THE WAY IT IS
Relating back to the poem I posted last Thursday, it is all pretty much the same.
Same drama with regards to Anusara Yoga -- not knowing, just being patient as things filter out. Offering a comment here and there on Facebook. Trying to stick with Howard's advice: "don't write anything on Facebook that you don't want in print on the front page of your local newspaper". Good advice.
Those of us who are/were in the Certification process have joined together in a group called the "Honey Badgers" on Facebook (honey badgers are relentless creatures, especially when backed into a corner). Why? Well, we need to do something to keep our minds occupied and off the crisis. The group's intent is to offer connection, communication, and support to one another, with the caveat -- no discussion of the Anusara issues. We are simply about working towards our goal of becoming the best yoga teachers we can be -- much like a honey badger would do.
People wonder about why I just don't teach, forget about it (the goal). When that happens, I remember this line of the poem: "People wonder about what you are pursuing.".
Some days I wonder too. And, I am still teaching, still studying. I have not, however lost sight of my goal, my thread.
At this stage, I am happy to be in my sixties. Through all this - watching the angst and petty-ness of some comments, the mean-ness of others, and - of course - the well thought through comments - I remain calm.
Not letting go, but not getting carried away, either.
Today? Teaching at the Library. Request for shoulder and neck work; better get back to the books.
Enjoy your Monday and your week,
Same drama with regards to Anusara Yoga -- not knowing, just being patient as things filter out. Offering a comment here and there on Facebook. Trying to stick with Howard's advice: "don't write anything on Facebook that you don't want in print on the front page of your local newspaper". Good advice.
Those of us who are/were in the Certification process have joined together in a group called the "Honey Badgers" on Facebook (honey badgers are relentless creatures, especially when backed into a corner). Why? Well, we need to do something to keep our minds occupied and off the crisis. The group's intent is to offer connection, communication, and support to one another, with the caveat -- no discussion of the Anusara issues. We are simply about working towards our goal of becoming the best yoga teachers we can be -- much like a honey badger would do.
People wonder about why I just don't teach, forget about it (the goal). When that happens, I remember this line of the poem: "People wonder about what you are pursuing.".
Some days I wonder too. And, I am still teaching, still studying. I have not, however lost sight of my goal, my thread.
At this stage, I am happy to be in my sixties. Through all this - watching the angst and petty-ness of some comments, the mean-ness of others, and - of course - the well thought through comments - I remain calm.
Not letting go, but not getting carried away, either.
Today? Teaching at the Library. Request for shoulder and neck work; better get back to the books.
Enjoy your Monday and your week,
LOVE THIS . . .
From Karen Sprute-Francovich:
The Way It Is
There’s a thread you follow. It goes among
things that change. But it doesn’t change.
People wonder about what you are pursuing.
You have to explain about the thread.
But it is hard for others to see.
While you hold it you can’t get lost.
Tragedies happen; people get hurt
or die; and you suffer and get old.
Nothing you do can stop time’s unfolding.
You don’t ever let go of the thread.
things that change. But it doesn’t change.
People wonder about what you are pursuing.
You have to explain about the thread.
But it is hard for others to see.
While you hold it you can’t get lost.
Tragedies happen; people get hurt
or die; and you suffer and get old.
Nothing you do can stop time’s unfolding.
You don’t ever let go of the thread.
~ William Stafford ~
SO, HOW'D IT GO -- THE WORKSHOP, THAT IS?
Few people knew I was presenting a workshop. I guess I kept it a pretty good secret.
For a while, I thought I might break the attendance barrier -- after all, there were people signed up in advance (3). In the final count, 4 students chose to attend. What to do?
I've been taking another on-line course (LOVE those on-line courses) with Eric Stoneberg, New York yoga instructor and philosophy buff who studies with Douglas Brooks. I became acquainted with Eric thru his blog, after stumbling on it one day and reading a long, but interesting, post about Akhilandeshvari (I think). I kept reading, and loved his writing on the 16 Laksmi's. Then, the moon goddesses. And, this was just the blog.
Back to the course -- this month's topic is Ganesh (last month it was Lalita Tripura Sundari). Ganesh, as Eric explains it, stands at every threshhold (in India, this is literally 99% true, as each household and business has a Ganesh monitoring the door).
As I planned this workshop, I wondered exactly how to 'do' it -- it's not like a class where you sequence to an apex pose. It's a longer 'class', focusing - in this case - on a specific body part, the hips. I put my workshop ideas together with some thoughts from Eric's presentation and, voila! For the opening, I spoke a bit about the threshhold idea, then we did a short Ganapati mantra 11 times (why 11? That's the number of times we must do something to remember.) I continued using Ganesh throughout the class -- equating hip opening to walking across a threshhold into a new room (a new thought process about the process of opening our hips - see next paragraph).
Then, I needed a goal for the workshop -- something students would take away from this session. I decided that the goal would be 'hip opening is better done from the inside out'. Meaning that, opening will happen more effectively if we strengthen our body and mind, and use both to create opening.
And, what happened? Well, I ran out of time -- I looked up at the clock, as we finished standing poses, only to discover that it was 3:55. Oh, no! 5 minutes to do some more effective hip opening stuff on the floor, and get in a good savasana. We did do a couple of the things I had planned, then to savasana. My consolation -- reflecting on the work we had done, I could truly see why Martin Kirk says 'every pose is a hip opening pose'.
Response from students was positive. The best one? "It hardly seemed like 2 hours." That's good. I'll take it.
Maybe I'll do another one -- "Happy Hips, Part Deux, II, or 2".
Hope your Monday is a good one. Library, here I come!
For a while, I thought I might break the attendance barrier -- after all, there were people signed up in advance (3). In the final count, 4 students chose to attend. What to do?
Proceed, full speed.
I've been taking another on-line course (LOVE those on-line courses) with Eric Stoneberg, New York yoga instructor and philosophy buff who studies with Douglas Brooks. I became acquainted with Eric thru his blog, after stumbling on it one day and reading a long, but interesting, post about Akhilandeshvari (I think). I kept reading, and loved his writing on the 16 Laksmi's. Then, the moon goddesses. And, this was just the blog.
Back to the course -- this month's topic is Ganesh (last month it was Lalita Tripura Sundari). Ganesh, as Eric explains it, stands at every threshhold (in India, this is literally 99% true, as each household and business has a Ganesh monitoring the door).
As I planned this workshop, I wondered exactly how to 'do' it -- it's not like a class where you sequence to an apex pose. It's a longer 'class', focusing - in this case - on a specific body part, the hips. I put my workshop ideas together with some thoughts from Eric's presentation and, voila! For the opening, I spoke a bit about the threshhold idea, then we did a short Ganapati mantra 11 times (why 11? That's the number of times we must do something to remember.) I continued using Ganesh throughout the class -- equating hip opening to walking across a threshhold into a new room (a new thought process about the process of opening our hips - see next paragraph).
Then, I needed a goal for the workshop -- something students would take away from this session. I decided that the goal would be 'hip opening is better done from the inside out'. Meaning that, opening will happen more effectively if we strengthen our body and mind, and use both to create opening.
And, what happened? Well, I ran out of time -- I looked up at the clock, as we finished standing poses, only to discover that it was 3:55. Oh, no! 5 minutes to do some more effective hip opening stuff on the floor, and get in a good savasana. We did do a couple of the things I had planned, then to savasana. My consolation -- reflecting on the work we had done, I could truly see why Martin Kirk says 'every pose is a hip opening pose'.
Response from students was positive. The best one? "It hardly seemed like 2 hours." That's good. I'll take it.
Maybe I'll do another one -- "Happy Hips, Part Deux, II, or 2".
Hope your Monday is a good one. Library, here I come!
THE 'FRIEND' COUNT
As we muddle through the Anusara upheaval, what is one good thing? My Facebook "Friend" count has gone up -- like, by 31 people!
31 people I might have met somewhere, or may never have met; nevertheless, they want to be my 'friend'. As one who always hoped to be the 'popular' girl (but never was), this is great fun. People wanting to hang out with me, if only on Facebook.
Be still my heart.
But, don't get too cocky, Leslie. They could just as easily 'unfriend' me -- in the Facebook world, you're just a 'click' away from being cut off, de-friended, asked to leave a group.
It's happened, to me -- that being 'asked to leave a group' part. During all the mess of the past 3 weeks, three groups formed on Facebook -- one for teachers, another for teachers (only), and a third for those who were not sure what the future holds (at least that was the stated intention in the beginning). I joined all three; I wanted to hear it all, everyone's position. It's been challenging (as I wrote a bit earlier this week), holding my tongue (or keyboard fingers).
Then came 'the' message. A request on the third site (I call it the 'on the fence' site), asking that those of us who were not resigning to please leave the group. A bit offended, I decided to 'sign off'; used just those terms - 'signing off', and left the group.
It's easier now -- just two pages to check in on and many of the comments I read are duplicates, so the second time thru I can usually skim. Saves time.
What rankles me a bit is when I see a comment on one of MY 2 pages from someone who has resigned. Not that I don't want to hear what they have to say, but they asked ME to leave their group. What's that about? What makes it worse is that the person asking ME to leave the group had been my friend (not Facebook but real friend); at least I thought she was. We had spent an entire week together in Boston at the last Level 2 Teacher Training John did there - partnering, chatting, sharing info. Then she asks ME (and a few hundred others, I'm sure) to leave the group. Well! Let's just say I won't be sending her a 'friend request' any time soon.
So, onward. Enough about my desire to be popular, well-liked. Those who know me, like me or not. I often use Christina's saying of "I'm an acquired taste". Just look at my classes. If you want more information that you ever hoped possible, if you want to move more slowly, if you want the question answered that you didn't ask, if you want someone to nitpick at you; then, come to my class. OOOH, I better read that and learn from some of my mistakes.
Workshop today -- Happy, Healthy Hips -- and I already have people signed up. Hoo-Ray!
Hope your Saturday is a good one,
PREPARATION
I am in the final stages of preparing for a 2-hour workshop that I will present tomorrow (Saturday, 2-4pm), in Temecula at Living Yoga (plug for you locals). Topic of the workshop: "Happy, Healthy Hip Opening".
Let me begin by saying my hips are tight. I am not the yoga teacher who effortlessly slides in Hanumanasana (forward splits) and Upavista Konasana (seated with legs spread laterally) is a dvesha, or to-be-avoided, pose no matter what.
((Someday, when all the JF upheaval has died down, I'll tell you my own personal UK and John Friend story.))
So, last month, I signed up for Doug Kellar's webinar on YogaUOnline, called Safe Hip Opening. I had two reasons. One, I want to be able to do Hanumanasana, and UK with ease. And, two, when I first began Anusara Yoga, I read Mr. Kellar's book, "Hatha Yoga in the Anusara Style". After reading that book, I clearly understood muscular energy, inner and outer spiral, the loops, and gained a ton of anatomy info that had previously been a mystery to me (as in, not covered in the college anatomy classes I'd taken 30 years ago). His ability to write all this out speaks to me, to the way I learn best, so why wouldn't I take the course?
I had also recently purchased 3 books of his -- 2 on therapeutics and 1 on pranayama, rekindling my interest in his offerings.
Curled on the sofa, laptop in hand, I listened to the first of the two webinar sessions. Jaw-dropping information. The next week, I listened again -- tho, not live (something got in the way). Fortunately, these are recorded so you can listen at any time. More info that left me wanting more; and also left me knowing that the two poses mentioned above may never be easeful for me, depending on the bone structure of my femurs. So long as I know why, it becomes an easier acceptance.
I continued, after those webinars, to read -- I'm now 3/4 of the way through the Therapeutics books. As I read, the temptation to skip parts is not there. I read every word. I might not remember every word, but as I read, I visualize and - hopefully - some of the info is trapped in my memory bank. That's the affect his writing has on me -- the ability to visualize.
Then, I offered to present the workshop mentioned in para 1. Why? Because hip opening has sometimes been presented to me as 'violent' work -- like 'get them open', now hold or keep them there (if you struggle with fire log pose, reflect on how you feel when in that pose!). Hip opening, rather, appears to me to be gentle work, feeling work; not just inner spiral and scoop, but movement that strengthens and lengthens the ligature and muscles on all sides of the hips - glutes, adductors, abductors, psoas, iliacus, etc. -- and these are all affected by the feet, knees, back, not just the joint itself.
Whens students indicate they want 'hip-opening' poses, I remember Martin Kirk's response: "EVERY pose is a hip opener!"
Wow! 2 hours will certainly not be long enough. But, it will be a start.
Hope you have a great Friday!
Let me begin by saying my hips are tight. I am not the yoga teacher who effortlessly slides in Hanumanasana (forward splits) and Upavista Konasana (seated with legs spread laterally) is a dvesha, or to-be-avoided, pose no matter what.
((Someday, when all the JF upheaval has died down, I'll tell you my own personal UK and John Friend story.))
So, last month, I signed up for Doug Kellar's webinar on YogaUOnline, called Safe Hip Opening. I had two reasons. One, I want to be able to do Hanumanasana, and UK with ease. And, two, when I first began Anusara Yoga, I read Mr. Kellar's book, "Hatha Yoga in the Anusara Style". After reading that book, I clearly understood muscular energy, inner and outer spiral, the loops, and gained a ton of anatomy info that had previously been a mystery to me (as in, not covered in the college anatomy classes I'd taken 30 years ago). His ability to write all this out speaks to me, to the way I learn best, so why wouldn't I take the course?
I had also recently purchased 3 books of his -- 2 on therapeutics and 1 on pranayama, rekindling my interest in his offerings.
Curled on the sofa, laptop in hand, I listened to the first of the two webinar sessions. Jaw-dropping information. The next week, I listened again -- tho, not live (something got in the way). Fortunately, these are recorded so you can listen at any time. More info that left me wanting more; and also left me knowing that the two poses mentioned above may never be easeful for me, depending on the bone structure of my femurs. So long as I know why, it becomes an easier acceptance.
I continued, after those webinars, to read -- I'm now 3/4 of the way through the Therapeutics books. As I read, the temptation to skip parts is not there. I read every word. I might not remember every word, but as I read, I visualize and - hopefully - some of the info is trapped in my memory bank. That's the affect his writing has on me -- the ability to visualize.
Then, I offered to present the workshop mentioned in para 1. Why? Because hip opening has sometimes been presented to me as 'violent' work -- like 'get them open', now hold or keep them there (if you struggle with fire log pose, reflect on how you feel when in that pose!). Hip opening, rather, appears to me to be gentle work, feeling work; not just inner spiral and scoop, but movement that strengthens and lengthens the ligature and muscles on all sides of the hips - glutes, adductors, abductors, psoas, iliacus, etc. -- and these are all affected by the feet, knees, back, not just the joint itself.
Whens students indicate they want 'hip-opening' poses, I remember Martin Kirk's response: "EVERY pose is a hip opener!"
Wow! 2 hours will certainly not be long enough. But, it will be a start.
Hope you have a great Friday!
THE CHALLENGES OF THIS DISCUSSION
As we move through the Anusara upheaval, Facebook has provided lots of information - good and not-so-good. It is a source of connection, however, to the greater community; which, right now is fractured and waiting (at least, many of us are waiting).
There is a promise of a re-structuring of the organization (and some other promises). A task that is not easy in any 'business' -- re-structuring. It takes time. Fortunately, I've had enough experience in the world of business to know this, so waiting is not a problem or a sign or non-action to me. It all takes time -- weeks, maybe months.
As I wait, however, I would not be telling the truth if I said 'all this is easy'. It's not. Each time I look at Facebook and read something I disagree with, I am tempted to comment; perhaps to say something I will regret (you can only push me so far and then I 'bite'). Some days it is just NOT possible to keep my mouth shut (or my fingers from typing). Each time I give way to the temptation, I am careful tho.
It is important, at these weak moments, to remember that these people are my friends -- whether I have met them or not. We might have partnered in a workshop somewhere and I've forgotten; or we may have met in a line waiting to use the restroom somewhere; or, we could have participated in a webinar or teleseminar together. In my 10+ years of practicing Anusara Yoga, I've met hundreds of people. Besides, civility dictates, in my book. And, as my wise husband had said many times, 'don't burn your bridges'.
I am learning to read comments, and to step back and take a breath. This is a good lesson for me. I do know how to do it in class (remember my experience with 'it's slower' -- I didn't react there, did I?). I am not so sure I know how to do it very well in life outside the classroom, workshop, training, etc. This is good training.
Today? Cleaning.
Yesterday? Classes went well - Gentle/therapeutic and Prenatal - using chairs, learning from the students; from their physical stuff and from their experiences.
And, my study? Wow, I read, I practice, I experience and understand. Amazing!
Hope you have a great Wednesday,
There is a promise of a re-structuring of the organization (and some other promises). A task that is not easy in any 'business' -- re-structuring. It takes time. Fortunately, I've had enough experience in the world of business to know this, so waiting is not a problem or a sign or non-action to me. It all takes time -- weeks, maybe months.
As I wait, however, I would not be telling the truth if I said 'all this is easy'. It's not. Each time I look at Facebook and read something I disagree with, I am tempted to comment; perhaps to say something I will regret (you can only push me so far and then I 'bite'). Some days it is just NOT possible to keep my mouth shut (or my fingers from typing). Each time I give way to the temptation, I am careful tho.
It is important, at these weak moments, to remember that these people are my friends -- whether I have met them or not. We might have partnered in a workshop somewhere and I've forgotten; or we may have met in a line waiting to use the restroom somewhere; or, we could have participated in a webinar or teleseminar together. In my 10+ years of practicing Anusara Yoga, I've met hundreds of people. Besides, civility dictates, in my book. And, as my wise husband had said many times, 'don't burn your bridges'.
I am learning to read comments, and to step back and take a breath. This is a good lesson for me. I do know how to do it in class (remember my experience with 'it's slower' -- I didn't react there, did I?). I am not so sure I know how to do it very well in life outside the classroom, workshop, training, etc. This is good training.
Today? Cleaning.
Yesterday? Classes went well - Gentle/therapeutic and Prenatal - using chairs, learning from the students; from their physical stuff and from their experiences.
And, my study? Wow, I read, I practice, I experience and understand. Amazing!
Hope you have a great Wednesday,
THINGS HAVE CHANGED BUT THEY HAVEN'T
HUH?
What do I mean by that title? That things are different. Anusara Yoga is in the throes of change -- many of us hope the change will be for the good and that we will move forward as a strong system, tho with a different management style. There is the possibility that it all may come apart; we will splinter, still friends but studying with different groups/schools, teaching with Anusara in our history but different verbiage. All still good yoga teachers, just not within the community we've grown accustomed to.
I look back on the week and what hasn't changed? My thirst for knowledge. I am still reading Doug Kellar's Yoga as Therapy book, and - when the house is quiet - I'm listening to Eric Stoneberg's teleseminars; current topic is Ganesh.
Another difference: I've been on the elliptical trainer three times in three days. Just getting in 10 minutes, with 2 to warm up and 2 to cool down (14 in all !). Then, going to my mat, working on the exercises outlined in Mr. Kellar's book, experimenting with balls, blocks, rolls, movement. I've even tried jump roping -- just once, tho. Maybe I'll give it another try.
I've been teaching - that hasn't changed, either. (Just read yesterday's post.) I filled in last night and taught a Hatha & Meditation Class - 60 minutes (how do you teach ANYTHING in 60 minutes). My plan was to move students for 20 minutes, do 5 minutes of meditation, and repeat. I got stuck focusing on one student's back issue -- which reminds me that I need to go back to Mr Kellar's book and re-read the section on the psoas and the effect of trauma on it's functioning. My initial reaction to her description of the back pain, cause, lack of definitive diagnosis, and recent hip discomfort make me think there may be a connection. We'll see.
Back to the class -- we did one meditation, but ran out of time - so, just did a supported savasana; a little longer than usual. They appeared to like it; who wouldn't?
Today? Teaching Gentle/Restorative at 2pm; then Prenatal at 4:30pm. Housework inbetween. Probably will check in on Facebook, tho the vitriol there is getting tough to handle. Maybe I'll just stay on my own page, rather than venture into the discussion groups formed as a result of the upheaval.
I hope you have a great Tuesday,
What do I mean by that title? That things are different. Anusara Yoga is in the throes of change -- many of us hope the change will be for the good and that we will move forward as a strong system, tho with a different management style. There is the possibility that it all may come apart; we will splinter, still friends but studying with different groups/schools, teaching with Anusara in our history but different verbiage. All still good yoga teachers, just not within the community we've grown accustomed to.
I look back on the week and what hasn't changed? My thirst for knowledge. I am still reading Doug Kellar's Yoga as Therapy book, and - when the house is quiet - I'm listening to Eric Stoneberg's teleseminars; current topic is Ganesh.
Another difference: I've been on the elliptical trainer three times in three days. Just getting in 10 minutes, with 2 to warm up and 2 to cool down (14 in all !). Then, going to my mat, working on the exercises outlined in Mr. Kellar's book, experimenting with balls, blocks, rolls, movement. I've even tried jump roping -- just once, tho. Maybe I'll give it another try.
I've been teaching - that hasn't changed, either. (Just read yesterday's post.) I filled in last night and taught a Hatha & Meditation Class - 60 minutes (how do you teach ANYTHING in 60 minutes). My plan was to move students for 20 minutes, do 5 minutes of meditation, and repeat. I got stuck focusing on one student's back issue -- which reminds me that I need to go back to Mr Kellar's book and re-read the section on the psoas and the effect of trauma on it's functioning. My initial reaction to her description of the back pain, cause, lack of definitive diagnosis, and recent hip discomfort make me think there may be a connection. We'll see.
Back to the class -- we did one meditation, but ran out of time - so, just did a supported savasana; a little longer than usual. They appeared to like it; who wouldn't?
Today? Teaching Gentle/Restorative at 2pm; then Prenatal at 4:30pm. Housework inbetween. Probably will check in on Facebook, tho the vitriol there is getting tough to handle. Maybe I'll just stay on my own page, rather than venture into the discussion groups formed as a result of the upheaval.
I hope you have a great Tuesday,
P.S. (read previous post first, please)
After class, both Mothers of the teens came to me with questions (one of whom had made the "it's slower" comment).
First was, 'I teach school and my feet hurt more frequently these days. Thoughts?' After looking at her stance more closely, I was able to offer some ideas; including my 'life lesson' (as I call it) of standing with feet parallel.
Second Mom asked 'My inner right hip hurts and, especially recently, won't open as much as the left in sukasana (ease pose). Thoughts?' Create space, do not try to force it. Put something under the leg as you sit so that the inner hip flexors can relax.
That's all the time I had with a big Immersion group clamoring at the door to come in; perhaps I'll see them in another class.
First was, 'I teach school and my feet hurt more frequently these days. Thoughts?' After looking at her stance more closely, I was able to offer some ideas; including my 'life lesson' (as I call it) of standing with feet parallel.
Second Mom asked 'My inner right hip hurts and, especially recently, won't open as much as the left in sukasana (ease pose). Thoughts?' Create space, do not try to force it. Put something under the leg as you sit so that the inner hip flexors can relax.
That's all the time I had with a big Immersion group clamoring at the door to come in; perhaps I'll see them in another class.
SLOWER EQUALS WHAT?
I taught a morning class yesterday for a friend - a basic/intermediate class. And, I had six students in the room, 5 of whom had done little yoga.
How do I know this? Well, first -- I asked. Then, 2 were teens (about 13 years); I doubt they've done much yoga (or much in-depth yoga). Their Mothers were in attendance, as well -- one saying she was new; the other had a bit more experience. The 5th person, well let's just say the mat tells your truth. Not being critical here, but the 1/2" thick black foam is kind of a give away.
The teens and their mothers all asked if I was going to teach something 'different' from their last class. I honestly didn't know who had taught their last class, but I could truthfully say 'yes, it will be different, because I am not that teacher.'
Settled in the room, I introduced myself (which I often forget to do), checked in on injuries, and we began.
The first down dog gives everyone's experience (or training) away. Rounded backs, lifted heels and heads, crooked and lifted palms -- like that. Still not being critical, just setting the scenario for you.
One of my first jobs was the 'down dog primer' -- checking hands for placement and foundational integrity, asking people to keep their knees bent until their hips are lifted, then - keeping the back as it feels with knees bent - begin to extend the thighs towards the wall behind, straightening the knees and allowing the heels to descend.
That done, we continued to move. Everyone held their own, the teens listened and did 99% of what I asked - as did their Mothers. The other 2 followed instructions impeccably. Based on what I observed to be the experience level of the 5 (of 6) students, we moved carefully. About 3/4 of the way through the class, I asked: "Well, tell me, is this different from your other class(es)?"
Response: "It's slower."
Bite my tongue (so hard not to offer "well slower is sometimes better"). Continue teaching. Resist the temptation to speed it up. Keep teaching what the majority of the group needs. But, I can't honestly say I liked the answer. I much prefer hearing "this is great" or "I love hearing why we do stuff" -- things like that; not "it's slower".
Took them to the floor, a few twists, then supta tadasana (to experience back of thighs touching the floor), then a brief meditation as they lay relaxed, then savasana.
Slower. Damm!
But, in my heart I know it was right for everyone, even the sixth person (who is dealing with a sore right hip). As a friend pointed out to me yesterday, my training and my study equal a well-schooled yoga teacher who will challenge students and keep them safe.
Thank you to Adam Ballenger, Desiree Rumbaugh, Sundari Lucey, Martin & Jordan Kirk, Christina Sell, and to John Friend for teaching me to teach. Best of all, for offering me the knowledge to recognize that sometimes slower is better.
Today? Library is closed for the President's holiday; planning for my workshop on Saturday; spend some time with the Grand-Dudes.
Hope you have a great Monday,
How do I know this? Well, first -- I asked. Then, 2 were teens (about 13 years); I doubt they've done much yoga (or much in-depth yoga). Their Mothers were in attendance, as well -- one saying she was new; the other had a bit more experience. The 5th person, well let's just say the mat tells your truth. Not being critical here, but the 1/2" thick black foam is kind of a give away.
The teens and their mothers all asked if I was going to teach something 'different' from their last class. I honestly didn't know who had taught their last class, but I could truthfully say 'yes, it will be different, because I am not that teacher.'
Settled in the room, I introduced myself (which I often forget to do), checked in on injuries, and we began.
The first down dog gives everyone's experience (or training) away. Rounded backs, lifted heels and heads, crooked and lifted palms -- like that. Still not being critical, just setting the scenario for you.
One of my first jobs was the 'down dog primer' -- checking hands for placement and foundational integrity, asking people to keep their knees bent until their hips are lifted, then - keeping the back as it feels with knees bent - begin to extend the thighs towards the wall behind, straightening the knees and allowing the heels to descend.
That done, we continued to move. Everyone held their own, the teens listened and did 99% of what I asked - as did their Mothers. The other 2 followed instructions impeccably. Based on what I observed to be the experience level of the 5 (of 6) students, we moved carefully. About 3/4 of the way through the class, I asked: "Well, tell me, is this different from your other class(es)?"
Response: "It's slower."
Bite my tongue (so hard not to offer "well slower is sometimes better"). Continue teaching. Resist the temptation to speed it up. Keep teaching what the majority of the group needs. But, I can't honestly say I liked the answer. I much prefer hearing "this is great" or "I love hearing why we do stuff" -- things like that; not "it's slower".
Took them to the floor, a few twists, then supta tadasana (to experience back of thighs touching the floor), then a brief meditation as they lay relaxed, then savasana.
Slower. Damm!
But, in my heart I know it was right for everyone, even the sixth person (who is dealing with a sore right hip). As a friend pointed out to me yesterday, my training and my study equal a well-schooled yoga teacher who will challenge students and keep them safe.
Thank you to Adam Ballenger, Desiree Rumbaugh, Sundari Lucey, Martin & Jordan Kirk, Christina Sell, and to John Friend for teaching me to teach. Best of all, for offering me the knowledge to recognize that sometimes slower is better.
Today? Library is closed for the President's holiday; planning for my workshop on Saturday; spend some time with the Grand-Dudes.
Hope you have a great Monday,
HUGGING MY MIDLINE
It's been a number of day since my last post. I did write one, but it remains in the 'draft' file. Why? It was laced with frustration, a bit of anger and disappointment. In what? Some of the reactions I've seen as we move through the upheaval of Anusara yoga.
My stance: that I will continue to teach, that I will retain my license, that I will wait. I used to make hasty decisions, but no more. Sometimes those work, sometimes not. This time, I have a sense that I need to wait. That said -- enough.
So, what have I been doing (besides logging on to Facebook a minimum of 3 times every day?)? I've been teaching and had a routine colonoscopy (All is good, and - if anyone wants to know what physicians and nurses discuss during those procedures - just ask. Unfortunately, or fortunately, the meds wore off quickly and I was awake for much of the procedure. Ugg!) I've also done some yardwork, taken a long walk with my husband (first one in a while, why? don't know, it was a good thing), planned classes, practiced, and done homework for an upcoming hip workshop I'll present on the 25th.
Simple stuff. I feel calm and energized; not sure why, I should be agitated and angry. After all, my assessor quit! (oh, I said enough, didn't I?)
I am still here and I am still teaching Anusara-Inspired(TM) Yoga.
Hope you're doing well and hope you have a great Sunday!
My stance: that I will continue to teach, that I will retain my license, that I will wait. I used to make hasty decisions, but no more. Sometimes those work, sometimes not. This time, I have a sense that I need to wait. That said -- enough.
So, what have I been doing (besides logging on to Facebook a minimum of 3 times every day?)? I've been teaching and had a routine colonoscopy (All is good, and - if anyone wants to know what physicians and nurses discuss during those procedures - just ask. Unfortunately, or fortunately, the meds wore off quickly and I was awake for much of the procedure. Ugg!) I've also done some yardwork, taken a long walk with my husband (first one in a while, why? don't know, it was a good thing), planned classes, practiced, and done homework for an upcoming hip workshop I'll present on the 25th.
Simple stuff. I feel calm and energized; not sure why, I should be agitated and angry. After all, my assessor quit! (oh, I said enough, didn't I?)
I am still here and I am still teaching Anusara-Inspired(TM) Yoga.
Hope you're doing well and hope you have a great Sunday!
THIS CAN'T BE HAPPENING !?!?!?
What? On the cusp of attaining Certification in Anusara Yoga, a rumor-filled, yet factual in some respects, scandal.
If you want details, it's all available on the internet -- Yoga Journal has printed a small piece; Bay Shakti (www.bayshakti.com) has more; Facebook has lots of info. Enough to drive one nuts or, at the very least, to frustration.
I wish it would go away, but it won't. That won't happen until there are significant changes in the organization of Anusara Yoga and amends made for past transgressions. I, for one, will wait and watch.
The selfish part of me wishes it had not happened. The even more selfish part of me wishes my Certification assessor had not resigned (what now?). But it did. She did.
Enough.
We often hear our teachers say that the stories we read (in particular the Bhagavad Gita), are comprised of each of us as the characters -- if we look closely and reflect on our lives, we will see ourselves in the characters. If you are familiar with the story, bear with me:
Arjuna (a warrior) is called to fight in a great battle; Krishna (his chariot driver) advises him as they prepare. Arjuna's dilemma: that the two armies to fight are comprised of his family members -- brothers, cousins, etc. -- lined up on both sides of the battlefield. Arjuna would rather not fight than kill or injure any of his family members. Krishna's message to him -- it is your duty in life to participate in this battle; Arjuna agrees after significant discussion. End of story.
I am the warrior (suddenly faced with a battle of whether to continue or not); I am also the chariot driver (advising myself of the dutiful action to take); and I am the two armies (part of this yoga family, on both sides of the field -- some choosing to leave, some choosing to stay).
It's not fun being all the characters, but now I understand. I'll stay. The method of Anusara Yoga has given me so much, has helped my students so much, that I cannot walk away.
With love to all and to myself,
If you want details, it's all available on the internet -- Yoga Journal has printed a small piece; Bay Shakti (www.bayshakti.com) has more; Facebook has lots of info. Enough to drive one nuts or, at the very least, to frustration.
I wish it would go away, but it won't. That won't happen until there are significant changes in the organization of Anusara Yoga and amends made for past transgressions. I, for one, will wait and watch.
The selfish part of me wishes it had not happened. The even more selfish part of me wishes my Certification assessor had not resigned (what now?). But it did. She did.
Enough.
We often hear our teachers say that the stories we read (in particular the Bhagavad Gita), are comprised of each of us as the characters -- if we look closely and reflect on our lives, we will see ourselves in the characters. If you are familiar with the story, bear with me:
Arjuna (a warrior) is called to fight in a great battle; Krishna (his chariot driver) advises him as they prepare. Arjuna's dilemma: that the two armies to fight are comprised of his family members -- brothers, cousins, etc. -- lined up on both sides of the battlefield. Arjuna would rather not fight than kill or injure any of his family members. Krishna's message to him -- it is your duty in life to participate in this battle; Arjuna agrees after significant discussion. End of story.
I am the warrior (suddenly faced with a battle of whether to continue or not); I am also the chariot driver (advising myself of the dutiful action to take); and I am the two armies (part of this yoga family, on both sides of the field -- some choosing to leave, some choosing to stay).
It's not fun being all the characters, but now I understand. I'll stay. The method of Anusara Yoga has given me so much, has helped my students so much, that I cannot walk away.
With love to all and to myself,
VIDEO'ING (or, how to teach a private)
I made plans to video my class yesterday (4pm, Temecula). For the past 4-6 weeks, there have consistently been six in the room -- the required number for a video. I computed that, if those six arrived and I invited a few more, I'd have plenty of students to meet the requirement.
My plan included arriving early (I'd made plans to use the large room, which makes video'ing possible), getting camera set-up and ready, and review my plans for the class at least one more time. Then, I thought, I'd have a few extra minutes to move a bit; to get warmed up.
So (the ever-present 'so'), all went according to plan, except the student part. Just one person came to class. I must admit that I was a bit relieved -- to video with the stress of the past few days and months, video'ing seemed a bit silly. I do want to get it done, tho; I'd like to accomplish Certification, sooner than later.
Now, with one student in the room, this does NOT a video make. Shift gears, adjust attitude (mine), teach the one. She was a new-to-the-studio student; had done yoga a few times many years ago. And, many years ago had suffered a horseback riding accident that damaged her back and left hip. Perfect private material. We began; she quickly tired, so I slowed things down a bit and - rather than a 'regular' class - got therapeutic on her. Not sure that's what she was looking for, but that's what she got.
We worked with feet, legs, got to hips and back. As I talked and she moved, she kept saying things like 'this is just what I need', 'I wondered why my back was hurting in that area', 'my neck has been hurting lately, as well', and 'my feet cramp - will this help?'. I watched her move -- beautiful body awareness. But a body that has definitely been injured - short on the right side, torqued to the right through the torso, left shoulder well above the right and moving towards the front plane of the body.
After one hour, to her relief - I'm sure, I asked her to lie down, do a twist keeping the core muscles activated, then move through apanasana, and into savasana.
As we left the room, I thought "no video, but this - this private - needed to happen". Things work in interesting ways.
Leaves me wondering, however, WILL I EVER GET THAT VIDEO DONE?
Hope you have a great Friday,
My plan included arriving early (I'd made plans to use the large room, which makes video'ing possible), getting camera set-up and ready, and review my plans for the class at least one more time. Then, I thought, I'd have a few extra minutes to move a bit; to get warmed up.
So (the ever-present 'so'), all went according to plan, except the student part. Just one person came to class. I must admit that I was a bit relieved -- to video with the stress of the past few days and months, video'ing seemed a bit silly. I do want to get it done, tho; I'd like to accomplish Certification, sooner than later.
Now, with one student in the room, this does NOT a video make. Shift gears, adjust attitude (mine), teach the one. She was a new-to-the-studio student; had done yoga a few times many years ago. And, many years ago had suffered a horseback riding accident that damaged her back and left hip. Perfect private material. We began; she quickly tired, so I slowed things down a bit and - rather than a 'regular' class - got therapeutic on her. Not sure that's what she was looking for, but that's what she got.
We worked with feet, legs, got to hips and back. As I talked and she moved, she kept saying things like 'this is just what I need', 'I wondered why my back was hurting in that area', 'my neck has been hurting lately, as well', and 'my feet cramp - will this help?'. I watched her move -- beautiful body awareness. But a body that has definitely been injured - short on the right side, torqued to the right through the torso, left shoulder well above the right and moving towards the front plane of the body.
After one hour, to her relief - I'm sure, I asked her to lie down, do a twist keeping the core muscles activated, then move through apanasana, and into savasana.
As we left the room, I thought "no video, but this - this private - needed to happen". Things work in interesting ways.
Leaves me wondering, however, WILL I EVER GET THAT VIDEO DONE?
Hope you have a great Friday,
WILD WEEKEND
In many ways, this was one wild weekend.
First, the workshop with Sundari and Peter was great -- so nice to be with friends, practicing and learning. This kula (the 'bad ass' Jackson Hole group) is a great one. So gracious, so welcoming, so much fun to be with. And, the teachings we received from Sundari and Peter were unforgettable -- just ask me about "DD=T" (my one and only note from the weekend).
I returned yesterday morning (up at 2:30 am PST to drive to Idaho Falls, climb on an early flight, spend a few hours in SLC, then a full flight to Orange County. Arrived on time (maybe a little early), in the car and homeward bound. My goal was to arrive in time to teach the 3pm Library Class -- no problem; I had time to visit my house, check on pets, and change clothes, before driving in to teach.
Get this: 25 in the room! Among those, six new students -- some just came to observe, but the kula (the class participants) soon had them on mats, doing the practice. We worked with the feet -- I'm going to work from the ground up for a few weeks. Been doing a lot of reading and study in anticipation of a hip-opening workshop I'm conducting in late Feb. Do you know how our feet affect everything else? I am continually amazed as I read and learn.
Then, reviewing Facebook, troubling comments about JF, and another resignation. I've kind of figured out what happened -- an article alleging questionable religious beliefs, home-wrecker behavior, and fraud. Here are my immediate thoughts (until proven otherwise):
- Questionable religious beliefs - Or, more specifically, Wiccan practices. In almost every workshop or training I have attended with John, this belief and practice has been mentioned by him as he reviews his background. I don't know much about it; didn't care to -- that's not what I was there for. Yoga, in particular Anusara Yoga, was why I attended. (Let me emphasize this -- many of the people commenting attended these same workshops; I hope they don't plead ignorance.)
- Home-wrecker behavior - not much to say about this, except that it is a two-way street.
- Fraud - this relates to business practices with regards to employees of Anusara. I have heard the implications, seen a letter stating all is good and legal. I'll hold any opinion until I hear or see more.
Enough.
Off to the vet this a.m. with little Driggs, who is trying to chew her leg off (an exaggeration, but . . .). Maybe he can get her to stop.
Then, teaching in Temecula -- 2pm, Gentle/Therapeutic; 4:30pm, Prenatal.
Looking forward to a great day and week,
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,