PLANNING
Well, it will happen -- my workshop. I'd secretly hoped for some kind of intervention that would cause or necessitate it's cancellation; didn't happen. Why would I wish this? It's my first workshop. My first time dipping my toe into the pool, and I'm a bit nervous.
Those of you who have done workshops might understand. If you don't teach, understand that nerves are always present -- what will I teach? who will attend? will more than a few attend? will I be able to fill 3 hours with information? and on and on like that.
I made an effort to assure there were no conflicting events; I know that some did similarly; -delete-, -delete-, -delete-. Could write more, won't. Won't go there.
Enough.
It's Thursday and I have an appointment with Molly from the Handel Group tomorrow afternoon. Molly is a 'life coach'. Life coaches are new to me. So, one of my first discussion points might be -- tell me what you do, how you work. Then, we'll see where it goes. I'm excited - that's both good and not-so-good; because, sometimes my expectations are bigger than the results. Also, I'm sure this will involve much questioning - not of her, but of me (myself asking me questions like 'what do I want?'). I've never been very good at this kind of stuff, so we'll see. And, Molly may just be my 'introductory' contact for all this; there may be someone she refers me to, once she has a chance to untangle my needs/desires.
So, back to the nerves part. I struggled with nerves all my life -- most often when trying to speak in front of a group. One signal to me that I had found my place in teaching yoga - the nervousness was gone. I could stand in front of a group of 8, 15, 150 even, people and talk/teach yoga with none of the breathlessness that had plagued me in my earlier life. I may be nervous before a class, but that nervousness passes once the first 'om' is uttered. Amazing!
Still working on my new website -- so much fun to do this just for me! I found a few more pics of myself, but still need more (another photo shoot?). We'll see. I think I can publish without the added pics, then add them later as I accumulate more.
The news of the studio sale has hit Facebook - so much fun to watch. And, I am truly excited to watch the transformation of the studio happen.
Today's plans?
- Send a few personal invites to the workshop (it's payback time for a few)
- Pilates at 1 pm
- Semi-Private with the "stiffer-than-most" or "less-flexible-than-many" couple at 2:30 pm
- YogaHour at 4 pm; I'm teaching.
Enjoy your Thursday,
BUILDING A WEBSITE
Who me? Yes, me! I took advantage of Apple's one-to-one training program last night, trucked on down to the Apple store, and spent an hour with very knowledgeable gentleman. My introduction to building a website, plus a good start on one. The fact that this lesson started at 8 pm, is a sign of my motivation -- rarely do I venture out after dark, unless it's a special occasion with 'the husband'. That's not because of fear or caution; that's because I get up so darn early, I am usually too tired to do much else once dinner is accomplished.
With the sale of the studio, I am now an independent contractor. I will teach for the studio, and I will look to cultivate more private and semi-private clients in the area -- hopefully, using the studio for these sessions. Difference? I'll have to pay rent; not much, but rent nevertheless.
As an independent contractor, there are several markers I must meet -- business license, personal liability insurance, business cards, website -- all things that will indicate to the State that I am promoting and building my client base, not relying on the studio to do that for me. This is not a new theory for me; I have long thought that - if we are going to be in the business of teaching yoga - we ought to conduct ourselves as a business. So, here goes . . .
One lacking feature for my website -- pictures! Remember I had a photoshoot many months ago? Well, that was the catalyst for losing a few pounds; probably won't use those photos. That means I better start having someone take some pics of me doing yoga without those extra pounds! The pictures of me with my grandchildren or standing in front of some travel-related piece of architecture are not going to 'sell' me as a yoga instructor/therapist.
I'll be going into the studio in a little bit to teach Gentle Yoga -- hopefully, I can retrieve some photos off the studio computer and use them, as well. I also remembered that all my Excel files that document my trainings are still on that studio computer -- better retrieve those, as well. Would HATE to have to re-create that source of information. Selling a business is kind of like moving; lots of stuff to change, discontinue, forward info on, etc. Hopefully, it will be done in the next few weeks and my life will move into a more normal-for-the-future pattern.
Today's schedule:
- Gentle Yoga, 10 am at The Yoga Center "Be there or be square."
- A private with Adam
- Meeting to go over 'running the studio' with new owners. They may be surprised at how simply I did it for 7 years -- certainly nothing fancy about my management skills.
Hope your Wednesday is a good one,
TUESDAY
Up early (what's new?), and at a loss for a blog post title; so will just go with the obvious -- it's Tuesday.
Yesterday began as planned - I did write the e-mail; then, received a call from an instructor having car trouble. I live close to the studio (the one I used to own), so people call me when in a 'pickle'. She explained she'd be late, if she could get there at all -- I offered to sub. Since it was just 15 minutes until class was to start, I threw on clothes, brushed my hair, rinsed off my face (no make-up for this class), and hopped in the car. Pulled up to find 5 people patiently waiting outside the door and more walking in from the parking lot.
Subbing can be an interesting task, but - this morning - perhaps because I felt freer after the sale or maybe it was because of the spur-of-the-moment request, I was able to walk in, tell everyone why I was there (instead of their favorite instructor), and begin class. My voice, I noticed, was strong and I 'kicked it up a notch'. Best part -- no planning. Once in a while, I believe, this is a good thing - to just walk in and teach; no plan; no intentions for students; no expectations of myself except to give them a good experience (I hope).
After that, I ran errands, did some grocery shopping, and went home. A nice, productive day. The unfortunate part? I didn't make it to Tiffany's class. Bummer! Maybe Wednesday. Last night might have been a bit dangerous, anyway -- The Shop is re-opening their retail space with lots of new stuff; clothing that we haven't had access to before. (SLC, by the way, is not the shopping mecca you might think -- especially for yoga clothes.)
Today is a busier day:
- Class with Wayne
- Pilates at noon
- 2:30 semi-private with the less-than-flexible (or stiffer-than-most) couple
- Help get Yoga Center newsletter out
Enjoy your Tuesday,
AND, A NEW PHASE BEGINS
Last night, I officially turned over the 'keys' to The Yoga Center to Sheldon & Lyndsey Marie. We had a great meeting at the studio -- with wonderful food; thank you, everyone. And, all but two instructors were in attendance -- considering there are now 14 teaching at the studio, that was impressive.
And, to look around the circle at all those faces; faces that I've known for years and some faces new to me, I saw good friends and very accomplished yoga teachers -- all dedicated to their craft and their students. Good stuff!
I sent an e-mail to all the instructors earlier in the week, reminding them of the meeting and telling them that this change is for the good -- new energy, refurbished studio, updated and more effective record keeping; all good things. The best part -- a goal to keep disruption to a minimum for the students who have come to consider the studio their 'sanctuary'; their place to practice yoga (even if it isn't the only place they practice yoga). "Change is inevitable; growth is optional." -- remember that.
I began to write this post as a description of the 'new phase' for me; I realize it will be a 'new phase' for instructors and students, as well.
Yesterday morning, I followed my plan and attended Sheldon's class. The moment I sat on my mat, an inward smile made its way into my head. I looked out the window and up at the mountains and said 'thank you'. Thank you that this has worked out so well -- and, thank you that I can now practice, teach and study without the added responsibility of running a studio. FYI, running the studio was never a burden for me -- oh, I had bad days on occasion; but, one of the reasons I did it for so long, was that the next day I would return to the studio with a solution or just in a better mood. Those bad days never lasted more than a day. A sign, to me, that I was in the right place doing the right thing. And, this transition has been similar -- never angst, worry, disruption; just a calm progression to last night's finale'.
This morning, I'm sitting here thinking of the things that need to be done; aware that it's not my responsibility, but also aware that I was asked to help in the next few weeks of transition. So, I'll send an e-mail, make a phone call, and follow instructions. Big change!
In my last few posts, I reviewed and evaluated (from my own experience) suggestions from JF for teaching. This morning, I read Christina's blog - she's done similarly; there's some good advice in there for us, if we're teaching or hoping to teach Anusara yoga.
So (parrot word), what happens now? Create a personal website, business cards, settle some final details (shift insurance, shift utilities - all things you do when you move), and plan for Saturday's workshop, "Embrace Yourself" - a time of recognition, reflection, and rejuvenation. First workshop, a bit nervous -- we'll see. I don't plan to take this 'show' on the road, now that I no longer own a studio, but I think expanding my threshold to include a local workshop now and then is a good thing.
Today's schedule:
- Write that e-mail I talked about
- Christmas decorations
- Tiffany's class, perhaps
Have a good Monday,
ABOUT SMALL CLASSES
Over the years, I've heard teachers lament the small classes we sometimes wind up teaching as in, 'what's wrong with what I'm offering; why aren't my classes larger; am I wasting my time'. Once they're done, we agree that we ought to view a primary purpose of teaching yoga as simply giving our best to whoever happens to be in the room -- be it 4 students or 40.
Yesterday morning, I taught just such a class -- small (but mighty). As I planned the class (at 4am, no less), I remembered Adam's words: 'kick it up a notch'.
Before I proceed, I'll elaborate on that. I worry that people walk into my class, see me, and form an opinion -- something like, "she's a bit older, I wonder what this class will be like, slow - maybe". Then, I fear, I meet their low expectation. I know I'm a good teacher; I know I can teach up to what some would like. I also know I get lost in the details; back to that 'too much information'. I love the fine tuning, and many students don't want to be fine-tuned. They just want to move. That's not a negative - it's a fact, and I need to find the balance between moving and fine tuning. A balance that will make us all happy.
My goal in planning yesterday was to teach a good class, yet 'kick it up a notch'. And, I did it -- to the surprise of the students in the room -- one heard to comment: "that was a work-out!" (I was secretly smiling as I heard that).
That comment led to further discussion with the rest of the group about the benefits of a smaller class -- one commenting that she had been practicing (at another location) for a couple years, and - perhaps because classes are large - she had never been asked to do some of the fine tuning I asked for. (Go back to my photo story of a couple blog posts ago -- proof positive.)
Why write about this? There is much to be learned from small classes -- I learn more about my students - their personalities, their physical abilities (or limitations), I learn about my comfort level with fewer than 5 in the room, I am asked to teach more precisely - no glossing over because there are just too many people in the room to serve everyone (I might even be asked a question for which I don't know or have the answer -- that's a bit embarrassing, but - as JF advises - I will admit 'I don't know, but I'll find out' -- then I follow through.).
"Small classes are a blessing, a place to learn" == my quote? No, one from a 2007 therapeutics training with JF in Santa Fe. My case, exactly! And, in going back through notes looking for that quote, I saw tons of information that I knew, but I hadn't thought of for a while. A case for reviewing notes once in a while!
My thoughts are running rampant this morning -- must be a bit of excitement over the transition this weekend holds. I have loved owning a studio. It has offered me a forum for teaching and developing my own skills, without having to worry about 'where will I teach'. It has honed my skills and my sensitivity to students' needs and desires. It has not, however, given me the key to scheduling -- that remains a mystery. As in, what class will work best at what time? That, I think, is where the right instructor can make or break it. But, I won't have to worry too much about that now -- I just will keep 'kicking it up a notch', while fine tuning -- the balance, remember?
My day?
- Sheldon's class at 8am at The Yoga Center
- Instructor meeting at 6 pm at The Yoga Center
- Inbetween? We'll see.
Hope you have a nice and relaxing Sunday,
ANSWER...
ANSWER QUESTIONS AT THE APPROPRIATE LEVEL (Don't give too much information, you might overwhelm students.)
#7 - JF's Suggestions for Teaching
Yesterday, I think I said a bit about this one. I am known to offer all kinds of information. In one of my first teacher trainings (Desiree), she asked us to tell students 'why' -- why we do things this or that way. Well, I took that one to heart. I told people 'why' ad nauseum. Too much of a good thing is too much (no matter how good it is).
And, that's all I have to say about that. (Forrest Gump)
Today is a big day for me. I will enter a weekend of transition from studio owner to yoga instructor. Over the past few weeks, I've been in discussions with my friends, Sheldon & Lyndsey, to purchase the studio (a good thing).
After all, it's been 7 years. 7 years of steady growth, good instructors, quality yoga. And, Sheldon & Lyndsey will continue that. Additionally, they have the energy (and a lot of friends) to refurbish the space -- finally putting in those bamboo floors I always coveted, and raising the ceilings (which students will LOVE). And, doors into the practice room -- who knew !?!?!
It will be a bit of a juggling act through December - but, classes will remain the same - just shifting to another space for a few weeks. Then, come January, a grand re-opening. We'll keep everyone informed on where and what to expect.
Good and exciting stuff!
As things progress, I'll keep you posted. If you are a student of the studio, rest assured there are no big shifts (other than the remodeling and a bit of updating in recordkeeping) happening. Sheldon & Lyndsey will handle things differently than I did, but who wouldn't? And, in dealing with them, I see their vision for the studio remains much the same as mine has been.
So, see you all next week in classes; no change except that my title will be 'instructor' instead of 'owner'.
Today:
- Private in about one hour
- Level 1 at 9 am at The Yoga Center
- Spend time with 'the husband' (if he reads this, I may get scowled at -- not sure if I'd like being called 'the wife' -- but, it's all in good fun)
Hope you have a great Saturday,
DON'T ANSWER THE . . .
Don't answer the question that hasn't been asked.
#6 - JF's suggestions for teaching
I remember the first time I heard this suggestion from John. It was Miami, my first teacher training with John, 200? (the exact year I can't remember). When he said it, I remember it was like a thunderbolt.
Why? Because I often offer too much information, an opinion, or a solution, before I've ever been asked -- or, at least, I used to.
And, for a while after the Miami training, I continued with this habit of answering before being asked, until I saw and realized the impact. It many times sends people away, rather than bringing them closer. What did I see? I had a woman in class several years ago who limped. Before she could get out of class and out of the studio, I approached her to talk about the limp and what we might do to 'change' it. Never saw her again. Need another example? The young dancer who came to class and to who I offered unsolicited advice about her legs that rotated in (kneecaps almost facing one another). We worked with a block, I showed her how to begin to change this pattern in her body. Never saw her again, either. There may be other reasons these people didn't come back -- maybe they just didn't enjoy my class, or my bubbling personality. I like to think it's because I broke this 'golden' rule and offered too much without being asked.
There have been other examples (at least two additional ones come to mind, but I won't go into those). Suffice it to say, by having these examples in my life, I learned the lesson -- despite the fact I had been forewarned.
Today, I will answer questions galore. I won't, however, bombard the person with a ton of information - just the answer to the question; if they want more, they will ask. And, I even open the door to more questions a crack, like "if you need/want more information, just check in with me".
Yesterday, on an impulse, I posted my Bhartrihari quote (look to the right on this blog) on Facebook, because I love it. My husband asked (on Facebook, no less), for my opinion of Bhartrihari's last sentence "..such a difficult vow, which is as sharp as the edge of a sword." Stymied for a moment, I answered (privately) and this morning I've re-read the Discipline in Speaking chapter of The Yoga of Discipline. I may have a better answer now -- that it is very easy to do as Bhartrihari describes 'good people' do, but to slip into a negative or - worse - an implied negative comment. Like "Sissy is so nice, she'd be even cuter if she'd fix her hair." We have now slipped off the 'good people' truck and onto that sword blade.
For both situations (not answering unless asked and offering speech about someone or something), the operative word might be 'pause'. Sometimes, if we just pause for a moment, the urge to offer all our information and knowledge will pass; and - better - we will contemplate any potentially hurtful comments we were about to offer.
Hope all this makes sense. It did as I wrote it, now to re-read.
Today?
- Gentle Yoga at 10 am at The Yoga Center
- Paperwork
- Dinner out with 'the husband' (love to read Bernie Birney's blogs, where she refers to 'the husband' -- makes me smile and laugh)
Hope you have a great Friday,
WHEN TEACHING ANY GROUP OR INDIVIDUAL . . .
"When teaching a group or individual, and give an instruction, allow time for the student(s) to carry out the instruction. Don't just walk away and on to the next instruction; make sure they do what you have asked them to do."
#5 - JF's suggestions on teaching
If you are to travel back in this blog a ways, you will find this same suggestion relayed to me from Christina Sell. It's a good one. Not always easy, tho.
It (JF's suggestion) requires that we go back to #4, that 'quiet is not a bad thing' piece of advice. And, to elaborate on Christina's advice, her statement went like this: 'if you don't care whether they do it or not, don't ask them for it'. Simple as that.
Example: If I ask students for a 'full stretch', and I look around the room and see bent elbows and limp fingers, I will ask the group again. If all but one or two respond, then a personal visit is needed (as in, I go to that person or persons) and softly ask them to extend a bit more. When/if that doesn't get the desired result, I will physically adjust (or - in some cases - it just isn't within their range, and then I usually get the explanation).
It's more work, more observation, but the poses -- Wow!
If I don't ask students to carry out my instructions, habits set in; and not good ones. They become lax because I am not 'teaching' them otherwise. I am reading the book "Cutting For Stone" now, and came across this sentence which - to me - spells out just what I'm talking about. It goes: "practice doesn't make perfect if you repeat a bad practice".
And, I saw proof in a recent photo of a class in parsvakonasana. Students in pose with elbow on front knee. Lots of limp arms, heads drooping towards floor, necks resting on shoulders. There was one student in the center of the room - a student known to me (he does take classes with me, but I'm not his primary teacher). He clearly has been asked and has the desire to do the best pose available to him -- there was nothing in the pic that indicated anything but full, beautiful effort on his part. So nice to see. And, for me (maybe for him), to offer that fuller expression makes the pose easier!?!?!?
Enough on this -- I could carry on and carry on, but I think I (and everyone reading) get the point already.
Another cold day in SLC. What's on the schedule?
- A bit of housecleaning
- Pilates at 1
- Semi-private at 2:30 at The Yoga Center
- I'm teaching YogaHour at 4 pm
Hope your Thursday is a great day!
GIVE YOUR STUDENTS ...
"Give your students time to breathe in a pose. Quiet is not a bad thing."
#4 in my notes from the JF Intensive, 2009 in Tucson.
Students might not agree -- especially if it's a challenging pose, or one they do not enjoy. Being asked to stay in a pose while the instructor walks the room, or simply stands looking at general forms and foundations, is many times challenging in its own right.
I remember the first time, tho, that I was able to notice taking two calm breaths while in Trichonasana. Amazing, I thought. Here I am, in this - for me - challenging pose, and I am breathing; calmly breathing. Had the instructor not given me that time to notice, to appreciate, I may still be wondering why we put ourselves in those situations / those poses. Now I know, that - for me - the act of holding the pose, then being able to breathe, is an act of creating beauty and awareness (chit ananda).
As much as quiet is a hard thing to receive; for me, it is a challenge to give. As an instructor, I remember wanting to fill every moment with dialogue. I thought that was my job, to talk, to tell them what the alignment principles were, how to get there, what benefits they might receive, how they could hurt themselves by rushing, little stories, etc., etc., etc. It's hard to offer silence. And, even now, when I do, sometimes I think "I should be talking", then I remember -- 'quiet is not a bad thing'.
So, it's a practice for me as well as for my students -- getting used to silence; being able to offer silence. Certainly not a 'bad' thing.
Dogs are staring me down, as I hurriedly write this. It's well past time for their walk (tho they have been outside). Habits! So, on with the snow pants, boots, parka, hat, gloves; grab bags (even in snow I am a good, responsible dog owner - I pick up after my pets); and get out there.
Today?
- Gentle Yoga at 10 am at The Yoga Center
- My own private with Adam (more handstand work)
- Shop for one Christmas gift
Hope your Wednesday is a good one,
WHERE DID I LEAVE OFF?
Took the day to relax (some more), shovel snow, walk dogs, read -- no blog writing. Here's a photo that made my day:
My son and his sons (Jack, Carson & Brady, l-r) wishing me a Happy Day. Everyone's still in pajamas or ready for school (Derek took the day off to help after a busy Thanksgiving weekend -- what a husband/father!), so it must have been early morning. And, from the looks of it, Jack is developing his own independent personality -- a little bit of rebellion / I'll do it 'my way' showing through.
Now, where did I leave off?
First, tho, a comment -- the word 'so' must be cast out of my vocabulary. I watched a video of a recent class last night. Not bad - I didn't really tell people 'why' enough - but, on the whole a decent class. The word 'so' was peppered throughout. I thought I had solved that == but, no, it's still there; my parrot word.
Now, I left off on John's suggestions at "Keep your teaching as more of a dialogue, rather than a monologue".
Based on the video I watched, I've got that one covered. I'm teaching, yet I did notice I paused and asked for feedback. I was also listening for and acknowledging comments and groans. In this class, the apex pose was revolved trichonasana - not the easiest of poses and one that demands a bit of precision and an approach that is more thoughtful. I chose to enter the pose from an unusual spot - prasarita padottonasana (now, that got some comment -- pro and con), walk hands to one side, turn feet, place hand on floor, open. The 'open' is where people get overzealous -- everyone wants to take that arm up right away. Rather, this pose (revolved trichonasana) benefits from a more measured approach -- we create the stance (foundation), we lengthen, we go back to the foundation, we then - with upper hand on the hip - begin to twist open. Once shoulders are stacked, upper directly above lower, then the hand-on-hip can open to the fuller expression. I realize it's hard for some people to wait, tho -- it just feels so much better if they do.
Place yourself in a class - dialogue vs. monologue? What's your preference? I like moments in class where the instructor pauses long enough to receive a question or feedback. There don't have to be a ton of them (moments), just a few.
I suppose I also must factor in body language. If I am giving a monologue, my arms may be crossed, or hands clasped behind my back, and I may be pacing back and forth. I doubt I am looking at what's going on in my student's poses. Why? I'm pretty involved in what I'm saying - I haven't left any space for dialogue, observation, adjustment, compliments.
The video I watched was the one where students totally blew me away with their poses. Each one, from the most practiced to the newer-to-yoga gave me every ounce of their effort. It won't be a video I turn in - I learned a few things from it, tho. It is a class that I will treasure.
Today's plan:
- Wayne's Class
- Pilates
- Paperwork
Stay warm today, wherever you are. Here (SLC) it is COLD !!!
ACKNOWLEDGE EVERYONE, EVEN . . .
In keeping with my plan, the next suggestion from JF regarding teaching goes like this:
"Acknowledge everyone, even the most capable (you may tend to overlook these people because you don't think they need your help)."
As I teach, I notice that this does happen -- I do work more with the person who is less experienced - and, in some cases, I don't acknowledge the rest of the class. I saw living proof the day I reviewed a video: Two new students in the room; the others have been coming to my class for quite a while. My attention was riveted on the two new ones. Oh, I moved around the room, but always went right back to those two to offer verbal or physical adjustments; leaving the rest to fend for themselves. After all, they (the rest) knew what to do. However, in looking at the video, a couple of the rest would have benefited from my attention. Mantra for Leslie: 'serve everyone'.
Assuming people know what to do may be correct and they may not even need to be adjusted or corrected, but everyone wants to be acknowledged.
Even I, as I participate in a class, enjoy the occasional correction or comment of welcome or approval (even if it's whispered). Don't need to shout it to the room, just the act of letting me know they know I'm there is good enough.
Now, JF, is another matter. If I move through a practice with him, without comment, I've learned that's almost acknowledgment enough - sort of like, I did everything o.k. -- whew! Or, if he walks by and places a hand lightly on my shoulder -- that's even better. With 100+ people in the room, it's hard to work with that many and let everyone know they are being noticed. So, my expectations of being acknowledged change.
Going back to my teaching -- put another teacher in one of my classes, and I will probably move right past that person, as well. After all -- don't want to offend a fellow instructor by adjusting or suggesting they change something about their practice. Wrong! So, I continue to work on that one.
And I don't have to directly compliment everyone in the room. There are other ways to acknowledge the more acomplished practitioner without being overly complimentary or doting. I'll try to list some:
- As the class proceeds, use the more adept practitioner for demo'ing
- Once, I was introduced at the beginning of a class I was visiting in another city. Now, that really made my day -- to be introduced by a Certified instructor as another Anusara Teacher gave me a boost and affected my work throughout that class (and for a long time after).
- Comment on a modification used by the more experienced. In the class yesterday, the instructor commented something like this "now, Terry is very experienced and flexible, yet notice she's using blocks to fully experience this pose". A compliment built in to a suggestion we all give the blocks a try.
- Or, if the class is large, a simple pat on the back and a whispered 'welcome', will do the trick. Then, as class continues, smile - make eye contact - thumbs up - whatever.
I don't need to do much to let people know I know they're there and they're doing good work. It is easy, tho, as I mentioned above, to focus only on the newer or new-to-me student.
Ahhh, another ball to juggle.
So, today? It's a weekend off - more R&R; maybe a walk with the dogs.
Have a great Sunday,
WHEN TEACHING A CLASS, . . .
Yesterday, I posted some guidelines taken from a 2009 training with John Friend that I attended in Tucson. As I re-read the post this morning, I decided that deciphering each one for today and the next 6 days, would be good blog 'topic' material.
It will also be challenging for me to do -- to really think about what he said, explain what it means to me and my teaching, and hope to offer some valuable insights to you (especially, if the one I'm working on is one you've been trying to work on, as well).
As Christina says (there, I'm back to Christina), teaching Anusara® yoga is something like juggling. There are a lot of balls (or tasks) involved -- each important and each needs to stay in the air; to be present in our teaching. These are just 7 more. Add these to the UPA's, the loops, the theme, heart quality, apex pose, individual student dispositions and physical conditions, my energy, (there's one or more I'm forgetting), and - VOILA! - you have an Anusara® or Anusara-Inspired™ yoga class.
Now, as to "When teaching a class, feel the overall energy but don't overlook those with special limitations.", here goes.
What does this mean to me? That I must be prepared for whoever decides to attend my Level 1 or Gentle Yoga classes. That, when teaching, I not only am going to offer a good class for the student familiar with yoga and my teaching, but also a valuable experience to the person who is new or who has a physical limitation.
What does that mean -- modifications where needed. Or not. But, if not, I must be prepared to offer well thought-out instructions on how to do what I'm asking. Nothing worse than being asked to move to vrksasana and have not a clue what it is you are being asked to do.
If you read back a few posts, you'll find just such a situation -- students in a class, excited to have accomplished a new pose, and then sharing with me that many times, rather than teach them poses, teachers will take the easier route and offer them alternative, manageable poses. Their view of why this happens? Instructors 'assume' they are not capable of doing something (or at least a modification), so rather than teach it, they punt. I suppose when you have 40 students in the room, that happens; but, with less than 10 in the room, there is no excuse for not breaking the pose down for everyone (that's my personal opinion).
And, Leslie, how do you propose we do that? Well, often times, I ask everyone to do the 'breaking down' version first. Everyone does the modification, if I know there is someone in the room who will be challenged by the pose. As we start the pose, I assure students that there will be a second go-round, and that once we move through it the modified way, we will go to the next stage (or fuller expression). Then, when it's time for the fuller expression, I ask everyone to reflect on the first go-round, then decide how much further they take the pose.
By stepping back a bit, the more familiar students may learn something that had escaped them before. And, they still get to do the fuller expression, with their bodies a bit more warmed up.
For me, the challenge is not 'including' everyone; the challenge is challenging everyone - working with that overall energy. I will tend to teach more precisely, more slowly (there, I've said it), and my work will be to 'kick it up a notch'. To balance precision with liveliness and fire. That's my challenge.
Today?
- More R&R
- Yoga
Have a nice Saturday,
PLANT A SEED - NOW
Many of my readers also visit Christina Sell's blog. We both offer good, albeit different, kinds of information written in different styles. And, that's a good thing -- just like my teaching, I must develop my own voice in my blog.
However, that doesn't mean I can't 'borrow' a good idea. In yesterday's post, Christina talked about her intention for 2010 and how that has worked beneficially for her. She mentioned that this is the time to think about and plant the seeds of intention for 2011 (for more definitive info., please go to her blog -- the link is to the right of this).
I'm going to do it -- I rarely do resolutions (as in never); but a seed of intention that I perhaps will nurture through the year -- I can do that.
As I explain to students, setting an intention for my practice, in the beginning, was mind-boggling for me. Like, what do they want me to do? Should I 'intend' to save the world? Should I 'intend' to only eat vegetarian? I finally figured out that, for me (and it is an individual thing), something simple would suffice. So, if I am asked to set an intention, I start small, with something accomplishable -- like, 'I will try to find that spot in each pose where I can take one or two calm breaths'.
I'll do that for 2011. Keep it simple - last year, my intention was to be clear with people in my communications. This, as a result of Scott's revelation that my throat cakra was a bit skewed. He 'fixed it', and I decided that clearer communication moving forward needed to be a result. And? Well, each time I communicate with someone, I think of that intention -- that I want to be 'clear'. Not a huge thing, an accomplishable thing, that I may not do perfectly every time, but I certainly have embraced and nurtured this goal through the year (even when I haven't been able to be 'clear' for whatever reason).
With the holiday, I almost forgot it's Friday. This hasn't exactly been notes, but I'll include the following from my training notes:
General notes on teaching (taken from my notes - JF's Teacher Intensive, Tucson, 2009:
- When teaching a class, feel the overall energy but don’t overlook those with special limitations.
- Acknowledge everyone, even the most capable (you may tend to overlook those people, because you think they don’t need your help)
- Keep your teaching as more of a dialogue, rather than a monologue
- Give your students time to breathe in the poses. Quiet is not a bad thing.
- When you teach any group or individual, and give an instruction, give the student time to follow the instruction – don’t just walk away and move on to the next move – make sure they do what you have asked them to.
- Don’t answer the question that hasn’t been asked
- Answer questions at the appropriate level (don’t give too much, you might overwhelm them)
Today? R&R
Have a nice Friday,
JUST ENOUGH TIME
Yesterday -- a great day, filled with great students and good friends.
Started with Gentle Yoga. A small group, so easier to work with people more individually and give them a brief journey to their threshold (diksha) and a couple steps beyond. When we finished with baby kapinjalasana, each person was happy in their own way. One, because her balance is compromised by an awful disease, yet she held the pose. Another, stretching her limits and learning more of what power she possesses. And another, exclaiming disbelief that she would ever do something like THAT -- at age 60+, no less!
And, what did I learn? That we, as yoga teachers, sometimes discount the skill or strength just waiting to be released. When we look at a person, we often look just at the surface, make a judgment and minimize their ability to move into some of the poses we teach. Wrong!
Granted, it might take more effort on our part -- after all, a body that has not been exposed to this type of movement, will need guidance and probably will resist a bit. One reason I will usually ask for the apex pose to be done twice; the second time around is so much better.
I read an interesting post written by a yoga student (we are all students, but this person is not a teacher - yet). Her point -- that yoga teachers ought to stop 'inviting' students to do things; rather, yoga teachers ought to guide and instruct. Ever notice when we practice with JF, there are few - if any - choices? And, if we wander from his path we are often called back with a soft rebuke? He considers himself our guide (as do I), and he is responsible for taking us (me) to a pose in the safest, most effective manner. If I decide to add in a 'little extra' to the pose, his work may be for naught. I learned that lesson early - not quite sure how; but, I've seen it repeated and repeated (and, I try to forewarn people of this when they first study with him -- "don't show him all you can do, just do what he asks with integrity and full effort").
So, back to the blog I read -- this woman attends many yoga classes, many styles, many different teachers. She is finding a trend in teaching towards 'inviting' or allowing students to 'choose' their next move. Here is what I think she might be hearing: "I invite you to take down dog, or - if you choose - move into child's pose.". Not a bad instruction, just not very motivating or challenging. And, I understand where she is coming from; since I'm from the same ilk -- I want to be told, told again, and told again -- then, when I get it, I want to notice. This was a blog linked by Hugger Mugger on their Facebook page -- if you want to read it; read the comments also -- 90% agreed with her and there were a LOT of comments. In particular, a comment about letting the students enjoy a pose without the chatter. Whoa! That means I need to be quiet -- that's tough. But, when I do it (be quiet), I see some incredible openings -- you can actually see poses open like flower blossoms. Or, I also think of it as "listen to the music between the notes".
Enough of that, got to get busy. First, tho, here is a picture of my grandson, Jack, on his 4th birthday. The boots he is showing off are ones Grandma Leslie sent him (always the practical grandma). SO CUTE !!!
May you all have a very Happy Thanksgiving !
ALWAYS LEARNING
What now? Trying to establish an additional e-mail address. Phew! And why go through this angst and agony? I just think that, like my finances, business and personal e-mails ought to be separate. And, since I view this blog as a 'personal' adventure -- signing in and changing the e-mail address, as part of the verification process, I worry, is not going to be easy.
I decided to write first, then attempt the switch. Keep your fingers crossed!
Our blizzard of 2010 was kind of a 'non-event', at least from our perspective (which was the family room with a fire). The TV stations milked it for all it was worth, and I am sure some parts of town were hit more viciously than we were - up here it was like many other snow events. And, I loved that the plows were out early in this event (refer back to post where I'm stuck trying to come up hill; have to be rescued; etc., etc.).
It's interesting to live in Utah - Salt Lake, in particular - because of the way the weather affects us. Where we live, we can get pounded with snow, yet 5 miles away they will be either in the sun, the rain or maybe fog. It will be totally different.
Yesterday, we all raced around with 3 pm as the deadline for getting anything done. 3 pm was the time the blizzard was to arrive. At 3 pm it was windy, but no snow; at 4 - same; at 5 - same. By 5:30 wind had died down and we were getting the snow. The good thing? Many people were off the roads (rush hour, you know), had done their shopping, whatever. At our house we have an incredible view of the valley -- and, I must say, we have rarely seen such threatening sky. In a little bit, the news will be on and we'll see what other parts of the valley struggled with.
I took Wayne's class yesterday a.m. - a student I haven't seen for several months arrived, making the group kind of like 'old home week'. All of us had practiced together in the past and knew each other. It was fun - the kind of class you have once in a while, where groans are heard and laughed about; where little comments are whispered and laughed about; where Wayne even got into the fun, asking us to 'blossom our tree branches' (we laughed about this, too -- very 'un-wayne-like'). All in all, a good, light-hearted class.
From class to Pilates with Cindy -- used 'the chair'. Why in quotes? Well it is kind of a contraption, made of wood with springs, that you sit on, lie on, stand next to, or lie in front of. Interesting to think about how 'the chair' evolved. Good work, tho.
On the way back to the studio, my private appointment called to cancel -- at the doctors, waiting, having to get another test, wouldn't make it. So - for me - time to grab a bite of lunch and go home to retrieve the 4-wheel-drive in anticipation of the forecasted weather, and a trip out to get my hair cut.
All my 'stuff' accomplished by 5, stopped to get some gas in the car. Comments heard as I was filling the tank "everyone is here filling up, getting ready for the story". Why is that? I suppose if you were going to be out on the roads, you'd definitely want a good supply of gas, in case you got stuck; buy why fill up if you're just headed home? Anyone with a good theory, let me know.
Boy, this has been a lot of writing about almost nothing. But, that happens once in a while -- the blog process; some days you hit a home run, others - you foul out (or strike out).
Today:
I decided to write first, then attempt the switch. Keep your fingers crossed!
Our blizzard of 2010 was kind of a 'non-event', at least from our perspective (which was the family room with a fire). The TV stations milked it for all it was worth, and I am sure some parts of town were hit more viciously than we were - up here it was like many other snow events. And, I loved that the plows were out early in this event (refer back to post where I'm stuck trying to come up hill; have to be rescued; etc., etc.).
It's interesting to live in Utah - Salt Lake, in particular - because of the way the weather affects us. Where we live, we can get pounded with snow, yet 5 miles away they will be either in the sun, the rain or maybe fog. It will be totally different.
Yesterday, we all raced around with 3 pm as the deadline for getting anything done. 3 pm was the time the blizzard was to arrive. At 3 pm it was windy, but no snow; at 4 - same; at 5 - same. By 5:30 wind had died down and we were getting the snow. The good thing? Many people were off the roads (rush hour, you know), had done their shopping, whatever. At our house we have an incredible view of the valley -- and, I must say, we have rarely seen such threatening sky. In a little bit, the news will be on and we'll see what other parts of the valley struggled with.
I took Wayne's class yesterday a.m. - a student I haven't seen for several months arrived, making the group kind of like 'old home week'. All of us had practiced together in the past and knew each other. It was fun - the kind of class you have once in a while, where groans are heard and laughed about; where little comments are whispered and laughed about; where Wayne even got into the fun, asking us to 'blossom our tree branches' (we laughed about this, too -- very 'un-wayne-like'). All in all, a good, light-hearted class.
From class to Pilates with Cindy -- used 'the chair'. Why in quotes? Well it is kind of a contraption, made of wood with springs, that you sit on, lie on, stand next to, or lie in front of. Interesting to think about how 'the chair' evolved. Good work, tho.
On the way back to the studio, my private appointment called to cancel -- at the doctors, waiting, having to get another test, wouldn't make it. So - for me - time to grab a bite of lunch and go home to retrieve the 4-wheel-drive in anticipation of the forecasted weather, and a trip out to get my hair cut.
All my 'stuff' accomplished by 5, stopped to get some gas in the car. Comments heard as I was filling the tank "everyone is here filling up, getting ready for the story". Why is that? I suppose if you were going to be out on the roads, you'd definitely want a good supply of gas, in case you got stuck; buy why fill up if you're just headed home? Anyone with a good theory, let me know.
Boy, this has been a lot of writing about almost nothing. But, that happens once in a while -- the blog process; some days you hit a home run, others - you foul out (or strike out).
Today:
- Teaching Gentle Yoga at 10 am at The Yoga Center
- My own private with Adam
- Dreaded paperwork
I will probably NOT write tomorrow; not much spare time. Therefore, I'll take this opportunity to wish you a very nice Thanksgiving. May you travel safely, enjoy your family and friends, and eat your meal mindfully and with gratitude (and, maybe throw in a little yoga somewhere in the day).
Enjoy,
SUNDAY, SNOW, ETC.
Sunday went much as planned -- lots of snow shoveling. It feels good, tho. Especially if you have the right clothing, the right tools, the right attitude.
Attitude (especially when shoveling snow) is probably the hardest for me to maintain. As I shovel, it's easy to slip into the "why am I here doing this" (irritated) or "I'll never get through this pile of snow" (defeated) or "why didn't we buy the big, 'honker', snow blower" (back to irritated). Fortunately, that didn't happen yesterday. By the time we got out to the front to shovel the driveway, the snow had stopped falling and the skies were beginning to break open occasionally with sunshine. Notice, I said 'we' -- it always helps attitudinally to have help for this winter chore.
My attitude stayed open and even embraced the task of shoveling. I paused occasionally to look at the blue sky, look up at the mountains, enjoy the beauty of the snow, pet a neighbor's dog. That's very important - gotta look around once in a while, then move back to task. What else did I think about? Truth be told, I kept reminding myself of how good all this shoveling is for my arms, my legs, my core, my heart.
My ability to mentally shift attention from the task at hand to the benefits or scenery around me, comes in very handy in my yoga practice also. When I'm teaching and asking students to hold something longer than they would like, I suggest that they shift their attention from the discomfort (I'm not talking pain here) to another part of their body or to their breath. For example, when teaching vascisthasana, negative attention often falls to the poor supporting arm. I will suggest a shift in focus to the upper arm - to pull themselves up and off the supporting arm as though they were reaching for a brass ring. I think it works; at least, it works for me. Or, when holding vrksasana, students will be asked to look out the windows and up at the mountains - another distraction.
Not sure where I'm headed with this. All I can say for sure is that if I focus on the discomfort, I am not a happy camper; when I distract myself and focus on another part (visually, mentally or physically), I am able to continue towards the beauty result of poses, chores, whatever.
So, today?
Attitude (especially when shoveling snow) is probably the hardest for me to maintain. As I shovel, it's easy to slip into the "why am I here doing this" (irritated) or "I'll never get through this pile of snow" (defeated) or "why didn't we buy the big, 'honker', snow blower" (back to irritated). Fortunately, that didn't happen yesterday. By the time we got out to the front to shovel the driveway, the snow had stopped falling and the skies were beginning to break open occasionally with sunshine. Notice, I said 'we' -- it always helps attitudinally to have help for this winter chore.
My attitude stayed open and even embraced the task of shoveling. I paused occasionally to look at the blue sky, look up at the mountains, enjoy the beauty of the snow, pet a neighbor's dog. That's very important - gotta look around once in a while, then move back to task. What else did I think about? Truth be told, I kept reminding myself of how good all this shoveling is for my arms, my legs, my core, my heart.
My ability to mentally shift attention from the task at hand to the benefits or scenery around me, comes in very handy in my yoga practice also. When I'm teaching and asking students to hold something longer than they would like, I suggest that they shift their attention from the discomfort (I'm not talking pain here) to another part of their body or to their breath. For example, when teaching vascisthasana, negative attention often falls to the poor supporting arm. I will suggest a shift in focus to the upper arm - to pull themselves up and off the supporting arm as though they were reaching for a brass ring. I think it works; at least, it works for me. Or, when holding vrksasana, students will be asked to look out the windows and up at the mountains - another distraction.
Not sure where I'm headed with this. All I can say for sure is that if I focus on the discomfort, I am not a happy camper; when I distract myself and focus on another part (visually, mentally or physically), I am able to continue towards the beauty result of poses, chores, whatever.
So, today?
- Chores at home
- Errands to run
- Yoga Center paperwork, again
- Practice
- Snow to shovel? It's in the forecast, we'll see
Have a nice Monday,
FORECAST WAS ACCURATE
Yesterday's forecast for wind, rain, snow and blizzard-like conditions all came to pass. As I sit enjoying a cup of coffee, I glance up to see 12+" of snow on my deck railings. I've shoveled once (about an hour ago), and there is 1-2 inches of accumulation since then on the floor of the deck.
Last year, we bought a new car. In our excitement, we bought a front-wheel drive vehicle. Why? Well, it's a stick shift, it's a bit sporty, and we liked it. What's the problem? Where we live, a 4-wheel-drive vehicle would have been a much smarter decision. Maybe that's my pride speaking. Why? Last night, as I drove home from the studio, the roads were wet; then slushy, as the elevation increased; then snow-covered, as I moved up the hill (mountain, actually), we live on. As long as I can keep 'er moving, it's o.k. But, the route I chose included a stop, then a turn onto a steep part of our street. Can you see where this is going? Slipping and sliding, I proceeded another 30 yards, then had to give it up and back onto a side street and call for help. Howard came down the two blocks (I was that close!) in the 4-wheel-drive vehicle and we switched vehicles. I followed. Got to give him kudos -- he got that little, cute, sporty car moving on a somewhat circuitous route to our house, but - end result - we made it home. Him driving, me following. Snow tires? Ya think! (Thanks, Bonnie, for that little phrase -- 'ya think' -- so useful at times.)
Plows are out. That's a good thing. Where we live, they plow our street first -- not sure why, because it's a dead-end, but I won't argue with them.
This has no bearing on Anusara-Inspired™ yoga teaching; just needed to tell the story.
Class yesterday went almost as planned. I did video, and it did go well. The video may not go anywhere, but here is what I learned: that I can begin to include ("touch on", as the self-evaluation form says) the 5 UPA's in 50% of the poses. Not sure I did 50%, but I did give it a go; trying to find language that didn't sound like I was saying the same things, the same way, over and over. According to one student, it doesn't sound like I'm repeating myself - a good thing. I also taught some partnering stuff, which some hadn't been exposed to before. Best part - it was fun; and I think students enjoyed it. Now, to combine fun with theme with heart quality with upa's with a good sequence with an appropriate apex pose -- piece of cake! (I wish.)
I spent much of the day at the studio, finally doing that paperwork I reference frequently. Got a lot done, still some to do. My fingers got to the point where I was repeatedly making typos on the data entry, so it was time to call it good.
Late in the afternoon, Heidi hosted a yoga birthday party for herself (to which I was an invited guest) at the studio I own. It was great fun to be in the studio with 18 others, practicing and laughing and celebrating Heidi. We had three instructors, each with a different style/manner of teaching. So nice when people come together like that to practice yoga.
Today?
Last year, we bought a new car. In our excitement, we bought a front-wheel drive vehicle. Why? Well, it's a stick shift, it's a bit sporty, and we liked it. What's the problem? Where we live, a 4-wheel-drive vehicle would have been a much smarter decision. Maybe that's my pride speaking. Why? Last night, as I drove home from the studio, the roads were wet; then slushy, as the elevation increased; then snow-covered, as I moved up the hill (mountain, actually), we live on. As long as I can keep 'er moving, it's o.k. But, the route I chose included a stop, then a turn onto a steep part of our street. Can you see where this is going? Slipping and sliding, I proceeded another 30 yards, then had to give it up and back onto a side street and call for help. Howard came down the two blocks (I was that close!) in the 4-wheel-drive vehicle and we switched vehicles. I followed. Got to give him kudos -- he got that little, cute, sporty car moving on a somewhat circuitous route to our house, but - end result - we made it home. Him driving, me following. Snow tires? Ya think! (Thanks, Bonnie, for that little phrase -- 'ya think' -- so useful at times.)
Plows are out. That's a good thing. Where we live, they plow our street first -- not sure why, because it's a dead-end, but I won't argue with them.
This has no bearing on Anusara-Inspired™ yoga teaching; just needed to tell the story.
Class yesterday went almost as planned. I did video, and it did go well. The video may not go anywhere, but here is what I learned: that I can begin to include ("touch on", as the self-evaluation form says) the 5 UPA's in 50% of the poses. Not sure I did 50%, but I did give it a go; trying to find language that didn't sound like I was saying the same things, the same way, over and over. According to one student, it doesn't sound like I'm repeating myself - a good thing. I also taught some partnering stuff, which some hadn't been exposed to before. Best part - it was fun; and I think students enjoyed it. Now, to combine fun with theme with heart quality with upa's with a good sequence with an appropriate apex pose -- piece of cake! (I wish.)
I spent much of the day at the studio, finally doing that paperwork I reference frequently. Got a lot done, still some to do. My fingers got to the point where I was repeatedly making typos on the data entry, so it was time to call it good.
Late in the afternoon, Heidi hosted a yoga birthday party for herself (to which I was an invited guest) at the studio I own. It was great fun to be in the studio with 18 others, practicing and laughing and celebrating Heidi. We had three instructors, each with a different style/manner of teaching. So nice when people come together like that to practice yoga.
Today?
- Shovel snow
- Shovel snow
- Practice some yoga
- Shovel snow
- Shovel snow
Hope your Sunday is relaxing,
WINDY DAY IN SLC
Ooooh boy, the wind she is a blowing up here on our hill. Forecast is for winter-like conditions - rain, snow, even turning towards "blizzard" conditions later in the day. Fun, fun, fun. At least if you're sitting inside by a nice fire.
It makes me wonder who will venture out for yoga today. Fortunately, my class is early - before the truly nasty weather hits. But, right now, the wind is howling through our trees. Less than inviting to go outside! It is surprising that more people venture to yoga on a day like today, than on the nicer days.
Nicer days offer opportunities for more outdoor activities here -- good skiing (This activity, for me, is no fun in the wind especially if the resort decides to close the lifts for safety's sake. Speaking of safety, avalanche danger is also expected to rise with this storm - back country dudes and dudettes, be safe!), decent hiking and biking (Yes, even when it's snowy in the mountains, you can bike or hike at lower elevations - one of the beauties of living in Salt Lake. You just need the appropriate clothing.) So there are many who, left without these activities to fill their time, will come to yoga on a blustery day like today. Always interesting to see what the day brings.
I read MariaCristina's blog this morning and loved it. Why? What's so special about 'surrender'? It's TRUE. I see it happen each time I want to push up to urdhva dhanurasana. If I stress, put too much pressure on myself, it might not happen (tho I am getting better at the pose). So, part of my pose preparation is to simply lie on my back, breathe deeply, and soften into the floor. Then, I set hands, lift hips and move to the top of my head. 99% of the time these days, the journey up into the full pose happens! Many things factor in, but 'surrender' (that brief moment spent breathing and softening) is one of the most important. In this pose, I might also call this my 'open to grace' moment -- the moment when I recognize and accept that I am not the only driving force in my life.
Need another example? In a training a couple years ago, asked to to urdhva (JF had us all turn so our heads faced the row behind - or in front of - us. Why? So we could smile at each other as we move up to the pose.). My 'smiling partner' was Sierra, who had been talking to me prior to the practice about my urdhva - or lack of. In the first attempt, I came about 4 inches away from the floor. Quiet little Sierra (ha ha) let out a cheer and a giggle, heard by all. Result? JF comes over and asks to see it. See what? Me, doing urdhva - which at that time was most of the time inaccessible for me. I softened, I know I said a prayer, I placed my hands, I know I didn't rush. What happened, already? I pushed up! And, pushed up in front of about 100 other people and JF! I KNOW it happened because I opened to something bigger than me, I surrendered, and it happened.
There are times I just try too hard and the results are not what I want. I never discount 'surrender'. Such a powerful tool.
Well, this is turning into a ramble. But, there's a theme here; one I'll cultivate in my 9 am class! I've already written the story - the apex pose is here - the UPA of Open to Grace - the heart quality 'yielding' (or getting out of our way, which isn't a great way to say it but this phrase conveys the attitude we'll use) - the sequence to be worked on next, but not in this post.
So, what happens today?
It makes me wonder who will venture out for yoga today. Fortunately, my class is early - before the truly nasty weather hits. But, right now, the wind is howling through our trees. Less than inviting to go outside! It is surprising that more people venture to yoga on a day like today, than on the nicer days.
Nicer days offer opportunities for more outdoor activities here -- good skiing (This activity, for me, is no fun in the wind especially if the resort decides to close the lifts for safety's sake. Speaking of safety, avalanche danger is also expected to rise with this storm - back country dudes and dudettes, be safe!), decent hiking and biking (Yes, even when it's snowy in the mountains, you can bike or hike at lower elevations - one of the beauties of living in Salt Lake. You just need the appropriate clothing.) So there are many who, left without these activities to fill their time, will come to yoga on a blustery day like today. Always interesting to see what the day brings.
I read MariaCristina's blog this morning and loved it. Why? What's so special about 'surrender'? It's TRUE. I see it happen each time I want to push up to urdhva dhanurasana. If I stress, put too much pressure on myself, it might not happen (tho I am getting better at the pose). So, part of my pose preparation is to simply lie on my back, breathe deeply, and soften into the floor. Then, I set hands, lift hips and move to the top of my head. 99% of the time these days, the journey up into the full pose happens! Many things factor in, but 'surrender' (that brief moment spent breathing and softening) is one of the most important. In this pose, I might also call this my 'open to grace' moment -- the moment when I recognize and accept that I am not the only driving force in my life.
Need another example? In a training a couple years ago, asked to to urdhva (JF had us all turn so our heads faced the row behind - or in front of - us. Why? So we could smile at each other as we move up to the pose.). My 'smiling partner' was Sierra, who had been talking to me prior to the practice about my urdhva - or lack of. In the first attempt, I came about 4 inches away from the floor. Quiet little Sierra (ha ha) let out a cheer and a giggle, heard by all. Result? JF comes over and asks to see it. See what? Me, doing urdhva - which at that time was most of the time inaccessible for me. I softened, I know I said a prayer, I placed my hands, I know I didn't rush. What happened, already? I pushed up! And, pushed up in front of about 100 other people and JF! I KNOW it happened because I opened to something bigger than me, I surrendered, and it happened.
There are times I just try too hard and the results are not what I want. I never discount 'surrender'. Such a powerful tool.
Well, this is turning into a ramble. But, there's a theme here; one I'll cultivate in my 9 am class! I've already written the story - the apex pose is here - the UPA of Open to Grace - the heart quality 'yielding' (or getting out of our way, which isn't a great way to say it but this phrase conveys the attitude we'll use) - the sequence to be worked on next, but not in this post.
So, what happens today?
- 7:30 am - teaching a private session
- 9:00 am - teaching 9 am Level 1 class
- Data entry, gotta do it; can't put it off any longer
- 4:00 pm - a yoga birthday party, what fun!
Hope Saturday is a good one for you,
NO STRESS, IT'S A 'NOTES' DAY
If you are a regular reader of this blog, you know that Fridays are a favorite day of mine -- not just because it is the end of the week, but because it's 'notes' day. The day when I can write in the blog in an almost point-by-point format, offering tidbits of information about my week, and including a tip that I pull from my memory bank or my workshop/training notes.
This week, I need a 'notes' day. Yesterday morning was perhaps one of the more stressful I've experienced in a while. The issues surrounding my parents' care were sitting right in front of me -- house to sell (slow market); car to sell (since they had 2 homes, which state is this car titled in? and - once I figure that out, how do I deal with a lost Michigan title when I live in Utah and my parents are in Washington?); what savings they had are dwindling as we wait for the house to sell; and - worse - neither is very happy in their living situation.
Then, a more minor but troubling detail - my cats are struggling with something intestinal. Rather than risk them running loose in the house, I decided to whisk them off to the vet and leave them with her to research, watch, and - basically - deal with their messes. After several months of this, I am about at my wit's end. Fortunately, the vet is conscientious and doing her homework; she called last night to offer an update and a plan of 'attack'. Fingers crossed.
So, in the span of a few hours, stress rained like some of the recent downpours we've experienced in SLC. I even found myself calling my housekeeper (I've finally hired one), to find out where she was. The prospect of having to clean my house, deal with the above, teach classes, and manage the other day-to-day activities, was more than I wanted to handle. She was running a bit late, but called to say she was coming.
All began to change. Dealt with the car title, resolved at least temporarily the cats, housekeeper on duty. Me? Loaded dogs into the car, and off to Pilates, dropping the needed replacement car title documents off at FedEx on my way.
Good class, good opportunity to let some of the stress go and even laugh a bit. I also noticed that my confidence and my strength continue to improve. For example -- standing on the reformer (a moving contraption: wooden frame, movable padded surface controlled by springs and straps), with one foot on the soft bed and another on the wood frame, then opening legs side to side OVER the springs. The first time I tried this, it was scary; this time, once I got into position - the movement went well and I was even able to stand up straight, extend arms, and look at myself in the mirror as I opened and closed the legs! Things they are a'changin!
From Pilates, a straight shot over to the studio for my semi-private with the less-than-flexible couple. I so enjoy them, and their movement into the practice. It is amazing to watch people who never dreamt of seeing themselves in a yoga class acclimate to this new and very different environment. Every "oh, this hurts", is followed by "it hurts, but it's just that I haven't been moving this way and, now that it's over, I feel great". And then, they try it again, and it feels better.
Then Yoga Hour - me teaching. Another uplifting hour of watching people 'get it'. For one, it was simply beginning to re-shape down dog; for another, it was lifting feet from floor in Bhekasana and beginning to experience the strength the pose gets when we place the inner edge of the feet together once off the floor. The smile and the nods were great. And, the others? I hope they were feeling some 'ah-ha' moments, as well.
So, stress relieved, I grabbed a salad and headed home. Two new books to read "The New Yoga for Healthy Aging" -- good ideas of restorative and modified poses for those students who deal with injuries/conditions, or aging, or are just plain stiff. The other? "Anatomy Trains" --- not such an easy read, but a valuable one that offers the theory that our fascial layers will affect the action of the muscles. It doesn't nix how we've been schooled in the way muscles work, but it does ask us to consider these overlying layers of connective tissue that run through the body; how they affect movement and the way we carry our bodies, especially if the layer is tight or pulled up somewhere. Interesting.
Almost forgot a 'tip', so I'll insert a reminder I received recently of John Friend's five principles for teachers and students (which we all are):
1. Be like the sky. Be open, have a beginner’s mind.
2. Be like the Earth. Embody your deep talents.
3. Be like water. Feel. Be fluid, be sensitive, be compassionate
4. Be like fire. Have a burning for the highest. Aspire to serve. Dare to be courageous no matter the darkness.
5. Be like air. Like the wind that can move around any problem. Be imaginative and innovative.
I am thinking that through yesterday morning's stressful moments, I employed #5, without even being aware of it. Oh, there were some very stressful moments; moments when I thought 'this must be what it feels like to really lose it'. Then I took a few breaths, and I began to think about alternatives - things I could do to handle the issues. And, once I did them (once I used my 'air' quality), the stress began to loosen its grip on me.
And, today?
This week, I need a 'notes' day. Yesterday morning was perhaps one of the more stressful I've experienced in a while. The issues surrounding my parents' care were sitting right in front of me -- house to sell (slow market); car to sell (since they had 2 homes, which state is this car titled in? and - once I figure that out, how do I deal with a lost Michigan title when I live in Utah and my parents are in Washington?); what savings they had are dwindling as we wait for the house to sell; and - worse - neither is very happy in their living situation.
Then, a more minor but troubling detail - my cats are struggling with something intestinal. Rather than risk them running loose in the house, I decided to whisk them off to the vet and leave them with her to research, watch, and - basically - deal with their messes. After several months of this, I am about at my wit's end. Fortunately, the vet is conscientious and doing her homework; she called last night to offer an update and a plan of 'attack'. Fingers crossed.
So, in the span of a few hours, stress rained like some of the recent downpours we've experienced in SLC. I even found myself calling my housekeeper (I've finally hired one), to find out where she was. The prospect of having to clean my house, deal with the above, teach classes, and manage the other day-to-day activities, was more than I wanted to handle. She was running a bit late, but called to say she was coming.
All began to change. Dealt with the car title, resolved at least temporarily the cats, housekeeper on duty. Me? Loaded dogs into the car, and off to Pilates, dropping the needed replacement car title documents off at FedEx on my way.
Good class, good opportunity to let some of the stress go and even laugh a bit. I also noticed that my confidence and my strength continue to improve. For example -- standing on the reformer (a moving contraption: wooden frame, movable padded surface controlled by springs and straps), with one foot on the soft bed and another on the wood frame, then opening legs side to side OVER the springs. The first time I tried this, it was scary; this time, once I got into position - the movement went well and I was even able to stand up straight, extend arms, and look at myself in the mirror as I opened and closed the legs! Things they are a'changin!
From Pilates, a straight shot over to the studio for my semi-private with the less-than-flexible couple. I so enjoy them, and their movement into the practice. It is amazing to watch people who never dreamt of seeing themselves in a yoga class acclimate to this new and very different environment. Every "oh, this hurts", is followed by "it hurts, but it's just that I haven't been moving this way and, now that it's over, I feel great". And then, they try it again, and it feels better.
Then Yoga Hour - me teaching. Another uplifting hour of watching people 'get it'. For one, it was simply beginning to re-shape down dog; for another, it was lifting feet from floor in Bhekasana and beginning to experience the strength the pose gets when we place the inner edge of the feet together once off the floor. The smile and the nods were great. And, the others? I hope they were feeling some 'ah-ha' moments, as well.
So, stress relieved, I grabbed a salad and headed home. Two new books to read "The New Yoga for Healthy Aging" -- good ideas of restorative and modified poses for those students who deal with injuries/conditions, or aging, or are just plain stiff. The other? "Anatomy Trains" --- not such an easy read, but a valuable one that offers the theory that our fascial layers will affect the action of the muscles. It doesn't nix how we've been schooled in the way muscles work, but it does ask us to consider these overlying layers of connective tissue that run through the body; how they affect movement and the way we carry our bodies, especially if the layer is tight or pulled up somewhere. Interesting.
Almost forgot a 'tip', so I'll insert a reminder I received recently of John Friend's five principles for teachers and students (which we all are):
1. Be like the sky. Be open, have a beginner’s mind.
2. Be like the Earth. Embody your deep talents.
3. Be like water. Feel. Be fluid, be sensitive, be compassionate
4. Be like fire. Have a burning for the highest. Aspire to serve. Dare to be courageous no matter the darkness.
5. Be like air. Like the wind that can move around any problem. Be imaginative and innovative.
And, today?
- 10 am, Gentle Yoga at The Yoga Center (me teaching)
- Free time (retail therapy?)
- Airport trip
Hope you have a nice Friday,
MISS LESLIE, MISS LESLIE
At least 10 years ago, I took 3 young boys from Arkansas skiing. This was when my husband entertained out of town clients, and one of the common events was taking the visitor(s) skiing. On a snowy day in Jan/Feb, I began the drive to Park City with a young family following in their car -- Mom, Dad, 3 boys (ages 7,9,12).
Long story short, Mom & Dad chickened out at the Park City exit; the boys loaded into my car and I was now in charge of 3 nice young men, all of whom had had one skiing lesson in their life (the day before this drive). We made it safely to Deer Valley (my resort of choice), geared up and got on the mountain. This family, because they were from the deep south, had deeply ingrained manners to the boys. As we spent the day together, they were well-behaved and definitely having fun, skiing through trees (giving me some heart palpitations), jumping where jumps were available, being boys - boys with manners.
As we traversed the runs, I frequently heard my name being called: "Miss Leslie, Miss Leslie -- can we ski here? can we do this? can we do that?" Always prefaced by "Miss Leslie", and layered with a THICK southern accent.
Be careful what you tell people -- I told this story to my 'stiffer-than-most' couple; now, since they're also from the south, 'Miss Leslie' has become a part of their yoga session vocabulary, along with 'sanctuary' - when referring to their mats. They also tell me that the word "Yeah" - spoken with a definite decibel level increase - has worked it's way into their vocabulary when at home (I am known to utter this word as I teach -- kind of like "YEAH, that's what I'm talking about!!!").
Well, what do I take from this -- that they're listening. I heard yesterday that now they've both been told that yoga is maybe not the best for them - him, because of a torn meniscus (as a result of this, we are avoiding too much knee stuff); her, because her back was causing her pain. An MRI of her back was done and it turns out it's postural, the discomfort is being caused by the yoga -- standing up straight is resulting in muscles being sore from being asked to work (Yeah!). So the advice: "avoid yoga and your back pain will go away", in other words - slouch and you'll feel better. Ouch!
I listen, I contemplate, I reflect on their world - a world of many doctor visits due to multiple health issues, and I try to understand. I don't argue. I see benefit for both of them -- if just from the laughs we share. For me, it's marvelous to watch two people do movement and embrace the benefit. And, then, they tell me how much they are getting from the movement and the breathwork we do. Even with limitations, it's amazing!
So, "Miss Leslie" (for them), it is. I take it as a great compliment. To borrow a bit of Mariacristina's verbiage: 'may we all have students who tell us or show us (through their mannerisms, poses, etc.) what this practice is bringing into their lives'. So great.
Today's plans:
Long story short, Mom & Dad chickened out at the Park City exit; the boys loaded into my car and I was now in charge of 3 nice young men, all of whom had had one skiing lesson in their life (the day before this drive). We made it safely to Deer Valley (my resort of choice), geared up and got on the mountain. This family, because they were from the deep south, had deeply ingrained manners to the boys. As we spent the day together, they were well-behaved and definitely having fun, skiing through trees (giving me some heart palpitations), jumping where jumps were available, being boys - boys with manners.
As we traversed the runs, I frequently heard my name being called: "Miss Leslie, Miss Leslie -- can we ski here? can we do this? can we do that?" Always prefaced by "Miss Leslie", and layered with a THICK southern accent.
Be careful what you tell people -- I told this story to my 'stiffer-than-most' couple; now, since they're also from the south, 'Miss Leslie' has become a part of their yoga session vocabulary, along with 'sanctuary' - when referring to their mats. They also tell me that the word "Yeah" - spoken with a definite decibel level increase - has worked it's way into their vocabulary when at home (I am known to utter this word as I teach -- kind of like "YEAH, that's what I'm talking about!!!").
Well, what do I take from this -- that they're listening. I heard yesterday that now they've both been told that yoga is maybe not the best for them - him, because of a torn meniscus (as a result of this, we are avoiding too much knee stuff); her, because her back was causing her pain. An MRI of her back was done and it turns out it's postural, the discomfort is being caused by the yoga -- standing up straight is resulting in muscles being sore from being asked to work (Yeah!). So the advice: "avoid yoga and your back pain will go away", in other words - slouch and you'll feel better. Ouch!
I listen, I contemplate, I reflect on their world - a world of many doctor visits due to multiple health issues, and I try to understand. I don't argue. I see benefit for both of them -- if just from the laughs we share. For me, it's marvelous to watch two people do movement and embrace the benefit. And, then, they tell me how much they are getting from the movement and the breathwork we do. Even with limitations, it's amazing!
So, "Miss Leslie" (for them), it is. I take it as a great compliment. To borrow a bit of Mariacristina's verbiage: 'may we all have students who tell us or show us (through their mannerisms, poses, etc.) what this practice is bringing into their lives'. So great.
Today's plans:
- Teaching Gentle Yoga at 10 am at The Yoga Center
- Change out a toilet seat at the studio (ah, the fun parts of yoga studio ownership)
- Handyman at the house this afternoon
- Tiffany's class this evening; fingers crossed
Hope your Tuesday is a good one,