GETTING SERIOUS HERE
Just over a month since my last post, where I talked a bit about Yoga Therapy (as an adjunct therapy to healthcare and wellness providers).
Over the past weekend I finished my final project in my second-to-last class of the Yoga Therapy Program I'm enrolled in at Loyola Marymount University. It was a 30+ minute zoom presentation on Parkinson's Disease, focusing on the incorporation of movement and voice activation when working with clients who have Parkinson's. Let me know if you'd like to see or learn more.
Just 60 more hours, working through TeleHealth, and I am done with 4+ years of training and ready to move ahead.
Throughout my teaching career, I have noticed the students who attend my classes are often unaware of what they are capable of. Their strength, their resilience, has been clouded over by years of inattention. Once in a yoga class, with only themselves to focus on, that cloud lifts -- people remember the strength, regain their power, and return many times to a more confident self. I plan to replicate that 'cloud lifting' for many more.
So, what will I do with this expanded knowledge? First, I am going to create an awareness of me and my skills.
How?
1) The website is being built as I write this. It will highlight my yoga teaching and introduce readers to the Yoga Therapy training I have. For some, Yoga Therapy is a new field to be explored, especially when faced with a chronic condition and/or injury. Yoga Therapy is a one-to-one work, offering my clients a place to speak and be heard; to move effectively based on condition(s); to breathe efficiently.
2) I am kicking my backside back to writing in this blog -- to bring awareness to me and my journey.
3) I will be starting a newsletter (soon).
4) I've been on Facebook for a long time, time to give Instagram a try.
I'd love to take you with me on this journey. If you would share your e-mail with me, I'll put you on the list for my NEW newsletter - once published, and also share the unveiling of my website. As one of my teachers used to say: 'It's gonna be great."
Please share your e-mail with me at leslie.l.salmon@gmail.com. In the subject line, write BLOG, and I'll pay extra attention to your communication.
Thanks for reading!
WHERE HAVE I BEEN & WHAT IS YOGA THERAPY?
Well, it's been a while, hasn't it. I laugh each time I see a particular ad on television where a young girl jumps out of bed, excited for school, runs to her computer and then realizes the situation we are in. Her head plops down onto the computer keyboard as if saying 'Oh, No!!!!'
And, I am continually impressed by the ways people are keeping themselves busy. To quote one of the students in my yoga teacher training -- it's hard to believe that I am SO busy during a time when almost everything is shut down.
I've been busy as well. My Yoga Therapy classes at Loyola Marymount Univ. in LA are now coming to me via Zoom. I've signed up for numerous classes and courses related to yoga teaching and therapy. I've been doing both professional (yoga) and recreational (fiction) reading. I've pulled out the guitars (again) and have been practicing almost every day (I'm even logging date/time/what I've practiced and on which guitar). On a side note -- you do know that no decent guitar player has only ONE guitar, don't you? Well, I'm not in that 'decent' category yet, but I do have 3 guitars waiting to be practiced on. One must always be prepared.
I thought I'd take some time today to talk about Yoga Therapy. So, here goes:
All yoga has the potential to be healing. Yoga Therapy is the specific application of yogic tools—postures/exercises, breathwork, meditation techniques, and more—to address an individual’s physical, mental, and emotional needs. Many people first learn about yoga through its physical practices, but a common misconception is that it’s only about stretching or poses. In fact, yoga therapy can help people who can’t move at all, as well as active individuals!
The yogic model of health is unique because it addresses every aspect of life rather than considering each body part or system separately. Yoga Therapy is a safe way of working with the natural capacity of your body and mind to optimize well-being and affect healing.
A general public yoga class can certainly ease everyday aches, pains, and mood complaints. But a yoga therapy session goes much further because it is tailored to an individual, as opposed to the group.
My training as a Yoga Therapist has focused on detailed exploration of the body, mental health, breath work, all to help me assess and keep my clients safe. I work with you to address your specific goals while considering any limitations you might be experiencing. The practices I, as a Yoga Therapist, recommend could include:
Movement ranging from gentle to vigorous
Breathing techniques
Meditation or visualization practices
Physical postures that address specific areas of discomfort or musculoskeletal imbalances
Any combination of tools like these!
It all depends on what you need to increase your health and well-being. It is NOT a replacement for conventional medical treatments, it is an adjunct methodology.
So, what happens today - July 22? Each day, I look at the calendar just to keep myself straight. It used to be so automatic (pre-Covid), jump out of bed, ready to go, with a plan in mind. Some days now it is more of a 'muddle' (an untidy or disorganized state). But, today, I spend several hours with the graduating group of Yoga Teachers who have spent much longer than they planned with me, due to the closures. We will be done by the end of the month. Then - for all of us - a much-needed break.
Have a great day, wear your mask & take care!
PANOPLY
In the last few years, when I do post on this blog, I am almost embarrassed to see the time passed since my last post. I say 'almost', since I know I've been busy. So, excuses aside, here goes:
Yesterday, I was teaching my usual 10:30am Anusara Class at Sage Yoga in Fallbrook (CA). I considered myself fortunate that many chose to struggle through the rain to come to class. Remember, I do live in So. Cal., where rain, fire and earthquakes are stay-at-home or evacuate events (evacuate for the last two - fire & earthquakes). In the case of rain, many choose to stay cozy on their sofas or - giving them the benefit of the doubt - maybe they're taking care of erosion issues, roof leaks, flooded surface streets. Anyway, everyone showed up yesterday despite the rain.
And, don't get me wrong, no one's complaining about the rain, since we need it; but, it is a change from our otherwise warm and sunny days.
So, back to teaching.
We are going through the sequence I'd prepared and during one particular pose (often fraught with struggle), the word 'panoply' almost comes out of my mouth. How that word got into my head is a mystery. I held back, since I wasn't sure what the word meant. I had an idea, but not sure enough to throw it out, especially with all those pairs of eyes watching me.
What did I do? I asked the room -- 'does anyone know what the word 'panoply' means?' (A clue here that my classes run the gamut of asana, anatomy, vocabulary, self-inquiry, etc., etc.) No answer, but I did get promise to find out.
I came home and looked it up, because by now you're waiting on the edge of your seats for just what it means; so, here goes:
PANOPLY: A noun meaning a complete or impressive collection of things, as in "a deliciously inventive panoply of ideas"; also, a splendid display and/or a complete set of arms or suit of armor (that's from history, since the word comes from the Greek, Panoplia, meaning 'suit of armor')
Therefore, I could have used the word (the context of yesterday's event escapes me now) - as an impressive collection of poses (or something like that).
When I guide the TT's at Sage, we do word drills -- I'll offer up 5-6 commonly heard words in yoga classes (like put, bring, take, etc.) and ask students to pull out their Thesaurus and find some alternatives. It's a good exercise, bringing out some creative ways of offering instructions/guidance.
And, in my world otherwise?
Teaching 4-5 classes each week; a new TT group will begin later this month; and I continue my studies at Loyola Marymount (in LA) to become certified as a yoga therapist (1.5 years to go until completion).
Enjoy your day,
Yesterday, I was teaching my usual 10:30am Anusara Class at Sage Yoga in Fallbrook (CA). I considered myself fortunate that many chose to struggle through the rain to come to class. Remember, I do live in So. Cal., where rain, fire and earthquakes are stay-at-home or evacuate events (evacuate for the last two - fire & earthquakes). In the case of rain, many choose to stay cozy on their sofas or - giving them the benefit of the doubt - maybe they're taking care of erosion issues, roof leaks, flooded surface streets. Anyway, everyone showed up yesterday despite the rain.
And, don't get me wrong, no one's complaining about the rain, since we need it; but, it is a change from our otherwise warm and sunny days.
So, back to teaching.
We are going through the sequence I'd prepared and during one particular pose (often fraught with struggle), the word 'panoply' almost comes out of my mouth. How that word got into my head is a mystery. I held back, since I wasn't sure what the word meant. I had an idea, but not sure enough to throw it out, especially with all those pairs of eyes watching me.
What did I do? I asked the room -- 'does anyone know what the word 'panoply' means?' (A clue here that my classes run the gamut of asana, anatomy, vocabulary, self-inquiry, etc., etc.) No answer, but I did get promise to find out.
I came home and looked it up, because by now you're waiting on the edge of your seats for just what it means; so, here goes:
PANOPLY: A noun meaning a complete or impressive collection of things, as in "a deliciously inventive panoply of ideas"; also, a splendid display and/or a complete set of arms or suit of armor (that's from history, since the word comes from the Greek, Panoplia, meaning 'suit of armor')
Therefore, I could have used the word (the context of yesterday's event escapes me now) - as an impressive collection of poses (or something like that).
When I guide the TT's at Sage, we do word drills -- I'll offer up 5-6 commonly heard words in yoga classes (like put, bring, take, etc.) and ask students to pull out their Thesaurus and find some alternatives. It's a good exercise, bringing out some creative ways of offering instructions/guidance.
And, in my world otherwise?
Teaching 4-5 classes each week; a new TT group will begin later this month; and I continue my studies at Loyola Marymount (in LA) to become certified as a yoga therapist (1.5 years to go until completion).
Enjoy your day,
LOTS HAS HAPPENED . . .
Since my last post. Here is a brief list of happenings in my life and teaching:
1. I've enrolled and been participating in the Yoga Therapy Program at Loyola Marymount / Los Angeles.
2. My classes, for a reason unknown to me, have grown to double the size of last year (and, are remaining stable).
3. I am guiding the 5th 200-Hour Teacher Training at Sage Yoga Studios in Fallbrook.
4. We got a new puppy (well, he's almost 16 months old now). Because he is a barker - in particular at one neighbor; we believe that neighbor shot him in the eye with a BB gun.
5. Grandsons are growing UP -- one will graduate from high school this Spring and is off to college in the Fall.
To expand on the above:
1. In October, when we returned from our month in Driggs, I was 'hungry' -- not for food, but for more knowledge. I had looked at the Yoga Therapist program last year (2016), decided it was too complicated to get in and looked away. In October 2017, I looked at it again. Applied. And was accepted into the second level of a four-level program. My rationale for level 2, was that level 1 involved muscles and skeleton and I've had lots of study there; level 2 involves respiratory, endocrine, ayurveda, etc. -- elements I find lacking in my knowledge base. The level 2 program is one year in length -- averaging to one weekend per month. I drive to LA on Saturday morning, spend the afternoon in lecture, then spend the night, more lecture on Sunday morning/afternoon, and finish up on Sunday about 5pm, and home. Except for the drive, it has been good for me to expand my horizon.
At this point, I don't see myself as a one-on-one yoga therapist, but I do see myself being better able to work with the students who walk into my classes with an injury, chronic condition or complaint.
2. An added bonus to #1 is that my classes have grown since returning to Fallbrook in October 2017. I almost hate to write that, might jinx it. Anyway, the four classes I teach in mornings are doing well, and I have hopes the one 5:30 class I started last month will grow with awareness.
Am I teaching differently? I think, yes. I am not afraid (afraid of losing people) to delve into the energetics of the body - bhandas, kleshas, koshas, chakras, etc. I also am emphasizing that there is much more to yoga than asana. This is a result of #1 (above); as I hear very experienced and knowledgeable teachers/therapists talk about yoga's affect on individuals.
And, I must admit, it is wonderful to be in a room of people who stick with me week after week.
3. The 5th Teacher Training is well underway. These are small trainings. Since Reyna (studio owner) and I are main teachers for the program, 4-6 people is about the max for their benefit. This training is a bit different from previous ones, in that I started them teaching in week 2 of the 16-week course. We still do anatomy, philosophy, teaching methodology, but the actual teaching (I feel) will serve them as they move on after this course.
4. Yes, the puppy - Beau. He is a great dog -- energetic, smart -- but not what we've been used to in past dogs. How? Well, he doesn't enjoy people other than myself and Howard. He'll tolerate them, but it's best to let him do the approaching rather than try to reach out to him. We got Beau to keep our younger 'old' dog company, in the event the old 'old' dog passes (he has a liver tumor). At this point all three are going strong - which is a good thing. Beau is an English Shepherd - his breed's job is to protect the 'farm'. And he has had an ongoing feud with one neighbor. Began playfully, but has gotten a bit more assertive with age. Last month, I came home to find his eye full of blood, the result of a BB lodged between eyeball and lid. Since the feuding neighbor is the only neighbor bordering the area of our yard fenced for dogs, we asked him if he did it. He admitted he didn't think the gun was loaded. Then denied it to sheriff's. (It's a crime, you know, to harm an animal.) So, we are in the midst of trying to save eyesight in the affected eye, and deal with the neighbor. Enough.
5. And, the grandsons -- growing!!! Jake will graduate high school, then go to college; Nick plays basketball and is trying his hand at some thespian work. The So. Cal. Grandsons are now 7, 9 and 11 years of age -- all playing soccer, football and lacrosse! Not sure how parents do it, but they are all at their games on time and ready. We'll go to the HS graduation in Kansas in May; in the meantime, we have lots of games to choose from for the younger 3.
After months of neglecting this blog; it seems I've written a novel. I hope I'll be able to shorten my diatribes in the future and with more regularity.
In the meantime, take care!
1. I've enrolled and been participating in the Yoga Therapy Program at Loyola Marymount / Los Angeles.
2. My classes, for a reason unknown to me, have grown to double the size of last year (and, are remaining stable).
3. I am guiding the 5th 200-Hour Teacher Training at Sage Yoga Studios in Fallbrook.
4. We got a new puppy (well, he's almost 16 months old now). Because he is a barker - in particular at one neighbor; we believe that neighbor shot him in the eye with a BB gun.
5. Grandsons are growing UP -- one will graduate from high school this Spring and is off to college in the Fall.
To expand on the above:
1. In October, when we returned from our month in Driggs, I was 'hungry' -- not for food, but for more knowledge. I had looked at the Yoga Therapist program last year (2016), decided it was too complicated to get in and looked away. In October 2017, I looked at it again. Applied. And was accepted into the second level of a four-level program. My rationale for level 2, was that level 1 involved muscles and skeleton and I've had lots of study there; level 2 involves respiratory, endocrine, ayurveda, etc. -- elements I find lacking in my knowledge base. The level 2 program is one year in length -- averaging to one weekend per month. I drive to LA on Saturday morning, spend the afternoon in lecture, then spend the night, more lecture on Sunday morning/afternoon, and finish up on Sunday about 5pm, and home. Except for the drive, it has been good for me to expand my horizon.
At this point, I don't see myself as a one-on-one yoga therapist, but I do see myself being better able to work with the students who walk into my classes with an injury, chronic condition or complaint.
2. An added bonus to #1 is that my classes have grown since returning to Fallbrook in October 2017. I almost hate to write that, might jinx it. Anyway, the four classes I teach in mornings are doing well, and I have hopes the one 5:30 class I started last month will grow with awareness.
Am I teaching differently? I think, yes. I am not afraid (afraid of losing people) to delve into the energetics of the body - bhandas, kleshas, koshas, chakras, etc. I also am emphasizing that there is much more to yoga than asana. This is a result of #1 (above); as I hear very experienced and knowledgeable teachers/therapists talk about yoga's affect on individuals.
And, I must admit, it is wonderful to be in a room of people who stick with me week after week.
3. The 5th Teacher Training is well underway. These are small trainings. Since Reyna (studio owner) and I are main teachers for the program, 4-6 people is about the max for their benefit. This training is a bit different from previous ones, in that I started them teaching in week 2 of the 16-week course. We still do anatomy, philosophy, teaching methodology, but the actual teaching (I feel) will serve them as they move on after this course.
4. Yes, the puppy - Beau. He is a great dog -- energetic, smart -- but not what we've been used to in past dogs. How? Well, he doesn't enjoy people other than myself and Howard. He'll tolerate them, but it's best to let him do the approaching rather than try to reach out to him. We got Beau to keep our younger 'old' dog company, in the event the old 'old' dog passes (he has a liver tumor). At this point all three are going strong - which is a good thing. Beau is an English Shepherd - his breed's job is to protect the 'farm'. And he has had an ongoing feud with one neighbor. Began playfully, but has gotten a bit more assertive with age. Last month, I came home to find his eye full of blood, the result of a BB lodged between eyeball and lid. Since the feuding neighbor is the only neighbor bordering the area of our yard fenced for dogs, we asked him if he did it. He admitted he didn't think the gun was loaded. Then denied it to sheriff's. (It's a crime, you know, to harm an animal.) So, we are in the midst of trying to save eyesight in the affected eye, and deal with the neighbor. Enough.
5. And, the grandsons -- growing!!! Jake will graduate high school, then go to college; Nick plays basketball and is trying his hand at some thespian work. The So. Cal. Grandsons are now 7, 9 and 11 years of age -- all playing soccer, football and lacrosse! Not sure how parents do it, but they are all at their games on time and ready. We'll go to the HS graduation in Kansas in May; in the meantime, we have lots of games to choose from for the younger 3.
After months of neglecting this blog; it seems I've written a novel. I hope I'll be able to shorten my diatribes in the future and with more regularity.
In the meantime, take care!
A GREAT DAY . . .
Just a few minutes to write about some of the comments I heard on my teaching after one of my Thursday classes:
First, from a 17-year-old:
I feel so good in your class, everyone was friendly and welcoming, and I look forward to making the studio my home.
Second, from a 70-year-old:
You offer so much.
Third, from a 50-year-old:
You are different from any instructor I've experienced.
Let me just say that if you read my blog regularly, you know that different (in my book) is a good thing.
Different moves us out of our comfort zone.
Don't get me wrong -- these are the good things said. I know there are people who come to my class once (ONE TIME) and never return. I am not everyone's 'cup of tea' and I don't hope to be. Each of us will find the teacher who speaks to them.
Enough -- have a great day!
First, from a 17-year-old:
I feel so good in your class, everyone was friendly and welcoming, and I look forward to making the studio my home.
Second, from a 70-year-old:
You offer so much.
Third, from a 50-year-old:
You are different from any instructor I've experienced.
Let me just say that if you read my blog regularly, you know that different (in my book) is a good thing.
Different moves us out of our comfort zone.
Don't get me wrong -- these are the good things said. I know there are people who come to my class once (ONE TIME) and never return. I am not everyone's 'cup of tea' and I don't hope to be. Each of us will find the teacher who speaks to them.
Enough -- have a great day!
TIME TO WRITE . . .
It's been a while since the last post and I thought (the other day) -- I have a lot of stuff to write about. So, here goes:
First, I am coming to the end of the third 200-hr Teacher Training I have been guide to here in Fallbrook. It's been a great ride (and, one that will continue). As I look over graduates, I see several teaching at Sage Yoga in Fallbrook; I hear that some are teaching in other venues (Connected Warriors or to friends or to co-workers). One or two are actively seeking me out as a mentor - a great compliment. All-in-all this has been a rewarding growth and learning experience.
Growth and learning? Aren't I supposed to be teaching them to teach? Of course, but teaching can only be accomplished with a large supply of knowledge. I am re-reading the books I read for my own Certification process (AND, understanding more!?!?!?). I've also explored and found some great books to supplement the training. And, the students who populate the trainings have been wonderful teachers, as well.
Students as teachers? Just like in the public classes I teach, each person brings a unique perspective to our Teacher Training program. One may have a background in massage therapy or personal training, giving them another view of anatomy; another may be in the service industry, offering us a valuable glimpse at the importance of customer service and boundaries; I could go on - through each of the 11 graduates and 5 almost-graduates - but that would create a LONG post, so I won't.
To enhance MY teaching skills:
1. I'm enrolled in another webinar with Christina Sell -- this one titled "Finding Depth in the Basics". I am always impressed with the quantity and quality of material presented by Christina - she doesn't disappoint.
2. I've also travelled to Idaho for two 5-day sessions with Sundari in the last 8 months - one on the Chakras, the second on sequencing. The community Sundari has created is amazing and each time I study with her I come away with new skills and greater sensitivity. I have another one planned, just not sure of dates yet.
3. In March, I will check Darren Rhodes off my 'to do' list when I attend a workshop in Tucson conducted by him and Sam Rice (FYI, I have long hoped to study with Darren.) Looking forward to a new experience.
4. And, in August, I have registered for my 4th 'Raising Your Vibration' intensive (5 days) with Desiree Rumbaugh and Andrew Rivin. Yes!
On teaching, I had a personal light-bulb moment this week. A student in one of my classes mentioned that she always thought her elbows were straight UNTIL she saw her reflection in the mirror during class. Then, as I was doing my practice at home one day, I looked at my elbows and noticed they were not as straight as I'd like, either. So, what to do? For me, I stood on my mat, raised my arms, and took my 'mind's eye' (as I call it) to my elbows. From the elbows, I extended through fingertips - without getting too rigid in the fingers. (Remember, I'm working the elbows.) And, it worked. I took it into class with me that day and tried it out; saying something like: "with your arms overhead, draw your attention to your elbows and, from the elbows, reach out through the fingertips to the ceiling". Note that we had already done some shoulder work, which meant most had their arms alongside ears. Elbows were noticeably straighter.
And, at home, we have a new puppy. His name is 'Beau' - we call him 'Beau-dy', and he came to us from Utah. He's an English Shepherd, about 12 weeks old, and already 22+ pounds. So far, things are going well; a bit of an adjustment for us, not to mention the older 2 dogs, but we are doing o.k. and he's definitely a 'keeper'.
Off to a Saturday of Teacher Training. I hope you have a great day!
First, I am coming to the end of the third 200-hr Teacher Training I have been guide to here in Fallbrook. It's been a great ride (and, one that will continue). As I look over graduates, I see several teaching at Sage Yoga in Fallbrook; I hear that some are teaching in other venues (Connected Warriors or to friends or to co-workers). One or two are actively seeking me out as a mentor - a great compliment. All-in-all this has been a rewarding growth and learning experience.
Growth and learning? Aren't I supposed to be teaching them to teach? Of course, but teaching can only be accomplished with a large supply of knowledge. I am re-reading the books I read for my own Certification process (AND, understanding more!?!?!?). I've also explored and found some great books to supplement the training. And, the students who populate the trainings have been wonderful teachers, as well.
Students as teachers? Just like in the public classes I teach, each person brings a unique perspective to our Teacher Training program. One may have a background in massage therapy or personal training, giving them another view of anatomy; another may be in the service industry, offering us a valuable glimpse at the importance of customer service and boundaries; I could go on - through each of the 11 graduates and 5 almost-graduates - but that would create a LONG post, so I won't.
To enhance MY teaching skills:
1. I'm enrolled in another webinar with Christina Sell -- this one titled "Finding Depth in the Basics". I am always impressed with the quantity and quality of material presented by Christina - she doesn't disappoint.
2. I've also travelled to Idaho for two 5-day sessions with Sundari in the last 8 months - one on the Chakras, the second on sequencing. The community Sundari has created is amazing and each time I study with her I come away with new skills and greater sensitivity. I have another one planned, just not sure of dates yet.
3. In March, I will check Darren Rhodes off my 'to do' list when I attend a workshop in Tucson conducted by him and Sam Rice (FYI, I have long hoped to study with Darren.) Looking forward to a new experience.
4. And, in August, I have registered for my 4th 'Raising Your Vibration' intensive (5 days) with Desiree Rumbaugh and Andrew Rivin. Yes!
On teaching, I had a personal light-bulb moment this week. A student in one of my classes mentioned that she always thought her elbows were straight UNTIL she saw her reflection in the mirror during class. Then, as I was doing my practice at home one day, I looked at my elbows and noticed they were not as straight as I'd like, either. So, what to do? For me, I stood on my mat, raised my arms, and took my 'mind's eye' (as I call it) to my elbows. From the elbows, I extended through fingertips - without getting too rigid in the fingers. (Remember, I'm working the elbows.) And, it worked. I took it into class with me that day and tried it out; saying something like: "with your arms overhead, draw your attention to your elbows and, from the elbows, reach out through the fingertips to the ceiling". Note that we had already done some shoulder work, which meant most had their arms alongside ears. Elbows were noticeably straighter.
And, at home, we have a new puppy. His name is 'Beau' - we call him 'Beau-dy', and he came to us from Utah. He's an English Shepherd, about 12 weeks old, and already 22+ pounds. So far, things are going well; a bit of an adjustment for us, not to mention the older 2 dogs, but we are doing o.k. and he's definitely a 'keeper'.
Off to a Saturday of Teacher Training. I hope you have a great day!
TODAY
Each Saturday morning, I review the schedule of the current Teacher Training for content -- what do I need to review or read or write for the group on any given day. One of today's topics is 'Listening Skills'.
Several years ago (more than 5), I wrote a blog on this topic. I thought, mistakenly -- 'I'll go to my blog and pull up that post, and use it'. Wrong -- My blog used to have a different title and the blog program cannot (or will not) access that 'old' title content. So, I will write it again (everything bears repeating, doesn't it?).
In my previous post, I wrote that, over the years, I've come to look at listening with the attitude encompassed by the three A's of Anusara Yoga - Attitude, Alignment and Action.
FYI, my original post was written not just because I know that listening is a valuable skill for yoga teachers, but because I had experienced once too often being asked "How are you?", only to have the person inquiring look away to his/her next target of inquiry BEFORE hearing my response. That is just rude, in my book!
I considered the skills involved in truly listening and have tried to apply them to my encounters with people. So hear (here) goes:
ATTITUDE - When I have decided to engage with a person or people, I step into the 'listening' space. I make a conscious and concerted effort to think about this person's interests and the value of having someone 'listen' to what you (or I) have to say.
This came acutely to my attention in August of this year, when I was attending Desiree Rumbaugh and Andrew Rivins' "Raising Your Vibration" Intensive. Andrew had us gather into small groups of 3-4 people, and answer a specific list of 3-4 questions. We were instructed to listen, not offer commentary to another person's offering. When we finished, we re-gathered as one large group and he asked how that felt. Overwhelmingly, the comment was made "I felt heard". INTERESTING - and, this from a group of very social yoga teachers and students!
ALIGNMENT - Once the decision has been made to step into the 'listening' space, I 'align'. To me that means - I look the person in the eye and I open my ears to only their voice.
When you read my brief diatribe about 'how are you', you got the gist of 'alignment'. People who ask 'how are you?' perhaps have good intentions, want to be friendly and outgoing, etc., etc., BUT what happened when the question was out there? Eyes begin darting around the room, voices (other than the target's) are in their ears, they allow interruptions, and they may even get a bit 'fidgety' - as though trapped.
A good example is my second encounter with John Friend - my first was a retreat at Inner Harmony, which I had to leave early as a result of a family emergency. I next attended a weekend workshop in Tucson. After the workshop, I went to John to thank him - not just for the workshop, but also for the work he had done to establish a community of caring people (I had received many notes and communications after leaving Inner Harmony from fellow students). During our brief conversation, his eyes stayed on me. Another student came up to talk, interrupting us. He gracefully turned to her and asked her to wait for a few moments as he finished our conversation. John then turned back to me, I finished my words of appreciation - that was alignment, in my book; not to mention attitude.
ACTION - So, we've set our attitude, we are aligned, now for the work of 'listening', the action. I connect through the eyes, I open my ears to only their words, and I close my mouth.
How many times have you begun speaking to have someone say "Oh, that's happened to me and . . .". You haven't finished your statement, you haven't been heard, you've been spoken over by your supposed listener's experience.
SUMMARY - Briefly, to summarize all this, when I decide to 'listen', I:
1) Decide that, no matter what, this person deserves (and wants) to be heard
2) Set my stance and make eye contact (for the duration)
3) I open my ears and I keep my mouth shut
This is not easy - we are living in a fast-paced world. I have places to go, things to do, and - sometimes - it takes some of that time to be kind. I have never regretted taking the time to listen to a student, a friend, and/or a family member.
Have a great day!
Several years ago (more than 5), I wrote a blog on this topic. I thought, mistakenly -- 'I'll go to my blog and pull up that post, and use it'. Wrong -- My blog used to have a different title and the blog program cannot (or will not) access that 'old' title content. So, I will write it again (everything bears repeating, doesn't it?).
In my previous post, I wrote that, over the years, I've come to look at listening with the attitude encompassed by the three A's of Anusara Yoga - Attitude, Alignment and Action.
FYI, my original post was written not just because I know that listening is a valuable skill for yoga teachers, but because I had experienced once too often being asked "How are you?", only to have the person inquiring look away to his/her next target of inquiry BEFORE hearing my response. That is just rude, in my book!
I considered the skills involved in truly listening and have tried to apply them to my encounters with people. So hear (here) goes:
ATTITUDE - When I have decided to engage with a person or people, I step into the 'listening' space. I make a conscious and concerted effort to think about this person's interests and the value of having someone 'listen' to what you (or I) have to say.
This came acutely to my attention in August of this year, when I was attending Desiree Rumbaugh and Andrew Rivins' "Raising Your Vibration" Intensive. Andrew had us gather into small groups of 3-4 people, and answer a specific list of 3-4 questions. We were instructed to listen, not offer commentary to another person's offering. When we finished, we re-gathered as one large group and he asked how that felt. Overwhelmingly, the comment was made "I felt heard". INTERESTING - and, this from a group of very social yoga teachers and students!
ALIGNMENT - Once the decision has been made to step into the 'listening' space, I 'align'. To me that means - I look the person in the eye and I open my ears to only their voice.
When you read my brief diatribe about 'how are you', you got the gist of 'alignment'. People who ask 'how are you?' perhaps have good intentions, want to be friendly and outgoing, etc., etc., BUT what happened when the question was out there? Eyes begin darting around the room, voices (other than the target's) are in their ears, they allow interruptions, and they may even get a bit 'fidgety' - as though trapped.
A good example is my second encounter with John Friend - my first was a retreat at Inner Harmony, which I had to leave early as a result of a family emergency. I next attended a weekend workshop in Tucson. After the workshop, I went to John to thank him - not just for the workshop, but also for the work he had done to establish a community of caring people (I had received many notes and communications after leaving Inner Harmony from fellow students). During our brief conversation, his eyes stayed on me. Another student came up to talk, interrupting us. He gracefully turned to her and asked her to wait for a few moments as he finished our conversation. John then turned back to me, I finished my words of appreciation - that was alignment, in my book; not to mention attitude.
ACTION - So, we've set our attitude, we are aligned, now for the work of 'listening', the action. I connect through the eyes, I open my ears to only their words, and I close my mouth.
How many times have you begun speaking to have someone say "Oh, that's happened to me and . . .". You haven't finished your statement, you haven't been heard, you've been spoken over by your supposed listener's experience.
SUMMARY - Briefly, to summarize all this, when I decide to 'listen', I:
1) Decide that, no matter what, this person deserves (and wants) to be heard
2) Set my stance and make eye contact (for the duration)
3) I open my ears and I keep my mouth shut
This is not easy - we are living in a fast-paced world. I have places to go, things to do, and - sometimes - it takes some of that time to be kind. I have never regretted taking the time to listen to a student, a friend, and/or a family member.
Have a great day!
TEACHER TRAINING
I recently (within the past 6-9 months) began assisting and conducting Teacher Trainings -- I assist with one in Temecula and lead a similar program in Fallbrook. These are 200-hour RYT trainings. At some point I'd like to teach Immersions and TT in the Anusara style, but first I must assist an Anusara TT. That hasn't happened yet.
So, what have I learned? That teaching people to be teachers is a learning process in itself. I find myself back in the classroom, reading required texts (again), creating lesson plans, planning schedules in order to get in the required hours.
I've also learned that, for me, I enjoy the process (and the learning).
It's especially rewarding to take a class from one of the graduates (who has been teaching for just one month), and find that the class is well-crafted, appropriate for the audience, and taught with confidence. Even the music was nice (this from someone who doesn't 'do' music). Hard to keep from smiling the entire class.
In my desire to learn more, I am attending several of the modules being offered by Sundari in her 300-hr training. I also signed up (already) to go to Tucson in March for a weekend with Darren Rhodes and Sam Rice. I have always wanted to do a class or workshop with Darren, so -- here I go! Time to get the "A" game on (which means 'beefing' up my stamina - since the Tucson group, as I remember, is VERY strong).
Besides the TT's, I am happily teaching 7 classes each week. I've decided to let go of the 5pm class mentioned in earlier posts and that has lifted a great burden. I find that when I let some things go, there is an associated relief that wasn't expected. Not worrying about a drive in traffic with little reward (in terms of class attendance) is - for me - a good thing.
Enjoy the 4th of July !!!
So, what have I learned? That teaching people to be teachers is a learning process in itself. I find myself back in the classroom, reading required texts (again), creating lesson plans, planning schedules in order to get in the required hours.
I've also learned that, for me, I enjoy the process (and the learning).
It's especially rewarding to take a class from one of the graduates (who has been teaching for just one month), and find that the class is well-crafted, appropriate for the audience, and taught with confidence. Even the music was nice (this from someone who doesn't 'do' music). Hard to keep from smiling the entire class.
In my desire to learn more, I am attending several of the modules being offered by Sundari in her 300-hr training. I also signed up (already) to go to Tucson in March for a weekend with Darren Rhodes and Sam Rice. I have always wanted to do a class or workshop with Darren, so -- here I go! Time to get the "A" game on (which means 'beefing' up my stamina - since the Tucson group, as I remember, is VERY strong).
Besides the TT's, I am happily teaching 7 classes each week. I've decided to let go of the 5pm class mentioned in earlier posts and that has lifted a great burden. I find that when I let some things go, there is an associated relief that wasn't expected. Not worrying about a drive in traffic with little reward (in terms of class attendance) is - for me - a good thing.
Enjoy the 4th of July !!!
FOLLOW-UP
In my last post, I mentioned class size; in the sister class last night (5pm), there were 5 (five) students. That's BIG for this time-slot/style/teacher at this studio.
The student I mentioned last week was one of the five. She arrived, set up her mat, and - I just happened to notice - was quickly massaging her feet, calves and hamstrings. Why? Well, if you read the last post, I promised to mention something about hamstrings 'later'. I guess today will be 'later'.
But, first, her down dogs looked amazing! I could tell she focused on the IS/OS of the arms, setting the shoulder blades strongly on her back, as she moved into her down dog. This set her shoulders up and then, with bent knees, she could warm up the backs of her legs, before we moved into a fuller down dog. What I witnessed was exactly what I hoped would happen -- strong shoulders, melted heart. She commented after class that she still needs time to set everything up - so, in a flow class where instructions happen quickly, she gets a bit frustrated not having 'time'. I reassured her these actions will happen more fluidly and rapidly as her body incorporates them. It's all a practice, right?
To continue on the hamstrings and forward folding: Hamstrings seem to be at the center of my attention these days. I have several students working with tight hamstrings. So, have been paying a lot of attention to webinars and other video clips, as well as my memory bank, to offer me some tips.
What have I learned and/or been reminded of?
After massaging both legs, student comes back to standing. My favorite way to get an effective forward fold is as follows:
The student I mentioned last week was one of the five. She arrived, set up her mat, and - I just happened to notice - was quickly massaging her feet, calves and hamstrings. Why? Well, if you read the last post, I promised to mention something about hamstrings 'later'. I guess today will be 'later'.
But, first, her down dogs looked amazing! I could tell she focused on the IS/OS of the arms, setting the shoulder blades strongly on her back, as she moved into her down dog. This set her shoulders up and then, with bent knees, she could warm up the backs of her legs, before we moved into a fuller down dog. What I witnessed was exactly what I hoped would happen -- strong shoulders, melted heart. She commented after class that she still needs time to set everything up - so, in a flow class where instructions happen quickly, she gets a bit frustrated not having 'time'. I reassured her these actions will happen more fluidly and rapidly as her body incorporates them. It's all a practice, right?
To continue on the hamstrings and forward folding: Hamstrings seem to be at the center of my attention these days. I have several students working with tight hamstrings. So, have been paying a lot of attention to webinars and other video clips, as well as my memory bank, to offer me some tips.
What have I learned and/or been reminded of?
- Several years ago, I asked Adam Ballenger to work with me on kicking to handstand. He first identified my tight shoulders, then worked with me on hamstring tightness (both needed loosening before kicking up). For the hamstrings, he talked about and asked me to do movement to lengthen those muscles - in particular, the fascia of the hamstrings AND the fascia above and below.
- In recent study, I continue to hear about the fascia and its role in inhibiting flexibility. Doug Keller reminded me that there is a fascial line running from the sole of the feet to the crown of the head, and that line of fascia will affect hamstring flexibility (I remember hearing this from Adam, also). Doug suggested the following:
- Example: Do your first forward fold of the day and notice the hamstrings in both legs. Now, take a seat and massage the sole of one foot; really get into the thick tissue with your thumbs and massage the entire foot. Now stand back up and do another forward fold. Compare legs. What do you feel?
After massaging both legs, student comes back to standing. My favorite way to get an effective forward fold is as follows:
- Massage legs and feet (you will just need to do this on the first fold of each practice)
- Stand in mountain pose, energetically hug shins towards each other, now move thighs in, back & apart (shins in, thigh out)
- Engage core and glutes (don't clench, tho)
- Place thumbs in hip creases
- Create length in torso
- Fold over thumbs, maintaining length (#4)
- With core still engaged, release hands to floor at about the halfway point into your fold
- Continue into your uttanasana (forward fold)
- Now, re-extend into ardha uttanasana (half forward fold) and re-engage core, glutes and lumbar curve, as best you can
- Fold again
- Deeper?
It was for the student last week - significantly. After a couple of these, she was able to fold, bend her knees and place her hands on back of heels, forearms resting on the back of her calf muscles, and belly resting on thighs. This position of hands and forearms created resistance as she moved to lift her hips, which straightened her knees - all while keeping her belly on her thighs.
What did her forward folds look like last night? Quite different - she was deeper from the first fold of her practice; and - better yet - I sensed an awareness of her knees (which may hyperextend if given the opportunity).
It's moments like these that ___________fill in the blank______________.
Hope you have a great Tuesday,
THERE WAS JUST ONE . . .
I teach a class called 'Alignment Basics' each Monday and Wednesday at 5pm in Temecula. Three things to know about this class --
1. 5pm in Temecula is a challenge for people coming from work, due to traffic (I-15 is usually very crowded, beginning at 3-4pm);
2. The name is a bit deceiving, since I do not believe it is a 'basic' class. That being said, including the word 'basic' in a class name will lead some people to believe it is not advanced enough for them (!?!?!?!); and
3. I may not be the teacher to attract a crowd to a class like this.
So, I am working on several things:
1. The time will not change, we'll give it a couple more months to see if growth, in any form, happens.
2. The name will change. I've suggested "Aligned Yoga", and also - within the description - eliminate the reference about 'new to yoga'.
3. We will work on 'me'. I have asked students to tell me what they expect, what they like and what they would change. Fortunately, I have students willing and able to share their expectations, and they have offered some good suggestions.
As with many of my classes, growth happens slowly. Last night's class had one student. As is my habit when doing a 'private', I asked that one person what she would like to work on. Her response: down dog. Well, I was a bit surprised -- down dog? from a dedicated and proficient student? Yes -- she had heard in another class that her heart ought to 'melt' in down dog. She was a bit confused by that instruction, so asked me to look at her down dog and offer my thoughts.
Be still my heart! This opened a couple doors for me. Yes, we could work on down dog. We also could address her elbow hyperextension, as a 'side dish'.
As I looked at her down dog, it looked great; from hands to hips was a direct line, with a bit of deviation to that line, as she straightened her legs (hamstrings, you know).
So, what did we do? Here's a laundry list - if you have questions or thoughts, contact me:
1. 5pm in Temecula is a challenge for people coming from work, due to traffic (I-15 is usually very crowded, beginning at 3-4pm);
2. The name is a bit deceiving, since I do not believe it is a 'basic' class. That being said, including the word 'basic' in a class name will lead some people to believe it is not advanced enough for them (!?!?!?!); and
3. I may not be the teacher to attract a crowd to a class like this.
So, I am working on several things:
1. The time will not change, we'll give it a couple more months to see if growth, in any form, happens.
2. The name will change. I've suggested "Aligned Yoga", and also - within the description - eliminate the reference about 'new to yoga'.
3. We will work on 'me'. I have asked students to tell me what they expect, what they like and what they would change. Fortunately, I have students willing and able to share their expectations, and they have offered some good suggestions.
As with many of my classes, growth happens slowly. Last night's class had one student. As is my habit when doing a 'private', I asked that one person what she would like to work on. Her response: down dog. Well, I was a bit surprised -- down dog? from a dedicated and proficient student? Yes -- she had heard in another class that her heart ought to 'melt' in down dog. She was a bit confused by that instruction, so asked me to look at her down dog and offer my thoughts.
Be still my heart! This opened a couple doors for me. Yes, we could work on down dog. We also could address her elbow hyperextension, as a 'side dish'.
As I looked at her down dog, it looked great; from hands to hips was a direct line, with a bit of deviation to that line, as she straightened her legs (hamstrings, you know).
So, what did we do? Here's a laundry list - if you have questions or thoughts, contact me:
- To address the hyperextension, in table position, I asked her to place her hands strongly on the mat, bend her elbows laterally, and - pressing hands into floor - begin to straighten the elbows. The muscle activation that this creates helps to mitigate the hyperextension.
- Moving to vajrasana (seated on heels), we practiced inner rotation of the forearm and outer rotation of the biceps, which brings awareness to the scapulae. It's easier to do one arm at a time, then both arms. For some, it also is easier to attain if we inner spiral/rotate the forearm, then work from the scapula and shoulder to create outer spiral/rotation of the biceps. (It's a very subtle action.)
- Now we put the two together in table position - first we worked to prevent hyperextension and added the IS/OS of the arms.
- With those actions in place, it's time to move to down dog. (Let me just say that this student is so dedicated and steady in her practice that maintaining the actions - which could be problematic for some - was not an issue for her.)
- Now add a little "Desiree" and her 'funky' down dog. If you've ever attended one of Des' workshops, you know what I'm talking about - down dog, looking forward - knees bent - hips and shoulders lifted - shoulder blades engaged - back a bit swayed (sorry if I am missing anything). What you end up with is a down dog that looks NOTHING like the end result.
- From here we maintain the shoulder action, stretch hips back and up (which extends the sway to a more straight position), and begin to straighten the legs.
- #'s 5&6, coupled with #'s 1&2, moved this student to a down dog with heart 'melted' AND strong shoulders AND no hyperextension. Another 'be still my heart'!
- Keeping all this, enjoy.
I guess in modern parlance, we might call this a "heart-melted down dog" hack.
By the time we were done doing all this, plus one or two of her 'new' down dogs, her arms were shaking and she wondered why. Why? Because she is using a lot of muscles that have previously been 'on vacation' -- the muscles helping to keep her elbows out of hyperextension PLUS the muscles up and into the shoulders and shoulder blades. New territory for this student.
Then we moved on to uttanasana (my choice, not hers), since there is so much potential. That's a rewarding topic for another day
Would love to hear feedback and/or questions.
Have a great Thursday,
A FEW QUICK THOUGHTS ...
I fully intend to write more on this blog. And, since I can't come up with a topic to write a lot about, I'll be satisfied with just a few thoughts:
Having taught yoga for 13 years, I am finally 'coming into my own'. What does that mean? Well, I feel wanted. Not just because one or two studios would like me to teach for them, but because students are also seeking out my classes. For this, I offer my gratitude to my teachers.
The things I was taught along my path are now bearing fruit. Students come to class - not to be entertained or to exercise, but (I believe) to learn more about yoga.
Why do I think that? Well, my classes are focused on teaching the intricacies of the practice, which is NOT everyone's 'cup of tea'. The student who comes to my class will receive the nuances of our poses. We may not 'get to the pose' right away, but my goal is to 'get to the pose' in the best way possible -- without pain and in good alignment. So far, so good.
The Teacher Training I have been guiding is also going well. My community of Fallbrook is small, but has a mighty desire to practice yoga. The studio is busy. There are five brave souls holding court with me two times each week. We talk anatomy, philosophy, teaching methods, adjustments/modifications, etc. And, we sprinkle in a liberal dose of workshop experiences, including arm balances, sound, Ayurveda, etc. I am impressed that each comes with a strong desire to learn and to teach, and each has their unique voice to add to our sessions. I am feeling very happy to be in their company.
Guiding a teacher training has enriched my learning, as well. I've read several great books:
Having taught yoga for 13 years, I am finally 'coming into my own'. What does that mean? Well, I feel wanted. Not just because one or two studios would like me to teach for them, but because students are also seeking out my classes. For this, I offer my gratitude to my teachers.
The things I was taught along my path are now bearing fruit. Students come to class - not to be entertained or to exercise, but (I believe) to learn more about yoga.
Why do I think that? Well, my classes are focused on teaching the intricacies of the practice, which is NOT everyone's 'cup of tea'. The student who comes to my class will receive the nuances of our poses. We may not 'get to the pose' right away, but my goal is to 'get to the pose' in the best way possible -- without pain and in good alignment. So far, so good.
The Teacher Training I have been guiding is also going well. My community of Fallbrook is small, but has a mighty desire to practice yoga. The studio is busy. There are five brave souls holding court with me two times each week. We talk anatomy, philosophy, teaching methods, adjustments/modifications, etc. And, we sprinkle in a liberal dose of workshop experiences, including arm balances, sound, Ayurveda, etc. I am impressed that each comes with a strong desire to learn and to teach, and each has their unique voice to add to our sessions. I am feeling very happy to be in their company.
Guiding a teacher training has enriched my learning, as well. I've read several great books:
- I am just now about mid-way through Chakras and their Archetypes - not necessarily a YOGA book, but a good correlation between the way we are (due to genetics, upbringing, etc.) and the Chakras.
- The Mirror of Yoga by Richard Freeman, is also a good one. I am not a philosophy geek (anatomy speaks loudly to me), and this book was easy for me to read and provided good reminders and some 'ah-ha' moments.
- Functional Anatomy of Yoga by David Kiel is the anatomy book I chose for the teacher training. I asked each student to purchase a copy and we are working our way through it week by week. (I did read the book before making this decision.) What I like about the book is that it tells us - in an easy-to-read style - about the basic anatomy, with a section on how our poses affect this anatomy.
- Warrior Self by Ted Cox. I purchased copies of this book for the teacher training students while attending the Kindred Spirits Reunion a few weeks ago. It basically is a translation of the Bhagavad Gita into metaphor. Great book - we are reading it chapter-by-chapter alongside a translation of the Gita by Stephen Mitchell.
- Next on my reading list are hunger, hope & healing by Sarajoy Marsh (who I also met at the Kindred Spirits Reunion); and Age Without Limits by Janet Rae Humphrey (this will be a great resource for students who practice yoga but are dealing with injury, chronic condition, or aging issues).
I mentioned the Kindred Spirits Reunion a couple times in my book list. It was a really enjoyable weekend retreat in Austin, TX, organized by Betsy Downing and Desiree Rumbaugh. I arrived on Friday, not really sure what I was getting into (I'd not attended last year's event.). I found my room and settled in a bit (long travel day from San Diego), then walked over to the yoga/event center for a Restorative Class (I re-discovered my hips there - thank you, Phil Davis). We joined after class for dinner - wonderful food, by the way. Up the next morning for a guided meditation, breakfast, short break, then we gathered for a forward folds class (taught by a group of 5, including Barbara Kuhl, Martha McQuaid, Jackie Romero, Patrice Barrocas and myself). Lunch followed, and after lunch we gathered to hear about the great efforts of current and former Anusara teachers, including books, teaching, history, etc. (in all, I think 5 people spoke -- VERY IMPRESSIVE AND ENERGIZING). Sunday morning, we gathered again for a meditation guided by Carmel Calcagno, then breakfast, a short break, re-gather for a class with Christina Sell, Jason Lobo and Elle Potter. Then home. If this event happens next year, I'll be there.
Well, a few thoughts hav blossomed to a long essay. I'll close now, saving some for the next post.
Hope you all have a great day!
FAST FORWARD . . .
I am now part of the faculty of two teacher training programs in our area. I have also recommended students in one of those trainings read my blog. What motivation to write!
I WROTE THE PREVIOUS PARAGRAPHS ABOUT 2 WEEKS AGO; SO LET'S FAST FORWARD AGAIN:
I continue to teach 7 classes each week, and I am now into week 3 of the teacher training that I am the lead instructor for. All, so far, is going smoothly. My classes are well populated in one studio, moderately populated in another, and - well - let's hope the 2 new classes grow over the coming months.
As for the teacher training, I could not have asked for a greater group of future teachers to work with. They are enthusiastic, participative, reading and doing all that I ask. I took a page from my teachers, and began a FB page for our group (it's 'secret'). On that page, we share information. I worried it may just be a one-way communication tool, but find that everyone in the training is using it, contributing, and participating. Be still my heart!!!
Tomorrow, I travel to Austin for Desiree Rumbaugh's (& others) Second Annual Kindred Spirits Reunion. It's a gathering of current and former Anusara students and teachers. My first time and I am looking forward to just being a sponge for most of the sessions, soaking up a lot of good stuff.
All in all, 2016 is shaping up well. I hope you are having a good start to 'sweet sixteen', also.
Take care and enjoy your weekend,
It has truly been a hectic time over the past 3 months. Between holidays, a couple short get-aways with husband, and my increased teaching schedule after Jan. 1, I have often felt like I need a white board in my car telling me where I must be at what time.
Well, not to bore you with those details. I will tell you about a great book I read in preparation for one of the trainings -- "Functional Anatomy of Yoga" by David Keil. Rarely am I able to read a book like this cover-to-cover; but, this one I did. And, it presented anatomy in a different way than I had experienced. Lots of information on the structure of the body, but also lots of follow-up information on how the body (and its structure) is influenced by our yoga practice. Highly recommend.
Teaching 7 classes each week (3 different studios) is not how I thought I'd be spending my 66th year.
And, I have developed a bit of a reputation. Who knew that people read your bios on your website or on the studio website? Who knew that people talk about you and your teaching? Well, I must say I hoped they were reading about me, and I hoped my reputation was a good one; but I came face to face with it a couple weeks ago. Here's what I heard:
"I've read all about you on your website; I know when you started yoga, etc., etc., etc."
"You're the one!" As in (they explained), you're the one who makes students do what you have asked of them (or, at least, a modification).
All this to say that, at age 66, I am finally being sought out. What a great feeling! I am grateful.
I WROTE THE PREVIOUS PARAGRAPHS ABOUT 2 WEEKS AGO; SO LET'S FAST FORWARD AGAIN:
I continue to teach 7 classes each week, and I am now into week 3 of the teacher training that I am the lead instructor for. All, so far, is going smoothly. My classes are well populated in one studio, moderately populated in another, and - well - let's hope the 2 new classes grow over the coming months.
As for the teacher training, I could not have asked for a greater group of future teachers to work with. They are enthusiastic, participative, reading and doing all that I ask. I took a page from my teachers, and began a FB page for our group (it's 'secret'). On that page, we share information. I worried it may just be a one-way communication tool, but find that everyone in the training is using it, contributing, and participating. Be still my heart!!!
Tomorrow, I travel to Austin for Desiree Rumbaugh's (& others) Second Annual Kindred Spirits Reunion. It's a gathering of current and former Anusara students and teachers. My first time and I am looking forward to just being a sponge for most of the sessions, soaking up a lot of good stuff.
All in all, 2016 is shaping up well. I hope you are having a good start to 'sweet sixteen', also.
Take care and enjoy your weekend,
SIX YEARS AGO . . .
Six years ago, yesterday, I turned 60 (if you do the math, that means that today I'm 66). I bored you with a countdown to the dramatic day in which I turned 60. Turns out it was pretty anti-climactic, but the countdown made it fun (for me).
So, today I am 66. I still teach 7 yoga classes each week, and continue to sign up for workshops and webinars as often as possible. (If you hear an audible 'groan', that is from my students as they heard or read the word 'webinar'.)
But, I still learn so much from those 'groan' webinars!
Today, I finished a 2-part webinar on hamstring health done by Julie Gudmestad (YogaUOnline). In the first session, Julie talked about the reasons for tight hamstrings. Exercise, lack of exercise, physical make-up -- all can contribute to our ability or inability to stretch out these 3 muscles on the back of our thighs. Loose (flexible) hamstrings can also create an issue for our students.
One thing I learned from this first part is that strengthening the muscles is the first stage of creating flexibility. I know, Adam or Sundari, you both told me this in countless yoga classes, but I forget -- remember, I'm 66 now. It was a good reminder. Julie explained that a strong set of hamstrings has greater blood supply, helping to create beefier muscle fibers to stretch. Strong and energized muscles are also safer to stretch. So, strengthen first then lengthen.
Part 2 reminded me that several factors affect hamstring tightness - some students may have more connective tissue in their muscles, which will limit flexibility; adductor, performis and gluteal muscles will also affect flexibility of the hamstrings; and, in adolescence, bone growth may exceed tissue growth, creating short hamstrings.
Interesting fact from the 'groan' webinar: Allowing hands to ‘dangle’ - due to tightness in hamstrings - is only tightening / contracting the muscles that make up the hamstrings. As we angle forward from our hips, the hamstring muscles shift into a lengthening contraction - ecentric contraction; however, once you ‘dangle' in that forward fold, the muscles go into an isometric contraction, shortening and tightening. Solution: a block under the hands (or something of sufficient height to keep back in a safe position).
So, armed with this information, I am off to teach. And, I have students with tight hamstrings. I also now have some safe, effective ways in which to work.
Hope you have a great Monday!
So, today I am 66. I still teach 7 yoga classes each week, and continue to sign up for workshops and webinars as often as possible. (If you hear an audible 'groan', that is from my students as they heard or read the word 'webinar'.)
But, I still learn so much from those 'groan' webinars!
Today, I finished a 2-part webinar on hamstring health done by Julie Gudmestad (YogaUOnline). In the first session, Julie talked about the reasons for tight hamstrings. Exercise, lack of exercise, physical make-up -- all can contribute to our ability or inability to stretch out these 3 muscles on the back of our thighs. Loose (flexible) hamstrings can also create an issue for our students.
One thing I learned from this first part is that strengthening the muscles is the first stage of creating flexibility. I know, Adam or Sundari, you both told me this in countless yoga classes, but I forget -- remember, I'm 66 now. It was a good reminder. Julie explained that a strong set of hamstrings has greater blood supply, helping to create beefier muscle fibers to stretch. Strong and energized muscles are also safer to stretch. So, strengthen first then lengthen.
Part 2 reminded me that several factors affect hamstring tightness - some students may have more connective tissue in their muscles, which will limit flexibility; adductor, performis and gluteal muscles will also affect flexibility of the hamstrings; and, in adolescence, bone growth may exceed tissue growth, creating short hamstrings.
Interesting fact from the 'groan' webinar: Allowing hands to ‘dangle’ - due to tightness in hamstrings - is only tightening / contracting the muscles that make up the hamstrings. As we angle forward from our hips, the hamstring muscles shift into a lengthening contraction - ecentric contraction; however, once you ‘dangle' in that forward fold, the muscles go into an isometric contraction, shortening and tightening. Solution: a block under the hands (or something of sufficient height to keep back in a safe position).
So, armed with this information, I am off to teach. And, I have students with tight hamstrings. I also now have some safe, effective ways in which to work.
Hope you have a great Monday!
THE WORKSHOP
I began planning, 2 months ago, to present a workshop. The title and content were tough to come up with -- so much material to share. Yet, what would be of interest?
After going back and forth, I settled on a favorite of mine - props. I called the workshop "Playing With Props", set the date (yesterday) and time, and now to the flier. I had accumulated pictures of props, so the flier included a kind of collage of those (plus a small pic of me). In fact, here's the flier:
After going back and forth, I settled on a favorite of mine - props. I called the workshop "Playing With Props", set the date (yesterday) and time, and now to the flier. I had accumulated pictures of props, so the flier included a kind of collage of those (plus a small pic of me). In fact, here's the flier:
I like the way it turned out. We put it out for circulation. Now on to the preparation part.
I carried the needed books around with me for several weeks, always intending to work on content. Don't get me wrong, I know a lot about props and how to use them; however, there is so much more out there. New props, even. I read, highlighted, then sat down to the computer and put to paper what I planned to teach.
My plan was to have those attending warm up a bit (probably using a prop or two), then do a Sun Saluation A (no props). Next, we would break the salutation into one pose at a time, and for each pose we would work one or two ways to enhance and refine using one or more of the props I'd pictured. Then repeat the salutation, always noticing any shifts due to the work we had done. I also decided to add in one or two standing poses, if time allowed. I stuck with standing poses, since they are our 'bread and butter', as well as strength and stamina builders.
The day before the workshop, I had an 8-page document in hand(!?!?!?!?!). There had to be a better way, so I simply listed each pose I planned to work with, with props needed. (Eyesight a bit less-than-optimal, I used 18point font, so I could see at a glance what / where we were headed.)
After a bit of practice and re-reading, I'm ready. Studio is ready with props set out next to my mat so that students would know what they ought to have as well.
Start-time approaches.
After the work - reading, planning, typing, practicing, I felt ready. I was ready. And, it went exactly as planned.
The best part? Great students attended, received and appreciated the information. And, I learned a ton more about props and standing poses. The next best part? We all went for coffee afterwards!
Off to soccer with the Grand-Dudes today (Jack - oldest - plays in his first 'real' tournament.) We'll share lunch with them -- part of Carson's - youngest - birthday celebration weekend. Then, I hope to relax.
Enjoy your Sunday,
THE JOURNEY & OTHER 'NEWS'
My personal practice continues to regularly include urdhva dhanurasana. Since the last post, I have been able to push up and hold for a bit longer, and on two occasions I added a 4th urdhva (prior, it had been just 3).
As well, I listened to a webinar by Doug Keller (2 Wednesday evenings, completed this week). I learned so much (as I always do from this gentleman). Head position - lots to know about that; the action of the legs in setu bhanda (bridge) and their impact on my pelvic rotation (or 'nutation', as he calls it -- new and strange word to me); diaphragm's effect on ribs and, hence, the back bending; too many more actions and nuances to mention.
I plan to go back and re-listen, and to review all his great diagrams, since I am sure I missed some things.
One of my issues with Urdhva Dhanurasana has been that I am coming to my toes in order to get up - that's not a bad thing, according to Doug. It activates the hamstrings enough to allow the quadriceps to soften. This softening releases the quadriceps' pull on the pelvis (which affect its nutation and puts more pressure into the low back). So, coming to the toes is a good modification. Now - to get the feet flat. I'm thinking that once I get up, using the tiptoes, then apply his further instructions, the feet will more easily come to flat.
It's a lot to think about when you are bending your back, holding yourself up, trying to breathe, etc., etc.. One thing I know, is that the only way it will happen is if I keep practicing it and getting more comfortable with it.
And, another thing I know, signing up for the webinar with Doug was one very smart thing for me to have done.
So, I am off to my space to practice. Wish me good practice!
Hope you have a great Friday!
As well, I listened to a webinar by Doug Keller (2 Wednesday evenings, completed this week). I learned so much (as I always do from this gentleman). Head position - lots to know about that; the action of the legs in setu bhanda (bridge) and their impact on my pelvic rotation (or 'nutation', as he calls it -- new and strange word to me); diaphragm's effect on ribs and, hence, the back bending; too many more actions and nuances to mention.
I plan to go back and re-listen, and to review all his great diagrams, since I am sure I missed some things.
One of my issues with Urdhva Dhanurasana has been that I am coming to my toes in order to get up - that's not a bad thing, according to Doug. It activates the hamstrings enough to allow the quadriceps to soften. This softening releases the quadriceps' pull on the pelvis (which affect its nutation and puts more pressure into the low back). So, coming to the toes is a good modification. Now - to get the feet flat. I'm thinking that once I get up, using the tiptoes, then apply his further instructions, the feet will more easily come to flat.
It's a lot to think about when you are bending your back, holding yourself up, trying to breathe, etc., etc.. One thing I know, is that the only way it will happen is if I keep practicing it and getting more comfortable with it.
And, another thing I know, signing up for the webinar with Doug was one very smart thing for me to have done.
So, I am off to my space to practice. Wish me good practice!
Hope you have a great Friday!
ALMOST DISCOURAGED (but not quite)
Well, after my post earlier this week, I did 2 practices in my home (with Christina online). Both times, I felt weak and that same gripping was present. The backbends were less than pretty.
Rather than give up (thanks to Rory Regina), I went back out this morning. Not that I planned to do the backbend, but rather that I wanted to spend a full 90 minutes on the mat. The side benefit to all this is that I am feeling stronger, better able to practice many poses. I stuck to the plan -- 90 minutes leading to Mermaid (again with Christina). While my mermaid was a bit lacking, as I lay on the mat I decided to try the urdhva (backbend) again -- 3 times. Higher, higher, higher. No gripping, focusing on keeping elbows close together.
After the third, I rested with a smile on my face. I CAN do it; I CAN'T give up.
Other news from the week -- I've started a 2-part webinar with Doug Keller. Great stuff and worth every penny to hear him speak. Granted this type of learning takes a bit of discipline -- you have to listen, you can't ask questions (during the presentation), but I still learn and I have access to the recording(s) for many months to come. So, if I missed something, I'll be able to go back and review. And, coincidentally, this webinar focuses on backbends.
About questions, I am reminded of the workshop I attended many years ago with Donna Farhi. Unless her tune has changed, she had strong feelings about questions during workshops (as in, don't ask because you already know the answer). Now that philosophy sounds harsh, but it does make one think. This poem, which came from her website, about sums it up:
Rather than give up (thanks to Rory Regina), I went back out this morning. Not that I planned to do the backbend, but rather that I wanted to spend a full 90 minutes on the mat. The side benefit to all this is that I am feeling stronger, better able to practice many poses. I stuck to the plan -- 90 minutes leading to Mermaid (again with Christina). While my mermaid was a bit lacking, as I lay on the mat I decided to try the urdhva (backbend) again -- 3 times. Higher, higher, higher. No gripping, focusing on keeping elbows close together.
After the third, I rested with a smile on my face. I CAN do it; I CAN'T give up.
Other news from the week -- I've started a 2-part webinar with Doug Keller. Great stuff and worth every penny to hear him speak. Granted this type of learning takes a bit of discipline -- you have to listen, you can't ask questions (during the presentation), but I still learn and I have access to the recording(s) for many months to come. So, if I missed something, I'll be able to go back and review. And, coincidentally, this webinar focuses on backbends.
About questions, I am reminded of the workshop I attended many years ago with Donna Farhi. Unless her tune has changed, she had strong feelings about questions during workshops (as in, don't ask because you already know the answer). Now that philosophy sounds harsh, but it does make one think. This poem, which came from her website, about sums it up:
I beg you . . . . to have patience with
everything unresolved in your heart
and try to love the questions themselves
as if they were locked rooms or books
written in a foreign language. Don’t search
for the answers, which could not be given you
now, because you would not be able
to live them. And the point is, to live
everything. Live the questions now. Perhaps
then, some day far in the future, you will gradually
without ever knowing it,
live your way into the answers.
– Rilke
I am rambling -- going from topic to topic. Must be the effect of the backbends.
Hope you have a great Saturday!
UPDATE ON 'THE JOURNEY TO URDHVA DHANURASANA'
It's been a week since I shouted to the blog and Facebook worlds my efforts working towards Urdhva Dhanurasana (wheel pose / backbend / bow pose). I am happy to report that my efforts continue on this previous-to-me elusive pose.
Continue, in that they progress AND are not always successful YET continue. Every other day, I trek out to my home studio, work through a practice using Christina Sell's online classes, then give UD (urdhva dhanurasana) 3 tries. Most days with success.
Yesterday, not so much. Not sure why -- muscles felt sore, the practice I'd selected was challenging, arms got tired, one of my left gluteal muscles decided to grip (painful).
I made it to the top of my head, but the gripping kicked in for the first 2 and as I began to push up, the 'sensation' in my backside brought me back down - quickly. I lay there for a few moments, thinking and cursing, wondering why and what to do to get that muscle(s) to calm down and leave me be. Then I did a bit of stretching, and gave it another try.
Third time, I came off the top of my head and pushed to arms straighter. In the background, was my glute threatening to grip; I could sense it. I'm not sure if the stretching helped, but at least I got one UD in and then called it a morning.
This past week, I asked another yoga teacher to observe me doing the pose and to offer feedback. Her comments -- I am coming higher than I may believe I am (yippee!), and I need to turn hands in and keep elbows a bit tighter to midline. I am still coming up on toes, tho once during the past week I was able to come up and then place feet flat (for a moment).
So, the journey continues. That is the big news in this post. Why? Well, as I explained in the last post, once I put something out there to friends, family, world - I tend to lose my focus and my efforts shift in another direction. The fact that I am still working towards the elusive pose is major for me. Commitment is my guide on this journey.
Another insight for me is to work on something, experience discomfort, try to shift body positions to a more optimal alignment. When I'm doing this, I often find myself thinking of my students. As in, 'I ask them to do some of this stuff and they tell me something hurts (glute gripping?).' I hope this work will contribute to my becoming more aware and more empathetic. That will be an added great outcome to this effort.
Off to teach two classes today; both Gentle and both in Temecula.
Hope you have a great Tuesday!
A NEW (old) QUEST
I hesitate to write this post, but need to get something on this blog -- after all it's been a long time since I've written here. So, after spending an hour on my yoga mat this morning, I decided it might be o.k. to tell you that it is never too late.
For 17 years, I have been loyal to this practice of yoga. And, for all of those 17 years two frequently taught poses have eluded me. Those are handstand and the backbend with hands and feet on floor, belly to ceiling.
Only once in all those years have I been able to push my head off the floor by myself (backbend), and I have yet to kick to handstand without some help.
At any training or workshop, when the guide asked us to move into one of these two poses, I'd quickly find a modification (for example, "L" pose at the wall or bridge). And, worse, I was embarrassed by this behavior; so much so that I stopped even trying to do either - I'd just do the modification and end up feeling 'less than'.
So, enter 2015. I asked students in many of the classes I teach to think about what pose or sequence or part of the practice that they would like to work on during the year. FYI, I was noncommittal about this, when asked about my goal; mainly because I hadn't really thought about one.
Well, in early February (2/10 to be exact), I found a goal. I did an on-line class as part of 'kicking up' my home practice a bit. At the end of the class, I thought "I've lost some weight, maybe things have shifted in other areas." So, in the privacy of our home studio, I placed my hands and feet, lifted my hips, came to the top of my head, and pushed my head at least 2 inches off the floor. (Remember, this is only the second lift-off of my LIFE that I've experienced without assistance.)
Two days later, I did another class -- this one a preparatory one designed for backbends. Pushed up 3 (THREE) times and these were higher than two days earlier.
Every other day since then, I have gone to the home studio and turned on an online class. At the end of the class, I've given the backbend a try. Each day (save one), my head has come off the floor 3 (THREE) times. If we count them up, that's 22 backbends (urdhva dhanurasana) in 16 days! The most recent, this morning.
I hesitated to tell (or write) about this to anyone; mainly because I often lose momentum once the cat is out of the bag. But, for me, this is BIG. I have shared it verbally with students and my family, and - so far - the momentum is still with me. So, I will write.
Now, I am tempted to try kicking up to handstand. No, I tell myself -- better to wait until you've got the backbend refined. Then, who knows!
All this work is certainly making me stronger. My home practice used to involve gentle stretching, a few salutations, some twists - certainly nothing very challenging. My teaching has expanded from Gentle classes to include Basic Classes, and I have guided a intermediate practice a few times this year. Therefore, my personal practice must shift. If I am going to feel comfortable teaching something; I must have experienced it -- the journey.
So stepping back to first paragraph, 17 years is not too late.
I hope you have a great Thursday!
For 17 years, I have been loyal to this practice of yoga. And, for all of those 17 years two frequently taught poses have eluded me. Those are handstand and the backbend with hands and feet on floor, belly to ceiling.
Only once in all those years have I been able to push my head off the floor by myself (backbend), and I have yet to kick to handstand without some help.
At any training or workshop, when the guide asked us to move into one of these two poses, I'd quickly find a modification (for example, "L" pose at the wall or bridge). And, worse, I was embarrassed by this behavior; so much so that I stopped even trying to do either - I'd just do the modification and end up feeling 'less than'.
So, enter 2015. I asked students in many of the classes I teach to think about what pose or sequence or part of the practice that they would like to work on during the year. FYI, I was noncommittal about this, when asked about my goal; mainly because I hadn't really thought about one.
Well, in early February (2/10 to be exact), I found a goal. I did an on-line class as part of 'kicking up' my home practice a bit. At the end of the class, I thought "I've lost some weight, maybe things have shifted in other areas." So, in the privacy of our home studio, I placed my hands and feet, lifted my hips, came to the top of my head, and pushed my head at least 2 inches off the floor. (Remember, this is only the second lift-off of my LIFE that I've experienced without assistance.)
Two days later, I did another class -- this one a preparatory one designed for backbends. Pushed up 3 (THREE) times and these were higher than two days earlier.
Every other day since then, I have gone to the home studio and turned on an online class. At the end of the class, I've given the backbend a try. Each day (save one), my head has come off the floor 3 (THREE) times. If we count them up, that's 22 backbends (urdhva dhanurasana) in 16 days! The most recent, this morning.
I hesitated to tell (or write) about this to anyone; mainly because I often lose momentum once the cat is out of the bag. But, for me, this is BIG. I have shared it verbally with students and my family, and - so far - the momentum is still with me. So, I will write.
Now, I am tempted to try kicking up to handstand. No, I tell myself -- better to wait until you've got the backbend refined. Then, who knows!
All this work is certainly making me stronger. My home practice used to involve gentle stretching, a few salutations, some twists - certainly nothing very challenging. My teaching has expanded from Gentle classes to include Basic Classes, and I have guided a intermediate practice a few times this year. Therefore, my personal practice must shift. If I am going to feel comfortable teaching something; I must have experienced it -- the journey.
So stepping back to first paragraph, 17 years is not too late.
I hope you have a great Thursday!
Very Interesting . . .
Last night I had a dream that involved my 'trigger finger' (see post from March 7). And, this morning I received a comment on that post -- very interesting, indeed !!!
I clicked on the 'publish' link, only to find that there were several other comments and questions about the 'trigger finger' post -- sorry folks. I haven't been paying attention.
So, to answer questions --
1. I do not think that the yoga aggravates the finger at all.
2. The finger was stiff for a few days after the cortisone shot, but I have not had one since and only occasionally does the finger do its 'tricks'.
3. The one thing I do try to do is to keep that finger straight as much as possible - even when sleeping (I lay my hand flat under my pillow and - hopefully - keep it that way through the weight of my head during the night).
I learned from my physician that the use / abuse of the tendon running to that finger is what causes the inflammation and leads to the finger locking in a bent position for a second or two.
Apologies for neglecting my blog -- it's been a hectic year (see my post blasting those who use the excuse "I'm too busy"). My bad.
I will write more when there is time. In the meantime, I am off to teach a class!!!
p.s. remember 5 years ago -- the countdown to 60 years; well, as of 10 days ago, I am now on Medicare (65). I am in better shape than when 60, feel better, do more, enjoy more. Just keep on moving.
Have a great Monday (and week)!
I clicked on the 'publish' link, only to find that there were several other comments and questions about the 'trigger finger' post -- sorry folks. I haven't been paying attention.
So, to answer questions --
1. I do not think that the yoga aggravates the finger at all.
2. The finger was stiff for a few days after the cortisone shot, but I have not had one since and only occasionally does the finger do its 'tricks'.
3. The one thing I do try to do is to keep that finger straight as much as possible - even when sleeping (I lay my hand flat under my pillow and - hopefully - keep it that way through the weight of my head during the night).
I learned from my physician that the use / abuse of the tendon running to that finger is what causes the inflammation and leads to the finger locking in a bent position for a second or two.
Apologies for neglecting my blog -- it's been a hectic year (see my post blasting those who use the excuse "I'm too busy"). My bad.
I will write more when there is time. In the meantime, I am off to teach a class!!!
p.s. remember 5 years ago -- the countdown to 60 years; well, as of 10 days ago, I am now on Medicare (65). I am in better shape than when 60, feel better, do more, enjoy more. Just keep on moving.
Have a great Monday (and week)!
CATCHING UP . . .
I knew it had been a while since I'd posted on this blog; just didn't realize it had been so long.
Adjustment back to teaching, after the month away, was interesting -- as in, I stumbled and mumbled for a few classes before feeling back 'in the groove'. And, during my absence, classes seem to have held up pretty well attendance-wise. For those of you familiar with teaching and finding subs, you know that a prolonged absence can have varied results:
Adjustment back to teaching, after the month away, was interesting -- as in, I stumbled and mumbled for a few classes before feeling back 'in the groove'. And, during my absence, classes seem to have held up pretty well attendance-wise. For those of you familiar with teaching and finding subs, you know that a prolonged absence can have varied results:
- Students who are extremely loyal will go away for a while.
- Students who have regularly attended my class may really enjoy the sub I've enlisted and that may signal the end of their participation in my classes.
- Students will keep coming to class because they enjoy the yoga - no matter who the teacher is.
Students are slowly returning, unless they fall into that second category -- which is fine by me. I love that they are continuing to practice.
As I mentioned last post, I've begun a new class for students with MS. So far, just 3 are participating. They are very engaged and eager to experience yoga and benefits. Myself? Well, I am still studying, working to give each a good experience. That is a challenge since each comes in with a different set of symptoms. One may be pretty steady, while another is not-so-steady; and - with this condition - symptoms may change from day-to-day.
My current thought process is that recruiting other muscles (and muscle groups) to do the work (i.e. raising and lowering a leg), may be a good thing. Even those of us with no condition to deal with have muscles that are under-used. We'll see.
On Saturday afternoon, I facilitated a 2-hour practice at one of the Temecula studios; the first held there in over a year. I worried who would attend and, knowing that some would be instructors, I was nervous and a bit stressed by the prospect of planning a sequence that would challenge (but not over-challenge) everyone. We worked longer holds for the first hour - a minute in standing poses that we normally use momentum to move into and out of. We then moved onto some more active movement, some arm balances, intermingled with twists. My sequence was long, maybe another instructor could have moved through it more quickly and completely; however, I didn't and ended up leaving out a couple challenging poses. I think that was o.k. -- everyone looked 'complete' by the time we finished (and they were smiling).
Back to the regular schedule this week.
Hope you have a great week!