HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY
I'm enjoying a relaxing day, so far doing lots of nothing.
I hope that you all are doing the same -- either entertaining your Mothers, being entertained, or just enjoying the day. As nurturing beings, we all - Mothers or not - deserve this day.
Saturday's class was fun -- I used Shri as theme/heart quality. A new concept to some in the class; something we, as Anusara-Inspired™ instructors, have heard lots from John -- that of making our poses 'sing'. Fun. Even as we cooled down in some seated twists, there was a look of Shri and - more descriptively - almost a regal expression on their faces. Inspiring!
Back to my day of 'doing nothing'.
Enjoy yours,
I hope that you all are doing the same -- either entertaining your Mothers, being entertained, or just enjoying the day. As nurturing beings, we all - Mothers or not - deserve this day.
Saturday's class was fun -- I used Shri as theme/heart quality. A new concept to some in the class; something we, as Anusara-Inspired™ instructors, have heard lots from John -- that of making our poses 'sing'. Fun. Even as we cooled down in some seated twists, there was a look of Shri and - more descriptively - almost a regal expression on their faces. Inspiring!
Back to my day of 'doing nothing'.
Enjoy yours,
DISCOVERY
I have started teaching a class each Tuesday and Thursday afternoon called YogaHour (very original). It's a bargain price ($4) and is collecting a group of followers - not necessarily because of the price, but perhaps because it's just an hour and it's a good time of day for them.
Whatever their reason, they come to class with light hearts, ready to move after a day of work, household management, dealing with kids, whatever.
Each class, I have spent time coming up with a one-word theme and a pose to work towards (and, I am logging those - as mentioned in an earlier blog - to avoid repetition).
Yesterday, I felt a bit tired and at the start of class, I didn't have a word (Oh, No!). What do I do? Well, I asked the group for a word. The first word to come forth was "FREE". An offering of a college student who had just finished her last final of the year.
As Anusara-Inspired™ instructors, we are working to develop verbage to embrace and transmit our theme to students, making their yoga practice memorable for more than just its physical movement. With the contribution of the word "FREE", and no time to prepare, I had to improvise.
Here is my discovery: it was EASIER! -- At least in this case, to incorporate the sense of freedom into the class, to find poses that represented that feeling, to have fun without the pressure of having prepared and hoping it will work. I think they (the students) left feeling good; I know I did -- the tiredness was gone and I felt, well, FREE. Once in a while, this may be a good thing to repeat.
Ready for the weekend,
Whatever their reason, they come to class with light hearts, ready to move after a day of work, household management, dealing with kids, whatever.
Each class, I have spent time coming up with a one-word theme and a pose to work towards (and, I am logging those - as mentioned in an earlier blog - to avoid repetition).
Yesterday, I felt a bit tired and at the start of class, I didn't have a word (Oh, No!). What do I do? Well, I asked the group for a word. The first word to come forth was "FREE". An offering of a college student who had just finished her last final of the year.
As Anusara-Inspired™ instructors, we are working to develop verbage to embrace and transmit our theme to students, making their yoga practice memorable for more than just its physical movement. With the contribution of the word "FREE", and no time to prepare, I had to improvise.
Here is my discovery: it was EASIER! -- At least in this case, to incorporate the sense of freedom into the class, to find poses that represented that feeling, to have fun without the pressure of having prepared and hoping it will work. I think they (the students) left feeling good; I know I did -- the tiredness was gone and I felt, well, FREE. Once in a while, this may be a good thing to repeat.
Ready for the weekend,
ONE DOWN, FOURTEEN LEFT
Minutes of fame, that is.
If you read the local newspaper (SL Tribune), you may see an article titled "Hello, my name is ..." in today's issue (if you're really curious, go to http://www.sltrib.com/ and search Leslie Salmon).
Well, it's about me this week (obviously, duh!). Just a bit of information & background -- some about yoga, some about hobbies/activities, some about my opinions of the community. My one regret -- the comment about the coffee shop (dorky!). Sounds like I spend 90% of my time there and that life, as I know it, will end when Bakers of Normandie moves down the road a bit.
Actually, it won't be as convenient - but, it is only moving about 4-5 blocks away. So, instead of walking across the street, I may want to stop in as I drive past (which I will do almost every day - drive that direction, that is). The positive -- no more easy access to great pastries.
The negative -- no more walking across on a lazy weekday morning and enjoying the elderly gentlemen (5-6 of them) sitting in the corner, eating pastries, drinking coffee (or tea or water), and playing their harmonicas. They even sing once in a while. I will miss easy access to their great entertainment and free spirit (who else would sit in a coffee shop and play their harmonicas!).
Subbing a lot this week - too much, maybe. But, it is good for me to get out there and teach. Good to see new faces and good to step out of my comfort zone.
I was so excited yesterday when 10 (read it, TEN) came to my Gentle Yoga class (a class for those new, a bit out of shape, or with physical conditions requiring a some extra attention). And, even more fun to watch the regular 5 welcome the newer 5 -- introductions all around, talking, re-newing acquaintances. I thought I maybe should serve tea and hold a chatfest; instead, we did yoga.
Enjoy your day,
If you read the local newspaper (SL Tribune), you may see an article titled "Hello, my name is ..." in today's issue (if you're really curious, go to http://www.sltrib.com/ and search Leslie Salmon).
Well, it's about me this week (obviously, duh!). Just a bit of information & background -- some about yoga, some about hobbies/activities, some about my opinions of the community. My one regret -- the comment about the coffee shop (dorky!). Sounds like I spend 90% of my time there and that life, as I know it, will end when Bakers of Normandie moves down the road a bit.
Actually, it won't be as convenient - but, it is only moving about 4-5 blocks away. So, instead of walking across the street, I may want to stop in as I drive past (which I will do almost every day - drive that direction, that is). The positive -- no more easy access to great pastries.
The negative -- no more walking across on a lazy weekday morning and enjoying the elderly gentlemen (5-6 of them) sitting in the corner, eating pastries, drinking coffee (or tea or water), and playing their harmonicas. They even sing once in a while. I will miss easy access to their great entertainment and free spirit (who else would sit in a coffee shop and play their harmonicas!).
Subbing a lot this week - too much, maybe. But, it is good for me to get out there and teach. Good to see new faces and good to step out of my comfort zone.
I was so excited yesterday when 10 (read it, TEN) came to my Gentle Yoga class (a class for those new, a bit out of shape, or with physical conditions requiring a some extra attention). And, even more fun to watch the regular 5 welcome the newer 5 -- introductions all around, talking, re-newing acquaintances. I thought I maybe should serve tea and hold a chatfest; instead, we did yoga.
Enjoy your day,
WAYNE'S CLASS
Subbing Wayne's class yesterday was fun and re-invigorating for me.
First, I had been in his class last week when he reminded the group he would be gone for the Certified Teachers' Gathering in Denver; second, he did tell that class that he anticipated I would be the sub on Tuesday. Result: A class normally attended by 8-15 people had 11 in it! Not bad -- in fact, wonderful!
There were people of all levels attending this Level 1 class. People who had been practicing for years, plus a few newer to the practice. My message, therefore, was that it would be appropriate for everyone to put their 'beginner mind' on, step back a bit and focus on their mindfulness in practice.
A challenge to teach: Keep the veterans interested, while not letting the newer students get lost and/or discouraged.
We worked towards parvritta janu sirsasana; not an easy pose, but one we can all get into the general shape of (unlike some arm balances or backbends that might leave a newer student wondering 'why in the world did I come to this class?').
The most fun for me, tho, was using tree pose in a circle (The lead-in: what is the largest organism? Why, it's a grove of Aspen trees right here in Utah!). So, we made our own Aspen Grove. Veterans and newer students can take the pose, link with their neighbors and experience that fun opening while leaning back and gazing up at the ceiling. So far every time I've used it, people appear to be enjoying themselves (that, or they are really good actors!).
So, feeling even more back on track -- teaching Gentle Yoga this a.m., then go to the Jail for a class, then subbing for Sam at 5:40 pm.
Enjoy your Wednesday,
First, I had been in his class last week when he reminded the group he would be gone for the Certified Teachers' Gathering in Denver; second, he did tell that class that he anticipated I would be the sub on Tuesday. Result: A class normally attended by 8-15 people had 11 in it! Not bad -- in fact, wonderful!
There were people of all levels attending this Level 1 class. People who had been practicing for years, plus a few newer to the practice. My message, therefore, was that it would be appropriate for everyone to put their 'beginner mind' on, step back a bit and focus on their mindfulness in practice.
A challenge to teach: Keep the veterans interested, while not letting the newer students get lost and/or discouraged.
We worked towards parvritta janu sirsasana; not an easy pose, but one we can all get into the general shape of (unlike some arm balances or backbends that might leave a newer student wondering 'why in the world did I come to this class?').
The most fun for me, tho, was using tree pose in a circle (The lead-in: what is the largest organism? Why, it's a grove of Aspen trees right here in Utah!). So, we made our own Aspen Grove. Veterans and newer students can take the pose, link with their neighbors and experience that fun opening while leaning back and gazing up at the ceiling. So far every time I've used it, people appear to be enjoying themselves (that, or they are really good actors!).
So, feeling even more back on track -- teaching Gentle Yoga this a.m., then go to the Jail for a class, then subbing for Sam at 5:40 pm.
Enjoy your Wednesday,
BACK ON TRACK
Each time something negative has happened with regards to teaching yoga or owning The Yoga Center, within 1-2 days positive events come into my life. I take that as a sign that I am on the right path.
Last night I subbed another class -- attendance wasn't huge, but it was a fun group. (And, with a smaller group, you can get into more detailed teaching.) People appeared to leave in a good mood; and, this morning, I had an e-mail waiting from one of the attendees. His comment: that my message had resonated with his own self-evaluation. He went on to tell me the important role that yoga, the studio, and the teachers have played in his life.
Well, it just takes one of those kind of messages to put me back on track. To set aside self-imposed feelings of inadequacy, and realize that we all have a lot to offer each other. Yoga brings us together, gives us a common ground on which to work on stuff, and - for many of us - causes an awakening to our own beauty and strengths and to the same in others; both on and off the mat.
It is interesting, tho, how a little thing (or pile of little things) can cause us to forget our own power and our ability to impact others.
Here's to a better day -- subbing, again. This time for Wayne at Kula (the first time a Certified instructor has asked me to sub). I'm feeling a bit more pressure by that, but also very flattered.
Hope your day goes well,
Last night I subbed another class -- attendance wasn't huge, but it was a fun group. (And, with a smaller group, you can get into more detailed teaching.) People appeared to leave in a good mood; and, this morning, I had an e-mail waiting from one of the attendees. His comment: that my message had resonated with his own self-evaluation. He went on to tell me the important role that yoga, the studio, and the teachers have played in his life.
Well, it just takes one of those kind of messages to put me back on track. To set aside self-imposed feelings of inadequacy, and realize that we all have a lot to offer each other. Yoga brings us together, gives us a common ground on which to work on stuff, and - for many of us - causes an awakening to our own beauty and strengths and to the same in others; both on and off the mat.
It is interesting, tho, how a little thing (or pile of little things) can cause us to forget our own power and our ability to impact others.
Here's to a better day -- subbing, again. This time for Wayne at Kula (the first time a Certified instructor has asked me to sub). I'm feeling a bit more pressure by that, but also very flattered.
Hope your day goes well,
NOTES
'get back up, dust myself off, and start all over again' could closely describe my Monday mentality.
Briefly, without going into the details, a review of my teaching left me feeling a bit shaken. I had hoped for better, but it didn't happen this time. A lot is better - that's the good part; still some things to work on.
Subbed a class yesterday. Attendance was down. I heard from students that the regular teacher had told them she would be gone. I understand how that happens -- who wants to go to their favorite class if their favorite teacher is not there? Had I not been recovering from the review, I probably would have taken it more lightly. Oh, well -- don't take it personally, right?
The "poor me's" (as I call them) even affected my inspiration to blog -- so I let myself down and missed two days of blogging.
Other than that, last week was busy and otherwise uneventful.
So, all of the above explains my choice of quotes for the week. This is one I took from the Master Immersion in Tucson this past March. A good one, and very appropriate for me to embody this week and for the future.
I hope your weekend was good. Rainy here this morning.
Enjoy your day/week,
Briefly, without going into the details, a review of my teaching left me feeling a bit shaken. I had hoped for better, but it didn't happen this time. A lot is better - that's the good part; still some things to work on.
Subbed a class yesterday. Attendance was down. I heard from students that the regular teacher had told them she would be gone. I understand how that happens -- who wants to go to their favorite class if their favorite teacher is not there? Had I not been recovering from the review, I probably would have taken it more lightly. Oh, well -- don't take it personally, right?
The "poor me's" (as I call them) even affected my inspiration to blog -- so I let myself down and missed two days of blogging.
Other than that, last week was busy and otherwise uneventful.
So, all of the above explains my choice of quotes for the week. This is one I took from the Master Immersion in Tucson this past March. A good one, and very appropriate for me to embody this week and for the future.
I hope your weekend was good. Rainy here this morning.
Enjoy your day/week,
PROMOTING
The workshop in July -- July 17-19 -- with Christina Sell is planned. We have a title: "Mid-Summer Journey"; a schedule and subject for each session; I'm working on publicity; and now am working on plane reservations.
I've decided that Facebook could come in handy for publicity -- not that I know much about Facebook. I also now wish I had been more aggressive about collecting friends -- my 25 friends will have to help me spread the word a LOT in order to get attention for this event from Facebook. (I guess I could get busy and invite a bunch of people to be my friends. My worst nightmare: what if someone said no? I hate rejection!)
I'm also arranging for press releases and e-mails, placing ads, creating fliers, and talking it up whenever possible .
Workshops are fun to host, but there is a lot of pressure -- pressure to make plans, host the presenter (my main worry: what will she want to eat?), assure a decent attendance, and make it monetarily worth everyone's while, and then just to have fun. I've got the fun part down -- it's always fun doing yoga. With a teacher like Christina, I KNOW it will be fun.
Looking forward to the weekend and LOTS of teaching,
I've decided that Facebook could come in handy for publicity -- not that I know much about Facebook. I also now wish I had been more aggressive about collecting friends -- my 25 friends will have to help me spread the word a LOT in order to get attention for this event from Facebook. (I guess I could get busy and invite a bunch of people to be my friends. My worst nightmare: what if someone said no? I hate rejection!)
I'm also arranging for press releases and e-mails, placing ads, creating fliers, and talking it up whenever possible .
Workshops are fun to host, but there is a lot of pressure -- pressure to make plans, host the presenter (my main worry: what will she want to eat?), assure a decent attendance, and make it monetarily worth everyone's while, and then just to have fun. I've got the fun part down -- it's always fun doing yoga. With a teacher like Christina, I KNOW it will be fun.
Looking forward to the weekend and LOTS of teaching,
TAKING THE SEAT
I taught my Gentle Yoga class yesterday morning, then subbed Sam's two classes in the late afternoon/evening.
Spring and road construction around the studio are taking a toll on class sizes this month, but - hopefully - people will get their fill of yardwork and bike riding, decide to brave the gauntlet of yellow cones and flagmen(women), and get in for their yoga.
All that to say that the classes I subbed were small, but still fun to teach.
After each, students came up and commented on how much they enjoyed the classes. Not just the new students, but students who had been in my classes many times before. Causes me to wonder -- what did I do different this time?
One of the 'older-to-me' (meaning: have experienced my class before) students explained that my confidence level is visibly improving. That each time he comes to my class he notices I am more comfortable -- more comfortable in the 'seat of the teacher'.
What is the 'seat of the teacher'? It is that place where we become the guide in our classes. It is a position of trust, and of serving our students.
Have a good Thursday,
Spring and road construction around the studio are taking a toll on class sizes this month, but - hopefully - people will get their fill of yardwork and bike riding, decide to brave the gauntlet of yellow cones and flagmen(women), and get in for their yoga.
All that to say that the classes I subbed were small, but still fun to teach.
After each, students came up and commented on how much they enjoyed the classes. Not just the new students, but students who had been in my classes many times before. Causes me to wonder -- what did I do different this time?
One of the 'older-to-me' (meaning: have experienced my class before) students explained that my confidence level is visibly improving. That each time he comes to my class he notices I am more comfortable -- more comfortable in the 'seat of the teacher'.
What is the 'seat of the teacher'? It is that place where we become the guide in our classes. It is a position of trust, and of serving our students.
I got out my oldest version of the Teacher Manual for Anusara Yoga and looked up 'Seat of the Teacher'. In that section of the Manual, we are asked to follow a set of guidelines structured to set us on a path of honoring our role, honoring our teachers, respecting our students. The guidelines include ethical codes of behavior to be followed. And, if in doubt, we are asked to follow the 3 S's of Anusara Yoga:
- Shri - Life-affirming
- Satya - Truthful
- Svantantrya - Freedom-enhancing
Have a good Thursday,
MY EXPERIMENT IN VERBAGE
Maybe some of you have figured this out, but bear with me -- because it causes me great excitement!
When bringing students up from uttanasana (a standing forward bend) to tadasana (standing), there has - in the past - been at least one or two who will come up with their gaze at the floor. This usually happens with newer students, used to exercise classes where the instructor asked them to roll up from a forward bend. I call it 'leaving their head behind'.
I've tried saying 'don't leave your head behind', I've explained skull loop - which takes some time out of the other students' experience, and I've reminded, reminded, reminded, ad nauseum.
So - my experiment in the last two weeks of teaching has been to guide students back to standing with the phrase: 'come to standing as you lift your heart'. It works! As I scan the room in each of the classes I've taught, nary a student has come to standing with their head dropping forward like there was something interesting on the floor to look at. Each student has come up, lifting their heart -- head up, gaze forward !!!
With their gaze forward, many will glance at me -- only to see me standing there, grinning like a proud parent (or grandparent). As time passes, and if my experiment continues to prove successful, it won't be necessary to explain the grin; it (the grin) might even disappear. But, I won't forget.
It's always the little things.
Have a GREAT day!
When bringing students up from uttanasana (a standing forward bend) to tadasana (standing), there has - in the past - been at least one or two who will come up with their gaze at the floor. This usually happens with newer students, used to exercise classes where the instructor asked them to roll up from a forward bend. I call it 'leaving their head behind'.
I've tried saying 'don't leave your head behind', I've explained skull loop - which takes some time out of the other students' experience, and I've reminded, reminded, reminded, ad nauseum.
So - my experiment in the last two weeks of teaching has been to guide students back to standing with the phrase: 'come to standing as you lift your heart'. It works! As I scan the room in each of the classes I've taught, nary a student has come to standing with their head dropping forward like there was something interesting on the floor to look at. Each student has come up, lifting their heart -- head up, gaze forward !!!
With their gaze forward, many will glance at me -- only to see me standing there, grinning like a proud parent (or grandparent). As time passes, and if my experiment continues to prove successful, it won't be necessary to explain the grin; it (the grin) might even disappear. But, I won't forget.
It's always the little things.
Have a GREAT day!
CLINGING
to the belief that my hamstrings are tight has become a way of life, a mantra for me. But, that doesn't mean I'm not trying to hear something new -- one that says "they're tight, but - bit by bit, practice by practice, things are getting better".
I went to Jen's class last night -- like Matt's, fun and challenging, especially for the hamstrings I mentioned above.
She took us into vasisthasana and visvamitrasana -- very different types of arm balances. Both, if taken to the full expression, offer significant lengthening of the stubborn hamstring muscles. She also threw in an utthita hasta padangusthasana (UHP) - my goal pose for this year. (I think she did that just for me.)
Leg still isn't straight in UHP, but I have been working the hamstrings almost every day. The pilates is helping, as well.
So, I no longer 'cling' to the belief that those hamstring-challenging poses are not available to me. Now, a door opens and change can begin.
On the agenda today: Wayne's class, Pilates, YogaHour, and subbing a prenatal class this evening.
Enjoy your day,
I went to Jen's class last night -- like Matt's, fun and challenging, especially for the hamstrings I mentioned above.
She took us into vasisthasana and visvamitrasana -- very different types of arm balances. Both, if taken to the full expression, offer significant lengthening of the stubborn hamstring muscles. She also threw in an utthita hasta padangusthasana (UHP) - my goal pose for this year. (I think she did that just for me.)
Leg still isn't straight in UHP, but I have been working the hamstrings almost every day. The pilates is helping, as well.
So, I no longer 'cling' to the belief that those hamstring-challenging poses are not available to me. Now, a door opens and change can begin.
On the agenda today: Wayne's class, Pilates, YogaHour, and subbing a prenatal class this evening.
Enjoy your day,
'BACK TO MONDAY' NOTES
First, here's a new pic of Jack taken as he and his Grandpa RJ waited for the BIG train ride (see April 14 blog for details).
Second, about the quote -- it is so true. For me, for students, for teachers, for almost everyone. Until I, or you, or whoever, is/are ready to hear something new and different, it will not take hold. How many times have you heard "I'm trying to get my friend, husband, wife to come to class". I tell people -- in their time, they may come - don't push.
It follows in line with John's advice: "Don't answer the question that hasn't been asked."
More on that later, maybe, now on to other notes:
I am extremely excited about Christina coming in July. So excited that I am pestering her with e-mails -- today's was about the name for the workshop & agenda. I just hope I didn't offend by being a bit presumptuous. Anyway, if you're reading this, you do yoga, and you can get to Salt Lake -- be sure to plan on her workshop, July 17-19.
In preparation for the workshop, I'm holding a couple mini-workshops. I'm discovering that many students believe workshops are only for instructors. Wrong! It's an opportunity for students to broaden their knowledge, to step out of their comfort zone, to step into a room filled with other students (including instructors) and have fun.
May 16, Jen will hold a "De-Mystifying Backbending Poses" workshop from 2-4:30. It's a Saturday, and Jen is a great, fun instructor. Suitable for all levels -- even those with some level of back discomfort.
Then, in June, Robin is holding an afternoon "Intro to Meditation" workshop. Date to be determined. Watch the website for details.
All leading up to July and the BIG event.
Went to Matt's class yesterday morning. So much fun because it is a challenging class, but filled with relaxed energy -- if that makes sense. I found myself demo'ing eka pada bakasana I (with Matt's help). That's the way all this works -- we get to a comfort point in a pose, then want to expand. I am fairly comfortable in bakasana, so - when he mentioned EPB - I asked if there was a way to do that with a partner. Good way to get to demo -- WILL I NEVER LEARN!
The rest of the day was pretty quiet. I finally finished reading one of the longest and heaviest books I've ever attempted, puttered around the house and just relaxed.
Enjoy your week,
It follows in line with John's advice: "Don't answer the question that hasn't been asked."
More on that later, maybe, now on to other notes:
I am extremely excited about Christina coming in July. So excited that I am pestering her with e-mails -- today's was about the name for the workshop & agenda. I just hope I didn't offend by being a bit presumptuous. Anyway, if you're reading this, you do yoga, and you can get to Salt Lake -- be sure to plan on her workshop, July 17-19.
In preparation for the workshop, I'm holding a couple mini-workshops. I'm discovering that many students believe workshops are only for instructors. Wrong! It's an opportunity for students to broaden their knowledge, to step out of their comfort zone, to step into a room filled with other students (including instructors) and have fun.
May 16, Jen will hold a "De-Mystifying Backbending Poses" workshop from 2-4:30. It's a Saturday, and Jen is a great, fun instructor. Suitable for all levels -- even those with some level of back discomfort.
Then, in June, Robin is holding an afternoon "Intro to Meditation" workshop. Date to be determined. Watch the website for details.
All leading up to July and the BIG event.
Went to Matt's class yesterday morning. So much fun because it is a challenging class, but filled with relaxed energy -- if that makes sense. I found myself demo'ing eka pada bakasana I (with Matt's help). That's the way all this works -- we get to a comfort point in a pose, then want to expand. I am fairly comfortable in bakasana, so - when he mentioned EPB - I asked if there was a way to do that with a partner. Good way to get to demo -- WILL I NEVER LEARN!
The rest of the day was pretty quiet. I finally finished reading one of the longest and heaviest books I've ever attempted, puttered around the house and just relaxed.
Enjoy your week,
TEACHING PROGRESS
I taught two classes yesterday morning (subbing Jacqueline's Basics class, in addition to my own Level 1).
When I took over the Saturday morning class, I was advised to 'not make it too easy' -- the implication being that people coming to a 9 am Saturday class are looking for a more energetic, challenging experience.
And, my tendency is to look out at the group, see people struggling, and back off. That's not necessarily a bad thing - I certainly don't want people to get discouraged, but it may not be what the group is looking for. It also does not allow them growth in their practice.
Yesterday, I had a breakthrough, of sorts, in teaching this Level 1 class. I have always admired the teacher who can sequence a class, moving to the apex pose while pointing out to students that pieces/parts of the poses leading to the apex, and the apex, have already been accomplished as they were warming up. The implication: you (students) have already been here in a number of different poses, now let's put it all together.
My breakthrough was that I did that, in a manner of speaking. Moved students through poses that included shoulder work, lunges, hip openers -- until we reached the apex for that day. As we worked, I was able to go back and remind them that they have already done a part or piece of the pose in this sequence, moving from warm-up to more difficult/challenging poses.
Result -- I think people left feeling good and challenged.
Another result -- I had fun and felt good about their experience. In hindsight, I could have put in more languaging relating to the theme, but - this new experience while teaching took over and I forgot, except briefly, that part of my job. I'm not going to beat myself about it, tho; it just felt like too much fun.
Have a great day!
When I took over the Saturday morning class, I was advised to 'not make it too easy' -- the implication being that people coming to a 9 am Saturday class are looking for a more energetic, challenging experience.
And, my tendency is to look out at the group, see people struggling, and back off. That's not necessarily a bad thing - I certainly don't want people to get discouraged, but it may not be what the group is looking for. It also does not allow them growth in their practice.
Yesterday, I had a breakthrough, of sorts, in teaching this Level 1 class. I have always admired the teacher who can sequence a class, moving to the apex pose while pointing out to students that pieces/parts of the poses leading to the apex, and the apex, have already been accomplished as they were warming up. The implication: you (students) have already been here in a number of different poses, now let's put it all together.
My breakthrough was that I did that, in a manner of speaking. Moved students through poses that included shoulder work, lunges, hip openers -- until we reached the apex for that day. As we worked, I was able to go back and remind them that they have already done a part or piece of the pose in this sequence, moving from warm-up to more difficult/challenging poses.
Result -- I think people left feeling good and challenged.
Another result -- I had fun and felt good about their experience. In hindsight, I could have put in more languaging relating to the theme, but - this new experience while teaching took over and I forgot, except briefly, that part of my job. I'm not going to beat myself about it, tho; it just felt like too much fun.
Have a great day!
CONFIRMED
Well, I am very excited to begin planning for Christina Sell to visit The Yoga Center in July (July 17-19) for a workshop.
It was all pretty 'flukey' -- I read Christina's blog faithfully and noticed she mentioned a couple out-of-town cancellations. So - what the heck - I sent and e-mail and asked her if she'd like to come to my studio and, if so, what dates would she be available. Response: Yes; July 17-19 would work nicely.
Fortunately, those dates do not conflict with any plans at the other Anusara® studios (all 3 of them) in Utah. (What an unenviable job for Anusara® studios in BIG communities to communicate to avoid conflict.) So, we're good to go.
Preliminary plans are for Christina to do a 4-part workshop; Friday night, Saturday and Sunday morning.
Now, on to planning -- publicity, travel, etc.
Have a great weekend,
It was all pretty 'flukey' -- I read Christina's blog faithfully and noticed she mentioned a couple out-of-town cancellations. So - what the heck - I sent and e-mail and asked her if she'd like to come to my studio and, if so, what dates would she be available. Response: Yes; July 17-19 would work nicely.
Fortunately, those dates do not conflict with any plans at the other Anusara® studios (all 3 of them) in Utah. (What an unenviable job for Anusara® studios in BIG communities to communicate to avoid conflict.) So, we're good to go.
Preliminary plans are for Christina to do a 4-part workshop; Friday night, Saturday and Sunday morning.
Now, on to planning -- publicity, travel, etc.
Have a great weekend,
REMEMBER -- LIFE IS GOOD
Friday is a good day to end my pondering of this week's quote.
I left my sign languaging class last night feeling good. The group of people that has distilled (it started as a very large class, then they split the group), is fun -- not afraid to laugh, tease a little, make mistakes, and admit they don't know. My kind of group!
The YogaHour class I taught yesterday afternoon was fun. The fact that it is growing, with everyone in attendance having attended one of these classes before, is a good sign. And, they are a great group -- willing to give poses a try, yet aware of limitations and ready to express those concerns. FYI, I am more than happy to have a student tell me they are not ready to try a pose; rather than feel forced into something. Been there, done that.
Birthday shopping for my mother-in-law was successful. What do you buy for a 80+ year old, who has all she needs and has been giving stuff away right and left? I decided she needed a good, and fun hat, to keep that hot Arizona sun away. Found it, bought it, it will be delivered this weekend.
Pilates with Cindy in the afternoon felt good. We have moved onto some of the equipment. It's a challenge, but I am enjoying it. I have to admit the prospect of being longer and leaner is a thought that gives me pleasure. (Learned the sign for 'vain' last night -- better remember it!)
Notice a trend here -- all my good experiences in just one day involved a connection with other people: friends, retail people, students, not to mention family.
It's important to take time to notice that connection and what it offers to my life.
Enjoy your day,
I left my sign languaging class last night feeling good. The group of people that has distilled (it started as a very large class, then they split the group), is fun -- not afraid to laugh, tease a little, make mistakes, and admit they don't know. My kind of group!
The YogaHour class I taught yesterday afternoon was fun. The fact that it is growing, with everyone in attendance having attended one of these classes before, is a good sign. And, they are a great group -- willing to give poses a try, yet aware of limitations and ready to express those concerns. FYI, I am more than happy to have a student tell me they are not ready to try a pose; rather than feel forced into something. Been there, done that.
Birthday shopping for my mother-in-law was successful. What do you buy for a 80+ year old, who has all she needs and has been giving stuff away right and left? I decided she needed a good, and fun hat, to keep that hot Arizona sun away. Found it, bought it, it will be delivered this weekend.
Pilates with Cindy in the afternoon felt good. We have moved onto some of the equipment. It's a challenge, but I am enjoying it. I have to admit the prospect of being longer and leaner is a thought that gives me pleasure. (Learned the sign for 'vain' last night -- better remember it!)
Notice a trend here -- all my good experiences in just one day involved a connection with other people: friends, retail people, students, not to mention family.
It's important to take time to notice that connection and what it offers to my life.
Enjoy your day,
FLASHBACK
to my blog of Feb. 24, and continue to ponder the 'Favorite quote . . .'
The line "Make a connection with everyone you encounter." reminds me of one of my first blog entries -- that of listening.
Such an easy way to make a connection -- look someone in the eye (aligning) as they talk to me, and give them my full attention. It's not rocket science; connecting can be as simple as remembering someone's name, acknowledging their efforts in class (everyone's efforts -- the student who needs bolstering and the student who is 'advanced'), smiling at people in the grocery store - on & on & on.
So easy and so effective and filled with so much potential to affect peoples' lives.
I taught at the Jail yesterday. 3 new-to-me students, 3 brand-new students, plus one young man who's been coming to this class for many weeks now. It would be very easy for me to enter the room and focus only on what their crimes may have been. That would make my (and their) experience less than meaningful. If I did that, they might come back, but it would only be to escape jail life for 90 minutes each week.
For some reason, it is easy to teach and not wonder or worry about what causes them to be in this situation. Don't get me wrong -- I know they're in for a reason (some, not so pretty). The acts of teaching, of looking for the good, of remembering their names, of offering encouragement and alignment tips, of being willing to be there -- all this adds up to making a connection, albeit brief.
This connection, in particular, has the potential to offer someone a remembrance that 'life is good'.
Yoga for the Deaf this morning -- 4 weeks into my 6 weeks of signing class. I now know the signs for cat & cow; that will make that pose fun to do -- plus I know my numbers, so I can tell them how many times to do it. It IS the little things!
The line "Make a connection with everyone you encounter." reminds me of one of my first blog entries -- that of listening.
Such an easy way to make a connection -- look someone in the eye (aligning) as they talk to me, and give them my full attention. It's not rocket science; connecting can be as simple as remembering someone's name, acknowledging their efforts in class (everyone's efforts -- the student who needs bolstering and the student who is 'advanced'), smiling at people in the grocery store - on & on & on.
So easy and so effective and filled with so much potential to affect peoples' lives.
I taught at the Jail yesterday. 3 new-to-me students, 3 brand-new students, plus one young man who's been coming to this class for many weeks now. It would be very easy for me to enter the room and focus only on what their crimes may have been. That would make my (and their) experience less than meaningful. If I did that, they might come back, but it would only be to escape jail life for 90 minutes each week.
For some reason, it is easy to teach and not wonder or worry about what causes them to be in this situation. Don't get me wrong -- I know they're in for a reason (some, not so pretty). The acts of teaching, of looking for the good, of remembering their names, of offering encouragement and alignment tips, of being willing to be there -- all this adds up to making a connection, albeit brief.
This connection, in particular, has the potential to offer someone a remembrance that 'life is good'.
Yoga for the Deaf this morning -- 4 weeks into my 6 weeks of signing class. I now know the signs for cat & cow; that will make that pose fun to do -- plus I know my numbers, so I can tell them how many times to do it. It IS the little things!
Living With Intention
I've decided that John's quote/poem deserves more than one day's comment.
So, this morning I've been pondering "Live your life with intention.". First I went to my Thesaurus and entered 'intention'. Came up with words like: meaning, purpose, plan, objective.
When I look at my 'yoga life', I probably could (if asked), answer 'Yes, I am living that part of my life with intention (meaning, purpose, plan, objective).' Having said "I will strive to be a Certified Anusara Instructor" gave me that. My intention is to be Certified, which offers me lots of opportunities to live with a plan, purpose, objective. I know what to do -- read, study, practice, video, teach, work hard -- work REALLY hard.
As I look at the rest of my life, I wonder if that is suffering for all the intention going to yoga. How do I get intention back into housework, yardwork, caring for aging parents, grocery shopping, maintaining two houses, pay bills, etc.?
When I started yoga, for a long time I wondered what 'set our intention for this practice' meant. Now that I teach, I need to reflect on what I tell students as I define that statement for them. I tell them that their intention can be as simple as planting their hands firmly on the mat for the next 90 minutes, or it can be much more complex. If they choose complex, they must remember that this is just the start of the journey. Their destination may not be reached in the next 90 minutes.
Likewise, I need to start simply -- find a way to do it all (start the journey), yet not let it overwhelm me. One of my characteristics is to procrastinate (who, me?). If I can't do it right and 100%, it becomes overwhelming and I go into 'why do it at all' mode? Note, I do pay my/our bills tho -- that can't be procrastinated upon.
So, it's easier to go back to the safety zone (yoga) where I know all the expectations, plus it's fun. What's fun about housework? or grocery shopping? or managing households?
Ah, pondering -- maybe I shouldn't do it too much. Or, maybe I should do it more -- it brings out a lot of stuff out that I've been avoiding.
Sunny and warm here for at least the next couple days, then a bit of a cold snap is expected. Hopefully - no snow.
Enjoy Wednesday,
So, this morning I've been pondering "Live your life with intention.". First I went to my Thesaurus and entered 'intention'. Came up with words like: meaning, purpose, plan, objective.
When I look at my 'yoga life', I probably could (if asked), answer 'Yes, I am living that part of my life with intention (meaning, purpose, plan, objective).' Having said "I will strive to be a Certified Anusara Instructor" gave me that. My intention is to be Certified, which offers me lots of opportunities to live with a plan, purpose, objective. I know what to do -- read, study, practice, video, teach, work hard -- work REALLY hard.
As I look at the rest of my life, I wonder if that is suffering for all the intention going to yoga. How do I get intention back into housework, yardwork, caring for aging parents, grocery shopping, maintaining two houses, pay bills, etc.?
When I started yoga, for a long time I wondered what 'set our intention for this practice' meant. Now that I teach, I need to reflect on what I tell students as I define that statement for them. I tell them that their intention can be as simple as planting their hands firmly on the mat for the next 90 minutes, or it can be much more complex. If they choose complex, they must remember that this is just the start of the journey. Their destination may not be reached in the next 90 minutes.
Likewise, I need to start simply -- find a way to do it all (start the journey), yet not let it overwhelm me. One of my characteristics is to procrastinate (who, me?). If I can't do it right and 100%, it becomes overwhelming and I go into 'why do it at all' mode? Note, I do pay my/our bills tho -- that can't be procrastinated upon.
So, it's easier to go back to the safety zone (yoga) where I know all the expectations, plus it's fun. What's fun about housework? or grocery shopping? or managing households?
Ah, pondering -- maybe I shouldn't do it too much. Or, maybe I should do it more -- it brings out a lot of stuff out that I've been avoiding.
Sunny and warm here for at least the next couple days, then a bit of a cold snap is expected. Hopefully - no snow.
Enjoy Wednesday,
MONDAY NOTES ON TUESDAY - AGAIN
Boy, I got carried away and forgot that yesterday was the 'notes' day. Oh, well, that means you get it today.
This week has already held enough stress to last the next few weeks. Unfortunately, I took our 13-year-old dog in yesterday for her final 'sleep'. She was a big, mixed breed that we adopted when she was about 5. Good dog; her only fault was an aggressive dislike of small, white dogs -- a problem when walking. But, her quality of life had become very limited in the last few months - she was almost blind, nearly deaf, and her activity this past winter consisted only of walking (limping) out to the front yard to 'do her business', then back in to lay by the couch. Each movement looked painful, even tho we had given her the recommended pain meds.
The vet and her staff were very caring and made all the needed efforts to get me in and out with the least amount of hassle. It is never easy, but Sadie went to sleep very peacefully and I know, in my heart, that it was time.
Thankfully, it is a busy day today -- going to Wayne's class this morning; then to an evaluation with Cindy, my Pilates teacher-in-training friend; then I will teach a class; and finally go to my sign language class.
Right now, the other two dogs are begging for their morning walk.
Life goes on.
This week has already held enough stress to last the next few weeks. Unfortunately, I took our 13-year-old dog in yesterday for her final 'sleep'. She was a big, mixed breed that we adopted when she was about 5. Good dog; her only fault was an aggressive dislike of small, white dogs -- a problem when walking. But, her quality of life had become very limited in the last few months - she was almost blind, nearly deaf, and her activity this past winter consisted only of walking (limping) out to the front yard to 'do her business', then back in to lay by the couch. Each movement looked painful, even tho we had given her the recommended pain meds.
The vet and her staff were very caring and made all the needed efforts to get me in and out with the least amount of hassle. It is never easy, but Sadie went to sleep very peacefully and I know, in my heart, that it was time.
Thankfully, it is a busy day today -- going to Wayne's class this morning; then to an evaluation with Cindy, my Pilates teacher-in-training friend; then I will teach a class; and finally go to my sign language class.
Right now, the other two dogs are begging for their morning walk.
Life goes on.
LIVING WITH SKILLFUL MEANS
When I select a quote for the week (see top right of this blog), I go to my collection of quotes and see which one is applicable to my situation at the moment. (I think I mentioned before that the collection has a plethora of quotes about setting goals and sticking to them.)
Today, tho, I am very firmly set in my goal, and my advancement towards it. I don't sense a wavering, or a lack of intention. So, those quotes don't appear this week.
But, I do see the application of the one line "live with skillful means" to my situation now. To me, it is such a strong statement of how our actions affect the lives of others.
If we are devious, discontented, untrue to our stated intention, people will know and people will turn away - it might take them a while, but they will turn. On the other hand, if we are able to stay on track, work within the system to accomplish our goals, treat people kindly and with respect (as well as ourselves), the Shakti (Sanskrit for 'sacred force' or empowerment) will positively affect the outcome of our efforts.
That all sounds pretty heavy for me to be writing; but as I write, I am reminded of the 3 things my husband and I instilled in our son's psyche as he was growing into an adult. These aren't original to us -- we heard them from Lou Holtz (of football fame), but they apply to all our dealings with other people:
Today, tho, I am very firmly set in my goal, and my advancement towards it. I don't sense a wavering, or a lack of intention. So, those quotes don't appear this week.
But, I do see the application of the one line "live with skillful means" to my situation now. To me, it is such a strong statement of how our actions affect the lives of others.
If we are devious, discontented, untrue to our stated intention, people will know and people will turn away - it might take them a while, but they will turn. On the other hand, if we are able to stay on track, work within the system to accomplish our goals, treat people kindly and with respect (as well as ourselves), the Shakti (Sanskrit for 'sacred force' or empowerment) will positively affect the outcome of our efforts.
That all sounds pretty heavy for me to be writing; but as I write, I am reminded of the 3 things my husband and I instilled in our son's psyche as he was growing into an adult. These aren't original to us -- we heard them from Lou Holtz (of football fame), but they apply to all our dealings with other people:
- Do what's right (we know in our gut what's right and what isn't - it's there, we must pay attention)
- Do the best we can (we also know when we aren't giving 100% to an activity, a relationship, a goal, etc.)
- Treat other people as we want to be treated (pretty self-explanatory)
FYI, today our son is a successful businessman, living with his family in San Diego. He embodies all three in his life (tho he is a bit slow to return calls to his Mother). I could write paragraphs about my pride for him - but, I won't do that here.
When I remember these 3 'instructions', I am able to 'live with skillful means' and, as a result, am happier for it. I believe the people around me sense it, as well.
Enjoy your week,
SATURDAY
5 hours of yoga yesterday -- Wow!
How does that happen? First, my morning class turned into more of a practice than me teaching it due to the make-up of attendees. Fun Stuff! Then, I went to Kula's practice from 1-4:30 - also fun.
So, remember that pose I'm working on (eka hasta padangusthasana - EHP)? In the morning we worked towards it; in the afternoon, I also asked for hamstring stuff. Be careful what you ask for! All good, but there was more hamstring widening, lengthening, strengthening, (can't think of any more good words here), than one person with significantly tight hamstrings should wisely wish for.
There were moments when child's pose was a considered option. However, as the oldest in the room, I hardly thought that would be a good example to set, plus I do have my pride to consider.
This morning all feels fine -- even the crick in my neck that plagued me all day has resolved itself. Must be all that alignment stuff.
I'm even thinking about more yoga! What is that about? Didn't I get my fill yesterday? Wasn't that enough? EHP, tho, has implanted itself in my thought process and I am hankering to warm up those hamstrings and give it a few more tries. We'll see how this day progresses.
How does that happen? First, my morning class turned into more of a practice than me teaching it due to the make-up of attendees. Fun Stuff! Then, I went to Kula's practice from 1-4:30 - also fun.
So, remember that pose I'm working on (eka hasta padangusthasana - EHP)? In the morning we worked towards it; in the afternoon, I also asked for hamstring stuff. Be careful what you ask for! All good, but there was more hamstring widening, lengthening, strengthening, (can't think of any more good words here), than one person with significantly tight hamstrings should wisely wish for.
There were moments when child's pose was a considered option. However, as the oldest in the room, I hardly thought that would be a good example to set, plus I do have my pride to consider.
This morning all feels fine -- even the crick in my neck that plagued me all day has resolved itself. Must be all that alignment stuff.
I'm even thinking about more yoga! What is that about? Didn't I get my fill yesterday? Wasn't that enough? EHP, tho, has implanted itself in my thought process and I am hankering to warm up those hamstrings and give it a few more tries. We'll see how this day progresses.
SKEPTICAL
The $4 class I mentioned yesterday appears to be taking off nicely. While not huge numbers yet, a class at The Yoga Center that pulls in 5 within the first two weeks has promise. Granted, it's a bargain; but, the class still must offer students something in order for them to alter their day and get to the studio at 4 pm.
I already notice 2-3 regulars and in the last two classes there have been a couple people new to me and the studio. People who come in, meet me, and wonder (perhaps skeptically) what kind of class they will get. Good question, who doesn't do that when they attend a new class, new instructor, or new studio?
The unfortunate part of that is my reaction. I tend to get nervous (tho, I hope it doesn't show). I feel I have to prove myself (which I do, but only prove that I am a nice person teaching a comprehensive, safe class). I wonder what they think of me -- will I measure up to their expectations?
The fortunate part is that the nervousness goes away once I start teaching.
Before I taught yoga, I did fundraising and occasionally was called on to speak in front of a group. I was extremely nervous in those situations, so I took public speaking classes and I practiced -- it didn't help. By the time I finished the first sentence, I was breathless and could not continue without that nervous, wavering voice.
Not so with teaching. I wonder why. Is it because I've found my niche? Is it because I know what to teach and how to teach it? Is it because I own the studio and as 'the boss' don't have to prove my teaching ability to anyone (except my students, mentor, eventually the Certification Committee, John Friend -- to name a few)?
Or, could it be because the end result for me in teaching is chitananda (chit-awareness; ananda-beauty) -- those same reasons we do yoga.
Teaching gives me a whole new insight to myself, and when I look out and see unbidden, smiling faces in a well-aligned pose, my heart leaps and I just get excited and happy.
Enjoy your day,
I already notice 2-3 regulars and in the last two classes there have been a couple people new to me and the studio. People who come in, meet me, and wonder (perhaps skeptically) what kind of class they will get. Good question, who doesn't do that when they attend a new class, new instructor, or new studio?
The unfortunate part of that is my reaction. I tend to get nervous (tho, I hope it doesn't show). I feel I have to prove myself (which I do, but only prove that I am a nice person teaching a comprehensive, safe class). I wonder what they think of me -- will I measure up to their expectations?
The fortunate part is that the nervousness goes away once I start teaching.
Before I taught yoga, I did fundraising and occasionally was called on to speak in front of a group. I was extremely nervous in those situations, so I took public speaking classes and I practiced -- it didn't help. By the time I finished the first sentence, I was breathless and could not continue without that nervous, wavering voice.
Not so with teaching. I wonder why. Is it because I've found my niche? Is it because I know what to teach and how to teach it? Is it because I own the studio and as 'the boss' don't have to prove my teaching ability to anyone (except my students, mentor, eventually the Certification Committee, John Friend -- to name a few)?
Or, could it be because the end result for me in teaching is chitananda (chit-awareness; ananda-beauty) -- those same reasons we do yoga.
Teaching gives me a whole new insight to myself, and when I look out and see unbidden, smiling faces in a well-aligned pose, my heart leaps and I just get excited and happy.
Enjoy your day,