ABOUT SUBBING . . .
I subbed last night for one of the instructors at my studio who teaches a very energetic vinyasa (or flow) class. I was his final choice, because I don't teach this way -- oh, I can make people work hard and I can make them sweat, but it's not by moving fast -- it's by deliberate movement.
As we began, I asked the group of experienced yogins (all women) what they might like to work on. Only one spoke up, "I want to work hard". With that in mind, we began. Not necessarily an Anusara-Inspired™ class, but one that included much of the alignment and integration of just such a class (it's hard to not teach what you've been teaching).
Warmed up, then a few sun salutations. I had an idea, at that point, what I had on my hands -- students who come to class, move through many of the same movements, and are conditioned that - for example - once you go to plank, the next move is to the floor, then cobra and back to down dog. And, they're not wrong -- it's just that they weren't waiting for my instruction, it was all happening as if by automatic pilot.
In that same plank, I noticed sagging hips and rounding backs in several. As a balance to that, I threw in some Anusara® lingo -- "hug energy from your feet, up your legs, to the focal point in your pelvis and feel your hips rise with that action; keeping that, move energy from hands to the heart; now look slightly forward, extend your heart towards the front of the room, and begin your journey to the floor". By the time I said "hug energy", several were already on the floor moving into cobra. I let that be for now. But, from down dog, I asked everyone to lower their knees and sit back. Time to listen to why I offered the instructions of hugging energy. So, back to plank, let's do it again -- in unison. Many offered that they felt stronger in their chaturanga dandasana, as a result of this 'hugging'.
From there, they were with me - listening and doing (for the most part). Old habits die hard. It was fun, tho; and, I hope they learned one or two things from slowing down and focusing on the pieces and parts of the poses.
Subbing is always a learning experience; for me and for the students. Always, beginner mind.
In the earlier part of the day, I did get the car serviced, I did do some laundry, I did have a painter in the house again - so moving around with paint cans, tarps, etc., was challenging.
Today?
As we began, I asked the group of experienced yogins (all women) what they might like to work on. Only one spoke up, "I want to work hard". With that in mind, we began. Not necessarily an Anusara-Inspired™ class, but one that included much of the alignment and integration of just such a class (it's hard to not teach what you've been teaching).
Warmed up, then a few sun salutations. I had an idea, at that point, what I had on my hands -- students who come to class, move through many of the same movements, and are conditioned that - for example - once you go to plank, the next move is to the floor, then cobra and back to down dog. And, they're not wrong -- it's just that they weren't waiting for my instruction, it was all happening as if by automatic pilot.
In that same plank, I noticed sagging hips and rounding backs in several. As a balance to that, I threw in some Anusara® lingo -- "hug energy from your feet, up your legs, to the focal point in your pelvis and feel your hips rise with that action; keeping that, move energy from hands to the heart; now look slightly forward, extend your heart towards the front of the room, and begin your journey to the floor". By the time I said "hug energy", several were already on the floor moving into cobra. I let that be for now. But, from down dog, I asked everyone to lower their knees and sit back. Time to listen to why I offered the instructions of hugging energy. So, back to plank, let's do it again -- in unison. Many offered that they felt stronger in their chaturanga dandasana, as a result of this 'hugging'.
From there, they were with me - listening and doing (for the most part). Old habits die hard. It was fun, tho; and, I hope they learned one or two things from slowing down and focusing on the pieces and parts of the poses.
Subbing is always a learning experience; for me and for the students. Always, beginner mind.
In the earlier part of the day, I did get the car serviced, I did do some laundry, I did have a painter in the house again - so moving around with paint cans, tarps, etc., was challenging.
Today?
- Wayne's Anusara 1 Class, 9:30 am, at The Yoga Center
- Noon pilates with Cindy
- Mid-afternoon - my less-than-flexible couple return from 2 weeks away and resume their semi-private sessions with me
- Debating about the rest of the day -- I'll leave that open for now
Enjoy your Tuesday,
FEELING STRONGER EVERY DAY
Is that a line from a song? Can't remember, but it could be if it isn't. I notice this (feeling stronger) each time I practice -- especially in the past couple weeks. It has to have something to do with losing some weight and also practicing more; working on those skills. I don't want to place too much emphasis on the weight loss, but it is part of the equation (not that I've lost that much; but enough to notice my belly doesn't get in the way like it used to (or hang out, like it used to; clothes also fit better).
Sheldon's class yesterday was great -- he does a very good job of handling different skill levels, asking everyone for their level of practice -- and, not underestimating the skills of the newer-to-yoga practitioner in the room. It took me a long time to get over 'babying' the newer person. People really are stronger than I (or they) think and, unless there is a physical issue there, they probably are able to do much more than I sometimes give them credit for.
The rest of the day, Sunday? We raked some leaves, took the bags to the community collection spot; then took ourselves out for lunch (got to have a reward for this industrious work). Then home to sit by the fire, watch a little football, read, relax.
Today?
Sheldon's class yesterday was great -- he does a very good job of handling different skill levels, asking everyone for their level of practice -- and, not underestimating the skills of the newer-to-yoga practitioner in the room. It took me a long time to get over 'babying' the newer person. People really are stronger than I (or they) think and, unless there is a physical issue there, they probably are able to do much more than I sometimes give them credit for.
The rest of the day, Sunday? We raked some leaves, took the bags to the community collection spot; then took ourselves out for lunch (got to have a reward for this industrious work). Then home to sit by the fire, watch a little football, read, relax.
Today?
- Running one car in for service this morning
- Subbing for Michael, 5:40 pm, at The Yoga Center
Hope you enjoy your Monday (sorry this is so short, rushing to get in for the car appointment),
ABOUT THE PICTURE
We all have favorite moments, moments we'd love to have chronicled with a photograph -- the photo I posted in yesterday's blog came from one of mine (thank you, BJ).
And, why did I post it? The day before, I had shared the recent article about JF in which there is the short story and photo of an 82-year-old doing an assisted drop-back. The Gentle Yoga class I was teaching seemed impressed and there were expressions of "not me", "not in this lifetime", like that. I told them my story about being in a workshop and being selected for a dropback demo (just one guy - JF - doing it) because I was / am stiffer than most in the room.
At the time of this photo, pushing up to urdhva dhanurasana (wheel) was not in my repertoire of poses. Not even sure I could easily get to the top of my head; I could do a 'killer' bridge pose, however. That's why I look so happy in the photo -- I had never viewed a room from this perspective.
I was not lying when I mentioned serendipity yesterday. As I edited yesterday's post, I was looking for a feature in the editing bar and clicked on the photo icon. Up came 3 photos in the box alongside the post; one of them was this. Wow, talk about a coincidence! Therefore, I just had to post it. A great memory. (FYI, if you told me to go to my photo file and find the photo I published, it might take me many minutes and be filled with frustration; so, having it pop up like that was truly amazing.)
Yesterday went much as planned. I taught at 9 am -- enough people in the room to video (Hooray!). I am not sure about the video, tho -- why? From the first lunge, things were different. Students were stepping back further, their back legs were straighter, their front knee was bent to 90 degrees, they were on their fingertips -- in other words, as close to perfect as I've seen -- and everyone was doing it! From that moment on, I was in a sort of marvel-state. Poses unfolded as I tried to remember things like:
There is the possibility that I taught a class that resonated with what was going on in their lives, and that was the catalyst for the poses offered. Whatever. I couldn't have been happier. If this video goes anywhere, I'm sure the smiles on my face will be as big as the one in the urdhva picture.
So, what about today?
And, why did I post it? The day before, I had shared the recent article about JF in which there is the short story and photo of an 82-year-old doing an assisted drop-back. The Gentle Yoga class I was teaching seemed impressed and there were expressions of "not me", "not in this lifetime", like that. I told them my story about being in a workshop and being selected for a dropback demo (just one guy - JF - doing it) because I was / am stiffer than most in the room.
At the time of this photo, pushing up to urdhva dhanurasana (wheel) was not in my repertoire of poses. Not even sure I could easily get to the top of my head; I could do a 'killer' bridge pose, however. That's why I look so happy in the photo -- I had never viewed a room from this perspective.
I was not lying when I mentioned serendipity yesterday. As I edited yesterday's post, I was looking for a feature in the editing bar and clicked on the photo icon. Up came 3 photos in the box alongside the post; one of them was this. Wow, talk about a coincidence! Therefore, I just had to post it. A great memory. (FYI, if you told me to go to my photo file and find the photo I published, it might take me many minutes and be filled with frustration; so, having it pop up like that was truly amazing.)
Yesterday went much as planned. I taught at 9 am -- enough people in the room to video (Hooray!). I am not sure about the video, tho -- why? From the first lunge, things were different. Students were stepping back further, their back legs were straighter, their front knee was bent to 90 degrees, they were on their fingertips -- in other words, as close to perfect as I've seen -- and everyone was doing it! From that moment on, I was in a sort of marvel-state. Poses unfolded as I tried to remember things like:
- Go back to the theme (tho, I did do it on occasion)
- Touch on the 5 alignment principles in 50% of the poses (I tried)
- Use creative, dynamic language (I tried, but - to tell the truth - this class brought me close to tears of appreciation)
- Demo using your heart quality / theme (I can't remember if I even thought about it -- will have to go check)
- I had a plan written out, but I'm pretty sure if I go re-read it, I didn't stick with it (not sure that that's such a big deal, so long as the class moves along appropriately for the apex pose - which I believe it did)
- Etc., etc., etc.
There is the possibility that I taught a class that resonated with what was going on in their lives, and that was the catalyst for the poses offered. Whatever. I couldn't have been happier. If this video goes anywhere, I'm sure the smiles on my face will be as big as the one in the urdhva picture.
So, what about today?
- Would love to attend Sheldon's class at 8 am at The Yoga Center; got to see what Howard has planned.
- Some laundry, some more housework, some leaves to rake and dispose of
A GENTLE NUDGE
Up very early; not sure why - just woke up. So, here I am - a bit sleepy, but up nevertheless.
After writing my post yesterday, I did remember that it was Friday and that Fridays are dedicated to 'notes'. Well, what I wrote was important to get off my chest and out to the world, so I decided to leave it. Today, Saturday, will be 'notes' day. Executive decision.
Writing about a workshop was a good idea. Why? Because I now am talking about it. I checked in with other Anusara-Inspired™ instructors in town about conflicts. None and, hopefully, I get the same consideration. I do realize that that coordination of schedules is required for visiting presenters, not local stuff; but, it's a good habit - at least in my mind.
But, first -- this is for my Gentle Yoga students: I shared the story of how I'm in a workshop in San Diego a few years ago; JF looks around the room, saying "I need someone a bit stiffer" with eyes meeting mine, I knew what was in store. This image just popped up; how's that for serendipity?
Now, back to the thought, at hand:
Once I put something out to the Universe, the wheels begin to spin a bit faster I've noticed. For example, the gentle nudge I mentioned in the title? Jen calling to ask if I'd stand in for her at our weekly practice last night. No conflicts, no reason to say 'no', other than I've never led a practice before! I said yes, spent a leisurely afternoon doing whatever, only to find myself later that afternoon at my computer researching and typing a sequence. What did I learn? That I need to know more of the Sanskrit names for the more challenging poses -- I don't teach many of them, I practice them (or attempt to practice them) only when I'm in a workshop situation -- therefore, I don't know them very well. As I typed, I consoled myself with the thought: it might be good for everyone to step back to the basics. I also reminded myself that it is a practice -- we all can contribute ideas.
With those thoughts in mind, I stepped into the room with 5 other brave souls - only two who I had met before. A brief query about desires for a practice direction, a few questions about injuries, etc., and we were off.
And? It was fun. It was challenging. For example, I've spent many years teaching without practicing alongside the students -- this was hard to let go of now. Thank goodness for the mirrors. I could watch for major, injury-producing misalignments, and offer suggestions, without having to turn and look or come out of the poses to check everyone. Even though it was a practice, I still felt a responsibility to keep everyone as safe as possible.
We also stuck with the basics -- moving in and out of the poses many of us do almost every day. But, for me, there was more openness, more extension from the focal point -- something I've been working on and something I talked a bit about as we began. The apex -- parvritta trichonasana (no clasp).
All right, back to 'notes'. If you're curious you can go back and read the week's posts -- no need to summarize them today. But, what about the tip? Well . . .
I looked back to notes from an Intensive from Tucson (the last one for that venue, 2009 -- so sad). Since videos are on my mind these days, I found this list of 'missing' pieces that JF repeatedly sees in videos:
After writing my post yesterday, I did remember that it was Friday and that Fridays are dedicated to 'notes'. Well, what I wrote was important to get off my chest and out to the world, so I decided to leave it. Today, Saturday, will be 'notes' day. Executive decision.
Writing about a workshop was a good idea. Why? Because I now am talking about it. I checked in with other Anusara-Inspired™ instructors in town about conflicts. None and, hopefully, I get the same consideration. I do realize that that coordination of schedules is required for visiting presenters, not local stuff; but, it's a good habit - at least in my mind.
But, first -- this is for my Gentle Yoga students: I shared the story of how I'm in a workshop in San Diego a few years ago; JF looks around the room, saying "I need someone a bit stiffer" with eyes meeting mine, I knew what was in store. This image just popped up; how's that for serendipity?
Now, back to the thought, at hand:
Once I put something out to the Universe, the wheels begin to spin a bit faster I've noticed. For example, the gentle nudge I mentioned in the title? Jen calling to ask if I'd stand in for her at our weekly practice last night. No conflicts, no reason to say 'no', other than I've never led a practice before! I said yes, spent a leisurely afternoon doing whatever, only to find myself later that afternoon at my computer researching and typing a sequence. What did I learn? That I need to know more of the Sanskrit names for the more challenging poses -- I don't teach many of them, I practice them (or attempt to practice them) only when I'm in a workshop situation -- therefore, I don't know them very well. As I typed, I consoled myself with the thought: it might be good for everyone to step back to the basics. I also reminded myself that it is a practice -- we all can contribute ideas.
With those thoughts in mind, I stepped into the room with 5 other brave souls - only two who I had met before. A brief query about desires for a practice direction, a few questions about injuries, etc., and we were off.
And? It was fun. It was challenging. For example, I've spent many years teaching without practicing alongside the students -- this was hard to let go of now. Thank goodness for the mirrors. I could watch for major, injury-producing misalignments, and offer suggestions, without having to turn and look or come out of the poses to check everyone. Even though it was a practice, I still felt a responsibility to keep everyone as safe as possible.
We also stuck with the basics -- moving in and out of the poses many of us do almost every day. But, for me, there was more openness, more extension from the focal point -- something I've been working on and something I talked a bit about as we began. The apex -- parvritta trichonasana (no clasp).
All right, back to 'notes'. If you're curious you can go back and read the week's posts -- no need to summarize them today. But, what about the tip? Well . . .
I looked back to notes from an Intensive from Tucson (the last one for that venue, 2009 -- so sad). Since videos are on my mind these days, I found this list of 'missing' pieces that JF repeatedly sees in videos:
- Missing: Going back to the heart quality / theme repeatedly in the class.
- Missing: Checking that everyone is in the general shape of the pose before proceeding.
- Missing: Checking everyone's foundation (go to the 'red flag' first). Give students a moment to simply breathe while you do this, no need to talk.
- Missing: Making sure an instruction is being carried out. (I know I've written this before -- when I ask for something, I better be sure I'm ready to enforce it, or - as I've heard Christina say - 'if you don't care if they do it, don't ask'.
- Missing: Saying why it matters; and how it connects to the highest (a biggie for me).
Lots of 'balls to juggle' as I teach. And, this isn't all -- just think of the things I do get into the video; ultimate multi-tasking!
It's Saturday; what's on the agenda?
- Teaching Level 1 at 9 am at The Yoga Center
- Errands, groceries, laundry
Happy Birthday to Maria Cristina!
Everyone else, have a great day,
WHAT HOLDS ME BACK?
What does hold me back? This question is at the forefront this morning because, even though I am moving forward on my path towards Certification, I seek out challenging trainings, I push myself in my practice, there are still 'sticking' points. Places I avoid, places I don't allow me to see myself occupying.
Like what? Well, in the past few weeks, I've thought to myself "self, you ought to offer a workshop - it's about time". Whoa, now that's stepping out of the comfort zone. But, it IS time. So, what's holding me back? Many things. Things that reveal insecurities, like 'maybe no one will attend', 'what/how do I fill 2+ hours', 'what would I teach', 'what would the workshop name be', 'what would the focus be', 'could I really do it' - to name some.
Yesterday, I took a big step towards this out-of-the-comfort-zone goal. I asked two good friends (Sundari & Cindy) what they thought. Response? Yeah! Do it! Don't stop, go for it!
So, I will. Having said (written) that, I am now pretty committed. If I don't do it, I really look like a wimp, like a coward.
THEREFORE, ON A SATURDAY AFTERNOON IN DECEMBER (December 11, maybe), LESLIE SALMON WILL OFFER HER FIRST-EVER YOGA WORKSHOP !!!
This will be a 2-3 hour event, offered at The Yoga Center, in the afternoon. We'll see what we shall see in terms of interest, attendance, etc. All I know is that I've stepped out of the box labeled 'comfort zone' again. (It would be so easy to just sit in that box. Just sayin'.)
I just finished writing some ideas for workshop names, a brief description of why people should attend, some quotes that will come in handy as I plan, my info. There's a big 'blank' in the middle of all this. The 'blank'? The actual workshop plan -- the poses I will teach based on my initial ideas of workshop name and description. But, now that the wheels are beginning to move off the slick tracks and onto the deeper, grippier part of the road, there's momentum. The plan will come.
What's holding me back now? Not much. Many of the same 'concerns' are there -- will people attend is one that will nag me until the day of the workshop. If I spend too much time lingering there, I will never move off the 'dime'. So, what happens - happens.
For the rest of today:
Like what? Well, in the past few weeks, I've thought to myself "self, you ought to offer a workshop - it's about time". Whoa, now that's stepping out of the comfort zone. But, it IS time. So, what's holding me back? Many things. Things that reveal insecurities, like 'maybe no one will attend', 'what/how do I fill 2+ hours', 'what would I teach', 'what would the workshop name be', 'what would the focus be', 'could I really do it' - to name some.
Yesterday, I took a big step towards this out-of-the-comfort-zone goal. I asked two good friends (Sundari & Cindy) what they thought. Response? Yeah! Do it! Don't stop, go for it!
So, I will. Having said (written) that, I am now pretty committed. If I don't do it, I really look like a wimp, like a coward.
THEREFORE, ON A SATURDAY AFTERNOON IN DECEMBER (December 11, maybe), LESLIE SALMON WILL OFFER HER FIRST-EVER YOGA WORKSHOP !!!
This will be a 2-3 hour event, offered at The Yoga Center, in the afternoon. We'll see what we shall see in terms of interest, attendance, etc. All I know is that I've stepped out of the box labeled 'comfort zone' again. (It would be so easy to just sit in that box. Just sayin'.)
I just finished writing some ideas for workshop names, a brief description of why people should attend, some quotes that will come in handy as I plan, my info. There's a big 'blank' in the middle of all this. The 'blank'? The actual workshop plan -- the poses I will teach based on my initial ideas of workshop name and description. But, now that the wheels are beginning to move off the slick tracks and onto the deeper, grippier part of the road, there's momentum. The plan will come.
What's holding me back now? Not much. Many of the same 'concerns' are there -- will people attend is one that will nag me until the day of the workshop. If I spend too much time lingering there, I will never move off the 'dime'. So, what happens - happens.
For the rest of today:
- Taking my cats in to be boarded for the weekend - one has something going on health-wise, so it's better that he be observed by the vet for a couple days. The other one, well these cats are 'joined at the hip', so he'll go along for the 'vacation', as I'm calling it.
- MUST be at the studio by 9 am to meet the person who will put my swamp cooler to bed for the winter.
- Teaching Gentle Yoga at 10 am at The Yoga Center
- Mail some packages and run any other needed errands
Hope your day's a good one.
ONCE AGAIN
Yes, once again I am hearing it. 'You are strong and stable enough, now soften.' I teach it, I think I'm practicing it, but - in a private yesterday - I am hearing it again.
And, when I let myself soften I see that I am much more flexible that I give myself credit for. Where does it come from? That focal point revelation I mentioned a couple posts back. Example: In a standing pose like trichonasana (triangle), I am able to feel the hugging in to the pelvic focal point - rooting back down through the legs - and the associated rise that happens as a result of the rooting, out of the pelvis. That rise offers the freedom to expand in the pose. Not a 'floppy' freedom, but freedom, nevertheless.
Where did I first hear it? In Austin, at a retreat with JF, about 5 years ago. He really hammered it to the group, and - I think I remember - a personal entreaty (def. earnest request) directed at me. Otherwise, I might not be remembering it quite so clearly.
Then, when did I hear it again? At the recent JF Immersion in Park City. Practicing next to Sundari, in padangusthasana (a dvesha pose for me, but getting easier). I'm struggling (as usual), and I hear a whisper voice "root down, rise up" -- Sundari, of course. What happened? For me, the pose grew as much as I can grow it these days. A very effective whisper.
In the interim, I've begun to 'feel' it as I practice -- the effect of the stable foundation, rooting down. And then, the successive rise.
Now, third time's a charm -- from Adam, yesterday. His question of me "do you feel strong and stable in your poses?" Answer, "yes". Then his response "you are strong and stable, now let's work on some freedom -- root down and extend out".
So, that's what we worked on. Establishing the foundation, then allowing the extension to happen from the focal point. Good stuff.
I am continually amazed by the wealth of knowledge that the more experienced instructors have. As I sat listening, I wondered 'will I ever get to that point'. Well, yes, it's just that I'm getting a later start on the learning process, right? right!
For any readers who do not practice yoga (or Anusara® yoga), in Anusara® we work with 3 possible focal points -- the pelvis, the heart, and/or the upper palate. In every pose, there is one of these active depending on it's proximity to the foundation. For example, in standing poses, the pelvis is the focal point; in a pose like headstand, the upper palate is the focal point; in a pose like urdhva dhanurasana (wheel backbend), the heart is usually the focal point (note that it can shift to the pelvis, depending on the practitioner's range of motion in this pose). So, when you're standing in the grocery line, pull energy up your legs from your feet to your pelvis (lift your toes, you'll feel the muscles in your legs begin to fire) - imagine a small orb in your pelvis collecting energy - send the energy back down your legs - now send energy from the 'orb' up to your head. I'll bet you feel something. If not, and you're curious -- try a yoga class (preferably Anusara®).
About yesterday -- almost all got accomplished; except for Tiffany's class. The drive up Parley's canyon when it's snowing, even just a little, is intimidating. I know how I drive; I'm not so sure about others on the road. Lately, there have been a couple accidents where very experienced snow drivers have become the victims of the inattentive or not-so-skilled. So, I'm leery. Next week, maybe. Supposed to warm up this weekend.
Today?
And, when I let myself soften I see that I am much more flexible that I give myself credit for. Where does it come from? That focal point revelation I mentioned a couple posts back. Example: In a standing pose like trichonasana (triangle), I am able to feel the hugging in to the pelvic focal point - rooting back down through the legs - and the associated rise that happens as a result of the rooting, out of the pelvis. That rise offers the freedom to expand in the pose. Not a 'floppy' freedom, but freedom, nevertheless.
Where did I first hear it? In Austin, at a retreat with JF, about 5 years ago. He really hammered it to the group, and - I think I remember - a personal entreaty (def. earnest request) directed at me. Otherwise, I might not be remembering it quite so clearly.
Then, when did I hear it again? At the recent JF Immersion in Park City. Practicing next to Sundari, in padangusthasana (a dvesha pose for me, but getting easier). I'm struggling (as usual), and I hear a whisper voice "root down, rise up" -- Sundari, of course. What happened? For me, the pose grew as much as I can grow it these days. A very effective whisper.
In the interim, I've begun to 'feel' it as I practice -- the effect of the stable foundation, rooting down. And then, the successive rise.
Now, third time's a charm -- from Adam, yesterday. His question of me "do you feel strong and stable in your poses?" Answer, "yes". Then his response "you are strong and stable, now let's work on some freedom -- root down and extend out".
So, that's what we worked on. Establishing the foundation, then allowing the extension to happen from the focal point. Good stuff.
I am continually amazed by the wealth of knowledge that the more experienced instructors have. As I sat listening, I wondered 'will I ever get to that point'. Well, yes, it's just that I'm getting a later start on the learning process, right? right!
For any readers who do not practice yoga (or Anusara® yoga), in Anusara® we work with 3 possible focal points -- the pelvis, the heart, and/or the upper palate. In every pose, there is one of these active depending on it's proximity to the foundation. For example, in standing poses, the pelvis is the focal point; in a pose like headstand, the upper palate is the focal point; in a pose like urdhva dhanurasana (wheel backbend), the heart is usually the focal point (note that it can shift to the pelvis, depending on the practitioner's range of motion in this pose). So, when you're standing in the grocery line, pull energy up your legs from your feet to your pelvis (lift your toes, you'll feel the muscles in your legs begin to fire) - imagine a small orb in your pelvis collecting energy - send the energy back down your legs - now send energy from the 'orb' up to your head. I'll bet you feel something. If not, and you're curious -- try a yoga class (preferably Anusara®).
About yesterday -- almost all got accomplished; except for Tiffany's class. The drive up Parley's canyon when it's snowing, even just a little, is intimidating. I know how I drive; I'm not so sure about others on the road. Lately, there have been a couple accidents where very experienced snow drivers have become the victims of the inattentive or not-so-skilled. So, I'm leery. Next week, maybe. Supposed to warm up this weekend.
Today?
- Housework / laundry in the a.m.
- Run some errands
- Pilates at 1 pm
- Yoga Hour at 4 pm at The Yoga Center (I'm teaching)
Hope your Thursday is a good one,
TUESDAY MISSION ACCOMPLISHED!
When I type my schedule for the day in these posts, I try to be realistic; what can I really get done or not in a day. I want to honestly be able to say "I did it all!" the next morning. This may go back to my relationship with the word 'commitment'.
I'm not sure when (or why) it started, but when my son began participating in team (or individual) sports, my husband and I began to focus on the word 'commitment'. It's very easy, as a parent, to move with the whim of the child, from activity to activity, with little thought to what their talent might be and where 'staying power' ought to be applied.
Derek (our son) participated in two main activities from age 4-12 - soccer and swimming. When we moved to So. Cal., swimming had evolved simply into something he enjoyed doing, wasn't interested in participating in competitively, and he was ready to let it go as a regimented activity. He tried baseball. He continued soccer. Then, as he approached high school, I began to hear -- 'I think I'll quit soccer and just surf and skateboard'. "No", I responded -- "you have a talent for soccer, it puts you in with a group of guys different from the surfers and skateboarders, and we've invested a lot of time and effort in the sport -- let's keep it". I didn't say he couldn't try the other things, but I did stand firm that he had to continue the soccer.
Come to find out, the thought about quitting was a reaction to upcoming tryouts. Once on the team, he continued to play well and with dedication. He also surfed and skateboarded, and continued a little baseball. As he matured, soccer remained a staple in his life until the first year of college - a rough one, with little physical activity but lots of partying. He came home after that year, and we suggested he stay home the next year, go back into soccer, attend an area school. He did, the scouts were watching, and long-story-short - soccer ended up paying for and being the catalyst for his completing his college education.
Commitment was key in all these decisions - his and ours (as his parents). Whether he played or sat on the bench, he stayed committed to his teammates and his teams. That value has served him in the workplace setting as well (a story for another post). And, at age 36, he still plays soccer on a men's team that includes some friends from college.
Now, why did I even start on this in my blog post today -- oh, it was about writing my schedule down, then sticking with it. When I write it, I feel a commitment to do it -- funny thing, we're back to the 'c' word. So, as I wrote yesterday that I was going to do two yoga classes, one pilates class, shovel snow, and whatever else, I thought it was ambitious; almost didn't write it. But, I did. And, because I did, I did it -- I did it all, even the shoveling snow part (which wasn't so bad). And, if you read the post, you also know that I cleaned my oven (it's about time!), and replaced a wearing-out toilet seat. I also subbed a class for an instructor who was a bit under the weather!
I love productive days! (And, I think I have a theme for the day/week.) Watch out, here comes Leslie with her favorite 'c' word!
Today's happenings:
I'm not sure when (or why) it started, but when my son began participating in team (or individual) sports, my husband and I began to focus on the word 'commitment'. It's very easy, as a parent, to move with the whim of the child, from activity to activity, with little thought to what their talent might be and where 'staying power' ought to be applied.
Derek (our son) participated in two main activities from age 4-12 - soccer and swimming. When we moved to So. Cal., swimming had evolved simply into something he enjoyed doing, wasn't interested in participating in competitively, and he was ready to let it go as a regimented activity. He tried baseball. He continued soccer. Then, as he approached high school, I began to hear -- 'I think I'll quit soccer and just surf and skateboard'. "No", I responded -- "you have a talent for soccer, it puts you in with a group of guys different from the surfers and skateboarders, and we've invested a lot of time and effort in the sport -- let's keep it". I didn't say he couldn't try the other things, but I did stand firm that he had to continue the soccer.
Come to find out, the thought about quitting was a reaction to upcoming tryouts. Once on the team, he continued to play well and with dedication. He also surfed and skateboarded, and continued a little baseball. As he matured, soccer remained a staple in his life until the first year of college - a rough one, with little physical activity but lots of partying. He came home after that year, and we suggested he stay home the next year, go back into soccer, attend an area school. He did, the scouts were watching, and long-story-short - soccer ended up paying for and being the catalyst for his completing his college education.
Commitment was key in all these decisions - his and ours (as his parents). Whether he played or sat on the bench, he stayed committed to his teammates and his teams. That value has served him in the workplace setting as well (a story for another post). And, at age 36, he still plays soccer on a men's team that includes some friends from college.
Now, why did I even start on this in my blog post today -- oh, it was about writing my schedule down, then sticking with it. When I write it, I feel a commitment to do it -- funny thing, we're back to the 'c' word. So, as I wrote yesterday that I was going to do two yoga classes, one pilates class, shovel snow, and whatever else, I thought it was ambitious; almost didn't write it. But, I did. And, because I did, I did it -- I did it all, even the shoveling snow part (which wasn't so bad). And, if you read the post, you also know that I cleaned my oven (it's about time!), and replaced a wearing-out toilet seat. I also subbed a class for an instructor who was a bit under the weather!
I love productive days! (And, I think I have a theme for the day/week.) Watch out, here comes Leslie with her favorite 'c' word!
Today's happenings:
- Walk dogs (brrrrrrr!!! It's cold outside, but they aren't letting me forget they want a WALK!)
- Gentle Yoga at 10 am at The Yoga Center
- My own private with Adam
- Carpet cleaning guy at my house to do some touch-up
- IF the weather holds (as in no new snow), I'll drive up for Tiffany's 5:30 class at The Shop
- Whatever else (laundry, errands, car wash -- like I said, whatever)
Hope your day is a good one,
A GOOD OCTOBER
The Yoga Center (the studio I own) experienced one of it's best months this October -- more students were in class than any other October in the history of my ownership - 7 years (perhaps in the history of the studio - 20+ years).
When I bought the studio, there was little student recordkeeping done. Oh, there was a lot of recordkeeping but it was focused on $$$, not students. I purchased the business with no student database to rely on, just a bunch of props (and, I do mean a 'bunch' of props). If anything, the Yoga Center can be described as 'prop intensive'.
Today, the opposite is true -- I've dispensed with some of the $$$ records (letting my accountant do that), and have tried to focus on student info. After all, what is a studio without its students?
Now, why the upswing? We have a great space, old but great. We are a great, diverse team of instructors, offering a mix of classes -- some Anusara® or Anusara-Inspired™, and others including Vinyasa, Restorative, Raja, etc., etc. But, keeping all that in mind, I do need to recognize that one of the larger studios closed this past summer. People branched out, tried other places, then found some of their favorite (or, soon to be favorite) instructors at The Yoga Center. Good for them; good for the studio.
When I meet a new-to-yoga student, I offer two bits of advice. First, make sure you take at least two classes. Why? You may not 'connect' with the instructor. After all, we are human and we will not enjoy everyone's style of teaching. Or, we might enjoy the instructor, but not the style of class being taught (too hard, too gentle, too ???). The second piece? If you don't like yoga at The Yoga Center, then try it at least once at another studio.
Why? Because each studio has it's own vibe. The Yoga Center's vibe is calm and peaceful. It is older, has carpet (newer carpet, but carpet nevertheless) and some cannot handle carpet in a yoga studio. Oh, well. (We also have mirrors!) But, to balance those, let's not forget - the wonderful view of Mt. Olympus out the windows.
Other studios in town will each have their own 'personality'; a reflection of the yoga taught, and the personalities of the owner, instructors and students.
We're all different and that's a good thing -- if we were all the same, it would be difficult to choose where to go or who to study with.
So, there you have it -- a brief, guided tour of yoga in the Salt Lake Valley. While writing this, let it be known I cleaned my oven and changed a toilet seat -- ah, jack of all trades; master of __?___.
The rest of today:
When I bought the studio, there was little student recordkeeping done. Oh, there was a lot of recordkeeping but it was focused on $$$, not students. I purchased the business with no student database to rely on, just a bunch of props (and, I do mean a 'bunch' of props). If anything, the Yoga Center can be described as 'prop intensive'.
Today, the opposite is true -- I've dispensed with some of the $$$ records (letting my accountant do that), and have tried to focus on student info. After all, what is a studio without its students?
Now, why the upswing? We have a great space, old but great. We are a great, diverse team of instructors, offering a mix of classes -- some Anusara® or Anusara-Inspired™, and others including Vinyasa, Restorative, Raja, etc., etc. But, keeping all that in mind, I do need to recognize that one of the larger studios closed this past summer. People branched out, tried other places, then found some of their favorite (or, soon to be favorite) instructors at The Yoga Center. Good for them; good for the studio.
When I meet a new-to-yoga student, I offer two bits of advice. First, make sure you take at least two classes. Why? You may not 'connect' with the instructor. After all, we are human and we will not enjoy everyone's style of teaching. Or, we might enjoy the instructor, but not the style of class being taught (too hard, too gentle, too ???). The second piece? If you don't like yoga at The Yoga Center, then try it at least once at another studio.
Why? Because each studio has it's own vibe. The Yoga Center's vibe is calm and peaceful. It is older, has carpet (newer carpet, but carpet nevertheless) and some cannot handle carpet in a yoga studio. Oh, well. (We also have mirrors!) But, to balance those, let's not forget - the wonderful view of Mt. Olympus out the windows.
Other studios in town will each have their own 'personality'; a reflection of the yoga taught, and the personalities of the owner, instructors and students.
We're all different and that's a good thing -- if we were all the same, it would be difficult to choose where to go or who to study with.
So, there you have it -- a brief, guided tour of yoga in the Salt Lake Valley. While writing this, let it be known I cleaned my oven and changed a toilet seat -- ah, jack of all trades; master of __?___.
The rest of today:
- Yoga with Wayne, 9:30 am at The Yoga Center (where else?)
- Pilates at noon
- Yoga again with Sheldon at 7:15 pm, also at The Yoga Center
- Might shovel a bit of snow inbetween
Hope your Tuesday is terrific,
SO MUCH FOR PLANNING
It seems that more-often-than-not I plan a class, only to have something throw it 'out the window'. Such was the case yesterday.
All ready to teach about making space -- a theme I used about one year ago; same story - cleaning out the debris in my garden, making space for new growth in the Spring. True story and happening again this weekend. I do this all the time in my yoga practice -- make space; space for new poses, new elements (clasping - on both sides - for example), new attitudes, new knowledge. So, that was the plan; the apex pose was going to be EPR (pidgeon, using a strap - or hands, if possible). At least two times through, because the second time around is always easier, always.
Well, first student to arrive immediately began to tell me about her sore shoulder (EPR and a sore shoulder? It can be done, but just wasn't sure that it was the best call for this student.) So, I shifted to a balance sequence; still holding inner spiral as my alignment focus; still making space. Then moving into the space with confidence.
I love a recent personal revelation that, when I scoop my tailbone there is a rising that happens through the torso. I've probably experienced it thousands of times before, but it just became glaringly apparent in the past two weeks. As I sit here writing this, I'm inner spiraling my thighs, then scooping the tailbone -- what happens, well, for lack of a better description - it's kind of like a whip. Scoop the tailbone, feel the lumbar spine move back ever so slightly, but that movement becomes more evident as I pay attention to the thoracic region of the spine. Wow -- 6 am and I'm already sounding pretty 'nerdy'.
Back to the point of the blog - preparation for the injury or new-to-yoga student or whoever arrives in class that throws the well-planned theme/apex/focus out the window. My point? I need to be ready for anything. Simple; just be prepared and willing to change things up a bit, depending on class make-up.
So, today?
All ready to teach about making space -- a theme I used about one year ago; same story - cleaning out the debris in my garden, making space for new growth in the Spring. True story and happening again this weekend. I do this all the time in my yoga practice -- make space; space for new poses, new elements (clasping - on both sides - for example), new attitudes, new knowledge. So, that was the plan; the apex pose was going to be EPR (pidgeon, using a strap - or hands, if possible). At least two times through, because the second time around is always easier, always.
Well, first student to arrive immediately began to tell me about her sore shoulder (EPR and a sore shoulder? It can be done, but just wasn't sure that it was the best call for this student.) So, I shifted to a balance sequence; still holding inner spiral as my alignment focus; still making space. Then moving into the space with confidence.
I love a recent personal revelation that, when I scoop my tailbone there is a rising that happens through the torso. I've probably experienced it thousands of times before, but it just became glaringly apparent in the past two weeks. As I sit here writing this, I'm inner spiraling my thighs, then scooping the tailbone -- what happens, well, for lack of a better description - it's kind of like a whip. Scoop the tailbone, feel the lumbar spine move back ever so slightly, but that movement becomes more evident as I pay attention to the thoracic region of the spine. Wow -- 6 am and I'm already sounding pretty 'nerdy'.
Back to the point of the blog - preparation for the injury or new-to-yoga student or whoever arrives in class that throws the well-planned theme/apex/focus out the window. My point? I need to be ready for anything. Simple; just be prepared and willing to change things up a bit, depending on class make-up.
So, today?
- Yardwork -- making space
- Practice
- Laundry
Have a nice Sunday,
UP EARLY
For what? Well, I teach an early Saturday private, before my 9 am level 1 class. So, I need to prepare the house and myself for leaving and for teaching both of these classes.
In getting ready for the Level 1 class, I felt a bit un-creative so last night I went back through old class plans (the ones I've created and taught in 2010). What did I find? Nothing generic. Every theme/story had to do with a specific event and - while I could probably tailor one to fit today's 'stuff'; I'm not even feeling creative enough for that right now. Give me another cup of coffee.
So, this morning, I'll stick with the 'mudhya' - the middle. It has served me well this week in my teaching. And, I feel more inspired the longer I write in this post -- amazing!
It seems many of us are planning our educational schedule for 2011. I am; maybe you are, too. I'm looking at JF's schedule, the schedules of other teachers that I want to study with, and am planning to do more philosophy study. I'm also thinking about an emphasis this year. I need more philosophy -- as in, someone to 'spell it all out' for me. Oh, it's getting clearer, but it's by no means what I believe it ought to be (my philosophy knowledge, that is). Ask me a technical question - 'why does inner spiral always precede outer spiral' or 'what goes wrong in trichonasana' - and I'm probably going to be able to answer (or muddle my way through). I worry that, someday, I'll be asked a philosophy question and then what? stutter, stammer, red-face, -- you get the picture.
So, more philosophy in 2011. Not so much fun as a big workshop or Wanderlust or Estes Park; but necessary. Refinement and discernment -- that's what's happening as I move down the path. I will, however, allow myself one 'fun' event or workshop during the year.
Update on the latest video? Sundari has watched half of it. Her comments are positive so far. Waiting for the full report, which ought to happen next week. In the meantime, I'll be video'ing this morning -- don't want to miss any opportunities(!?!?!)
Happenings today?
In getting ready for the Level 1 class, I felt a bit un-creative so last night I went back through old class plans (the ones I've created and taught in 2010). What did I find? Nothing generic. Every theme/story had to do with a specific event and - while I could probably tailor one to fit today's 'stuff'; I'm not even feeling creative enough for that right now. Give me another cup of coffee.
So, this morning, I'll stick with the 'mudhya' - the middle. It has served me well this week in my teaching. And, I feel more inspired the longer I write in this post -- amazing!
It seems many of us are planning our educational schedule for 2011. I am; maybe you are, too. I'm looking at JF's schedule, the schedules of other teachers that I want to study with, and am planning to do more philosophy study. I'm also thinking about an emphasis this year. I need more philosophy -- as in, someone to 'spell it all out' for me. Oh, it's getting clearer, but it's by no means what I believe it ought to be (my philosophy knowledge, that is). Ask me a technical question - 'why does inner spiral always precede outer spiral' or 'what goes wrong in trichonasana' - and I'm probably going to be able to answer (or muddle my way through). I worry that, someday, I'll be asked a philosophy question and then what? stutter, stammer, red-face, -- you get the picture.
So, more philosophy in 2011. Not so much fun as a big workshop or Wanderlust or Estes Park; but necessary. Refinement and discernment -- that's what's happening as I move down the path. I will, however, allow myself one 'fun' event or workshop during the year.
Update on the latest video? Sundari has watched half of it. Her comments are positive so far. Waiting for the full report, which ought to happen next week. In the meantime, I'll be video'ing this morning -- don't want to miss any opportunities(!?!?!)
Happenings today?
- 7:30 am Private Session
- 9:00 am Level 1 Class at The Yoga Center
- Do a bit of 'retail therapy'
- Clean up some of the yard - The freeze wilted a lot of stuff -- time to make space for next year (There's a theme here, I feel it!)
Hope you have a nice Saturday,
NO FORGETFULNESS TODAY!
Not forgetting that it's Friday. And, what is Friday? NOTES DAY !!!
It's been a good week overall. Started a bit off-kilter with my arrival back in SLC on Monday afternoon - weeks that start differently than normal leave me wondering each day -- what's next? what day is it? where do I need to be?
Here are highlights:
1. Monday night, Support Group for PSP Patients and Caregivers, where I was asked to give some introduction to yoga and the help it can provide to this group. For the PSP patients, yoga offers community; a sense of doing something in response to a disease that must leave most feeling helpless. FYI, PSP is a disease in the Parkinson's family in which the brainstem is gradually destroyed. Some symptoms/manifestations of the disease: balance issues that result in falling without warning; dizziness; flat affect (expression-less); apathetic; eye and eyelid involvement; trouble swallowing (the cause of PSP is unknown and treatment - ?). For the caregivers, same thing -- a community in which to move, perhaps laugh a bit, and stay healthy; because they have a BIG job.
For me, an opportunity to work with people who are dealing with so much; yet, there was laughter in the room and an appreciation for the breathwork and movement we all did together. A heartwarming moment - to see so many caregivers in the room; family and friends - good stuff!
2. If it's Tuesday, it's Wayne's class. Fun and - because of class make-up and colds in the room (mine and his) - low-key. We worked with inner and outer spiral, finding the place in the middle. Because of my cold, I took time to rest after the class.
3. And - Wednesdays? Gentle Yoga, of course. More work with the breath. An almost-moment where Leslie breaks into uncontrolled giggling during VERY serious pranayama (tongue-in-cheek comment). We were somewhat serious, and we were doing bastrika (bellows) breathing. I had described it as sounding like a bull getting ready to charge. Thinking about that, I happened to open my eyes during the 30 seconds we were doing the breathwork, caught the eye of another student - also on the verge of a 'giggle attack'. Almost.
4. Thursday's highlight was Pilates with Cindy -- I often use this class as a descriptive metaphor for new students (or students being introduced to a new pose). Why? Well, the first time Cindy asks me to 'hang out' over thin air, above springs or whatever, I have been known to panic. I can easily see new students thinking "what do you want me to do?" and "how am I supposed to do that?", when asked to do something totally foreign with their bodies in my yoga classes. This Pilates experience has given me much to draw on in this regard --
Another highlight for Thursday -- Yoga Hour! A fun class with several experienced and one new-to-yoga person. We stuck with the basics - moving in and out of lunges, down dog, child's pose, Warrior I; and making a brief foray into bakasana, for the more experienced. The new-to-yoga person gave it a try -- good for her!
5. And, today? More Gentle Yoga. More 'in the middle'. With this group, I usually have a couple plans in my head. There are several who have knee, back or other issues; so what I teach is many times dictated by the students attending class.
6. This is more of an awakening than a 'tip' -- when reading the video self-evaluation form (the new one - if you haven't checked it out), there is one question that surprised me. I know that we are teaching all 5 principles all the time, but I also was under the impression that we teach one (maybe two, if we are capable) primarily during a class. So, the 5 principles are always there; we are emphasizing one in our class -- and it needs to be one that represents the heart quality / theme / story in your teaching. Here's a question that 'stumped' me -- "did you 'touch on' all five principles in approximately half the poses throughout the class?" Answer (by me on this video): No; couldn't say yes, had to tell the truth. I probably did it on 20% of the poses.
What reminded me of this? A note from an Intensive with JF in which I'd written this:
So, it can be done without being rote or mechanical - open to grace, apply muscle energy, inner spiral, outer spiral, extend organically. It can be done with my language skills, and - if I do it as the example shows, I could apply it to 50% of the poses -- I just need to remember to do it!
The form, I find, is very valuable when planning and thinking about classes. I also get little reminders while I'm teaching, like "am I serving everyone?", or "am I modulating my voice?" -- these come from the questions I've read on the form. And, as I completed this, my first, self-evaluation form, it became very clear what I need to work on.
So, as much as we don't enjoy video'ing and watching ourselves teach; there are learning elements in that process for us. Duh! Why would we expect anything else from JF?
Today's schedule:
It's been a good week overall. Started a bit off-kilter with my arrival back in SLC on Monday afternoon - weeks that start differently than normal leave me wondering each day -- what's next? what day is it? where do I need to be?
Here are highlights:
1. Monday night, Support Group for PSP Patients and Caregivers, where I was asked to give some introduction to yoga and the help it can provide to this group. For the PSP patients, yoga offers community; a sense of doing something in response to a disease that must leave most feeling helpless. FYI, PSP is a disease in the Parkinson's family in which the brainstem is gradually destroyed. Some symptoms/manifestations of the disease: balance issues that result in falling without warning; dizziness; flat affect (expression-less); apathetic; eye and eyelid involvement; trouble swallowing (the cause of PSP is unknown and treatment - ?). For the caregivers, same thing -- a community in which to move, perhaps laugh a bit, and stay healthy; because they have a BIG job.
For me, an opportunity to work with people who are dealing with so much; yet, there was laughter in the room and an appreciation for the breathwork and movement we all did together. A heartwarming moment - to see so many caregivers in the room; family and friends - good stuff!
2. If it's Tuesday, it's Wayne's class. Fun and - because of class make-up and colds in the room (mine and his) - low-key. We worked with inner and outer spiral, finding the place in the middle. Because of my cold, I took time to rest after the class.
3. And - Wednesdays? Gentle Yoga, of course. More work with the breath. An almost-moment where Leslie breaks into uncontrolled giggling during VERY serious pranayama (tongue-in-cheek comment). We were somewhat serious, and we were doing bastrika (bellows) breathing. I had described it as sounding like a bull getting ready to charge. Thinking about that, I happened to open my eyes during the 30 seconds we were doing the breathwork, caught the eye of another student - also on the verge of a 'giggle attack'. Almost.
4. Thursday's highlight was Pilates with Cindy -- I often use this class as a descriptive metaphor for new students (or students being introduced to a new pose). Why? Well, the first time Cindy asks me to 'hang out' over thin air, above springs or whatever, I have been known to panic. I can easily see new students thinking "what do you want me to do?" and "how am I supposed to do that?", when asked to do something totally foreign with their bodies in my yoga classes. This Pilates experience has given me much to draw on in this regard --
Another highlight for Thursday -- Yoga Hour! A fun class with several experienced and one new-to-yoga person. We stuck with the basics - moving in and out of lunges, down dog, child's pose, Warrior I; and making a brief foray into bakasana, for the more experienced. The new-to-yoga person gave it a try -- good for her!
5. And, today? More Gentle Yoga. More 'in the middle'. With this group, I usually have a couple plans in my head. There are several who have knee, back or other issues; so what I teach is many times dictated by the students attending class.
6. This is more of an awakening than a 'tip' -- when reading the video self-evaluation form (the new one - if you haven't checked it out), there is one question that surprised me. I know that we are teaching all 5 principles all the time, but I also was under the impression that we teach one (maybe two, if we are capable) primarily during a class. So, the 5 principles are always there; we are emphasizing one in our class -- and it needs to be one that represents the heart quality / theme / story in your teaching. Here's a question that 'stumped' me -- "did you 'touch on' all five principles in approximately half the poses throughout the class?" Answer (by me on this video): No; couldn't say yes, had to tell the truth. I probably did it on 20% of the poses.
What reminded me of this? A note from an Intensive with JF in which I'd written this:
- - - - -
Pidgeon, applying the 5 principles in a celebration theme:
- open to grace – breathe, enjoy the expansion of your back leg; soften, take a breath and accept yourself.
- muscle energy (ME) – hug in to acknowledge your effort; embrace your talents, skills.”
- inner spiral (IS) – expand, open to your own greatness and begin your celebration
- outer spiral (OS) – draw in again to your power
- organic energy (OE) – from that power source, offer full celebration
IMPORTANT NOTE: Attach theme and heart quality to the alignment principle that reflects the energy desired (i.e. celebration is an expansive theme, so we would place theme emphasis on the principles that are expansive, inner spiral (IS) & organic energy (OE).
- - - - -
So, it can be done without being rote or mechanical - open to grace, apply muscle energy, inner spiral, outer spiral, extend organically. It can be done with my language skills, and - if I do it as the example shows, I could apply it to 50% of the poses -- I just need to remember to do it!
The form, I find, is very valuable when planning and thinking about classes. I also get little reminders while I'm teaching, like "am I serving everyone?", or "am I modulating my voice?" -- these come from the questions I've read on the form. And, as I completed this, my first, self-evaluation form, it became very clear what I need to work on.
So, as much as we don't enjoy video'ing and watching ourselves teach; there are learning elements in that process for us. Duh! Why would we expect anything else from JF?
Today's schedule:
- Gentle Yoga at 10 am at The Yoga Center
- Continue to nurse this cold, which feels a bit better today
Enjoy your Friday, I plan to enjoy mine . . .
LOSE THE WORD 'PEEPS', PEOPLE
I wrote another blog, then erased it. Got the 'stuff' out of my system and into the computer.
Then, I wrote another beginning - one that ranted about the use of the word 'peeps' when referring to our students and friends. Erased that one also. Though, I did agree with everything I wrote.
So, I return to the place in the middle, the mudhya. A safe place to be, in yoga and in life. Not too extreme -- either too bright and happy or too challenging and confrontational. After all, you - the people who read this blog regularly - are not the culprits.
This week's classes and teaching have been about the mudhya (a sanskrit word for middle). Finding that balance point between inner and outer spiral, the place that feels good and resides between effort and surrender, the place between too effervescent and too morose. The mudhya.
Why be in the middle? For me, it's just better. When I get too out there, too confrontational or too challenging, I am not a happy/content person. Too much fire. When I am too effervescent (too happy), it's not the real me. I can be happy, but my personality range places 'too happy' in the red zone. (I'm thinking about the tachometer on my car, right now.) I also can get 'too in the middle' - what does that mean? To me, it means complacent. I do need to be right on the cusp of the middle, so I don't get boring and too conventional or too comfortable.
Yesterday, I had a great Gentle Yoga class -- we did as we always do, moved, laughed, complained, laughed, moved some more. I always feel so great after this class; wait -- that's the goal for students, to feel better. Teachers too, I hope.
Then, it was home to rest, take care of the cold; which appears to be better this morning.
Today?
Hope you have a good Thursday,
Then, I wrote another beginning - one that ranted about the use of the word 'peeps' when referring to our students and friends. Erased that one also. Though, I did agree with everything I wrote.
So, I return to the place in the middle, the mudhya. A safe place to be, in yoga and in life. Not too extreme -- either too bright and happy or too challenging and confrontational. After all, you - the people who read this blog regularly - are not the culprits.
This week's classes and teaching have been about the mudhya (a sanskrit word for middle). Finding that balance point between inner and outer spiral, the place that feels good and resides between effort and surrender, the place between too effervescent and too morose. The mudhya.
Why be in the middle? For me, it's just better. When I get too out there, too confrontational or too challenging, I am not a happy/content person. Too much fire. When I am too effervescent (too happy), it's not the real me. I can be happy, but my personality range places 'too happy' in the red zone. (I'm thinking about the tachometer on my car, right now.) I also can get 'too in the middle' - what does that mean? To me, it means complacent. I do need to be right on the cusp of the middle, so I don't get boring and too conventional or too comfortable.
Yesterday, I had a great Gentle Yoga class -- we did as we always do, moved, laughed, complained, laughed, moved some more. I always feel so great after this class; wait -- that's the goal for students, to feel better. Teachers too, I hope.
Then, it was home to rest, take care of the cold; which appears to be better this morning.
Today?
- Errands in a.m.
- Pilates at 1 pm
- Yoga Hour at 4 pm
Hope you have a good Thursday,
WAITING . . .
For what? For the video I sent recently to Sundari to be reviewed; to hear what needs to change/happen; or - perhaps - to move past this 'hump' and into the next round. What is the next round? To have my video reviewed and be assigned an 'evaluation mentor' (not sure what their official title is) by the Certification Committee.
The 'evaluation mentor' will review the same video, and offer feedback -- good things & places that need improvement. Hopefully, this will happen just a few times before reaching my goal of being a Certified Anusara® yoga instructor. We'll see.
Class with Wayne yesterday was a good one -- perfect for me (struggling with a cold), and for others in the room (one who was new to him). I keep noticing how things are changing in my poses -- don't want to give too much credit to weight loss, but something is changing -- maybe it's my attitude. I do know that the things Adam is working on are strongly in my mental forefront as I practice (hips more open; hamstrings; shoulder blades; upper back opening). One example from yesterday -- feet are closer in malasana!
Sheldon began teaching for The Yoga Center last night -- he will offer two classes each week. Unfortunately, I was struggling with the cold - especially as the day ended, causing me to pass on taking the class. So, I'll plan to try it out next week when I've recovered (how's that for positive thinking!). It was great to see that many of the people who attended were students of his from previous teaching 'gigs' -- what a nice compliment for him.
Sheldon joining our teaching crew brings the number of men instructors to 4 (four!) in our group of 13. Don't think that's ever happened before at my studio. Usually, all women instructors; maybe one guy, but no number like 4 before. This is a change that I hope students will appreciate.
Today's Plans:
The 'evaluation mentor' will review the same video, and offer feedback -- good things & places that need improvement. Hopefully, this will happen just a few times before reaching my goal of being a Certified Anusara® yoga instructor. We'll see.
Class with Wayne yesterday was a good one -- perfect for me (struggling with a cold), and for others in the room (one who was new to him). I keep noticing how things are changing in my poses -- don't want to give too much credit to weight loss, but something is changing -- maybe it's my attitude. I do know that the things Adam is working on are strongly in my mental forefront as I practice (hips more open; hamstrings; shoulder blades; upper back opening). One example from yesterday -- feet are closer in malasana!
Sheldon began teaching for The Yoga Center last night -- he will offer two classes each week. Unfortunately, I was struggling with the cold - especially as the day ended, causing me to pass on taking the class. So, I'll plan to try it out next week when I've recovered (how's that for positive thinking!). It was great to see that many of the people who attended were students of his from previous teaching 'gigs' -- what a nice compliment for him.
Sheldon joining our teaching crew brings the number of men instructors to 4 (four!) in our group of 13. Don't think that's ever happened before at my studio. Usually, all women instructors; maybe one guy, but no number like 4 before. This is a change that I hope students will appreciate.
Today's Plans:
- Gentle Yoga at 10 am at The Yoga Center
- My own private with Adam
- Whatever happens
Enjoy your Wednesday,
WE JUST DON'T KNOW . . .
One outstanding moment recently was an emotional one. A piercing question was asked in a yoga training and, after discussion, all in the room were asked to look within ourselves and find two things we desired to 'let go of'.
Before I go any further, let me say that that 'letting go' is one of the cornerstones of yoga therapy. As I work with people, I am seeing the phenomenon John has described repeatedly -- that of the illness / injury / condition becoming a part of one's identity. When we do therapy to correct or help, we are asking some people to give up a part of their identity. Not something everyone is ready to do.
At the end of our 'outstanding moment', many were in tears - others were relieved to have said their 'two things' - some were just glad to get out of the room, because for many these are not things said easily or without dis-ease.
I appreciated everyone's sharing and I learned the very valuable lesson that -- as I look at a room of well-dressed, outgoing and seemingly healthy people in a yoga class -- I have NO idea what has gone on in their life before this yoga session.
This knowledge has changed my perspective so much -- no longer do I look at someone and think "she's wearing Lululemon and she looks great -- she must have a great life". How do I know that? Oh, I see the label on the clothing, but the part about her life? I have NO idea what great or not-so-great things have transpired in that person's life, what brought them to yoga, what keeps them in yoga. I'll pick up bits and pieces of information as we become acquainted; but, I may never have a deep knowing of the happenings that have impacted another's life. Scary and interesting, isn't it?
That doesn't mean I am now in the business of trying to figure out everyone's story. It just is an awakening realization for me. A realization that does affect how I interact with people. I find I don't 'rush to judgment'; I wait. I listen, and I wait -- because, bit by bit stories (at least, parts of them) do emerge.
Last night, I was honored to be invited to teach an introductory session to a group of people (7 of them), and their caregivers (25 of them - family and friends). People who are struggling with a devastating disease, PSP (progressive supranuclear palsy). First impression -- what a great group. All laughing, chatting, enjoying friends (old & new) and family. Except for canes and a couple wheelchairs, you might have wondered 'what's the big deal'.
We got to my part - yoga. A challenge, at best, for me to walk into a room of the unknown (oh, I knew one person - a long-time student and friend, and a victim of this disease). However, I didn't know how the others would present, what their limitations might be and/or how they would look at and receive me.
Because of the balance limitations this disease creates, we all stayed in chairs. We sat tall, with legs and feet squarely planted - as if in tadasana. The breath was noticed and appreciated. We moved the spine, forward & back - side to side - twisting. We rested. We focused on the breath. I talked. We raised arms, did a few shoulder stretches, then tried a seated forward fold. Best of all, we laughed (sometimes at me). We rested. Then, we did a couple of pranayama exercises. Finished by acknowledging each other with hands at heart and saying Namaste'.
Why tell you this -- because, take away the canes & wheelchairs, I might never imagine some of these people had an issue more than a sprained ankle (a reason for the cane). They all appeared healthy and - best of all - happy.
At the end, comments came in indicating their desire to move. Just breathing deeply and stretching as we did made them feel better, more energized. Wow! More magic.
The fact that I don't know is still scary and interesting, but - now - I have this tool called 'yoga' to help me and these friends named John, Sundari, Adam, Christina, MarieChristina, etc., etc., etc., to guide me. Thank you for sharing your knowledge.
Today's schedule?
Enjoy your Tuesday,
Before I go any further, let me say that that 'letting go' is one of the cornerstones of yoga therapy. As I work with people, I am seeing the phenomenon John has described repeatedly -- that of the illness / injury / condition becoming a part of one's identity. When we do therapy to correct or help, we are asking some people to give up a part of their identity. Not something everyone is ready to do.
At the end of our 'outstanding moment', many were in tears - others were relieved to have said their 'two things' - some were just glad to get out of the room, because for many these are not things said easily or without dis-ease.
I appreciated everyone's sharing and I learned the very valuable lesson that -- as I look at a room of well-dressed, outgoing and seemingly healthy people in a yoga class -- I have NO idea what has gone on in their life before this yoga session.
This knowledge has changed my perspective so much -- no longer do I look at someone and think "she's wearing Lululemon and she looks great -- she must have a great life". How do I know that? Oh, I see the label on the clothing, but the part about her life? I have NO idea what great or not-so-great things have transpired in that person's life, what brought them to yoga, what keeps them in yoga. I'll pick up bits and pieces of information as we become acquainted; but, I may never have a deep knowing of the happenings that have impacted another's life. Scary and interesting, isn't it?
That doesn't mean I am now in the business of trying to figure out everyone's story. It just is an awakening realization for me. A realization that does affect how I interact with people. I find I don't 'rush to judgment'; I wait. I listen, and I wait -- because, bit by bit stories (at least, parts of them) do emerge.
Last night, I was honored to be invited to teach an introductory session to a group of people (7 of them), and their caregivers (25 of them - family and friends). People who are struggling with a devastating disease, PSP (progressive supranuclear palsy). First impression -- what a great group. All laughing, chatting, enjoying friends (old & new) and family. Except for canes and a couple wheelchairs, you might have wondered 'what's the big deal'.
We got to my part - yoga. A challenge, at best, for me to walk into a room of the unknown (oh, I knew one person - a long-time student and friend, and a victim of this disease). However, I didn't know how the others would present, what their limitations might be and/or how they would look at and receive me.
Because of the balance limitations this disease creates, we all stayed in chairs. We sat tall, with legs and feet squarely planted - as if in tadasana. The breath was noticed and appreciated. We moved the spine, forward & back - side to side - twisting. We rested. We focused on the breath. I talked. We raised arms, did a few shoulder stretches, then tried a seated forward fold. Best of all, we laughed (sometimes at me). We rested. Then, we did a couple of pranayama exercises. Finished by acknowledging each other with hands at heart and saying Namaste'.
Why tell you this -- because, take away the canes & wheelchairs, I might never imagine some of these people had an issue more than a sprained ankle (a reason for the cane). They all appeared healthy and - best of all - happy.
At the end, comments came in indicating their desire to move. Just breathing deeply and stretching as we did made them feel better, more energized. Wow! More magic.
The fact that I don't know is still scary and interesting, but - now - I have this tool called 'yoga' to help me and these friends named John, Sundari, Adam, Christina, MarieChristina, etc., etc., etc., to guide me. Thank you for sharing your knowledge.
Today's schedule?
- Class with Wayne
- Paperwork
- Take care of my cold
Enjoy your Tuesday,
HOMEWARD BOUND
After a nice weekend in Driggs, we are homeward bound this morning.
Sunday afternoon we made a short journey over to Jackson to visit the National Museum of Wildlife Art. This was the location for Sundari's teacher training in October 2009, so I was well acquainted with it but Howard had never been inside. Pleased to see many memories, plus new pieces to enjoy; and, he was impressed.
Then, a quick lunch with new friends (traveling in the area, friends of a friend - if that makes sense), and back over the pass for more R&R in front of a warm fire.
Tonight, I meet a new group of people - 7-8 who are struggling with a degenerative disease known as PSP (progressive supranuclear palsy), which basically destroys the brainstem (nasty disease) - part of the Parkinson's group. They will attend their support group meeting with caregivers and I've been invited to introduce a bit of yoga to them. Unexplained falling is one of the first symptoms of this disease, so my plan is to do a lot of breath and seated work. Will take a couple ideas with me, since I'm not sure what I will walk into.
It's taken a while for that proclamation from my first therapeutics training to take hold ("people will be knocking on your door", 2006, can't remember who said it). They are knocking now, and I'm so glad for the time I've been given to study more and work with people more. Oh, I was eager before; but, I think that eagerness could have been my undoing. As in, I wouldn't have been patient enough to look at the whole person before diving in to 'fix' them. I leave therapeutic trainings with tons of knowledge that I am dying to share. Better that I've been given time to absorb, learn more, repeat.
Today:
Sunday afternoon we made a short journey over to Jackson to visit the National Museum of Wildlife Art. This was the location for Sundari's teacher training in October 2009, so I was well acquainted with it but Howard had never been inside. Pleased to see many memories, plus new pieces to enjoy; and, he was impressed.
Then, a quick lunch with new friends (traveling in the area, friends of a friend - if that makes sense), and back over the pass for more R&R in front of a warm fire.
Tonight, I meet a new group of people - 7-8 who are struggling with a degenerative disease known as PSP (progressive supranuclear palsy), which basically destroys the brainstem (nasty disease) - part of the Parkinson's group. They will attend their support group meeting with caregivers and I've been invited to introduce a bit of yoga to them. Unexplained falling is one of the first symptoms of this disease, so my plan is to do a lot of breath and seated work. Will take a couple ideas with me, since I'm not sure what I will walk into.
It's taken a while for that proclamation from my first therapeutics training to take hold ("people will be knocking on your door", 2006, can't remember who said it). They are knocking now, and I'm so glad for the time I've been given to study more and work with people more. Oh, I was eager before; but, I think that eagerness could have been my undoing. As in, I wouldn't have been patient enough to look at the whole person before diving in to 'fix' them. I leave therapeutic trainings with tons of knowledge that I am dying to share. Better that I've been given time to absorb, learn more, repeat.
Today:
- Driving home
- Support Group Introduction to Yoga
Enjoy your day,
AND, I CAN WRAP -- BOTH SIDES
This may sound simple to most of you, but wrapping arms around legs has never been easy. I had perfected it to one side, but the other remained elusive. Yesterday, that changed!
Not sure why. Maybe it's because I've lost a few pounds -- but, I usually won't accept extra poundage as an excuse for not doing something, so I must apply the same logic to myself. Better reason -- it may be because I'm become more mobile in my shoulders. What has changed?
First, the training with Sundari offered me an 'opportunity' to have her work my shoulders and shoulder blades. Second, Adam has been doing similarly - though, not with the compassion that Sundari offered. He is getting in there and making them move (shoulder blades). I am sure I had bruises. It's all for the greater good, so I will accept and appreciate it, through discomfort and all.
Where did this breakthrough happen? I attended a class at Yoga Tejas yesterday morning. A good one, themed around Halloween -- turning on the lights inside, so our spirit world - which is scary at times - wouldn't be quite so forbidding; then hugging to the midline for security; and putting on our 'costume' of choice. We worked with balance poses, requiring that midline hug, then opening with our bright inner light and 'costume' on. Fun class.
This will be short -- just checking in. I find giving myself permission to write less frequently, results in not writing (duh!). But, I want to write and it's good for me. So, need to find the balance.
Hope you have a good Halloween Sunday,
Not sure why. Maybe it's because I've lost a few pounds -- but, I usually won't accept extra poundage as an excuse for not doing something, so I must apply the same logic to myself. Better reason -- it may be because I'm become more mobile in my shoulders. What has changed?
First, the training with Sundari offered me an 'opportunity' to have her work my shoulders and shoulder blades. Second, Adam has been doing similarly - though, not with the compassion that Sundari offered. He is getting in there and making them move (shoulder blades). I am sure I had bruises. It's all for the greater good, so I will accept and appreciate it, through discomfort and all.
Where did this breakthrough happen? I attended a class at Yoga Tejas yesterday morning. A good one, themed around Halloween -- turning on the lights inside, so our spirit world - which is scary at times - wouldn't be quite so forbidding; then hugging to the midline for security; and putting on our 'costume' of choice. We worked with balance poses, requiring that midline hug, then opening with our bright inner light and 'costume' on. Fun class.
This will be short -- just checking in. I find giving myself permission to write less frequently, results in not writing (duh!). But, I want to write and it's good for me. So, need to find the balance.
Hope you have a good Halloween Sunday,
FRIDAY FORGOTTEN
I awoke this morning with this blog on my mind. And, what was I thinking? That I had forgotten to post yesterday. Not necessarily forgotten - I thought about it; I just was juggling many things in the morning, so decided to pass. I forgot, however, that it was Friday and my favorite day to post. Otherwise, I might have done differently. Oh, well.
So, imagine it's Friday and you are reading this on Friday morning or afternoon.
I believe I mentioned my week actually began on Wednesday (perhaps that could be my excuse!?!?!), due to our journey to play with Grandsons last weekend. It will be a short week's worth of 'notes'. But a week worthy of comment, because I now know people are listening.
Wednesday, as I have done for the past 3 years, I taught Gentle Yoga. It was a snowy morning, which makes attendance questionable - as in, some may choose to stay inside. Happy to see many turned out and even happier when one mentioned her ankle was a bit stiff. Her words "the chi seems to be stuck in my ankle". Well, I had talked about Prana (or chi) the week prior; as in, when the prana can move easily through the body, we feel good. Why would this make me 'happier'? To have a student use a word they haven't heard or used in their 60+ years of life, means they are listening.
Later on Wednesday (and again on Thursday), I taught the semi-private I have mentioned before (the couple who are both a bit stiff). Good for them -- trying to get in some classes before they head out of town for a couple weeks. And, good for them, that they are practicing what we work on in class at home. The result -- after Wednesday's session, he is beginning to notice and move his shoulder blades on demand; she is working on "owning" the pose.
What do I mean by "own" -- in this situation, she is flexible enough to place hands flat on floor with straight legs. Rather than do that, I asked her to come to fingertips and bend elbows out to side, accessing shoulderblades and maybe moving more deeply into the fold. I asked her to 'own' the pose. She can do it very well, why not do it with a bit more finesse. Sounds silly as I write it, but in the context of this couple, it works -- and, that is what I look for in students - a way to connect. I think she will continue to work well in this pose and the concept of 'owning' it will serve her (might not serve everyone, tho).
Thursday also included pilates. I was alone with Cindy, which means she made me work hard. Usually my jacket doesn't come off until mid-way into the session. This time, jacket off after the first movement series. Good session. Then, back to the studio for the semi-private you already heard about. And, then Yoga Hour. A small group, but fun, nevertheless. Some of my first students from when I started the class attended; great to connect with them.
Friday, another Gentle Yoga class. As usual, a smaller group. What does that mean? Well, one of two things -- we either work harder or we work more gently. This week, it was a blend; with a little bit of camel thrown in -- just to see if the hyoid bone lesson had sunk in. And, for me, there was the residual good feeling from a note in which a student had told me the benefit my offerings to them about the breath was having for her (something she has known for a long time, but has embraced as she began attending class regularly). More proof people are listening!
What tip can I offer after this week? A simple one. There was a student in class this week with a sore hip. Young, active person, who runs. I asked what she could observe about recent activity -- nothing out of the ordinary. I mentioned that most problems begin with the feet and that the hip may be reacting to her running shoes - were they worn down? No, she just bought new ones. Well, how about if the new shoes are putting her back into better foot alignment, therefore the hip is being asked to readjust and is just 'telling' her about how the change is affecting it (the hip). After class, she came up to tell me that she is a 'pronator' by nature, and is trying to over-compensate to correct that issue. Maybe that's part of the problem. If possible, someone should watch her run (in the new shoes), and tell her what the right foot is doing -- that may answer the hip issue. What's the tip? Look at the whole person when offering therapeutic advice, and start with the feet - especially when looking at an issue in the lower body.
AND -- I share my good moments with my teachers. I've had a couple reminders lately that my teachers need to know - just like I need to know - that the teachings are being received and embraced. They deserve the credit, as much as I do. After all, they taught me.
Today? R&R (fighting off a slight cold -- expecting that it will either resolve itself or move into a full-blown, sneezing, stuffy, sore throat condition).
Hope your Saturday (Friday?) is a good one,
So, imagine it's Friday and you are reading this on Friday morning or afternoon.
I believe I mentioned my week actually began on Wednesday (perhaps that could be my excuse!?!?!), due to our journey to play with Grandsons last weekend. It will be a short week's worth of 'notes'. But a week worthy of comment, because I now know people are listening.
Wednesday, as I have done for the past 3 years, I taught Gentle Yoga. It was a snowy morning, which makes attendance questionable - as in, some may choose to stay inside. Happy to see many turned out and even happier when one mentioned her ankle was a bit stiff. Her words "the chi seems to be stuck in my ankle". Well, I had talked about Prana (or chi) the week prior; as in, when the prana can move easily through the body, we feel good. Why would this make me 'happier'? To have a student use a word they haven't heard or used in their 60+ years of life, means they are listening.
Later on Wednesday (and again on Thursday), I taught the semi-private I have mentioned before (the couple who are both a bit stiff). Good for them -- trying to get in some classes before they head out of town for a couple weeks. And, good for them, that they are practicing what we work on in class at home. The result -- after Wednesday's session, he is beginning to notice and move his shoulder blades on demand; she is working on "owning" the pose.
What do I mean by "own" -- in this situation, she is flexible enough to place hands flat on floor with straight legs. Rather than do that, I asked her to come to fingertips and bend elbows out to side, accessing shoulderblades and maybe moving more deeply into the fold. I asked her to 'own' the pose. She can do it very well, why not do it with a bit more finesse. Sounds silly as I write it, but in the context of this couple, it works -- and, that is what I look for in students - a way to connect. I think she will continue to work well in this pose and the concept of 'owning' it will serve her (might not serve everyone, tho).
Thursday also included pilates. I was alone with Cindy, which means she made me work hard. Usually my jacket doesn't come off until mid-way into the session. This time, jacket off after the first movement series. Good session. Then, back to the studio for the semi-private you already heard about. And, then Yoga Hour. A small group, but fun, nevertheless. Some of my first students from when I started the class attended; great to connect with them.
Friday, another Gentle Yoga class. As usual, a smaller group. What does that mean? Well, one of two things -- we either work harder or we work more gently. This week, it was a blend; with a little bit of camel thrown in -- just to see if the hyoid bone lesson had sunk in. And, for me, there was the residual good feeling from a note in which a student had told me the benefit my offerings to them about the breath was having for her (something she has known for a long time, but has embraced as she began attending class regularly). More proof people are listening!
What tip can I offer after this week? A simple one. There was a student in class this week with a sore hip. Young, active person, who runs. I asked what she could observe about recent activity -- nothing out of the ordinary. I mentioned that most problems begin with the feet and that the hip may be reacting to her running shoes - were they worn down? No, she just bought new ones. Well, how about if the new shoes are putting her back into better foot alignment, therefore the hip is being asked to readjust and is just 'telling' her about how the change is affecting it (the hip). After class, she came up to tell me that she is a 'pronator' by nature, and is trying to over-compensate to correct that issue. Maybe that's part of the problem. If possible, someone should watch her run (in the new shoes), and tell her what the right foot is doing -- that may answer the hip issue. What's the tip? Look at the whole person when offering therapeutic advice, and start with the feet - especially when looking at an issue in the lower body.
AND -- I share my good moments with my teachers. I've had a couple reminders lately that my teachers need to know - just like I need to know - that the teachings are being received and embraced. They deserve the credit, as much as I do. After all, they taught me.
Today? R&R (fighting off a slight cold -- expecting that it will either resolve itself or move into a full-blown, sneezing, stuffy, sore throat condition).
Hope your Saturday (Friday?) is a good one,
NOTHING NEW -- YET
In my last post, I alluded to a new 'look' for the blog. Checked out options this morning; choices between red, pink, green, even purple, are just too much to think about this morning. So, we'll wait for a while.
After a busy weekend playing with grandsons, I returned Tuesday night and am still a bit turned around, time-wise. Begin a week on Wednesday, and try it. Well, teaching Gentle Yoga yesterday morning, I had lots of good stories to tell about the way it is now with 3 grandsons, and the way it used to be (back when I went to visit and made a trip to Yoga Del Mar for some yoga; ahhh, the good old days). Now, I call it good if I can get in a few good stretching moments.
Yesterday morning, I started the day with reviewing my latest video. Then, I turned to a printout of the latest self-evaluation form from Anusara. If we honestly answer the questions (I did have to say 'no' and 'maybe' at least once), we can see the parts missing from our teaching. Where did I say no? Did I connect the heart quality and theme through my demo? No, I was too busy keeping it to 1-2 minutes and trying to point out just two things that I wanted them to get from the demo. I don't think I even considered heart quality/theme during the demo -- after all, it was just me doing and talking about the poses I was demo'ing. Lesson learned.
After the self-eval., I still feel good about the video and have sent it on to Sundari. Keep fingers crossed!
In Gentle Yoga, we worked with skull loop -- my favorite loop this year. After all, for me, it is the key to backbending. I just wish saying 'hyoid bone' many times was a bit less tongue-tying (or, as I try to say it this morning many times over, it's more of a lip-challenge). But, I digress.
I hadn't intended to do that - teach skull loop, but as I watched students move into anjanae asana, and take their gaze up (by dropping their head back), it seemed like a good teaching moment. (Seeing teaching moments, is also a variation of a question on the Self-Evaluation form -- "Did you teach to what you were seeing?) The connection from skull loop to the upper and mid back, will help in this pose -- which can be a bit challenging for the lower back. It was amazing to watch the following attempts at the pose - so much more potent (and beautiful).
Then home for a bit, and back to the studio (I felt like a yo-yo yesterday) to teach a semi-private. We worked skull loop here, also. Home again, where we have 3 inches of snow on the deck -- yes, snow; in October. We've gone from balmy, sunny Fall to Winter -- FAST! Maybe we'll journey back to the balmy, but winter is here today.
Today?
After a busy weekend playing with grandsons, I returned Tuesday night and am still a bit turned around, time-wise. Begin a week on Wednesday, and try it. Well, teaching Gentle Yoga yesterday morning, I had lots of good stories to tell about the way it is now with 3 grandsons, and the way it used to be (back when I went to visit and made a trip to Yoga Del Mar for some yoga; ahhh, the good old days). Now, I call it good if I can get in a few good stretching moments.
Yesterday morning, I started the day with reviewing my latest video. Then, I turned to a printout of the latest self-evaluation form from Anusara. If we honestly answer the questions (I did have to say 'no' and 'maybe' at least once), we can see the parts missing from our teaching. Where did I say no? Did I connect the heart quality and theme through my demo? No, I was too busy keeping it to 1-2 minutes and trying to point out just two things that I wanted them to get from the demo. I don't think I even considered heart quality/theme during the demo -- after all, it was just me doing and talking about the poses I was demo'ing. Lesson learned.
After the self-eval., I still feel good about the video and have sent it on to Sundari. Keep fingers crossed!
In Gentle Yoga, we worked with skull loop -- my favorite loop this year. After all, for me, it is the key to backbending. I just wish saying 'hyoid bone' many times was a bit less tongue-tying (or, as I try to say it this morning many times over, it's more of a lip-challenge). But, I digress.
I hadn't intended to do that - teach skull loop, but as I watched students move into anjanae asana, and take their gaze up (by dropping their head back), it seemed like a good teaching moment. (Seeing teaching moments, is also a variation of a question on the Self-Evaluation form -- "Did you teach to what you were seeing?) The connection from skull loop to the upper and mid back, will help in this pose -- which can be a bit challenging for the lower back. It was amazing to watch the following attempts at the pose - so much more potent (and beautiful).
Then home for a bit, and back to the studio (I felt like a yo-yo yesterday) to teach a semi-private. We worked skull loop here, also. Home again, where we have 3 inches of snow on the deck -- yes, snow; in October. We've gone from balmy, sunny Fall to Winter -- FAST! Maybe we'll journey back to the balmy, but winter is here today.
Today?
- Still cleaning (can you tell the house has not been my priority for a while?)
- Pilates at 1 pm
- Semi-private at 2:30 pm
- Yoga Hour at 4 pm, taught by me
Hope your day is a good one,
SO, HERE IT IS . . . POST #500
Let the whistles blow and the cymbals clash; let the sparklers light the sky; etc., etc., etc. I've done it -- 500 posts; as I sit here, it's almost as anti-climactic as the 60th birthday countdown. Oh, well!
When I'm away from the studio, I depend on Facebook and e-mail to keep me informed of goings on. This morning, I found an entry from BJ Galvan, a forwarded one of Scott Marmorstein doing a jig to a Jamaican tune. I usually would pass by this type of message, however this morning I paused and watched the video. Reminder, Scott is the young man who works with JF frequently and is an energy healter (cakras). The other fact many of us know is that he nearly died 8 or so months ago from heart issues.
I watched the 'jig' video, then noticed in the history bar another video of Scott from a year ago. He's seated in front of a window and talks about his work. Such a difference between now (the jig, the look, the energy) and a year ago (posture, the look, the energy). If you can find it, check it out. So happy to see him and to see him looking well and happy.
Our grandsons are great! We had a fun day yesterday -- took in Sealife (an aquarium extension of Legoland). Well done and a perfect place for pre-school and early school-age children. Since the boys have been to this place many times, we were given the tour - taken into all the nooks and crannies, encouraged to watch the puppet show and the dive show; just take it all in, move with their flow (a 2 and a 4-year-old flow is very different than our 60+ year flow). It was a fun morning, that even included lunch at the aquarium. Such good grandparents - pat, pat, pat (the sound of me patting myself on the back). Then back home for naps, more play, dinner, then we (the older ones) could relax.
Today, I'll enjoy grandsons some more; Howard will work. Our housesitter is 'in charge' - dealing with pets and care of SLC house. The studio? Well, I'm not missing any classes; and it can run itself for a couple days.
I was serious about ordering the printed archive of the first 500 posts. I plan to continue, maybe I'll change the display - I've seen some pretty neat ones around the internet.
Thank you for reading,
When I'm away from the studio, I depend on Facebook and e-mail to keep me informed of goings on. This morning, I found an entry from BJ Galvan, a forwarded one of Scott Marmorstein doing a jig to a Jamaican tune. I usually would pass by this type of message, however this morning I paused and watched the video. Reminder, Scott is the young man who works with JF frequently and is an energy healter (cakras). The other fact many of us know is that he nearly died 8 or so months ago from heart issues.
I watched the 'jig' video, then noticed in the history bar another video of Scott from a year ago. He's seated in front of a window and talks about his work. Such a difference between now (the jig, the look, the energy) and a year ago (posture, the look, the energy). If you can find it, check it out. So happy to see him and to see him looking well and happy.
Our grandsons are great! We had a fun day yesterday -- took in Sealife (an aquarium extension of Legoland). Well done and a perfect place for pre-school and early school-age children. Since the boys have been to this place many times, we were given the tour - taken into all the nooks and crannies, encouraged to watch the puppet show and the dive show; just take it all in, move with their flow (a 2 and a 4-year-old flow is very different than our 60+ year flow). It was a fun morning, that even included lunch at the aquarium. Such good grandparents - pat, pat, pat (the sound of me patting myself on the back). Then back home for naps, more play, dinner, then we (the older ones) could relax.
Today, I'll enjoy grandsons some more; Howard will work. Our housesitter is 'in charge' - dealing with pets and care of SLC house. The studio? Well, I'm not missing any classes; and it can run itself for a couple days.
I was serious about ordering the printed archive of the first 500 posts. I plan to continue, maybe I'll change the display - I've seen some pretty neat ones around the internet.
Thank you for reading,
#499
Yesterday's class (Saturday) was one where I felt really connected to a new voice, yet still teaching and still doing all the same 'stuff'. What do I mean?
Well, it was interesting to hear myself offer instructions, and - while offering these instructions - interlace them with verbiage supporting my theme, heart quality, UPA's, etc. It all seemed to click. The problem? Not enough people in the room to do a viable video (one that the Certification Committee will accept). But, no matter. I am so happy that things are finally falling into place; it's kind of like my 'urdhva feeling' -- a whole new world is opening to me.
My theme yesterday centered around Desire-Study-Work (also known as Attitude-Alignment-Action). I went back through notes and found that during this past year these three elements have been the topic of some key teachings I've received.
First, from John -- our desire fuels our practice. When we move from this desire; a place of focus, many things become possible. Second, from Desiree -- study and practice the basics. Her point? We don't have to do the many challenging poses every time we go to the mat; they are always available to us to attempt or accomplish, if we are well-schooled in the basics. Third, from Christina -- do the work. Practice, get on your mat push yourself a bit further than is comfortable once in a while, do the work.
Oh, I learned tons of other stuff this year, but these three fit right into what I hoped to teach yesterday morning. Desire brought them to class; study keeps them coming to class; and work -- well, we lengthened lunge and down dog stances, we worked some backbends (difficult for some in the room), we tried ustrasana (camel) without resorting to one hand on the foot, then the other -- both hands hit the feet at the same time. I didn't necessarily ask for this, tho I did suggest it -- their desire to do the pose incorporating the UPA's and truly lengthening into the backbend (study), resulted in each doing Ustrasana, both hands moving to the feet at the same time while the rest of their body's remained in good alignment (the work).
I also had a little side-learning experience. One student, who has had a back injury, commented after the first attempt at just moving part of the way up and back into Ustrasana (camel), that her body was shaking all over. I decided to give a little assist and - sure enough - as she began to rise with my hands on her ribcage, she did begin to tremble all over (FYI, she was not in any pain.). Once her hands reached her heels, the trembling stopped. It began again, as I assisted her up and out of the pose. All I can figure is that her body is fearful of the potential for pain in backbends. It doesn't matter that we are applying the UPA's to prevent injury. The body knows what hurting the back felt like; it doesn't want to go there again, hence the response (the shaking). I think that, as she works the UPA's, and her body comes to accept that this movement does not result in a painful experience, the shaking may subside. We'll see. Interesting!
Today?
Well, it was interesting to hear myself offer instructions, and - while offering these instructions - interlace them with verbiage supporting my theme, heart quality, UPA's, etc. It all seemed to click. The problem? Not enough people in the room to do a viable video (one that the Certification Committee will accept). But, no matter. I am so happy that things are finally falling into place; it's kind of like my 'urdhva feeling' -- a whole new world is opening to me.
My theme yesterday centered around Desire-Study-Work (also known as Attitude-Alignment-Action). I went back through notes and found that during this past year these three elements have been the topic of some key teachings I've received.
First, from John -- our desire fuels our practice. When we move from this desire; a place of focus, many things become possible. Second, from Desiree -- study and practice the basics. Her point? We don't have to do the many challenging poses every time we go to the mat; they are always available to us to attempt or accomplish, if we are well-schooled in the basics. Third, from Christina -- do the work. Practice, get on your mat push yourself a bit further than is comfortable once in a while, do the work.
Oh, I learned tons of other stuff this year, but these three fit right into what I hoped to teach yesterday morning. Desire brought them to class; study keeps them coming to class; and work -- well, we lengthened lunge and down dog stances, we worked some backbends (difficult for some in the room), we tried ustrasana (camel) without resorting to one hand on the foot, then the other -- both hands hit the feet at the same time. I didn't necessarily ask for this, tho I did suggest it -- their desire to do the pose incorporating the UPA's and truly lengthening into the backbend (study), resulted in each doing Ustrasana, both hands moving to the feet at the same time while the rest of their body's remained in good alignment (the work).
I also had a little side-learning experience. One student, who has had a back injury, commented after the first attempt at just moving part of the way up and back into Ustrasana (camel), that her body was shaking all over. I decided to give a little assist and - sure enough - as she began to rise with my hands on her ribcage, she did begin to tremble all over (FYI, she was not in any pain.). Once her hands reached her heels, the trembling stopped. It began again, as I assisted her up and out of the pose. All I can figure is that her body is fearful of the potential for pain in backbends. It doesn't matter that we are applying the UPA's to prevent injury. The body knows what hurting the back felt like; it doesn't want to go there again, hence the response (the shaking). I think that, as she works the UPA's, and her body comes to accept that this movement does not result in a painful experience, the shaking may subside. We'll see. Interesting!
Today?
- Enjoying my son, my daughter-in-law and my grandsons
Hope you have a nice day,