, my alignment principle(s) to emphasize, my sequence, related anecdotes. Journalling is a valuable tool -- when I do it well, classes develop and are taught with much less effort.
Noticed the trend here -- TOOLS.
Have a great weekend.
HEAR NO EVIL . . .
While I'm on the topic of 'alternative' populations, one that presented itself this Winter is a group of deaf women at our of our local Community Centers for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing.
I had no knowledge of ASL (American Sign Language), and - to be truthful - had always felt a bit intimidated by this population. I've read and heard that that's not an unusual feeling for the hearing, since - as a group - the deaf will naturally stick together (they can't communicate easily with the hearing, remember). What I'm finding is that, while it is difficult to communicate as I learn to sign, they are a fun group - always laughing and looking for the laughable things in life -- a good fit for Anusara™.
Teaching this group adds another tool to my rapidly expanding toolbag of teaching skills -- SILENCE. Why talk -- they can't hear me!!!
Just as the forbidden touch has enriched my toolbag, so does this skill at silence. Both give me time to watch, to allow the poses to open without my touching or blabbing on about benefits, minutiae, etc.
Give it a try -- if your students are safe, don't rush in to adjust them; as they hold a pose (even Tadasana), let silence help occasionally. Simply watch the poses expand, open, SING.
As I said, another skill in my toolbag.
Have a great day!
I had no knowledge of ASL (American Sign Language), and - to be truthful - had always felt a bit intimidated by this population. I've read and heard that that's not an unusual feeling for the hearing, since - as a group - the deaf will naturally stick together (they can't communicate easily with the hearing, remember). What I'm finding is that, while it is difficult to communicate as I learn to sign, they are a fun group - always laughing and looking for the laughable things in life -- a good fit for Anusara™.
Teaching this group adds another tool to my rapidly expanding toolbag of teaching skills -- SILENCE. Why talk -- they can't hear me!!!
Just as the forbidden touch has enriched my toolbag, so does this skill at silence. Both give me time to watch, to allow the poses to open without my touching or blabbing on about benefits, minutiae, etc.
Give it a try -- if your students are safe, don't rush in to adjust them; as they hold a pose (even Tadasana), let silence help occasionally. Simply watch the poses expand, open, SING.
As I said, another skill in my toolbag.
Have a great day!
TEACHING 'ALTERNATIVE' POPULATIONS
As part of my first teacher training curriculum, we were asked to volunteer teach for a minimum of 20 hours.
5 years later (and, who knows how many hours), I am still teaching a class at the Salt Lake County Jail each week (I share this class with another instructor, which makes it much less stressful -- just getting INTO the jail can be filled with stress sometimes). This is a small class; we can fit just 7 in the anteroom of each pod.
Why am I still teaching it? It is one of the more rewarding classes I teach.
When I started, Jail personnel encouraged us to teach the male prisoners (women are too manipulative in that setting). The men are cooperative and appreciative, and - we've discovered - some of them really get it.
For example, the prisoner (huge and covered with tattoos) who questioned my sequencing one day; pointing out that if I reversed the order of poses, their balance and opening would be better(!!!). Guess he 'got it'.
Anyway, what is my point? This experience has given me a new slant on teaching. Part of my restriction in the Jail is that I cannot under ANY circumstances touch the prisoners. In a 'regular' class, my tendancy is to want to physically adjust (maybe, too much). In Jail, that is not possible, so my adjustments must be verbal. If a pose (i.e. handstand) requires assistance, then I recruit another prisoner to do the assisting. This requirement has improved my verbal instruction and is a great skill to have in my arsenal of teaching tools.
In my public classes, it has also taught me to stand back, look at the whole student, watch the development of the pose and - so long as no 'danger' is apparent - maybe not physically adjust until the pose has grown from the student's own effort.
Got to go answer a 'Facebook' friend request -- what is the purpose of Facebook, anyway? I'm staying low-key until I figure it out.
Take care,
5 years later (and, who knows how many hours), I am still teaching a class at the Salt Lake County Jail each week (I share this class with another instructor, which makes it much less stressful -- just getting INTO the jail can be filled with stress sometimes). This is a small class; we can fit just 7 in the anteroom of each pod.
Why am I still teaching it? It is one of the more rewarding classes I teach.
When I started, Jail personnel encouraged us to teach the male prisoners (women are too manipulative in that setting). The men are cooperative and appreciative, and - we've discovered - some of them really get it.
For example, the prisoner (huge and covered with tattoos) who questioned my sequencing one day; pointing out that if I reversed the order of poses, their balance and opening would be better(!!!). Guess he 'got it'.
Anyway, what is my point? This experience has given me a new slant on teaching. Part of my restriction in the Jail is that I cannot under ANY circumstances touch the prisoners. In a 'regular' class, my tendancy is to want to physically adjust (maybe, too much). In Jail, that is not possible, so my adjustments must be verbal. If a pose (i.e. handstand) requires assistance, then I recruit another prisoner to do the assisting. This requirement has improved my verbal instruction and is a great skill to have in my arsenal of teaching tools.
In my public classes, it has also taught me to stand back, look at the whole student, watch the development of the pose and - so long as no 'danger' is apparent - maybe not physically adjust until the pose has grown from the student's own effort.
Got to go answer a 'Facebook' friend request -- what is the purpose of Facebook, anyway? I'm staying low-key until I figure it out.
Take care,
DISCOURAGED?
"Let no feeling of discouragement prey upon you, and in the end you are sure to succeed."- Abraham Lincoln
In these current political times, not only is this quote pc (politically correct) because of President Obama's reverance for Lincoln; it will ALWAYS be appropriate as we move through our trainings, evaluations, or just as we sit and think about our future.
We have made the decision to become Anusara-Inspired™ yoga instructors. For most of us that means our next goal will be to apply for Anusara™ Certification. That sets us on a path fraught with potential pitfalls, discouraging moments, and times when we just don't know what to do next -- even tho it's all on the website.
One of my frequent emotions is feeling alone in all this. (Surrounded by a kula, and feeling alone, you ask?) Perhaps that happens because I protect my knowledge -- almost like, if I share it - I lose my advantage. There, I've said it -- competition has entered the process.
Shouldn't be that way, you're thinking. I agree. But, I don't think I'm alone. We're human, we have that capacity in our make-up. The important thing to remember is that we've started on this path to help other people learn and enjoy yoga. My goals should always be to promote the welfare of the student. If that means sharing info., referring a student to another instructor, promoting a workshop at another studio, helping another studio owner, attending classes at another studio -- so be it. I do most of that, but I have my weak, protective (selfish) moments. I'm human.
I'd be interested in thoughts.
Enjoy your day,
p.s. Two more urdhva dhanurasana's today!
In these current political times, not only is this quote pc (politically correct) because of President Obama's reverance for Lincoln; it will ALWAYS be appropriate as we move through our trainings, evaluations, or just as we sit and think about our future.
We have made the decision to become Anusara-Inspired™ yoga instructors. For most of us that means our next goal will be to apply for Anusara™ Certification. That sets us on a path fraught with potential pitfalls, discouraging moments, and times when we just don't know what to do next -- even tho it's all on the website.
One of my frequent emotions is feeling alone in all this. (Surrounded by a kula, and feeling alone, you ask?) Perhaps that happens because I protect my knowledge -- almost like, if I share it - I lose my advantage. There, I've said it -- competition has entered the process.
Shouldn't be that way, you're thinking. I agree. But, I don't think I'm alone. We're human, we have that capacity in our make-up. The important thing to remember is that we've started on this path to help other people learn and enjoy yoga. My goals should always be to promote the welfare of the student. If that means sharing info., referring a student to another instructor, promoting a workshop at another studio, helping another studio owner, attending classes at another studio -- so be it. I do most of that, but I have my weak, protective (selfish) moments. I'm human.
I'd be interested in thoughts.
Enjoy your day,
p.s. Two more urdhva dhanurasana's today!
PUSHING UP
One of the poses that presents a real challenge for me is urdhva dhanurasana (UD). (Remember, I was a golfer!)
Until the Level II Teacher Training in Boston (10/2008), I had done very few by myself and those were weak at best (bent arms, head 2-3 inches from floor). Something about being with John, tho, brings out a level of strength in me that I don't experience in any other settings. I was able (there) to push up with his help; then, the next day by myself - bent arms, but still up.
Since that training, I've resolved to include UD more often in my practice. Working with Adam Ballenger, Wayne Belles and (yesterday) Matt Newman, that pose is now a more regular part of my practice.
I mentioned yesterday, in particular, since Matt asked me to demo the pose (using his ankles). Ahh, the sweet smell of success -- straight arms and all. Granted it was using ankles, but each time we (or our students) experience a pose using props, our bodies get a feel for what that experience is; setting the stage for future breakthroughs.
At the end of Matt's class, it was hard to contain my excitement through savasana. The thought that I needed to try UD by myself kept recurring. As savasana ended, and the class closed, I debated -- should I try? or should I avoid potential failure? I slowly gathered and put away props (waiting for everyone to leave the room, so that - if I decided to try - no one would see the result -- you could say I can be pessimistic, at times).
I decided to give it a try. Just to help, I put my hips on a block (a little headstart) - set my feet and hands, pushed to the top of my head, re-set my shoulders, pressed into the floor and went up. Elbows still bent a bit, but oh so much straighter than ever before. THEN, I DID IT AGAIN!
UD may just become one of my favorite poses.
Take care!
Until the Level II Teacher Training in Boston (10/2008), I had done very few by myself and those were weak at best (bent arms, head 2-3 inches from floor). Something about being with John, tho, brings out a level of strength in me that I don't experience in any other settings. I was able (there) to push up with his help; then, the next day by myself - bent arms, but still up.
Since that training, I've resolved to include UD more often in my practice. Working with Adam Ballenger, Wayne Belles and (yesterday) Matt Newman, that pose is now a more regular part of my practice.
I mentioned yesterday, in particular, since Matt asked me to demo the pose (using his ankles). Ahh, the sweet smell of success -- straight arms and all. Granted it was using ankles, but each time we (or our students) experience a pose using props, our bodies get a feel for what that experience is; setting the stage for future breakthroughs.
At the end of Matt's class, it was hard to contain my excitement through savasana. The thought that I needed to try UD by myself kept recurring. As savasana ended, and the class closed, I debated -- should I try? or should I avoid potential failure? I slowly gathered and put away props (waiting for everyone to leave the room, so that - if I decided to try - no one would see the result -- you could say I can be pessimistic, at times).
I decided to give it a try. Just to help, I put my hips on a block (a little headstart) - set my feet and hands, pushed to the top of my head, re-set my shoulders, pressed into the floor and went up. Elbows still bent a bit, but oh so much straighter than ever before. THEN, I DID IT AGAIN!
UD may just become one of my favorite poses.
Take care!
PERFECT OFFERING
Each time I read or think of these lyrics (since, by now, they are part of my memory bank), it reminds me of the Sanskrit word 'purna' (full, complete, perfect), and its application to our effort, rather than the end result.
The line - 'there's a crack in everything, that's how the light gets in' - is a wonderful trigger for me to remember that in each pose, each practice, we have so much to learn. For most of us have a lot of 'cracks' (we're all still learning, right?). Along with those cracks come opportunities!
Opportunities to continue our practice
Opportunities to laugh
Opportunities to experience success and setbacks
Opportunities to cry
Opportunities to keep working and striving towards that diksha (threshhold)
And, don't forget, all those opportunities that will spring up OFF the mat
The lyrics remind me that I can learn from my setbacks, I can learn from my deficits and my strengths as I practice, I can ALWAYS learn.
Enjoy President's Day,
The line - 'there's a crack in everything, that's how the light gets in' - is a wonderful trigger for me to remember that in each pose, each practice, we have so much to learn. For most of us have a lot of 'cracks' (we're all still learning, right?). Along with those cracks come opportunities!
Opportunities to continue our practice
Opportunities to laugh
Opportunities to experience success and setbacks
Opportunities to cry
Opportunities to keep working and striving towards that diksha (threshhold)
And, don't forget, all those opportunities that will spring up OFF the mat
The lyrics remind me that I can learn from my setbacks, I can learn from my deficits and my strengths as I practice, I can ALWAYS learn.
Enjoy President's Day,
DIKSHA
Diksha is one of my favorite themes to use in class. Probably because I've experienced, tested, and crossed so many thresholds in the 10 years I've practiced yoga.
I compare it to 'letting off the brakes' -- for example, when you're driving a car down a steep incline after a fresh snowfall. If you brake too much, you slide; if you brake too little, who knows what you'll encounter at the bottom of the hill. You have to 'let off the brakes' enough to keep the tires rolling (NOT sliding), yet be comfortable that you will safely arrive at your destination.
Sound like your practice? (Sound like students you teach?) Too afraid to kick up, or too confident - just enough to be dangerous to ourselves or others in our path. Either way, our practice is compromised.
Diksha can be used to describe the process we are in now -- Anusara-Inspired™, training and working to apply for Certification. When is the right time to apply?
Luckily we have mentors; Certified instructors who take very seriously their role, assuring that we are ready before sending us into the Lions' den of tests, videos, feedback -- a whole new 'diksha' to experience.
Are your training hours accomplished? Have you read the required books? Do your teaching, meditation and asana hours match or exceed the required hours? (All requirement information is on the Certification Requirements page of the Anusara™ website.)
If you can answer 'done' to each of the requirements on the website, and don't already have one -- it's time to get yourself a mentor. A mentor is a Certified Ansuara™ instructor who will watch you teach, and - if/when appropriate - endorse your application to Anusara.
When you select a mentor, select a Certified instructor you know, who knows you, and whom you have easy access to. This mentor will sign your application for Certification (not to be confused with the mentor you will be assigned by Anusara once your application is accepted). It is important to remember that some instructors are just so busy, they do not have the time to handle your questions and concerns as quickly as you would hope. Be sure to discuss their time availability to work with you.
Also, plan to reimburse your mentor for the time they spend watching you teach, giving you feedback, and discussing your questions and concerns. The amount you pay is whatever you and your mentor agree upon.
Ahhh . . . . another threshhold to cross!
I compare it to 'letting off the brakes' -- for example, when you're driving a car down a steep incline after a fresh snowfall. If you brake too much, you slide; if you brake too little, who knows what you'll encounter at the bottom of the hill. You have to 'let off the brakes' enough to keep the tires rolling (NOT sliding), yet be comfortable that you will safely arrive at your destination.
Sound like your practice? (Sound like students you teach?) Too afraid to kick up, or too confident - just enough to be dangerous to ourselves or others in our path. Either way, our practice is compromised.
Diksha can be used to describe the process we are in now -- Anusara-Inspired™, training and working to apply for Certification. When is the right time to apply?
Luckily we have mentors; Certified instructors who take very seriously their role, assuring that we are ready before sending us into the Lions' den of tests, videos, feedback -- a whole new 'diksha' to experience.
Are your training hours accomplished? Have you read the required books? Do your teaching, meditation and asana hours match or exceed the required hours? (All requirement information is on the Certification Requirements page of the Anusara™ website.)
If you can answer 'done' to each of the requirements on the website, and don't already have one -- it's time to get yourself a mentor. A mentor is a Certified Ansuara™ instructor who will watch you teach, and - if/when appropriate - endorse your application to Anusara.
When you select a mentor, select a Certified instructor you know, who knows you, and whom you have easy access to. This mentor will sign your application for Certification (not to be confused with the mentor you will be assigned by Anusara once your application is accepted). It is important to remember that some instructors are just so busy, they do not have the time to handle your questions and concerns as quickly as you would hope. Be sure to discuss their time availability to work with you.
Also, plan to reimburse your mentor for the time they spend watching you teach, giving you feedback, and discussing your questions and concerns. The amount you pay is whatever you and your mentor agree upon.
Ahhh . . . . another threshhold to cross!