BACK TO URDHVA DHANURASANA . . .
Making progress on this, my long struggle.
Over the weekend, I got a good dose of backbending when I attended Jen's workshop -- good stuff. Then, Sunday, Matt continued on the same vein (though we didn't do Urdhva, just a lot of other shoulder and shoulder blade work).
Yesterday, Wayne's class was a good warm-up towards and including Urdhva. Side body long and bringing my hands a bit closer to my shoulders before pressing up, were key to taking me to one of the best I've done. His emphasis during class on shoulder loop also was easy for me to incorporate and to feel the action in the pose. (Sometimes, we are so busy efforting ourselves into poses, we don't - or can't - notice the more subtle elements. Shoulder loop in Urdhva is one of those, I think.)
Perhaps my success yesterday was also related to the fact I had done backbending poses 3 times during the week (not something I usually choose to do). Wayne mentioned that during the Certified Teacher Gathering in Denver, John had told the group that success in backbends comes from doing them at least twice a week. Practice, Practice, Practice ! ! !
Cleanse Update: All is well, feeling lighter.
Take care,
Over the weekend, I got a good dose of backbending when I attended Jen's workshop -- good stuff. Then, Sunday, Matt continued on the same vein (though we didn't do Urdhva, just a lot of other shoulder and shoulder blade work).
Yesterday, Wayne's class was a good warm-up towards and including Urdhva. Side body long and bringing my hands a bit closer to my shoulders before pressing up, were key to taking me to one of the best I've done. His emphasis during class on shoulder loop also was easy for me to incorporate and to feel the action in the pose. (Sometimes, we are so busy efforting ourselves into poses, we don't - or can't - notice the more subtle elements. Shoulder loop in Urdhva is one of those, I think.)
Perhaps my success yesterday was also related to the fact I had done backbending poses 3 times during the week (not something I usually choose to do). Wayne mentioned that during the Certified Teacher Gathering in Denver, John had told the group that success in backbends comes from doing them at least twice a week. Practice, Practice, Practice ! ! !
Cleanse Update: All is well, feeling lighter.
Take care,
MISSED MY 'NOTES' DAY
I am pretty consumed by this cleanse -- so, please forgive my lapses during the week. I'll be done, back to better-than-normal in 6 more days.
So, here are notes:
I am adding www.itsonlyadance.com to my favorites. Sundari is such a great writer and we are anticipating more in the coming months, as she travels through Europe, Oregon, etc. Be well, friend.
Facebooking -- I started a group "YOGA IN UTAH", in hopes of transmitting information about all studios, events, and just the person who likes/loves yoga. We'll see how it goes. Right now, tho, there are more members of the group than I have friends -- oh, well. So, if you haven't checked it out -- do so now and join up. Your active participation will be appreciated. I'd love to hear why you started yoga.
Spring (Summer?) has finally reached Utah. I say Summer because at our house it was 91 degrees yesterday -- hardly Spring temps. Trying to do a bit of weeding each morning. Trying to do it mindfully and not let it overwhelm me.
Now to the cleanse -- this morning is easier. Don't feel quite so on edge. I cooked up some kitchari yesterday (kitchari = basmati rice, mung beans, spices, and your choice of veggies (I did celery, carrots & yellow pepper). I think that was what I needed -- some substance in my stomach. Cate held the second conference call with us last night -- informative and interesting to hear other people's questions, concerns, stories. The best thing about Cate is that she is not rigid in her cleanse routine -- for me, that gives me license to 'cheat'; but, also with that permission I don't feel the need to 'cheat'. Hope that makes sense.
So, I'll go to Wayne's class this a.m., then pilates, then teach. Had hoped to go to Adam's -- we'll see how the energy level is by then.
Enjoy your day,
So, here are notes:
I am adding www.itsonlyadance.com to my favorites. Sundari is such a great writer and we are anticipating more in the coming months, as she travels through Europe, Oregon, etc. Be well, friend.
Facebooking -- I started a group "YOGA IN UTAH", in hopes of transmitting information about all studios, events, and just the person who likes/loves yoga. We'll see how it goes. Right now, tho, there are more members of the group than I have friends -- oh, well. So, if you haven't checked it out -- do so now and join up. Your active participation will be appreciated. I'd love to hear why you started yoga.
Spring (Summer?) has finally reached Utah. I say Summer because at our house it was 91 degrees yesterday -- hardly Spring temps. Trying to do a bit of weeding each morning. Trying to do it mindfully and not let it overwhelm me.
Now to the cleanse -- this morning is easier. Don't feel quite so on edge. I cooked up some kitchari yesterday (kitchari = basmati rice, mung beans, spices, and your choice of veggies (I did celery, carrots & yellow pepper). I think that was what I needed -- some substance in my stomach. Cate held the second conference call with us last night -- informative and interesting to hear other people's questions, concerns, stories. The best thing about Cate is that she is not rigid in her cleanse routine -- for me, that gives me license to 'cheat'; but, also with that permission I don't feel the need to 'cheat'. Hope that makes sense.
So, I'll go to Wayne's class this a.m., then pilates, then teach. Had hoped to go to Adam's -- we'll see how the energy level is by then.
Enjoy your day,
MISSED TWO DAYS ...
Well, within the last 4 weeks, that makes twice I've missed two days of blogging in a row. Good excuses tho, busy on Saturday - fasting on Sunday. Both activities take a lot of mental activity, I find.
Today is the official start of 'leslie's great adventure in the world of cleansing'. Her first. I've jounaled lots of inspiring things I hope to get out of this. Right now, as I sit drinking hot water with lemon (instead of my Italian roast coffee), I am hoping I get out of this without biting someone's head off.
That's a deadly side effect of hunger in leslie. Severe grumpiness.
Class on Saturday was fun to teach. Lots of twisting -- which was welcomed by the ladies who had been doing yardwork during this first really nice week of Spring. It was also fun to do a practice without a lot of chaturangas, working around those connection points where we rely on a chatarunga to get us to the next place (their arms/wrists needed a bit of TLC so we avoided too much on the hands). Discovery for me and for them -- that's part of the fun, right?
During the cleanse, Cate's instruction is to stay quiet mentally, yet still move (yoga and whatever else to break a sweat). And, tonight is our 'kick-off' conference call. I'll keep you posted.
Enjoy your week,
Today is the official start of 'leslie's great adventure in the world of cleansing'. Her first. I've jounaled lots of inspiring things I hope to get out of this. Right now, as I sit drinking hot water with lemon (instead of my Italian roast coffee), I am hoping I get out of this without biting someone's head off.
That's a deadly side effect of hunger in leslie. Severe grumpiness.
Class on Saturday was fun to teach. Lots of twisting -- which was welcomed by the ladies who had been doing yardwork during this first really nice week of Spring. It was also fun to do a practice without a lot of chaturangas, working around those connection points where we rely on a chatarunga to get us to the next place (their arms/wrists needed a bit of TLC so we avoided too much on the hands). Discovery for me and for them -- that's part of the fun, right?
During the cleanse, Cate's instruction is to stay quiet mentally, yet still move (yoga and whatever else to break a sweat). And, tonight is our 'kick-off' conference call. I'll keep you posted.
Enjoy your week,
PREPARATION
Gearing up for the Ayurvedic cleanse, which begins Sunday (actually, Monday is the first official day, but on Sunday we should be fasting for that one day -- clearing out the digestive tract for Monday).
This cleanse will last 7 days, and the more I think about it, the more confident I feel.
I have, however, failed to adequately eliminate coffee at this point. A lot of stuff going on this week, and I am not inclined to give up my one 'vice' today. Tomorrow.
Cate has done a good job of providing us with materials we will need -- including pre-cleanse guidelines and information for us 'first-timers', then cleanse guidelines, and recipes.
I've made my list of maladies, concerns, things going on in my body and life -- one of our homework assignments. Have come up with 12 broad things, so far. I say broad, because many encompass 2-3 symptoms. Then we rank these. This is only for our own reference, so that - after the cleanse - we can see what, if any, differences there are.
Some of what I've written may seem repetition from an earlier blog. That reflects #2 on my list of maladies -- memory 'sucks'.
Have a nice Friday,
This cleanse will last 7 days, and the more I think about it, the more confident I feel.
I have, however, failed to adequately eliminate coffee at this point. A lot of stuff going on this week, and I am not inclined to give up my one 'vice' today. Tomorrow.
Cate has done a good job of providing us with materials we will need -- including pre-cleanse guidelines and information for us 'first-timers', then cleanse guidelines, and recipes.
I've made my list of maladies, concerns, things going on in my body and life -- one of our homework assignments. Have come up with 12 broad things, so far. I say broad, because many encompass 2-3 symptoms. Then we rank these. This is only for our own reference, so that - after the cleanse - we can see what, if any, differences there are.
Some of what I've written may seem repetition from an earlier blog. That reflects #2 on my list of maladies -- memory 'sucks'.
Have a nice Friday,
SHRI . . .
My themes over the last five days have centered around the word 'SHRI'.
Shri is a Sanskrit word that means, among other things, Divine Beauty (I am learning that Sanskrit words often have many meanings, or mean differrent things to different groups).
I have used this idea of beauty to encourage students to add that special something to their poses -- it was a theme used at a training, that of not just doing the 'cookie cutter' pose -- but adding your own finishing touch to fully express the beauty of the yoga poses.
As I mentioned a couple of days ago, it worked then and it continues to work. I have seen some beautiful poses this week, not to mention beautiful faces, as we work with this theme. It has the effect of taking the inhibitions away. Wonderful to watch!
This morning I read Christina's blog (as I do every morning), and was surprised - and pleased - to see that she had been 'twittered' by John Friend with a quote about ritual and how they are means by which we can express our Divine Beauty.
Validation for my theming this week, and more proof that there is an energy flowing out there that we cannot see, cannot feel, cannot touch, but certainly do get a 'hit' of every once in a while!
Busy Thursday for me -- I am going to take a yoga class or two today, as well as teach one (and, Pilates with Cindy).
Shri is a Sanskrit word that means, among other things, Divine Beauty (I am learning that Sanskrit words often have many meanings, or mean differrent things to different groups).
I have used this idea of beauty to encourage students to add that special something to their poses -- it was a theme used at a training, that of not just doing the 'cookie cutter' pose -- but adding your own finishing touch to fully express the beauty of the yoga poses.
As I mentioned a couple of days ago, it worked then and it continues to work. I have seen some beautiful poses this week, not to mention beautiful faces, as we work with this theme. It has the effect of taking the inhibitions away. Wonderful to watch!
This morning I read Christina's blog (as I do every morning), and was surprised - and pleased - to see that she had been 'twittered' by John Friend with a quote about ritual and how they are means by which we can express our Divine Beauty.
Validation for my theming this week, and more proof that there is an energy flowing out there that we cannot see, cannot feel, cannot touch, but certainly do get a 'hit' of every once in a while!
Busy Thursday for me -- I am going to take a yoga class or two today, as well as teach one (and, Pilates with Cindy).
ADHISUKSHMA
As I mentioned yesterday, these next 4 days will be my preparation to begin a 7-day Ayurvedic cleanse. I am participating in a teleconference with Cate Stillman (leader) and others (not sure how many - but, I do know they are from far afield, from Driggs, Idaho to Washington, DC, & Hong Kong!).
This is the first cleanse I have ever done (unless you can count a colonoscopy prep). So, you would be safe to say that I am a bit curious, nervous, and energized to do it. Especially after last night's conference call -- the kick-off to the pre-cleanse stage of the course.
Cate's regimen is simple, and she confesses that over the years she has been doing this, she has become less dogmatic in her approach. I have also always enjoyed Cate's common sense approach to Ayurveda -- making it understandable and do-able, one step at a time.
While I won't give you specific details (you'll have to do your own cleanse with Cate to find those out), I will say that one of the most impressive parts of last night's discussion, was the realization for me that this will be a practice of adhisukshma. Adhisukshma is a Sanskrit word meaning the study of the 'mental body'. So, rather than just focusing on what I am eating, how hungry I am, how my body feels -- I will also be paying a lot of attention to my mental state. And, taking care of it.
Some things we will do to 'take care of it': kick up the meditation; slow down the 'busy-ness'; avoid unnecessary e-mail & phone calls; in summary, give ourselves a week of slowed down mental activity.
All this, to awaken to the next level of perception.
Honestly, I had never thought of cleansing as much more than depriving the body of my coffee or desserts; as a week of self-imposed hunger. The concept of adhisukshma adds a level of insight to make it all more achievable.
Enjoy the day,
This is the first cleanse I have ever done (unless you can count a colonoscopy prep). So, you would be safe to say that I am a bit curious, nervous, and energized to do it. Especially after last night's conference call -- the kick-off to the pre-cleanse stage of the course.
Cate's regimen is simple, and she confesses that over the years she has been doing this, she has become less dogmatic in her approach. I have also always enjoyed Cate's common sense approach to Ayurveda -- making it understandable and do-able, one step at a time.
While I won't give you specific details (you'll have to do your own cleanse with Cate to find those out), I will say that one of the most impressive parts of last night's discussion, was the realization for me that this will be a practice of adhisukshma. Adhisukshma is a Sanskrit word meaning the study of the 'mental body'. So, rather than just focusing on what I am eating, how hungry I am, how my body feels -- I will also be paying a lot of attention to my mental state. And, taking care of it.
Some things we will do to 'take care of it': kick up the meditation; slow down the 'busy-ness'; avoid unnecessary e-mail & phone calls; in summary, give ourselves a week of slowed down mental activity.
All this, to awaken to the next level of perception.
Honestly, I had never thought of cleansing as much more than depriving the body of my coffee or desserts; as a week of self-imposed hunger. The concept of adhisukshma adds a level of insight to make it all more achievable.
Enjoy the day,
MONDAY NOTES
Nice weekend - Mother's Day Brunch, running a few errands, visiting, reading, napping, more eating. Lots of 'doing nothing'.
Today, it's time to read the materials sent to me by Cate (http://www.yogahealer.com/) regarding the Ayurvedic cleanse I will begin preparing for. It's a teleconference course that begins with a conference call tomorrow. Nervous -- never done a cleanse before, and don't know a lot about Ayurveda (except what I've learned on the few occasions I've been in workshop settings with Cate). Time to expand my knowledge base, as well (what IS my dosha?). Hoped for result: more energy, more effective eating habits, connection with some new and already-met friends, new knowledge, able to do eka hasta padangusthasana (? just kidding - I wish that Ayurveda would help with lengthening hamstrings !).
As Sundari says, today will be my day to practice more yoga 'off the mat'. That means dealing with some issues related to aging parents. They live 600 miles away, and - as the only child - the challenge falls to me to make sure they are doing o.k. Yesterday's Mother's Day call revealed they are having issues with groceries -- not that they can't afford them, but that they can't get to the grocery without help. So, we'll try to solve that problem this morning by setting up a delivery service.
Note to self -- don't leave aging issues totally up to our children to solve; be proactive while we still can.
We spent the weekend in Driggs -- nice to get away from the bigger house and yardwork, nice to be on the river, nice to watch the dogs run loose. Just more relaxing.
Here's to a good week,
Today, it's time to read the materials sent to me by Cate (http://www.yogahealer.com/) regarding the Ayurvedic cleanse I will begin preparing for. It's a teleconference course that begins with a conference call tomorrow. Nervous -- never done a cleanse before, and don't know a lot about Ayurveda (except what I've learned on the few occasions I've been in workshop settings with Cate). Time to expand my knowledge base, as well (what IS my dosha?). Hoped for result: more energy, more effective eating habits, connection with some new and already-met friends, new knowledge, able to do eka hasta padangusthasana (? just kidding - I wish that Ayurveda would help with lengthening hamstrings !).
As Sundari says, today will be my day to practice more yoga 'off the mat'. That means dealing with some issues related to aging parents. They live 600 miles away, and - as the only child - the challenge falls to me to make sure they are doing o.k. Yesterday's Mother's Day call revealed they are having issues with groceries -- not that they can't afford them, but that they can't get to the grocery without help. So, we'll try to solve that problem this morning by setting up a delivery service.
Note to self -- don't leave aging issues totally up to our children to solve; be proactive while we still can.
We spent the weekend in Driggs -- nice to get away from the bigger house and yardwork, nice to be on the river, nice to watch the dogs run loose. Just more relaxing.
Here's to a good week,
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,