OFF TO IDAHO. . .
Yes, me -- off to Idaho (and Wyoming) for a weekend of yoga with good friends, Sundari and Peter Goodman, at Akasha Yoga. (Howard will remain in Fallbrook, holding down the fort).
This trip has given me good material for my teaching this week. The prospect of driving in snow (especially over the significant mountain pass between Driggs and Jackson), has always been fodder for themes. Basically playing off John's theme of effort & surrender / braking & letting off (like that).
And, the classes this week were challenging to teach -- Tuesday's Gentle presented with one sore knee, one fresh hip replacement, two really bad knees, and one ready to give yoga a try. Wow! Each with different challenges, each with different mobility levels, each with a different level of acceptance of the practice. I'm brushing up on my knee / hip / everything therapeutics over the weekend.
Prenatal was similar, in that each was her own bag of 'stuff' -- very flexible, very disciplined, sore hip (3 students / 3 'stuff'). Back to that therapy book.
I leave this morning and return Monday morning. Flying out of Orange County -- always a challenge to predict traffic, so need to get on the road sooner than later.
While there, I'll be able to enjoy our cabin, a wood fire, and - perhaps - get some photos of animals for Grand-Dude Brady (his request).
I hope to have a great weekend; hope yours is similar!
This trip has given me good material for my teaching this week. The prospect of driving in snow (especially over the significant mountain pass between Driggs and Jackson), has always been fodder for themes. Basically playing off John's theme of effort & surrender / braking & letting off (like that).
And, the classes this week were challenging to teach -- Tuesday's Gentle presented with one sore knee, one fresh hip replacement, two really bad knees, and one ready to give yoga a try. Wow! Each with different challenges, each with different mobility levels, each with a different level of acceptance of the practice. I'm brushing up on my knee / hip / everything therapeutics over the weekend.
Prenatal was similar, in that each was her own bag of 'stuff' -- very flexible, very disciplined, sore hip (3 students / 3 'stuff'). Back to that therapy book.
I leave this morning and return Monday morning. Flying out of Orange County -- always a challenge to predict traffic, so need to get on the road sooner than later.
While there, I'll be able to enjoy our cabin, a wood fire, and - perhaps - get some photos of animals for Grand-Dude Brady (his request).
I hope to have a great weekend; hope yours is similar!
FYI
Effective yesterday, I no longer teach at the studio in Carlsbad.
It wasn't a tough decision; besides my inability to grow classes there, I had long been concerned about the lack of public awareness of the studio due to lack of advertising.
When I owned a studio, I quickly learned to let people go. I wished them well. In my 7 years of studio ownership, I only had one negative experience and that one still haunts me. It does no good to hold a teacher in a position he/she does not want to be in. The energy (or lack of) will show; no matter how good an actor they are. Their class attendance will dwindle as students realize they ought to attend classes with someone who will be around for a while. The studio does not benefit from this; the students do not benefit; fellow teachers do not benefit. And, I found, there were lots of teachers around to fill the void created, teachers who are energetic and enthusiastic, and eager to teach. Win, Win.
So, life goes on.
It has been a week fraught with illness (still that "darn" cold) and drama (above). I look forward to spending the next weekend with Sundari at a workshop -- fun, fun, fun!
Will write more (on a different topic) tomorrow.
Enjoy your Tuesday,
It wasn't a tough decision; besides my inability to grow classes there, I had long been concerned about the lack of public awareness of the studio due to lack of advertising.
When I owned a studio, I quickly learned to let people go. I wished them well. In my 7 years of studio ownership, I only had one negative experience and that one still haunts me. It does no good to hold a teacher in a position he/she does not want to be in. The energy (or lack of) will show; no matter how good an actor they are. Their class attendance will dwindle as students realize they ought to attend classes with someone who will be around for a while. The studio does not benefit from this; the students do not benefit; fellow teachers do not benefit. And, I found, there were lots of teachers around to fill the void created, teachers who are energetic and enthusiastic, and eager to teach. Win, Win.
So, life goes on.
It has been a week fraught with illness (still that "darn" cold) and drama (above). I look forward to spending the next weekend with Sundari at a workshop -- fun, fun, fun!
Will write more (on a different topic) tomorrow.
Enjoy your Tuesday,
GOOD MORNING !!!
I must admit there are not many mornings that I wake up, go through my routine, sit down to the computer and see this: A compliment, out of the blue, from a former student.
I'll take it, I need it, I want it. Thank you to the writer for taking the time to put your thoughts into typewritten form and send them to me. I appreciate it, more than you'll ever know.
Which brings up a thought I've been harboring for a few weeks. The affect my actions (or lack thereof) have on other people. Especially as a yoga teacher, as I stand in front of a room of people, spouting my words of wisdom and instructions. Are they listening? Or, does it go in one ear and out the other.
I remember one student who arrived in my class after a significant surgery. She was in her 60's, a bit out of shape, yet wanting to work -- wanting to 'un-congeal' a bit. Because the surgery happened in her ribcage, I watched her as I instructed students to take arms overhead, clasp their hands and bend to one side and then the other. The grimace on her face worried me; it was so expressive it made me think the pose was causing pain. So, I asked her, 'is something hurting?'. She answered 'no, I'm just thinking'. Whew! I was relieved I wasn't causing her pain.
However, I also learned a lesson -- you can not tell what a person is thinking from their facial expressions. They may sit in my class, expressionless or with an expression like I described above, yet they may still be hearing my message, my instructions. And, for some (maybe many) these thoughts, comments, jokes, instructions, information, etc., are sinking in and are affecting their lives as they go forward, off their mats and into their lives.
Here's the quote from which I created the 'un-congeal' comment: (if I've shared it before, please bear with me -- as one who was almost congealed when yoga 'happened', it says a ton):
Hope you have a great Thursday!
And, thank you, again, to the writer who started my morning off in a grand fashion! You know who you are and I always appreciated that I could see my teaching reflected in your eyes. Good stuff!
I'll take it, I need it, I want it. Thank you to the writer for taking the time to put your thoughts into typewritten form and send them to me. I appreciate it, more than you'll ever know.
Which brings up a thought I've been harboring for a few weeks. The affect my actions (or lack thereof) have on other people. Especially as a yoga teacher, as I stand in front of a room of people, spouting my words of wisdom and instructions. Are they listening? Or, does it go in one ear and out the other.
I remember one student who arrived in my class after a significant surgery. She was in her 60's, a bit out of shape, yet wanting to work -- wanting to 'un-congeal' a bit. Because the surgery happened in her ribcage, I watched her as I instructed students to take arms overhead, clasp their hands and bend to one side and then the other. The grimace on her face worried me; it was so expressive it made me think the pose was causing pain. So, I asked her, 'is something hurting?'. She answered 'no, I'm just thinking'. Whew! I was relieved I wasn't causing her pain.
However, I also learned a lesson -- you can not tell what a person is thinking from their facial expressions. They may sit in my class, expressionless or with an expression like I described above, yet they may still be hearing my message, my instructions. And, for some (maybe many) these thoughts, comments, jokes, instructions, information, etc., are sinking in and are affecting their lives as they go forward, off their mats and into their lives.
Here's the quote from which I created the 'un-congeal' comment: (if I've shared it before, please bear with me -- as one who was almost congealed when yoga 'happened', it says a ton):
"There are two kinds of people...One kind you can just tell by looking at them at what point they congealed into their final selves. It might be a very nice self, but you know you can expect no more surprises from it. Whereas, the other kind keep moving, changing...They are fluid, moving forward...making new trysts with life, and the motion of it keeps them young. In my opinion they are the only people who are still alive. You must be constantly on your guard, Justin, against congealing." — Gail Godwin, "The Finishing School"
Hope you have a great Thursday!
And, thank you, again, to the writer who started my morning off in a grand fashion! You know who you are and I always appreciated that I could see my teaching reflected in your eyes. Good stuff!
Quite the 4 days or, 3 Little Boys & A 'Performance'
I left off last Wednesday, preparing to drive in to Encinitas for the kick-off practice of "Igniting The Center", title of the 2012 Anusara Tour. My drive in was uneventful, I was able to help a bit before the practice began, and - if you've been following anyone/thing on Facebook - you may have seen the 30 or so photos taken on day one. I'm in there somewhere -- perspiring, heart-racing, attempting to do things I've never done before (or, perhaps I did do them, but am horribly out of practice now).
In short, it was a great event -- 94 poses in 3.5 hours; broken into 4 sections, each ending with a 5-minute meditation. No breaks, tho. The expectation (which was stated in a pre-event e-mail) was that we would arrive prepared to stay on the mat for the full practice time. Discipline. I believe it may be an underlying theme for the year.
The following morning (Thursday), Howard and I were up early, cleaning & packing, preparing to fly to Spokane for my Dad's Memorial Service on Friday. All went smoothly, especially considering we were flying into the Pacific Northwest's biggest snowstorm of the year (and, largest for a number of years, I think). Runway was white, autos moving slowly thru deep snow, stressful beginning. Derek and his family (Jess, Jack, Brady & Carson) also flew up, but on a different airline -- their flight was also almost uneventful and the boys made it with flying colors.
What do you tell a 5- and 3-year-old about a memorial service? How do you describe what is happening and why? We (Howard and I) had never had to face it, so we asked Derek & Jessica. They had explained death (which the boys already had an idea about) and went on to tell the boys this would be a celebration of their great-grandfather's life. In their minds, they quickly turned the event into a 'performance'. From that moment on, the circumstances of this visit to Spokane were termed "great-grandpa's performance". And, a performance it was.
Friday morning, still snow on the ground, we all piled into one big SUV and made the drive out to the Veteran's Memorial Cemetery west of Spokane. That part of the state is a bit flatter, so the landscape looked cold and grey, flat and - as we approached - the American flag was seen waving over the barren, white ground. The service was short. We all gathered in a small service area (concrete and glass), with full view of the landscape, flag, and headstones. A chaplain offered prayer, condolences, and praise. We watched the flag ceremony conducted by 6 very cold USAF Airmen, heard Taps being played by a bugler standing outside, and - tho warned - were all startled as the 21-gun volley began. Impressive.
From there, we gathered as a family for lunch, then headed to the Presbyterian Church for a public service. Another moment to remember, as a brass quintet played two of Dad's favorite marches. My cousin, Dave, and I offered a few words, the minister asked if anyone would like to share - few did; however, one man did stand -- he was unknown to us -- and relayed stories of having known Dad 46 years ago, as Dad piloted KC-135's. Wow! That was impressive, to come to a ceremony where you are unknown to the family, to honor your fellow Air Force officer.
Service over, we headed to Dave's house. The boys were able to play in the snow, ride on a tractor with Dave as he fed the deer out back of his house. We stayed inside where it was warm and visited.
All in all, a great 'performance', Dad. We honored and we remembered, and I don't think anyone will forget that day for quite a while.
The next day (yesterday), it was up and off to the airport. This time, we all struggled with snowstorms and high winds to make it back to San Diego. Home safe and sound, all is well here. Life will go back to normal.
I hope you have a great Sunday!
In short, it was a great event -- 94 poses in 3.5 hours; broken into 4 sections, each ending with a 5-minute meditation. No breaks, tho. The expectation (which was stated in a pre-event e-mail) was that we would arrive prepared to stay on the mat for the full practice time. Discipline. I believe it may be an underlying theme for the year.
The following morning (Thursday), Howard and I were up early, cleaning & packing, preparing to fly to Spokane for my Dad's Memorial Service on Friday. All went smoothly, especially considering we were flying into the Pacific Northwest's biggest snowstorm of the year (and, largest for a number of years, I think). Runway was white, autos moving slowly thru deep snow, stressful beginning. Derek and his family (Jess, Jack, Brady & Carson) also flew up, but on a different airline -- their flight was also almost uneventful and the boys made it with flying colors.
What do you tell a 5- and 3-year-old about a memorial service? How do you describe what is happening and why? We (Howard and I) had never had to face it, so we asked Derek & Jessica. They had explained death (which the boys already had an idea about) and went on to tell the boys this would be a celebration of their great-grandfather's life. In their minds, they quickly turned the event into a 'performance'. From that moment on, the circumstances of this visit to Spokane were termed "great-grandpa's performance". And, a performance it was.
Friday morning, still snow on the ground, we all piled into one big SUV and made the drive out to the Veteran's Memorial Cemetery west of Spokane. That part of the state is a bit flatter, so the landscape looked cold and grey, flat and - as we approached - the American flag was seen waving over the barren, white ground. The service was short. We all gathered in a small service area (concrete and glass), with full view of the landscape, flag, and headstones. A chaplain offered prayer, condolences, and praise. We watched the flag ceremony conducted by 6 very cold USAF Airmen, heard Taps being played by a bugler standing outside, and - tho warned - were all startled as the 21-gun volley began. Impressive.
From there, we gathered as a family for lunch, then headed to the Presbyterian Church for a public service. Another moment to remember, as a brass quintet played two of Dad's favorite marches. My cousin, Dave, and I offered a few words, the minister asked if anyone would like to share - few did; however, one man did stand -- he was unknown to us -- and relayed stories of having known Dad 46 years ago, as Dad piloted KC-135's. Wow! That was impressive, to come to a ceremony where you are unknown to the family, to honor your fellow Air Force officer.
Service over, we headed to Dave's house. The boys were able to play in the snow, ride on a tractor with Dave as he fed the deer out back of his house. We stayed inside where it was warm and visited.
All in all, a great 'performance', Dad. We honored and we remembered, and I don't think anyone will forget that day for quite a while.
The next day (yesterday), it was up and off to the airport. This time, we all struggled with snowstorms and high winds to make it back to San Diego. Home safe and sound, all is well here. Life will go back to normal.
I hope you have a great Sunday!
UP EARLY & EXCITED - ABOUT TODAY & YESTERDAY
First, about today -- in about 2 hours, I'll be ready and in my car on the way into Encinitas for the kick-off of "IGNITING THE CENTER"; Anusara's theme and John Friend's tour name for 2012. It will be a 4-hour practice with John on each day -- today, tomorrow and Friday, all mixed level so everyone can participate. Promises to be fun.
I will be able to participate today, then off to Spokane tomorrow for my Dad's memorial on Friday. I'll be sad to miss those two days, but there are so many people hoping to attend that it's o.k. that I'm just able to participate in the first day -- and, to think, I participated in purnahuti (the finish) of 2011 with John and now the first of 2012 -- auspicious, I think - don't you?
And, about yesterday: It was one of those days when privates and semi-privates were the norm -- meaning, in each of my classes I had either one or two students. Not setting the world on fire, attendance-wise, but - in each case - the teaching was fun, inspiring and helpful (for me and attendees).
First class of the day was attended by a fellow yoga instructor. She has appeared in my class several times over the last month, and I enjoy her personality and presence very much. (Not to mention, she pays me nice compliments about my teaching.) Her practice is beautiful and she will be attending Thursday's practice with John (her first exposure to him). This was an opportunity to offer her some refinements that I believe he will be looking for -- kind of a head start, you'd say (things like -- width of the hands on the mat, what to do with arms in uttanasana, not moving fingers, like that). Her primary practice has not been Anusara, but she is intrigued by it all. Then I offered her some suggestions from Doug Keller's recent webinar that will be helpful with an old pelvic injury. Good stuff.
From there (Carlsbad), it was off to Temecula. My first class (Therapeutic/Gentle), was almost a non-event; meaning that, at 2:15, no one had arrived. As I was helping in the studio, two women arrived at 2:16 hoping to take the "2:30 class". Well, they had the time a bit off, but we all decided a one-hour class would work and it was off to work we went. One struggles with knee pain, back pain and the residual effects of breast cancer surgery 4+ years ago. The other's major issue is osteoarthritis in both knees, so bad that going to the floor is a non-option. We used chairs, did some standing poses and balance work, used the wall, then back to the chairs, and finished with a seated meditation. As new students, I let them rest into the chair back during this short meditation -- just too much to ask new, compromised students to sit up straight without the support. I used much of the knowledge I've gained over the years through many therapeutic trainings, plus was - once again - thankful for that Doug Keller webinar.
Between this class and the next, I spoke at length with two 50-year-old women (who stopped by the studio) about what / which yoga would be best for them. One struggles with fibromyalgia and a bad hip (or SI joint?), the other with both rheumatoid and osteoarthritis plus back & neck surgery (rods, etc.). I mention this, because I think it is amazing there are so many people struggling with issues who want to do yoga. They just need to find the right class, not get discouraged, and not get hurt.
Prenatal turned into another private session. Good for me and good for her. The student is 20 weeks into her pregnancy and arrived complaining of a sore back. A beautiful young woman, she has neglected her posture -- hyper-extended knees, kyphosis, and the beginnings of a pretty good neck thrust. All this because she is tall and during high school, she wanted to be short like the other girls, so she slouched. Now, she wants to change it. No better time than the present, and it will be easier now than later. We worked the usual shoulder blade stuff, which did not make her happy. Then I remembered "lift your heart" -- I offered her that instruction and 'voila!', a taller, more relaxed person stood in front of me.
Then I really took a look at her knees -- since much of posture and alignment issues begin below the hips. The hyperextension was causing a large bulge behind one knee (which is a hallmark of locked knees), tho she was not having any discomfort and had never noticed it herself. I stood her on a rolled blanket (heels on floor, top of the foot - from arch forward - on the roll), asked her to soften her knees yet lift and spread toes, creating muscular energy through the legs. Another voila!, as that bulging tissue was 'sucked' back into it's home. We did some movement from this place, talked about the value of NOT locking knees, talked about effective stretching. I believe there were many 'Ah-Ha' moments for her in this private. Moments that might not have happened in a roomful of students. More good stuff.
So, you see, it doesn't take much to get me excited -- a few bad knees, a bad hip here and there, poor posture. Oh, and practicing with John Friend. It will be a great day!
I hope yours is the same -- GREAT!
I will be able to participate today, then off to Spokane tomorrow for my Dad's memorial on Friday. I'll be sad to miss those two days, but there are so many people hoping to attend that it's o.k. that I'm just able to participate in the first day -- and, to think, I participated in purnahuti (the finish) of 2011 with John and now the first of 2012 -- auspicious, I think - don't you?
And, about yesterday: It was one of those days when privates and semi-privates were the norm -- meaning, in each of my classes I had either one or two students. Not setting the world on fire, attendance-wise, but - in each case - the teaching was fun, inspiring and helpful (for me and attendees).
First class of the day was attended by a fellow yoga instructor. She has appeared in my class several times over the last month, and I enjoy her personality and presence very much. (Not to mention, she pays me nice compliments about my teaching.) Her practice is beautiful and she will be attending Thursday's practice with John (her first exposure to him). This was an opportunity to offer her some refinements that I believe he will be looking for -- kind of a head start, you'd say (things like -- width of the hands on the mat, what to do with arms in uttanasana, not moving fingers, like that). Her primary practice has not been Anusara, but she is intrigued by it all. Then I offered her some suggestions from Doug Keller's recent webinar that will be helpful with an old pelvic injury. Good stuff.
From there (Carlsbad), it was off to Temecula. My first class (Therapeutic/Gentle), was almost a non-event; meaning that, at 2:15, no one had arrived. As I was helping in the studio, two women arrived at 2:16 hoping to take the "2:30 class". Well, they had the time a bit off, but we all decided a one-hour class would work and it was off to work we went. One struggles with knee pain, back pain and the residual effects of breast cancer surgery 4+ years ago. The other's major issue is osteoarthritis in both knees, so bad that going to the floor is a non-option. We used chairs, did some standing poses and balance work, used the wall, then back to the chairs, and finished with a seated meditation. As new students, I let them rest into the chair back during this short meditation -- just too much to ask new, compromised students to sit up straight without the support. I used much of the knowledge I've gained over the years through many therapeutic trainings, plus was - once again - thankful for that Doug Keller webinar.
Between this class and the next, I spoke at length with two 50-year-old women (who stopped by the studio) about what / which yoga would be best for them. One struggles with fibromyalgia and a bad hip (or SI joint?), the other with both rheumatoid and osteoarthritis plus back & neck surgery (rods, etc.). I mention this, because I think it is amazing there are so many people struggling with issues who want to do yoga. They just need to find the right class, not get discouraged, and not get hurt.
Prenatal turned into another private session. Good for me and good for her. The student is 20 weeks into her pregnancy and arrived complaining of a sore back. A beautiful young woman, she has neglected her posture -- hyper-extended knees, kyphosis, and the beginnings of a pretty good neck thrust. All this because she is tall and during high school, she wanted to be short like the other girls, so she slouched. Now, she wants to change it. No better time than the present, and it will be easier now than later. We worked the usual shoulder blade stuff, which did not make her happy. Then I remembered "lift your heart" -- I offered her that instruction and 'voila!', a taller, more relaxed person stood in front of me.
Then I really took a look at her knees -- since much of posture and alignment issues begin below the hips. The hyperextension was causing a large bulge behind one knee (which is a hallmark of locked knees), tho she was not having any discomfort and had never noticed it herself. I stood her on a rolled blanket (heels on floor, top of the foot - from arch forward - on the roll), asked her to soften her knees yet lift and spread toes, creating muscular energy through the legs. Another voila!, as that bulging tissue was 'sucked' back into it's home. We did some movement from this place, talked about the value of NOT locking knees, talked about effective stretching. I believe there were many 'Ah-Ha' moments for her in this private. Moments that might not have happened in a roomful of students. More good stuff.
So, you see, it doesn't take much to get me excited -- a few bad knees, a bad hip here and there, poor posture. Oh, and practicing with John Friend. It will be a great day!
I hope yours is the same -- GREAT!
SPEAKING OF COMPLIMENTS . . .
I am a bit hooked on Facebook; I admit it. I have relied on it for connection, for quotes, for class ideas, etc., etc., etc. Despite it's flaws, it has been a good friend to me over the past 10 months.
Why just 10 months? That has been the length of time since we moved from Salt Lake to Fallbrook. It is also the length of time I've been uprooted from a pretty solid yoga community with a lot of connection. Therefore, it has served as a 'yoga lifeline' for me; keeping me connected to yoga friends I know (and, some I haven't met yet), and to friends who have never given yoga a try.
Some days, tho, despite all the benefits, I wonder about my emotional release valve when reading some entries. For example, this morning, I'm reading posts and came upon one where one 'chastised' another for a spelling error. I realize that the one doing the chastising might claim it was 'teasing', but I still wonder. What did I do? I called that person on it -- meaning I commented that despite the spelling error, the event mentioned would still be fun.
Necessary? No. Appropriate? Not sure. Nice? Certainly not. Did I feel better? Yes and No. Almost went back and erased it. Yet, I believe the chastising was unnecessary, so I vented.
Ah, well, I do believe age is releasing my inhibitions.
This week will be another busy one. Teaching in 2 hours in Temecula, then tomorrow, and - fun - we are practicing in Encinitas with John on Wednesday. And I am excited to begin a webinar with Eric Stoneberg this evening. An Anusara Yoga instructor and Tantric scholar whose blog I have read for quite a while.
Hope you have a great Monday and a nice week,
Why just 10 months? That has been the length of time since we moved from Salt Lake to Fallbrook. It is also the length of time I've been uprooted from a pretty solid yoga community with a lot of connection. Therefore, it has served as a 'yoga lifeline' for me; keeping me connected to yoga friends I know (and, some I haven't met yet), and to friends who have never given yoga a try.
Some days, tho, despite all the benefits, I wonder about my emotional release valve when reading some entries. For example, this morning, I'm reading posts and came upon one where one 'chastised' another for a spelling error. I realize that the one doing the chastising might claim it was 'teasing', but I still wonder. What did I do? I called that person on it -- meaning I commented that despite the spelling error, the event mentioned would still be fun.
Necessary? No. Appropriate? Not sure. Nice? Certainly not. Did I feel better? Yes and No. Almost went back and erased it. Yet, I believe the chastising was unnecessary, so I vented.
Ah, well, I do believe age is releasing my inhibitions.
This week will be another busy one. Teaching in 2 hours in Temecula, then tomorrow, and - fun - we are practicing in Encinitas with John on Wednesday. And I am excited to begin a webinar with Eric Stoneberg this evening. An Anusara Yoga instructor and Tantric scholar whose blog I have read for quite a while.
Hope you have a great Monday and a nice week,
WOW, SUCH A GREAT COMPLIMENT!
After yesterday's class, as I was cleaning up my paperwork and preparing to leave, the studio owner came over to me and said "you know, one of the students you taught yesterday came up to me after class and said 'she is no ordinary yoga teacher' about you.".
Now, I can take this comment one of two ways - good or not-so-good. I choose the good.
Why? Because I have seen this student repeatedly in classes over the past 2 weeks. And -- because someone comes to your class more than once doesn't necessarily mean they enjoy it -- her comments to me have been positive. She feels stronger, she is feeling more stable (on a very unstable knee), and (this is me speaking) she is smiling.
This is good for me to hear - a comment made to someone other than myself. I often have students thank me for a nice class, and indicate they'll be back. I don't see them again. That could just be due to the fact that my teaching schedule is not the most convenient for people (middle of the work day, or perhaps just as they need to be picking children up from school - like that). But, I wonder. Are they telling me the truth, or are they just saying something nice in order to get out of the room graciously? (Personally, I know I've done it -- just said 'thank you, nice class' and slipped out, never to return.)
I know that I am not the 'ordinary' yoga teacher. I'm not even the 'regular' yoga teacher. As Christina Sell once said about her teaching, "I'm an acquired taste.". I need to borrow that phrase for this blog post.
Another why?
It takes a long time for my classes to grow -- it's now been 8 months since I began teaching in California. Classes are spottily attended, at best. I know, I know -- not the best times, people don't know me, classes I teach are not what the majority of people want (basic, gentle). I do realize, however, that I teach differently from others -- I am slower, more deliberate (I take comfort in John's quote "to make the ordinary extraordinary, sometimes you have to slow things down a bit"). I am nit picky about alignment, and when I discover something I can go on ad nauseum about the benefits, contraindications, etc., of the movement or lack thereof (just ask me what I learned from Doug Keller's webinar last night, for example). I won't even talk about being 'older'; but I do think that's a factor -- I don't LOOK like a yoga teacher; people will often walk into a studio, look at me, and inquire "are YOU the instructor?", emphasis on YOU.
Enough about all this. But, I did want to share my great compliment -- what a wonderful way to end the day and to begin another -- thinking about this, "I am not an ordinary yoga teacher" and I am very happy with that.
Hope you have a great Thursday,
Now, I can take this comment one of two ways - good or not-so-good. I choose the good.
Why? Because I have seen this student repeatedly in classes over the past 2 weeks. And -- because someone comes to your class more than once doesn't necessarily mean they enjoy it -- her comments to me have been positive. She feels stronger, she is feeling more stable (on a very unstable knee), and (this is me speaking) she is smiling.
This is good for me to hear - a comment made to someone other than myself. I often have students thank me for a nice class, and indicate they'll be back. I don't see them again. That could just be due to the fact that my teaching schedule is not the most convenient for people (middle of the work day, or perhaps just as they need to be picking children up from school - like that). But, I wonder. Are they telling me the truth, or are they just saying something nice in order to get out of the room graciously? (Personally, I know I've done it -- just said 'thank you, nice class' and slipped out, never to return.)
I know that I am not the 'ordinary' yoga teacher. I'm not even the 'regular' yoga teacher. As Christina Sell once said about her teaching, "I'm an acquired taste.". I need to borrow that phrase for this blog post.
Another why?
It takes a long time for my classes to grow -- it's now been 8 months since I began teaching in California. Classes are spottily attended, at best. I know, I know -- not the best times, people don't know me, classes I teach are not what the majority of people want (basic, gentle). I do realize, however, that I teach differently from others -- I am slower, more deliberate (I take comfort in John's quote "to make the ordinary extraordinary, sometimes you have to slow things down a bit"). I am nit picky about alignment, and when I discover something I can go on ad nauseum about the benefits, contraindications, etc., of the movement or lack thereof (just ask me what I learned from Doug Keller's webinar last night, for example). I won't even talk about being 'older'; but I do think that's a factor -- I don't LOOK like a yoga teacher; people will often walk into a studio, look at me, and inquire "are YOU the instructor?", emphasis on YOU.
Enough about all this. But, I did want to share my great compliment -- what a wonderful way to end the day and to begin another -- thinking about this, "I am not an ordinary yoga teacher" and I am very happy with that.
Hope you have a great Thursday,
SUNDAY'S CLASS
Sunday mornings are great at Living Yoga in Temecula -- receptive and welcoming students, good numbers, and - perhaps - an opportunity to video; which I did yesterday.
The situation was just too good -- enough people, in a big enough room, and well-schooled (maybe not everyone in Anusara, but that turned out to be o.k. for this group).
And, what's the rest of the story? Not sure it will fly -- why?
First, I always have a written out plan with me (not that I read from it verbatim, but I do refer to it just to make sure I'm covering all the bases) -- The plan I hoped to use I left in the car which Howard (husband) was driving to run errands as he waited for me. Duh!
Second, I found myself being too directive, not using linking words enough. Oh, I knew I was doing it (being directive) and I tried to get them in (linking words), but I am not sure I did it often enough or with the right placement to create the desired sense of flow in my sequence.
Third, I almost forgot to demo. When I remembered that I ought to do one (not sure if it is a 'requirement'), it was at 'apex time'. Therefore, I demo'd the apex, which was Warrior I (this was a Basic class). I demo'd the pose, talking as I did it. I didn't re-cap, reminding everyone of two things to remember in this pose, and I didn't ask if anyone had a question -- these are key inclusions.
Fourth, I used my alignment emphasis (IS/OS) enough, but am not sure the verbiage I used gives credit to that emphasis for how each of the related movements felt (if that makes sense). An example: "confidently take your thighs back and apart, into the space you've created scoop your tailbone; now from the stability created by the two actions of IS and OS, raise your arms extending into your personal, extraordinary Warrior I" (see #5 for explanation).
Fifth, I am worried I totally blanked on the heart quality. I used John's recent quote in my opening comments "To make the ordinary extraordinary, sometimes you have to slow things down a bit." I believe it is so applicable to our practices and can be used effectively to help bring home the point that tadasana is an extraordinary pose with the right attitude. I used that simile through the class but is "extraordinary" a heart quality? Not sure.
I wish I had some good reasons for all of the above (the only explainable one is the first -- that I left it in the car). And, my memory ought to be good enough to remember or create a sequence 'on the fly'. Obviously, it isn't. Or, the excitement of all the right elements coming together just overwhelmed me. Who knows?
Now, what's the good in this? That I can think about that class and even without watching it, know what I left out. That bodes well for including it next time. Wish me luck.
Today? Gentle Yoga, back in Temecula this morning; Library Class at 3pm in Fallbrook. More opportunities to practice, I'm thinking.
Have a great Monday,
The situation was just too good -- enough people, in a big enough room, and well-schooled (maybe not everyone in Anusara, but that turned out to be o.k. for this group).
And, what's the rest of the story? Not sure it will fly -- why?
First, I always have a written out plan with me (not that I read from it verbatim, but I do refer to it just to make sure I'm covering all the bases) -- The plan I hoped to use I left in the car which Howard (husband) was driving to run errands as he waited for me. Duh!
Second, I found myself being too directive, not using linking words enough. Oh, I knew I was doing it (being directive) and I tried to get them in (linking words), but I am not sure I did it often enough or with the right placement to create the desired sense of flow in my sequence.
Third, I almost forgot to demo. When I remembered that I ought to do one (not sure if it is a 'requirement'), it was at 'apex time'. Therefore, I demo'd the apex, which was Warrior I (this was a Basic class). I demo'd the pose, talking as I did it. I didn't re-cap, reminding everyone of two things to remember in this pose, and I didn't ask if anyone had a question -- these are key inclusions.
Fourth, I used my alignment emphasis (IS/OS) enough, but am not sure the verbiage I used gives credit to that emphasis for how each of the related movements felt (if that makes sense). An example: "confidently take your thighs back and apart, into the space you've created scoop your tailbone; now from the stability created by the two actions of IS and OS, raise your arms extending into your personal, extraordinary Warrior I" (see #5 for explanation).
Fifth, I am worried I totally blanked on the heart quality. I used John's recent quote in my opening comments "To make the ordinary extraordinary, sometimes you have to slow things down a bit." I believe it is so applicable to our practices and can be used effectively to help bring home the point that tadasana is an extraordinary pose with the right attitude. I used that simile through the class but is "extraordinary" a heart quality? Not sure.
O.K., enough for 'true confessions' -- I'll watch it. I am not even sure that the camera captures much of the 13 students in the room; I set it up, hurriedly went back to signing people in, and never re-checked it. I do know that it was on, however. So, we'll see.
Now, what's the good in this? That I can think about that class and even without watching it, know what I left out. That bodes well for including it next time. Wish me luck.
Today? Gentle Yoga, back in Temecula this morning; Library Class at 3pm in Fallbrook. More opportunities to practice, I'm thinking.
Have a great Monday,
GONE, BUT NOT FORGOTTEN (?)
I haven't written for a while. In fact, it's the longest break I think I've taken since this blog's creation -- which is almost 3 years ago!?!?! Why?
First, I think the cold (which lasted 2+ weeks and symptoms still plague me) affected my creative sense -- it's challenging to come up with contemplative, funny, interesting things to write when your sinuses are screaming "open, open, open", or you are sneezing like a train, or the non-stop passage of tissues from box to nose is enough to draw you away from the keyboard. Many excuses.
Then, there was my mood (also affected by the cold, I'm sure). It was in the basement or cellar. And, just in the last 3 days, has been riding the slow escalator back to first floor. (HAHAHAHAHA -- making myself laugh here.)
Finally, I just wasn't making the time. Yes, MAKING the time. Because, like many activities, I can find lots of reasons to believe I am just too busy to get it done.
This morning, however, I read an inspiring blog by Livia Shapiro, also an Anusara-Inspired yoga instructor. Her topic: a rant that clearly supported and, in fact, cheered-on the practice of Anusara Yoga. Good stuff for me to read. I needed that.
Not that I've been doubting my yoga 'choice'; I just needed a reminder of how good it is. Of how much it has brought into my life and of how much it has changed my life. What I have been 'doubting' is my own ability to 'get it done'. Meaning 'get Certified'. Kind of stuck in the video process -- trying, but running into detours along the way (i.e. classes are too small or students not cooperative or I don't juggle all the balls needed). It's been a challenge and the last few weeks have only added to my frustration level.
My mood was sensed by a fellow teacher (Maria Cristina), and she suggested that I just teach for a while. Not worry about the video for a week or two. Just do what I love and work on the suggestions of my assessor (Sarah). Good advice. That I plan to follow.
Today? Guest-teaching for my friend Vicki in Temecula, then a movie, then the Grand-Dudes are coming for dinner (trying out a new recipe). As I wrote that, it occurred to me that maybe I've reached the first floor -- it's been ages since I've tried a new recipe; a sure sign that the mood and surrounding fog are lifting.
Enjoy your Sunday,
First, I think the cold (which lasted 2+ weeks and symptoms still plague me) affected my creative sense -- it's challenging to come up with contemplative, funny, interesting things to write when your sinuses are screaming "open, open, open", or you are sneezing like a train, or the non-stop passage of tissues from box to nose is enough to draw you away from the keyboard. Many excuses.
Then, there was my mood (also affected by the cold, I'm sure). It was in the basement or cellar. And, just in the last 3 days, has been riding the slow escalator back to first floor. (HAHAHAHAHA -- making myself laugh here.)
Finally, I just wasn't making the time. Yes, MAKING the time. Because, like many activities, I can find lots of reasons to believe I am just too busy to get it done.
This morning, however, I read an inspiring blog by Livia Shapiro, also an Anusara-Inspired yoga instructor. Her topic: a rant that clearly supported and, in fact, cheered-on the practice of Anusara Yoga. Good stuff for me to read. I needed that.
Not that I've been doubting my yoga 'choice'; I just needed a reminder of how good it is. Of how much it has brought into my life and of how much it has changed my life. What I have been 'doubting' is my own ability to 'get it done'. Meaning 'get Certified'. Kind of stuck in the video process -- trying, but running into detours along the way (i.e. classes are too small or students not cooperative or I don't juggle all the balls needed). It's been a challenge and the last few weeks have only added to my frustration level.
My mood was sensed by a fellow teacher (Maria Cristina), and she suggested that I just teach for a while. Not worry about the video for a week or two. Just do what I love and work on the suggestions of my assessor (Sarah). Good advice. That I plan to follow.
Today? Guest-teaching for my friend Vicki in Temecula, then a movie, then the Grand-Dudes are coming for dinner (trying out a new recipe). As I wrote that, it occurred to me that maybe I've reached the first floor -- it's been ages since I've tried a new recipe; a sure sign that the mood and surrounding fog are lifting.
Enjoy your Sunday,
COINCIDENCE?
Here's a confession -- I wrote a post yesterday, published it, left it up for about 9 hours, then deleted it. Why? As I wrote it, I kept thinking -- why? why write this? why turn this blog into your own personal 'whining post'? I did continue, tho; and was plagued for the next few hours with misgiving -- like, it wasn't right. So, I erased it. I felt better after erasing it, but notice that a few people had looked at it. If that was you, sorry about that.
Now to the coincidence part. On Monday, Howard and I ventured out to exchange some Christmas gifts. We actually drove north to South Coast Plaza (one of the larger malls, located in Costa Mesa), despite the warnings of traffic congestion, crowds in the mall, etc. We did leave home early, which helped with the traffic issue going north, and allowed us to shop for an hour or so without the massive crowds. As we were leaving the mall, it was definitely crowded -- not my choice of place to be. We passed a favorite store and slipped in (attracted by the 'SALE' signs). While there we bought some discounted Christmas decorations and a book.
What book? "The Happiness Project"
And, what coincidence? I began to read the book this morning. Got through the introduction and a bit into Chapter 1. It addresses the exact issues that I wrote about yesterday - that's the coincidence.
The author's dilemma -- she has a good life - loving husband, good children, nice home, job she enjoys, etc., etc., etc. While not exactly the same situation as me, this quote from the author describes my dilemma: "I have such a good life, I want to appreciate it more -- and live up to it better." ("Live up to it better" - interesting and challenging.)
And, she's not talking about changing her circumstances; she's talking about appreciating the ordinary day, setting some higher standards for her everyday life, and taking a broader view to let go of annoyances. (Those are her words, just re-organized into this blog.)
Perfect. Just what I need to do. I'll continue reading -- I think this will be good for me.
Library class today -- hoo-ray; love this class! Hope you have a good Wednesday.
Now to the coincidence part. On Monday, Howard and I ventured out to exchange some Christmas gifts. We actually drove north to South Coast Plaza (one of the larger malls, located in Costa Mesa), despite the warnings of traffic congestion, crowds in the mall, etc. We did leave home early, which helped with the traffic issue going north, and allowed us to shop for an hour or so without the massive crowds. As we were leaving the mall, it was definitely crowded -- not my choice of place to be. We passed a favorite store and slipped in (attracted by the 'SALE' signs). While there we bought some discounted Christmas decorations and a book.
What book? "The Happiness Project"
And, what coincidence? I began to read the book this morning. Got through the introduction and a bit into Chapter 1. It addresses the exact issues that I wrote about yesterday - that's the coincidence.
The author's dilemma -- she has a good life - loving husband, good children, nice home, job she enjoys, etc., etc., etc. While not exactly the same situation as me, this quote from the author describes my dilemma: "I have such a good life, I want to appreciate it more -- and live up to it better." ("Live up to it better" - interesting and challenging.)
And, she's not talking about changing her circumstances; she's talking about appreciating the ordinary day, setting some higher standards for her everyday life, and taking a broader view to let go of annoyances. (Those are her words, just re-organized into this blog.)
Perfect. Just what I need to do. I'll continue reading -- I think this will be good for me.
Library class today -- hoo-ray; love this class! Hope you have a good Wednesday.
I SURVIVED (but still have the cold)
The Denver workshop was a good one -- tons of people, lots of laughter and chatter, seeing old friends, making new ones; and then, there was the yoga - inspiring and also sprinkled with laughter and - for me - perspiration (a result of the cold?).
I am glad I went, tho I struggled - so glad I decided to do just the Mixed Level practice. Colds are supposed to last 10 days (according to my doctor); this one is now on day 11 -- what's up with that?
So, it's almost Christmas. My husband has been like a busy 'elf' decorating this new-to-us house (lights, lighted wreath, etc.), and we put up a bigger tree this year. Looks at least a bit 'holiday-ish' around here. And, in our neighborhood, which is very dark, we stand out.
In my teaching, since Thanksgiving, I've stuck with balance as a theme. Partly because I want to be prepared for the class with six students in it, so I can turn the video camera on and use a familiar, well-prepared theme; and also because it is such an important theme off my mat. Staying balanced throughout the holidays, when everything seems to want to pull me OFF balance -- food (Love those cookies), drink (tho I don't drink anymore), spending on gifts, scheduling my time. For me, the spending is particularly important. For example, I shopped yesterday for some last minute things and kept wanting to buy more. It was hard to remember that I already had gifts, that I didn't need to buy that little extra something for so-and-so, that I had achieved balance. Always a practice.
Can't be sure I'll write again before Christmas, so I will take this opportunity to wish you all a wonderful holiday - no matter how you celebrate or not. I love that I can feel and share the peace, generosity and harmony of spirit that comes with this day.
Have a great Thursday!
I am glad I went, tho I struggled - so glad I decided to do just the Mixed Level practice. Colds are supposed to last 10 days (according to my doctor); this one is now on day 11 -- what's up with that?
So, it's almost Christmas. My husband has been like a busy 'elf' decorating this new-to-us house (lights, lighted wreath, etc.), and we put up a bigger tree this year. Looks at least a bit 'holiday-ish' around here. And, in our neighborhood, which is very dark, we stand out.
In my teaching, since Thanksgiving, I've stuck with balance as a theme. Partly because I want to be prepared for the class with six students in it, so I can turn the video camera on and use a familiar, well-prepared theme; and also because it is such an important theme off my mat. Staying balanced throughout the holidays, when everything seems to want to pull me OFF balance -- food (Love those cookies), drink (tho I don't drink anymore), spending on gifts, scheduling my time. For me, the spending is particularly important. For example, I shopped yesterday for some last minute things and kept wanting to buy more. It was hard to remember that I already had gifts, that I didn't need to buy that little extra something for so-and-so, that I had achieved balance. Always a practice.
Can't be sure I'll write again before Christmas, so I will take this opportunity to wish you all a wonderful holiday - no matter how you celebrate or not. I love that I can feel and share the peace, generosity and harmony of spirit that comes with this day.
Have a great Thursday!
OFF TO DENVER!
Yes, I am -- off to Denver, that is. Tomorrow. Part of my birthday gift from Howard was to attend the weekend workshop with John Friend in Denver. Nice.
Not wanting to waste any of this valuable time with JF, I signed up for all sessions (I did this 2 years ago in Park City). This time it may have been a mistake; I'll see. One, my practice is not as strong as it was then (not enough classes with strong teachers like Adam Ballenger), and two, this week my body decided it was time for the 'annual cold'. I say 'annual cold' because, traditionally, that is all I ever get -- one cold each and every year. It comes in like a lion, hangs around for the full 7 days, then leaves me with a residual of gradually declining symptoms for the next few days.
The 'annual cold' arrived with a sore throat last Friday, shifted to stuffy and irritable by Saturday evening, and this morning - well, to describe my nose blowing is just TMI. That said, my computation is that this Saturday morning (day after tomorrow, the morning of John's first session in Denver), I will still have kleenex next to my mat for those residual symptoms I mentioned.
And, what has all this done to my strength and stamina? There hasn't been a lot of time on my mat this week. Did do a yogaglo one morning, have taught several classes, and I've spent a considerable amount of time with legs up the wall. We'll see. At workshops and trainings with JF, I find a wellspring of unknown-to-me capabilities. He brings out my best. But, doing 8 sessions? That may just be asking for a physical (and emotional) meltdown. Perhaps I'll observe some -- I'm thinking, in particular, of those morning Int/Adv. morning sessions.
The important thing is that I will be there. In good company, with people I love to do yoga with, laughing a bit (crying a bit), talking and sharing, all that good stuff. Great way to begin the countdown to Christmas and New years. I'll return to Fallbrook with some new ideas, some reminders of poses I forget (or avoid) teaching, and just generally renewed. No matter how much yoga I do, or how well I'm able to move on my mat, I will be happy just having gone. Thank you for this gift, Howard.
Today? Teaching in Carlsbad and in Temecula. I plan to extend the class time in Carlsbad by 15 minutes, and film it (that's always a question mark due to attendance; but, we'll see).
I hope you have a great Thursday!
Not wanting to waste any of this valuable time with JF, I signed up for all sessions (I did this 2 years ago in Park City). This time it may have been a mistake; I'll see. One, my practice is not as strong as it was then (not enough classes with strong teachers like Adam Ballenger), and two, this week my body decided it was time for the 'annual cold'. I say 'annual cold' because, traditionally, that is all I ever get -- one cold each and every year. It comes in like a lion, hangs around for the full 7 days, then leaves me with a residual of gradually declining symptoms for the next few days.
The 'annual cold' arrived with a sore throat last Friday, shifted to stuffy and irritable by Saturday evening, and this morning - well, to describe my nose blowing is just TMI. That said, my computation is that this Saturday morning (day after tomorrow, the morning of John's first session in Denver), I will still have kleenex next to my mat for those residual symptoms I mentioned.
And, what has all this done to my strength and stamina? There hasn't been a lot of time on my mat this week. Did do a yogaglo one morning, have taught several classes, and I've spent a considerable amount of time with legs up the wall. We'll see. At workshops and trainings with JF, I find a wellspring of unknown-to-me capabilities. He brings out my best. But, doing 8 sessions? That may just be asking for a physical (and emotional) meltdown. Perhaps I'll observe some -- I'm thinking, in particular, of those morning Int/Adv. morning sessions.
The important thing is that I will be there. In good company, with people I love to do yoga with, laughing a bit (crying a bit), talking and sharing, all that good stuff. Great way to begin the countdown to Christmas and New years. I'll return to Fallbrook with some new ideas, some reminders of poses I forget (or avoid) teaching, and just generally renewed. No matter how much yoga I do, or how well I'm able to move on my mat, I will be happy just having gone. Thank you for this gift, Howard.
Today? Teaching in Carlsbad and in Temecula. I plan to extend the class time in Carlsbad by 15 minutes, and film it (that's always a question mark due to attendance; but, we'll see).
I hope you have a great Thursday!
Thank You
A thank you to everyone who sent me a note, a FB message, an e-mail -- whatever -- thank you for taking the time to express your thoughts.
I taught two fairly respectable classes yesterday. Interestingly, the Carlsbad class was larger than the Temecula one -- that rarely happens. I noticed a bit of hoarseness during the morning class. Result: This morning, I am dealing with a sore throat; maybe the beginnings of a cold. After this week, that's not surprising -- a bit of sleep deprivation, stress, emotional upset, travel, etc.
And, I notice my writing is affected by my throat -- as in, I can't think of much to write about. I will leave it at 'Thank You'. Sometimes less is more.
Hope you have a great Friday and weekend!
I taught two fairly respectable classes yesterday. Interestingly, the Carlsbad class was larger than the Temecula one -- that rarely happens. I noticed a bit of hoarseness during the morning class. Result: This morning, I am dealing with a sore throat; maybe the beginnings of a cold. After this week, that's not surprising -- a bit of sleep deprivation, stress, emotional upset, travel, etc.
And, I notice my writing is affected by my throat -- as in, I can't think of much to write about. I will leave it at 'Thank You'. Sometimes less is more.
Hope you have a great Friday and weekend!
Been A While
since I've written or even looked at this blog. Seems life gets in the way of our routines once in a while.
My week was turned upside down with a phone call on Sunday telling me that my Dad had spiked a temp and was being given antibiotics. This might not seem consequential, unless you're 89 years old. That fact, plus the undertone of the caller's message, prompted me to make a plane reservation for Monday and fly to Spokane.
Upon arrival, I drove to the nursing home and was met by a site I had not encountered on previous visits -- Dad, in bed, with oxygen. The report from nurses: he had stopped eating earlier in the day, wouldn't talk (which he had been doing on previous days), was unresponsive. I sat for a while with him, talking about anything and everything (nurses advice: hearing is the last thing to go). I left for a while, but was called back when breathing became erratic. This calmed, and we were into Tuesday.
All this to say that my Father passed on December 6, 2011, 5:15 p.m.
All in all, he was a good Father; a bit stern and unemotional at times, but generous. One memory: I wrecked the family car at age 16 (hit a parked car -- how embarrassing). That resulted in my babysitting and allowance monies being garnished (as in, seized) until the repair was paid for. Upon Dad's departure for Vietnam (I was 17), he handed me the money, told me the debt was taken care of. Raised on the heels of the depression, his way of handling emotion was with money -- the better he felt about you and/or the situation, the money flowed. Interesting and challenging.
He had 89 years; the last 2 were not his happiest, but he was comfortable and well taken care of. I thank my cousin for sharing in his care, during his life and at the end.
So, life goes on. I spent the day with the Grand-Dudes yesterday (3 little boys = much work and patience). Today, back to teaching in Carlsbad and Temecula.
Hope you are having a great week!
My week was turned upside down with a phone call on Sunday telling me that my Dad had spiked a temp and was being given antibiotics. This might not seem consequential, unless you're 89 years old. That fact, plus the undertone of the caller's message, prompted me to make a plane reservation for Monday and fly to Spokane.
Upon arrival, I drove to the nursing home and was met by a site I had not encountered on previous visits -- Dad, in bed, with oxygen. The report from nurses: he had stopped eating earlier in the day, wouldn't talk (which he had been doing on previous days), was unresponsive. I sat for a while with him, talking about anything and everything (nurses advice: hearing is the last thing to go). I left for a while, but was called back when breathing became erratic. This calmed, and we were into Tuesday.
All this to say that my Father passed on December 6, 2011, 5:15 p.m.
All in all, he was a good Father; a bit stern and unemotional at times, but generous. One memory: I wrecked the family car at age 16 (hit a parked car -- how embarrassing). That resulted in my babysitting and allowance monies being garnished (as in, seized) until the repair was paid for. Upon Dad's departure for Vietnam (I was 17), he handed me the money, told me the debt was taken care of. Raised on the heels of the depression, his way of handling emotion was with money -- the better he felt about you and/or the situation, the money flowed. Interesting and challenging.
He had 89 years; the last 2 were not his happiest, but he was comfortable and well taken care of. I thank my cousin for sharing in his care, during his life and at the end.
So, life goes on. I spent the day with the Grand-Dudes yesterday (3 little boys = much work and patience). Today, back to teaching in Carlsbad and Temecula.
Hope you are having a great week!
THE FORUM (or my own personal mission)
Have you seen it? The Forum? It is a page on the Anusara website where students and teachers are able to ask questions, offer suggestions/comments, etc.
Currently it is divided into categories of discussion. For example: General Questions, Not Related to Yoga Stuff, Event stuff, Therapeutics, and - I'm sure - a couple more (and, these are not exact titles). I loved when it appeared -- an opportunity to ask questions and get an answer, I thought. An opportunity to offer an opinion, I thought. My initial impression was that this would be one of the most actively-used pages on the Anusara webpage.
It started off actively. Then appears to have stagnated. I see a couple reasons for this. (Note, I've been watching this site for a couple months consistently, and off and on since it's inception.) One, if you ask a question (or answer one), you are pretty darn close to the head office and exposure of all you do AND don't know. That might discourage people; on the other hand, it might also encourage people who want to be seen. Not sure what can be done about that -- human nature is human nature.
The second reason, in my opinion, is lack of feedback or response from us in the community. People ask questions. To many of the submissions, there is no response (or, if there is one, it's not reflected on the page). Not even acknowledgement that the question / comment has been received. For example, last week I read a submission -- a yoga teacher introducing herself to the group (6-8 months ago). No one responded to her -- like, to say "Hi", "Welcome", "Glad to have you join us". None of that, it's like she just wrote her excited introduction into the air. So, I wrote a belated 'welcome' back to her. (Wish I had a really small font to write that last sentence in -- I was embarrassed, as I wrote that note.)
Now, I am not an activist. If you read my bio on the Anusara website (under Anusara-Inspired Instructors), one of the questions asked is "what title should you have received in high school?" (or something like that). My answer: "Least Likely to Make Waves". It's true. I will / have in many cases followed the path of least resistance, gone with the flow, kept up with the jones's. I am not one to make waves, but this - The Forum - has my attention.
Last night, I logged back into the Forum. One recent submission (2 weeks old), was from a student in Long Beach looking for Anusara Yoga in her area. No response reflected yet, so I offered one. I wrote her a reply in which I told her I didn't know the area well enough, but would give her the name of 2 Certified teachers to contact in the L.A. area (which I then did). Then, I notified the 2 teachers that I had given this person their names. It took 7-8 minutes, in all.
All this to say, a potentially vibrant page on our website is going virtually unused. Enough. It's frustrating, as are a lot of things in life. But, it just takes minutes - maybe even seconds - to help someone and to make them feel that we care. Why not do it? Enough, again. And, we all can do it -- help with the page. Respond to questions. Respond to comments. It's not too much to ask of us or for the community to do.
Today? Going to RIVERDANCE! Seen it before, but will love seeing it again. Then to Balboa Park in San Diego for a look at the Christmas lights. Then to spend the evening watching over the Grand-Dudes.
Hope your weekend is a great one!
Currently it is divided into categories of discussion. For example: General Questions, Not Related to Yoga Stuff, Event stuff, Therapeutics, and - I'm sure - a couple more (and, these are not exact titles). I loved when it appeared -- an opportunity to ask questions and get an answer, I thought. An opportunity to offer an opinion, I thought. My initial impression was that this would be one of the most actively-used pages on the Anusara webpage.
It started off actively. Then appears to have stagnated. I see a couple reasons for this. (Note, I've been watching this site for a couple months consistently, and off and on since it's inception.) One, if you ask a question (or answer one), you are pretty darn close to the head office and exposure of all you do AND don't know. That might discourage people; on the other hand, it might also encourage people who want to be seen. Not sure what can be done about that -- human nature is human nature.
The second reason, in my opinion, is lack of feedback or response from us in the community. People ask questions. To many of the submissions, there is no response (or, if there is one, it's not reflected on the page). Not even acknowledgement that the question / comment has been received. For example, last week I read a submission -- a yoga teacher introducing herself to the group (6-8 months ago). No one responded to her -- like, to say "Hi", "Welcome", "Glad to have you join us". None of that, it's like she just wrote her excited introduction into the air. So, I wrote a belated 'welcome' back to her. (Wish I had a really small font to write that last sentence in -- I was embarrassed, as I wrote that note.)
Now, I am not an activist. If you read my bio on the Anusara website (under Anusara-Inspired Instructors), one of the questions asked is "what title should you have received in high school?" (or something like that). My answer: "Least Likely to Make Waves". It's true. I will / have in many cases followed the path of least resistance, gone with the flow, kept up with the jones's. I am not one to make waves, but this - The Forum - has my attention.
Last night, I logged back into the Forum. One recent submission (2 weeks old), was from a student in Long Beach looking for Anusara Yoga in her area. No response reflected yet, so I offered one. I wrote her a reply in which I told her I didn't know the area well enough, but would give her the name of 2 Certified teachers to contact in the L.A. area (which I then did). Then, I notified the 2 teachers that I had given this person their names. It took 7-8 minutes, in all.
All this to say, a potentially vibrant page on our website is going virtually unused. Enough. It's frustrating, as are a lot of things in life. But, it just takes minutes - maybe even seconds - to help someone and to make them feel that we care. Why not do it? Enough, again. And, we all can do it -- help with the page. Respond to questions. Respond to comments. It's not too much to ask of us or for the community to do.
Today? Going to RIVERDANCE! Seen it before, but will love seeing it again. Then to Balboa Park in San Diego for a look at the Christmas lights. Then to spend the evening watching over the Grand-Dudes.
Hope your weekend is a great one!
A GOOD DAY
Yesterday, very nice.
Left the house early to drive in to Carlsbad - teaching at 10:30am; a Basics class. I do believe I am finally developing a following -- same people each week, and they talk about coming back on Thursday. Doesn't take much to get me excited, does it?
From that class, I hit the roads to make a teaching staff lunch in Temecula hosted by the studio owner, Andrea. Great Indian food, not far from the studio -- make mental note of this.
The 2pm Gentle/Therapeutic was attended by just 2; but I'm not displeased with that. In this type of class, too many and the purpose is lost. Both students were in decent shape, one - however - had had both hips replaced; the other struggling with back pain 24/7, which she's had explored by physicians to no avail.
In this class we do keep it Gentle -- in fact, we started in savasana, moved to pelvic tilts, 'hip hikers' (Sundari's creation), and - finally - to standing. Talked a bit about posture. Did some moves. No pain or discomfort from either - score! I had taught the hip student once before; the back student was an unknown to me. After class, she commented that the back never felt compromised and that, now, she was standing with more curve in her lumbar spine. Yes!
Then, a Prenatal Class. Just one, but a new-to-yoga student who appeared really nervous. So nervous that I wanted to put my arm around her and say "it's all right". I resisted; we did some moves; she finally smiled, commented occasionally. We'll see if she comes back.
Dinner with Howard at a winery in the Temecula Valley capped the day. Beautiful restaurant, great food, good company -- need I say more?
Today? Breakfast Club in Fallbrook - working on getting myself known in this community. Then teaching a class in Temecula - 11:30 Gentle Yoga. Then?
Hope you have a good Wednesday!
Left the house early to drive in to Carlsbad - teaching at 10:30am; a Basics class. I do believe I am finally developing a following -- same people each week, and they talk about coming back on Thursday. Doesn't take much to get me excited, does it?
From that class, I hit the roads to make a teaching staff lunch in Temecula hosted by the studio owner, Andrea. Great Indian food, not far from the studio -- make mental note of this.
The 2pm Gentle/Therapeutic was attended by just 2; but I'm not displeased with that. In this type of class, too many and the purpose is lost. Both students were in decent shape, one - however - had had both hips replaced; the other struggling with back pain 24/7, which she's had explored by physicians to no avail.
In this class we do keep it Gentle -- in fact, we started in savasana, moved to pelvic tilts, 'hip hikers' (Sundari's creation), and - finally - to standing. Talked a bit about posture. Did some moves. No pain or discomfort from either - score! I had taught the hip student once before; the back student was an unknown to me. After class, she commented that the back never felt compromised and that, now, she was standing with more curve in her lumbar spine. Yes!
Then, a Prenatal Class. Just one, but a new-to-yoga student who appeared really nervous. So nervous that I wanted to put my arm around her and say "it's all right". I resisted; we did some moves; she finally smiled, commented occasionally. We'll see if she comes back.
Dinner with Howard at a winery in the Temecula Valley capped the day. Beautiful restaurant, great food, good company -- need I say more?
Today? Breakfast Club in Fallbrook - working on getting myself known in this community. Then teaching a class in Temecula - 11:30 Gentle Yoga. Then?
Hope you have a good Wednesday!
THE SHIELDS WE PUT UP . . .
Today is my birthday. 62 years old.
I remembered that 2 years ago (birthday #60), I actually did a countdown to that magic number. It was a bit traumatic -- kind of like crossing the line from middle-age to old (in my mind, anyway). By doing the countdown, I was able to ease into it. And, yes -- I know -- 60 is not 'old'; but, it is older.
I also had set a goal for myself at age 58. Jokingly with another now-Certified instructor, we coined the phrase "CBS - Certified By Sixty". We also thought about having t-shirts made up with this phrase on them (SO glad that didn't happen). Today -- well, he's 58 and Certified; I'm 62 and working on it (Good for him and good for me!).
The other day a friend asked me to post my birthday on Facebook so people could send me their well wishes. I didn't and won't do it. In fact, a year ago, I deliberately removed that feature from my page. Why? It's a shield.
You can tell that birthdays, now - for me - are a challenge.
Last night, the Grand-Dudes and their parents hosted us for a birthday celebration -- dinner, CAKE, fun family time. Today? Teaching, as usual, then dinner somewhere with Howard (he's made reservations). A nice, quiet evening.
BTW, yesterday's Library class was another 'goodie'. We worked on Virabhadrasana I (thanks to Noah's YogaGlo 60-minute class). Another 15 students. Would have been 16, but I lost one during the introduction -- I can only surmise that, when I began to explain the origin (story) of the pose name, she decided that this class was not for her. Too bad -- we did some good work after that intro, and I do believe that it's important to recognize the history of yoga; we don't have to believe all the 'stories', but it is of value to know where a pose's name comes from. In eight years of teaching, that's my first 'walk-out'; guess I ought to feel good about that, but I do hope she will return. We'll see.
Hope you have a great Tuesday!
I remembered that 2 years ago (birthday #60), I actually did a countdown to that magic number. It was a bit traumatic -- kind of like crossing the line from middle-age to old (in my mind, anyway). By doing the countdown, I was able to ease into it. And, yes -- I know -- 60 is not 'old'; but, it is older.
I also had set a goal for myself at age 58. Jokingly with another now-Certified instructor, we coined the phrase "CBS - Certified By Sixty". We also thought about having t-shirts made up with this phrase on them (SO glad that didn't happen). Today -- well, he's 58 and Certified; I'm 62 and working on it (Good for him and good for me!).
The other day a friend asked me to post my birthday on Facebook so people could send me their well wishes. I didn't and won't do it. In fact, a year ago, I deliberately removed that feature from my page. Why? It's a shield.
You can tell that birthdays, now - for me - are a challenge.
Last night, the Grand-Dudes and their parents hosted us for a birthday celebration -- dinner, CAKE, fun family time. Today? Teaching, as usual, then dinner somewhere with Howard (he's made reservations). A nice, quiet evening.
BTW, yesterday's Library class was another 'goodie'. We worked on Virabhadrasana I (thanks to Noah's YogaGlo 60-minute class). Another 15 students. Would have been 16, but I lost one during the introduction -- I can only surmise that, when I began to explain the origin (story) of the pose name, she decided that this class was not for her. Too bad -- we did some good work after that intro, and I do believe that it's important to recognize the history of yoga; we don't have to believe all the 'stories', but it is of value to know where a pose's name comes from. In eight years of teaching, that's my first 'walk-out'; guess I ought to feel good about that, but I do hope she will return. We'll see.
Hope you have a great Tuesday!
'splain it to me', please!?!?!?
Just a folksy way to start this post -- "splain it" -- who used to say that? Movie or TV show person, I think. Just 'googled' it -- it was Ricky Ricardo saying "splain it to me, Lucy" aka Lucille Ball.
So what do I need "splain"-ing?
Saturday, I tweaked something in my lower ribcage, left back. I made it thru my lunch with the Grand-dudes; the Jesus Christ Superstar production -- with a twinge or two; then came immediately home to the heating pad. Ibuprofen would not touch it (the discomfort). I slept o.k., woke feeling better on Sunday; only to have the pain return the longer I was awake and moving. Note: if it sat still, no discomfort; if I moved symmetrically, no discomfort; any twisting, severe sensation.
Went to bed last night feeling not much better than the night before; hoping that this wouldn't sideline my efforts to get in shape for JF in Denver in a few weeks.
Up this morning, same discomfort. Decided that a practice was in order, no matter what. Found one on YogaGlo by Noah -- a level 1, 60 minutes. Pushed and prodded myself out to the studio, onto my mat. As is many times the case, when I am engaged and practicing, painful sensations subside. It happened again, with a couple exceptions - twists being one.
I did the whole practice, not going quite as deep into twists as he (Noah) might have liked, but I did give my lengthening full power (remember, symmetrical). This practice culminated in Warrior I, which does involve a twisting action from the hips to shoulders (no problem). Then a couple cool down poses, savasana.
After, I put a couple loads of laundry in the washer, made the bed, put clothes away -- then I noticed. What? Very little discomfort in those ribs. Oh, I feel them when I twist, but the overall feeling is so much better.
Hence, the 'splain it to me', someone. I am convinced that movement with muscle engagement is key to helping injuries; but, I've been trying to move with engagement for the past 2 days and still having pain. Maybe it was the sequence. Maybe it was movement for an hour, where before I'd been sitting until absolutely necessary to get up and do something. No matter, I'll take it -- give me more of this magic.
Hope you have a great Monday!
So what do I need "splain"-ing?
Saturday, I tweaked something in my lower ribcage, left back. I made it thru my lunch with the Grand-dudes; the Jesus Christ Superstar production -- with a twinge or two; then came immediately home to the heating pad. Ibuprofen would not touch it (the discomfort). I slept o.k., woke feeling better on Sunday; only to have the pain return the longer I was awake and moving. Note: if it sat still, no discomfort; if I moved symmetrically, no discomfort; any twisting, severe sensation.
Went to bed last night feeling not much better than the night before; hoping that this wouldn't sideline my efforts to get in shape for JF in Denver in a few weeks.
Up this morning, same discomfort. Decided that a practice was in order, no matter what. Found one on YogaGlo by Noah -- a level 1, 60 minutes. Pushed and prodded myself out to the studio, onto my mat. As is many times the case, when I am engaged and practicing, painful sensations subside. It happened again, with a couple exceptions - twists being one.
I did the whole practice, not going quite as deep into twists as he (Noah) might have liked, but I did give my lengthening full power (remember, symmetrical). This practice culminated in Warrior I, which does involve a twisting action from the hips to shoulders (no problem). Then a couple cool down poses, savasana.
After, I put a couple loads of laundry in the washer, made the bed, put clothes away -- then I noticed. What? Very little discomfort in those ribs. Oh, I feel them when I twist, but the overall feeling is so much better.
Hence, the 'splain it to me', someone. I am convinced that movement with muscle engagement is key to helping injuries; but, I've been trying to move with engagement for the past 2 days and still having pain. Maybe it was the sequence. Maybe it was movement for an hour, where before I'd been sitting until absolutely necessary to get up and do something. No matter, I'll take it -- give me more of this magic.
Hope you have a great Monday!
I DON'T GO BACKWARDS . . .
Yes, friends, that is what I heard as I taught yesterday. Just as I was to begin a demo offered me by Betsey Downing (see description later).
I was a bit taken back by that comment since this is a student I have seen many times in passing at the studio. I continued with the demo, but after class another student echoed the same sentiment -- that she doesn't go backwards, either.
Wow!
Well, they did yesterday. Ustrasana, to be exact. We began in a COLD studio (62 degrees outside, no more than 55 inside) -- small space heaters running full blast. Got them warming up (literally), opened shoulders, quads, hamstrings. Worked on inner and outer spiral (since I was subbing, this was not a group very familiar with Anusara 'lingo').
When it came time to 'go backwards' in the demo (which was a partner pose), they all did it. O.K., O.K. -- here's the demo:
2 partners stand face to face, Partner #1 with arms raised as tho they were lying on their bellies getting ready to move into cobra - elbows a bit to front plane of body. Partner #2 places her/his hands under upper arm, close to elbow. Partner #1 presses elbows down into Partner #2's hands, as the hands resist. Nobody's hands/arms are moving, but Partner #1 is able to lift their heart, bend ('go') backwards. Standing backbend - voila! Into the unknown and un-tread territory, as I was finding out.
So, we did a few more poses, then came Ustrasana. Each person went back; of seven in the room, just one had a tweaking in lower back -- fixed with more emphatic spiraling and lengthening (or, lifting of the heart). I think it went well and I believe they liked it also. Anything that goes o.k. and doesn't hurt is usually a keeper. Comments were overheard as they left the studio -- "I liked that going backward. I've never done that before." Be still my heart.
Class over, it was off to pick up the 2 older grand-dudes and take them to lunch. Their favorite restaurant, Ruby's, has a 50's feel with trains running on overhead tracks. Drawback: it's located in a huge outlet mall, and it's the Saturday after Thanksgiving which equals a parking challenge. Not just finding a space, but also parking their car which is a HUGE Suburban (easier to not change out car seats). But, we found one; had a nice lunch, then back to car and off to a park for 15 minutes of 'playtime'.
Took the boys home, changed my clothes and Howard was waiting to take me to "Jesus Christ Superstar". An amazing production that will go to Broadway in March.
Today? Nursing a sore left ribcage (something - I don't know what - that happened while encouraging 7 people to 'go backwards'). Knelt down to offer a thought and there it was -- pain. Still present this morning.
Hope your Sunday is a good one!
I was a bit taken back by that comment since this is a student I have seen many times in passing at the studio. I continued with the demo, but after class another student echoed the same sentiment -- that she doesn't go backwards, either.
Wow!
Well, they did yesterday. Ustrasana, to be exact. We began in a COLD studio (62 degrees outside, no more than 55 inside) -- small space heaters running full blast. Got them warming up (literally), opened shoulders, quads, hamstrings. Worked on inner and outer spiral (since I was subbing, this was not a group very familiar with Anusara 'lingo').
When it came time to 'go backwards' in the demo (which was a partner pose), they all did it. O.K., O.K. -- here's the demo:
2 partners stand face to face, Partner #1 with arms raised as tho they were lying on their bellies getting ready to move into cobra - elbows a bit to front plane of body. Partner #2 places her/his hands under upper arm, close to elbow. Partner #1 presses elbows down into Partner #2's hands, as the hands resist. Nobody's hands/arms are moving, but Partner #1 is able to lift their heart, bend ('go') backwards. Standing backbend - voila! Into the unknown and un-tread territory, as I was finding out.
So, we did a few more poses, then came Ustrasana. Each person went back; of seven in the room, just one had a tweaking in lower back -- fixed with more emphatic spiraling and lengthening (or, lifting of the heart). I think it went well and I believe they liked it also. Anything that goes o.k. and doesn't hurt is usually a keeper. Comments were overheard as they left the studio -- "I liked that going backward. I've never done that before." Be still my heart.
Class over, it was off to pick up the 2 older grand-dudes and take them to lunch. Their favorite restaurant, Ruby's, has a 50's feel with trains running on overhead tracks. Drawback: it's located in a huge outlet mall, and it's the Saturday after Thanksgiving which equals a parking challenge. Not just finding a space, but also parking their car which is a HUGE Suburban (easier to not change out car seats). But, we found one; had a nice lunch, then back to car and off to a park for 15 minutes of 'playtime'.
Took the boys home, changed my clothes and Howard was waiting to take me to "Jesus Christ Superstar". An amazing production that will go to Broadway in March.
Today? Nursing a sore left ribcage (something - I don't know what - that happened while encouraging 7 people to 'go backwards'). Knelt down to offer a thought and there it was -- pain. Still present this morning.
Hope your Sunday is a good one!
LET THE HOLIDAYS BEGIN (CONTINUE?)
We (Howard and I) had a very nice Thanksgiving - as I'm sure many of you did. All the right things -- good company of family, wonderful food, laughter, sharing of gratitude. It even included six children, 'Grand-Dudes and Grand-Neices/Nephew', ages 1-6, at the table who are at an age to contribute to the merriment. It was a good day.
I mention laughter because Howard said to me yesterday: "When did Derek (son/stepson) become so funny; or, has he always been funny and we just didn't notice?"
FYI, Derek is 37 years old. We noticed the funny streak emerging a few years ago when he made a comment so off the wall that it made us both laugh harder than we had in a LONG time. And, over the years since, at dinners, family get-togethers, etc., more and more this funny streak emerges. Wonder why? or, has he always been this way and we just didn't notice?
Was he funny in a different way until recently? or, were we just too busy being 'serious about our parenting' -- allowing little time for laughter.
One thing you need to know about Derek, he has always been able to strike up a conversation with ANYONE. Doesn't matter age, status, limitations, gender -- anyone. I have always admired that about him, wondered where that skill comes from -- me? his Father? the Universe? As a blended family of 3, Howard, Derek and I traveled and moved a lot. Derek was routinely on planes, traveling from wherever back to visit his Father -- maybe that had something to do with his comfort level with people. We were always throwing him into situations that challenged him and he consistently stepped up.
No matter the source -- it is good to laugh and even better to see our son happy, relaxed, comfortable in his ability to walk in the world. Waxing a bit sentimental this morning.
As you've figured out, our Thanksgiving was, indeed, a good one. Yesterday, also good -- a full day at home; marred only by the presence of police officers on our street investigating a neighbor's possible criminal activity. Does make things interesting, however.
Today? Teaching in Carlsbad at 9am; then taking 'Grand-Dudes' to lunch, then Howard and I will go to see "Jesus Christ Superstar" at the LaJolla Playhouse. Full day, doing the things I love.
Hope your Saturday is a good one.
I mention laughter because Howard said to me yesterday: "When did Derek (son/stepson) become so funny; or, has he always been funny and we just didn't notice?"
FYI, Derek is 37 years old. We noticed the funny streak emerging a few years ago when he made a comment so off the wall that it made us both laugh harder than we had in a LONG time. And, over the years since, at dinners, family get-togethers, etc., more and more this funny streak emerges. Wonder why? or, has he always been this way and we just didn't notice?
Was he funny in a different way until recently? or, were we just too busy being 'serious about our parenting' -- allowing little time for laughter.
One thing you need to know about Derek, he has always been able to strike up a conversation with ANYONE. Doesn't matter age, status, limitations, gender -- anyone. I have always admired that about him, wondered where that skill comes from -- me? his Father? the Universe? As a blended family of 3, Howard, Derek and I traveled and moved a lot. Derek was routinely on planes, traveling from wherever back to visit his Father -- maybe that had something to do with his comfort level with people. We were always throwing him into situations that challenged him and he consistently stepped up.
No matter the source -- it is good to laugh and even better to see our son happy, relaxed, comfortable in his ability to walk in the world. Waxing a bit sentimental this morning.
As you've figured out, our Thanksgiving was, indeed, a good one. Yesterday, also good -- a full day at home; marred only by the presence of police officers on our street investigating a neighbor's possible criminal activity. Does make things interesting, however.
Today? Teaching in Carlsbad at 9am; then taking 'Grand-Dudes' to lunch, then Howard and I will go to see "Jesus Christ Superstar" at the LaJolla Playhouse. Full day, doing the things I love.
Hope your Saturday is a good one.