30 POSTS IN 30 DAYS

Almost skipped posting today -- lots of excuses, including traveling home from the Thanksgiving weekend.  Then I looked at my blog and realized I had posted 29 of 30 days; a record in recent months, so here I am to make it 30 for 30. 

Our travel home was uneventful -- airports were calm and flights on time.  All is well on the home front.

So, this will be short -- just an entry to keep the month fully posted.  Back to work tomorrow. 

Enjoy the rest of your day,

SUPER 60 (Sixty)

Well, it's here -- send up the fireworks, bring out the streamers, start cheering, whatever else.  Don't look different, don't feel different, not thinking differently; so, I guess I'm not different.

Yesterday went as planned.  A minor glitch left me late to arrive for Karen's class (lost car keys), but I pushed the speed limit a bit and got there about 8 minutes late.  Her studio is located upstairs in an old school.  It's all been re-furbished, so it is very nice.  Still a few of the old traits -- old steam radiators heat the place, and the floors are wooden.  There is NO way to sneak in quietly to a yoga class on old wooden floors - every step, creak - creak - creak.  Oh well, I was late, I deserved to 'creak' my way in.  Luckily, the welcoming kula didn't appear to mind.

And, fortunately, she had started with some pranayama, which I was able to experience a bit of.  So, I was able to participate in the chant -- lucky me!  Good class and just what I needed. 

Then to CostCo to stock my parents up on paper and non-perishable foods. 

 So - today:  Not sure; keeping it simple.  Home tomorrow (word from the housesitter:  all is well, dogs enjoying long walks with them). 

Enjoy your Sunday,

ONLY 1 (One)

We're finally here, almost to the end of the 'count-up.  If you've been with me for a while, thanks for humoring me in this way of marking my entrance to a sixth decade.  If you're reading this for the first (or second time), I promise it usually is about yoga with some brief forays into grandson stories. 

So yesterday, as I reported, we did some serious cleaning.  This morning, I'll throw a few more things into the car to drop at Goodwill, but my main activity will be yoga with Karen Sprute-Francovich in Coeur d'Alene.  The schedule says she's teaching - let's hope it's so (no matter who's teaching, I'm going).  I know I've said this before, but I'll say it again -- her kula is one of the most welcoming I've experienced; a great group.

I just read Karen's blog (also listed under 'blogs/websites I love' - Garden Street Yoga).  She echoed some of my recent thinking about everyone becoming a yoga teacher.  Not that that's a bad thing - more teachers - but, I agree with Karen that people's first thought after taking a series of yoga classes ought not be "I'm going to become a yoga teacher".  That thought might percolate after a significant period of time spent in sadhana (steady practice over a long period of time with devotion). 

I wonder if people attend classes with popular instructors, love the energy these teachers are able to instill, and impulsively jump in to thinking "that's what I want to do".  And, many studios (and now our community colleges and Universities) are finding this impulsive thinking a significant source of income that funds business  operations. At least, that's my opinion and this is my blog.

Well, it's not useful for me to get too troubled by this phenomenon.  I'll just keep plugging along on my path, my sadhana.  It's been a gradual immersion, first to the practice, then to the teaching, and now to my goal of becoming a Certified Anusara® Teacher.  I sometimes wonder why - why at this age do I want this?  Because I want this Certification that designates a tremendous amount of study and commitment.  I also see a population of people who need someone like me -- someone like themselves -- as their teacher. 

So, onward with the study, with the practice, with the teaching -- it will happen (Certification).  I will make it. 

Have a great Saturday,

TARDY 2 (Two)

First, I hope you all had a great Thanksgiving and that your celebration was all you hoped for.  Ours was spent at my cousin's home, with my parents and other cousins & step-cousins,   Great fun to re-connect with these people -- even if it is once a year.  Lots of memories tied up in this group.  

Late in the day for me to be posting, but I got pretty consumed with cleaning out one of my parents' storerooms.  My Dad's been after me for a while (he's worried about the amount of stuff I'll have to deal with when he's not around), so Howard and I dug in this morning. 

Fun to toss stuff (actually, we're donating much of it), and a lesson in minimizing our consumer instincts.  (My dad takes the word 'consumer' to a new level!)

Anyone who would like 13+ file boxes of classical sheet music, books related to music (conducting, piano, flute, violin, tuba, etc.) speak up.  It's yours for the asking, you pay the shipping (which I think will be about $300).

So aparigraha staring me in the face.  Now, it's time for a break from work and this computer. 

Enjoy the remainder of your Friday,

 .

THANKFUL 3 (Three)

What else on Thanksgiving morn?  

Thankful for family, friends, and a life in which the blessings far outnumber the challenges. 

I am not, however, thankful that I put off some housework and my packing for the weekend until this morning.  Why housework when I'm traveling away for the weekend?  Because we have a housesitter coming in this morning to keep the critters company.  Since they (the housesitters) stay in our home, it's important that it (the house) be a bit tidier than what we awakened to.

Yesterday's classes were fun, yet challenging.  Gentle Yoga had a broad range of skill levels and physical challenges -- that's a class that tests all my skills.  Then to the jail.  The officer was a bit 'testy', so instead of the usual 7, he would only let 4 into the class.  The ladies were not happy with the officer; better not to discuss however -- the walls have ears, I'm sure.  I did talk about looking for the blessing within the challenge.  One blessing -- with 4 people in the class, we had lots of room to spread out!  The challenge for me in this setting - to teach a pose using only my verbal skills (no touching allowed).  The blessing - boy, do my verbal skills get a workout (a good thing)!

So, back to work.   I wish you all a great day!

Happy Thanksgiving,

FEARLESS, FAITHFUL 4 (Four)

O.K., I've decided on a word (actually two words), now what?  Not sure -- but, they sound good. 

I've started a class at my studio called "Yoga Specific".  Each week, we focus on a different element (or body part).  A fun group is beginning to coalesce in the class and I am having some fun with coming up with topics for each week. 

The first class in December is titled "If you can't (your words), you won't".   At first glance, this may seem like a negative label for a class (probably is, but I didn't let that stop me).   When thinking about class topics, I reflected on the times I've said "I can't do that!".  Many times, what I am actually saying is "I won't do that."  So, I am very careful these days to stop before the word 'can't' works its way into my speaking, and re-phrase if needed. 

If I'm afraid of a pose or I'm afraid I'll fail in execution of a pose, my first instinct will be to say "I can't ...".   When I teach bakasana (crow/crane), I often tell students to "take a leap of faith - look forward and shift your weight forward, take the center of gravity more over your hands.  Now lift one foot, then the other."   To the newer student, if that isn't mixing fear with faith, I don't know what is.  To do exactly the opposite of what their mind is telling them -- 'hold back, don't put your head out there in that vulnerable spot, watch it!' 

So fear and faith, all in one pose. 

And, it keeps happening.  As I and my students progress, we keep getting these challenges, little nudges, asking us to trust in our strength, in our knowledge, in our dedication.  I, personally, don't plan to let the fear of falling or failure hold me back from my goals -- whether it be accomplishing pose or video'ing class, or whatever else life throws at me. 

In order to be 'fearless' (bold, daring, courageous),  we must simultaneously cultivate 'faithful' (loyalty, honesty, commitment).  If you disagree, remember this is my blog.

Yesterday didn't go quite as smoothly as we had planned.  Spent the weekend in Driggs, planned to leave the house at 9 am (plenty of time to get back for my 4 pm class).  That is, if the car would have started.  It (the car) finally cooperated shortly after noon.  Smooth sailing after that. 

Today, Gentle Yoga then yoga at the jail. -- polar opposites, but both offer a rewarding, yet challenging, teaching experience. 

Happy Day Before Thanksgiving,

FOCUS ON 5 (Five)

What other word would someone who teaches yoga come up with?  However, I've been intrigued with the impact of focus (dharana, not drishti) since our weekend with John here in September. 

At one of the 8 (count'em, EIGHT) classes I attended with him that weekend, he used the word dharana during our work to help us.  Keeping the dharana (may be translated as "holding", "holding steady", "concentration" or "single focus", according to internet sources) in one spot of the body. 

I know you're dying of curiosity about why this could even be of interest.  Well, in my teaching recently, I notice a number of students weight their feet on the outer edge - that's natural, most people do it.  The challenge for many of us is to bring the weight onto all 4 corners of the feet (the mounds behind the big and little toes, and the inner and outer heel) -- skiiers will be able to relate.  Weighting the feet this way provides a more stable foundation for our asana; it's also healthy for the feet. 

So, following on John's teaching, I've been doing an exercise that strengthens and works the lower legs/ankles.  I ask students to bring their dharana (focus/concentration) to the mounds of their feet just behind the big toes.  On an inhale, keeping that dharana at the forefront of their thinking, I ask them to rise up - lift their heels and come onto the front of the feet - like they were wearing 4-inch heels.  This (besides doing the strengthening) brings their awareness to that elusive inner foot and keeps it there -- as long as the dharana is working.  I find it much easier to do this when I focus as I described.  

Once we've done this a few times, we move on.  Throughout the class I find that using this dharana is helpful again and again -- during parsvakonasana, press the dharana of the back foot into the floor to fire the inner thigh muscles.  Or, as they come out of trichonasana, energize legs, press feet into floor - especially the dharana of the inner forefeet - to bring them up and out of the pose with stability.  Etc., etc., etc.  (Caveat:  the dharana can be any part of the body -- I've just described how I use it to bring attention to the inner feet.)

Some of you are thinking, isn't this the same as 'drishti'.  In our workshop (and in my internet search), drishti is defined as a visual focal point.  So the difference?  Simply, dharana is a focused concentration, while drishti is a visual focal point. 

It also is important to note that dharana is the sixth step in the eight-step path of Patanjali's Ashtanga Yoga -- the initial step of deep concentrative meditation. 

Well, enough of your 'dharana teaching' for today.  I cannot always be held responsible for the things I think of at 6 a.m. -- some days it's a stretch. 

Today is Jack's 3rd birthday -- so, HAPPY BIRTHDAY, JACK !!!  You are the BEST !!!  You make my heart SING !!! 

Everyone, enjoy Jack's birthday, 

SILLY, SERIOUS 6 (Six)

The serious side of me is thinking this way of 'counting up' to my big day is a bit silly.  And, just about the time I think "pull the plug on it, Leslie", someone comments. 

The definition of 'silly', according to Merriam Webster is just what you'd think -- frivolous, trifling, weak in intellect.  Go back, however, to the etymology of the word and you find 'akin to old High German salig (happy).  I like 'happy' much better than 'weak in intellect' - DUH, I wonder why?

The definition of 'serious', also according to MW, is thoughtful or subdued in manner; not trifling or joking; requiring much thought or work.  The etymology of serious is 'akin to Old English word for heavy, sad'.

Big opposites -- happy & frivolous vs.subdued & sad. 

My impression of what people think of me -- quiet, subdued, introverted (sad?).  There are times I wish I were frivolous, a bit silly; and there are times I do let some silly in.  It's a balance I  sometimes find.  When I find it, it feels good; it feels right.  Finding it is the challenge.  (BTW, teaching yoga has allowed me greater access; as in, I do often find the balance as I teach a class.)

Just like my yoga practice, it is finding the balance between hardening & softening, pulling in energy & extending out, laughing & being serious (yes, even in yoga); taking time yet not so much time that I lose the momentum.  I could go on and on with balance examples that happen during my asana practice (besides just standing on one leg). 

I'm writing this blog as a household crisis is happening; so finding a balance between writing and pulling away from the blog to offer support. 

The place in the middle (mudhya).  Always the place in the middle. 

Have a great Monday,

STALWART 7 (Seven)

A couple months ago I was both flattered and a bit "bowled over" when one of my teachers told a large group about me -- his words:  that I was both dependable and reliable.  According to Merriam - "stalwart suggests an unshakable dependability".  So, how could I resist using 'stalwart' as my seven adjective. 

In my teaching this past week, it appeared that I was on a mission -- a mission to get students to study their actions and the effect (affect?) of those actions on the feeling in their asana practice. 

For example, yesterday students were interested in working specifically with their shoulders and shoulder blades.  We went to the wall, first for a shoulder stretch, then wall dog.  After the first wall dog - one complained of some discomfort in her upper left arm.  So, we did it again (not because it hurt, but because we wanted to explore it more).  After the second time, no discomfort -- Why? I asked.  She wasn't quite sure, but upon review of what might be different, we concluded it was related to how the arm was rotated the first time thru. 

On Thursday, a similar experience -- slight back pain in ustrasana.  Do it a second time.  No pain -- Why?  A bit more sure of the answer, this student concluded that the inner/outer spiral helped to stabilize the pose through her back. 

I read a while back, in one of Christina's blogs, this quote: 

“Yoga is the state where you are missing nothing.” (Sri Brahmananda Sarasvati)

Certainly, a new student needs to be told and guided; but, as we move further into the practice, this 'missing nothing' makes our practice so much more meaningful - even to the mild to moderate student.  (Referring back to John's categorization of students:  fiery, moderate, mild.)

Enjoy Sunday, 

EXHILARATED, ENLIVENED 8 (Eight)

Began with exhilarate -- upon looking up the definition, found out that I was mis-spelling it.  Oops, but - another point on the side of the pros of this exercise.  

In the definition of exhilarate (to make cheerful, excited; to enliven),  I found enliven, which is a word I've been using in my teaching lately.  As in, "you've been sitting for a few minutes; before we move on, enliven your torso -- lift your heart" -- like that.

In a bit of a hurry this morning, got to prepare for class, get the house organized, get myself ready, then get to the studio in time to set up the camera, check the room, move a bit.  Setting up the camera is becoming pretty routine.  I may not always turn it on, but it will be in the room, getting me and students acclimated to its presence. 

Yesterday's Gentle Yoga Class went well -- there were a couple new to the group.  And, the atmosphere in this class is TOTALLY different from your mainstream yoga class (even an Anusara®) class.  Discussion, laughter, complaining all abound.  Thankfully, the newer to this class were accepting  of the different feel to this group.  As a teacher, this different atmosphere is a challenge to me, as well.  Demands that I be much more fluid, more accepting, more able to hear comments - make adjustments - shift gears - not take anything personally.

Hope you have a great Saturday,

NECESSARY 9 (Nine)

Necessary, defined:  of an inescapable nature; absolutely needed, required.

I have spent a bit of time this morning searching my brain for 'n' words.  I finally had to pick up a book and start scanning it until I found words beginning with 'n'!  This is a good one; as in you can't get from 10 to 8 without 9, so it is 'necessary'. 

When I mentioned this word game to my Gentle class, it was met with rolling eyes.  (These students have been through and seen enough to not mince words; they call a dumb idea, a dumb idea -- no punches pulled.)  Perhaps it is silly -- however, it is giving me fodder (def. food) for this blog.  And, these mornings, it's jump-starting my writing. 

I must admit, I am learning as I do it.  Words that normally wouldn't appear in my vocabulary are showing up.  So, there's a positive element to this method of 'counting-up' to my big b'day. 

My YogaHour class was small, but enlightening -- for them and me.  We worked with the word 'gratitude' (of course - it's nearing Thanksgiving, after all), each pose an offering to someone or something they are grateful to have in their lives.  Strong, stable poses abound in the room - wow!  We did a few rounds of modified vasisthasana.  Two things happened that - for them - made their poses stronger. 

First, eyes of the elbow initially were rotated inward on the supporting arm; change that -- worked without weight initially to get the feel of turning the eye of the elbow in an outward direction, so that it moves almost in the same direction as the head.  Now take it into action -- Whoa!  Much stronger, much more stable, shoulder blades more integrated.  Best part?  They FELT it!   (Caveat :  watch out hyper-extenders, this is one of those places where we can have too much of a good thing; so, don't allow the elbows to lock out.)

Second, we talked about the role the hands play in this pose -- the upper hand extending, reaching up; the supporting hand doing just that - providing support.  Result?  Lots of wrist massages going on in the room.  Try this, I suggested -- when you place your hands on the floor press the fingertips and knuckles down, create space in the center the palm and palm side of the wrist.  Voila!  What did they feel?  Wrists stronger, felt less vulnerable. 

In both cases, the fact that they noticed and could verbalize what was going on was awe-inspiring to me.  More proof, that alignment is not something to be "poo-poo'ed" or dismissed as to much detail for a yoga practice.   Proof that when we align, magic happens -- our poses are stronger, there is less discomfort and - as a result - less reason to avoid doing some of these poses  ('my wrists are weak', 'my arms aren't strong enough', etc., etc., etc.). 

Friday = Gentle Yoga, again.  Smaller group, usually, on Fridays.  Then practice, study and clean up the studio a bit.

Enjoy your day,

TELLING 10 (Ten)

I wish there were an on-line way to look at all the words that start with "t".  This morning I am at a loss for "t" words, so this simple one will have to do.  (I could pull the dictionary off the bookshelf, but that's too inconvenient / easy.)

Telling definition (according to Merriam):  carrying great weight; having a marked effect.

I suppose 10 days until a monumental day is a bit 'telling'.  So, we'll go with it. 

Browsing some blogs this morning and explored another one from Christina's list, which started me down a circuitous route to the Facebook page of David Elliott.  The entries of this person were interesting.  Everyone, I find, is doing great writing - lots of profound and thought-provoking missives (def. a written communication).  I almost wonder why I bother to blog; then I remind myself I do it - now - mostly for myself.  And, look where it's taking me -- into the world of other blog-writers, who I didn't have a clue existed before the last year!  What a discovery; what a gold-mine of interesting and mind-expanding thoughts!

As I continued to explore this particular blog, I noticed a space where thoughts from his Facebook page appear - so, click there and come to this:

"Forgive those who take from or walk all over you. They are your biggest teachers. Take your power back from them and lovingly set them free. Let them go by releasing your neediness for their love. Love yourself instead!"  -- David Elliott

Take a hammer and hit me over the head with this one -- it so applies to me.   (And, it arrives on the heels of another bit of advice from a wise friend.)  My nature is to just let hurtful comments go; to good-naturedly smile, make a few safe comments and walk away.  Oh, eventually, I get around to taking a stand, but some people sure get in a few good licks before that happens.  And, by then, the emotion is palpable and that, my friends, totally saps the power of a response.

It's only taken five (5) decades, for goodness' sake!  But, the good thing is I'm still open to learning (that's a topic for another blog). 

So -- Thursday.  Sorry to miss Wayne's class this a.m., but picking Howard up at the airport.  He's had a heck of a month of travel.  In his business of consulting, that's not necessarily a bad thing, but packing, unpacking, re-packing -- all with only about 12 hours at home between trips -- does wear on a person.  I'm not sure he loves travel, but I'm not sure what he'd do without it -- he's the kind of person who loves to explore, never takes the same route home from somewhere, and enjoys his work.

Then, lots of errands to run.  I cleaned out some of my boots/shoes yesterday, so need to dispense with some of the discards (remember aparigraha).  Teach at 4 - YogaHour; then again at 5:45 - Yoga Specific.  Depending on who shows, I hope to venture into some arm balances; but, nothing is written in stone. 

Hope you have a Thursday that is tantamount to wonderful!

ELEGANT, ESSENTIAL 11 (Eleven) -- How about adding EXPANSIVE?

Too easy to come up with an 'e' word for this morning - two (three) choices, so I'm going with both (after all, it's my blog and I make the rules).   These were easy to come up with - elegant came to mind first, but when I opened the Mirriam Dictionary page, they were highlighting 'essential'.  I almost discarded 'elegant' for 'essential', but - at the last minute - checked 'yourdictionary.com'.  The definition of 'elegant' was expanded upon more, so it (the word) got to stay in the mix.  Then, upon reflection, came the word 'expansive'.  What to do? 

Elegant, definition (according to yourdictionary):  1)  characterized by dignified richness and grace, as of design, dress, style, etc.; luxurious or opulent in a restrained, tasteful manner;  2) characterized by a sense of propriety or refinement; impressively fastidious in manners and tastes; 3) marked by concision, incisiveness, and ingenuity; cleverly apt and simple - an elegant solution to a complex problem; 4) Informal excellent; fine; first-rate

Essential, definition (according to Mirriam):  Absolutely necessary -- imperative, required, indispensable, requisite, necessary, vital; see also crucial, necessary

Expansive, definition (according to Mirriam):  An adjective related to the word expand (to open up, unfold)

The dictionary lesson complete for the day, we can proceed. 

In our Anusara® trainings/classes/readings, we run into these words often.  For example, 'an elegant set of alignment principles';  'our essential nature'; 'be expansive in this pose -- reach to the 4 corners of the room'.  So, good, great words to describe eleven. 

I love all 3.  I hope I possess qualities of each word -- that I possess the incisive skills necessary to open up to the teachings I receive and relate.  Whatever!

So, yesterday was a good and productive day.  I took in Wayne's class in the a.m.  After class he presented me with my requested list of "good points" and "need polish points" from the class I taught and he attended.  Great feedback, and from a numbers standpoint, the 'good' outweighed the 'need polish' 6 to 4.  Anyone interested in a more expansive explanation, just ask and I'll elucidate (oh, my!). 

I  then took care of some errands (rather than procrastinate, which I am known to do), stopped home to let the dogs out for a bit, then to the studio for the 4 pm YogaHour class. 

For some reason people tend to show for classes at the exact start time (or even a few minutes late).  Everyone was late yesterday, throwing me into a bit of a panic -- as in, I've never had NO ONE show for this class.  I relaxed, shifted to acceptance and thought I'd use the hour in other productive ways.  Then people arrived.  Re-group, what to teach -- because by then I was out of teaching mode.  Reverted to my theme from last week, since these people had not heard it, and we rolled. 

After class, a couple more errands and home for the evening. 

Today is "Gentle Yoga" -- I love this group.  It's more of a challenge to teach - keeping in mind some of the limitations that students arrive with - but, their appreciation, loyalty and studentship makes it worth it. 

Hope your Wednesday is WONDERFUL,

TERRIFIC 12 (Twelve) !

Definition of Terrific:  frightful, extraordinary, MAGNIFICENT.  (As in, I look forward to a MAGNIFICENT 12 days until you-know-when.)

O.K. -- all this seems a bit silly as I sit here thinking about it, but I am going to find an appropriate adjective for the 'count-up' days until my birthday.  And, I will try to use an adjective beginning with the same first letter as the corresponding day.  Games, Games, Games. 

I think, tho, it may not be such a silly idea.  It will get me involved with my dictionary more -- which I have been loving.  It's a great resource that I have never used much until this past month.  Just think of all the words I will encounter as I browse my dictionary sources during the next 12 days!  Amazing!

The thing about teaching Anusara-Inspired™ yoga is that you need a TON of words.  Like, how many ways can you say 'bring' or 'take'?  Ways that will not only get the students to do what I want, but will also INSPIRE them to carry out those instructions with gusto and passion!  (I'm getting more full of 'gusto' just writing this!) 

At the same time as I need a TON of words, I also need to remember not to 'over-instruct' (as in, use too many words).  So, choose the right words, give them meaning, allow them to enter my teaching as though they always lived there (practice, practice, practice), and apply the appropriate intonation to those words so that the desired result is achieved.  BIG task for just the RIGHT words. 

So, this blog has been about words -- what does that have to do with yoga or being Anusara-Inspired™?    I hope you can 'glean' the answer from what I've written. 

Here's to a Transformative Tuesday (let the games begin),

LUCKY 13 !

Yesterday went just as planned (!).  The morning spent doing housework, which includes vacuuming, dusting, straightening up piles of paper, doing a bit of laundry -- stuff I'd rather NOT be doing, but the fact that I did it makes me feel good.  Since I am a 'morning person', too often, I get distracted and - if it doesn't get done in the morning - well, it doesn't get done. 

I sorted, vacuumed, dusted, laundered until about 1, then got cleaned up for my reward -- a trip to Nordstrom's.  Just walking into that store is therapeutic for me -- a chance to forget the outside world and just enjoy the world of retail.  (Where's the theme in this?)  I wandered for a while, tried to buy some shoes - but, no luck (fortunately?) - and treated myself to lunch (a yummy squash bisque and salad).  Then some more time spent looking and trying on, bought a couple things, then a quick stop at the grocery, and home. 

Howard's plane got in late.  Storms in Dallas (his route), so he was re-routed to Phoenix -- barely made that, but all ended well.  Home at about the same time as if he had gone the Dallas route. I waited up, hence the lateness of this post.  To bed late = up late. 

This morning, cleaning the studio (o.k., a theme about cleaning?); then Pilates; then read, study, practice.

Of note, one of the things Wayne liked about my Saturday class was the theme - even noting that he may 'borrow' it sometime.  Since I originally 'borrowed' it from MariaCristina - then massaged it to fit me and my students, how can I argue?  Besides, I'm flattered and excited that he thought it worthy enough to 'borrow'. 

So, on with this day.  Clear, cold, snow on the ground.

Enjoy your day/week,

JUST TWO WEEKS & FEELING FINE

In two weeks, I will turn 60.  Sounds old, doesn't it?  But, I don't feel old.  Granted, things are changing with the passage of time, but overall - I feel pretty darn good. 

Yesterday, I taught in the a.m.   I had planned to video the class.  When one of my teachers, Wayne, walked in to participate in the class, I became both flattered and nervous.  Not only was Wayne coming to class, but Katharine (sp?) joined him.  Wow, double flattered! 

Ready to start, video in the room, something went wrong and the screen went screwy.  Well, no time to fiddle with it, so discard the video idea and just teach.  I continue to practice my warm-up exercise -- taking students from instructions moving with the breath to just breath.  This was the second time for this group, and it's working.  I love it -- to just watch students move.  Whether they realize it or not, it also gives them time to feel their body -- stiffness, mental machinations - whatever is going on; it all be experienced in this warm-up and perhaps calmed as they settle into the movement.  We'll do it again next week, and - after class - I'll try to remember to ask them how they feel about it. 

So, how did the class go with Wayne in the room?  I was a bit nervous, but I didn't let it get the better of me.  The class was pretty mainstream - as it usually is.  I continued with the theme of creating space; heart quality(ies) of courage and acceptance; I think I wove those in during the class.  Best of all, it was fun.  I was able to be a bit lighthearted in spite of the nervousness.  What I realize on reflection, is that I basically ignored the other teacher in the room.   I focused on everyone else, made corrections, but I guess I assumed he was doing everything just fine.  There's an element of trepidation when correcting someone who is more experienced that I am -- let's just leave it at that.  Mental note:  everyone is there to be taught, even the other teacher(s) in the room. 

After class, we spoke for a minute -- he offered to make a donation (this was a free class - as is next Saturday - in celebration of our road construction completion).  Instead, I asked him to write 5 good things about the class and 5 things that will benefit from some 'polish' (I also asked Katharine to offer input).  I'm anxious to see that list. 

From the studio, I went up to Snowbird to join Matt & Jen's group for a practice from 12:30-3:30.  What fun.  I felt strong.  My foot wants to go behind my head, I just KNOW it.  My feet want to be over my head, I can FEEL it.  Even the funky pinca felt GOOD.  Fun practice and fun people to practice with.  Glad I ignored the threatening snowstorm and drove up.

Today, less exciting -- housework.  Maybe I'll take myself to a late lunch.  Howard's in Kansas visiting our daughter and 2 grandsons who live just outside Kansas City.  Nice to know he'll be home tonight. 

Enjoy Sunday,

15+ DAYS TO GROW SOME HAIR BACK !!!

When I said haircut, I wasn't kidding.  And, neither was Khaled (my hair person for 10+ years, I'm sure). 

I met Khaled not too long after moving to Salt Lake.  After a few misses, I found a hair studio I enjoyed and  began frequenting it, initially a young woman took care of my hair.  She left, and I was left to make decisions.  What  to do?  I called the studio one day, desperate for a haircut.  The receptionist asked me how 'edgey' I was willing to go.  'Edgey?'  Meaning, there was an opening with a young man who had come to Salt Lake from Italy.  His clientele at that time was composed primarily of young women in the  community who modeled.  So, 'edgey';  as in, not mainstream. 

Too long a story already, I accepted the appointment and have been loyally having Khaled take care of my hair ever since.  Let's just say Khaled is thorough -- what might take someone 1/2 hour, takes him at least an hour.  The result -- really great hair; this time, tho, it is SHORT!

As I write this, I am re-reading -- and wondering, is there a theme in here?  Boy, it would be a stretch. 

However, this story would fit in with my 'space' theme this week -- that of allowing space in our lives for the new and/or the different.  The day I accepted the appointment, I let 'edgey' in the door.  See what an impact it had on me?  I've never forgotten the initial appointment conversation.  And, while I don't always walk out the door of the hair salon thinking I look lovely; by the next day, I'm happy.  I stay happy until about one week before another haircut is needed. 

So, hair shorter, I'm getting ready to teach my 9 am class this morning.  Then, I think I'll take in a yoga practice at Snowbird.  

Hope you have a great weekend,

16 DAYS - HEAR ME ROAR!

I am not quite sure what has happened over the past two days, but I feel much differently about stuff.  

A slight change in family plans for my b-day celebration has lifted a weight -- instead of trying to have a big celebration while dealing with parent issues over Thanksgiving, we are going to move the celebration back a couple weeks and find a different venue.  Yeah -- weight lifted. 

Went to Wayne's class yesterday morning - felt strong.  Not quite strong enough to kick up to the wall, but - when helped - I felt strong up there and even felt a moment (or two) of independence from the wall (WHOA !!!).  Then, back to the mats, where he decided contortionism was 'di rigueur' for this practice.  Hips opening more and more.  Full lotus by myself close, so close (that's only happened once before, the time that John pushed and prodded, and I grinned, and there I was in the pose!). 

No more pilates on Thursdays - I am sort of used to it by now, so a bit of withdrawal.  I'll see Cindy on Monday, so - not to worry. 

Taught at 4 - YogaHour.  That class is catching on around the country -- I notice more and more studios doing it.  For me, it takes a lot of pressure off of teaching.  Not that I don't prepare or do a good job, just that it's more lighthearted than the full 90 minute class.  Yesterday there were just 3 in class.  Two young and flexible; one a bit older and coming back to the practice.  Could almost see that downward spiral Christina has brought to my attention (I'm not worthy, what am I doing here) in action.  But, I believe that one student is strong and logical thinking.  Her comment as she left, "I just reminded myself that they are a BUNCH younger than I am."  Good for her; standing in her light!

Then 5:45 - Yoga Specific.  I've decided to change the focus of this class.  The Yoga Specific was developed to teach different elements each week, and - hopefully - different instructors would volunteer.  My belief is that this would benefit students; it's always been helpful for me to experience different teachers (so, why isn't it good for everyone?).  Well, it hasn't worked out that way.  First, no one else has volunteered to teach any of the classes, and I love the people who are regularly coming.  A bunch of 'boomers', just like me.  And, each week, I see more opening, more growth.  LOVE IT.   So, in December, I'm converting it to an Anusara-Inspired Level 1 class (chant & all), and I'll teach it.  So there!

My theme this week - space, has evolved to be a real winner in my book.  And, as I've taught each class this week, I see more languaging sneaking into my teaching correlating with the theme and heart quality (courage).  Fun stuff!

So, today is Gentle Yoga at 10, then a haircut, then ???  The day is mine. 

Hope you have a great Friday,

A FEW NOTES

Well, just 17 days.  This day will be particularly memorable because, as always, I opened Facebook first.  Found a comment from one of my students telling everyone (that's all my 87 friends plus however many she has) that she had attended Gentle Yoga class with her guru (me!).  Blew me right out of the water.  And, caused me to scurry for my notes to see what John had to say about gurus last March. 

First, tho, to graciously accept the compliment.  Hard thing to do -- to just say 'thank you'.  No disclaimer, no excuses, just 'thank you'.  Such an immense compliment, tho; how do you just say 'thank you' to that?

So, what did John say about guru's?  Lots -- this is just part of it.  Thursday is Guru Day (Thursday - Thor - Jupiter - Guru) - the first auspicious thing about all this is that I read it on Thursday.  Definition of Guru = weighty one; light that dispels darkness.  The Guru principle is synonomous with Grace - the revelatory power of the spirit that awakens us to our true nature.  We, as teachers, convey Grace through our voice, our eyes, our touch, and our will ('may my students be safe, may they succeed').  I loved one quote he shared "the teacher is the one who falls down 8 times, and gets back up 9".  He also reminded us that our highest teaching is to remember that the guru is within all of us -- students and teachers. 

I just happened to video yesterday's Gentle class.  I had read MariaCristina's blog entry about space, and - as I cut back old growth in my garden yesterday morning - I could see a parallel to our yoga practice.  I was making space for new growth in my garden, just as our yoga practice (even just walking into a studio for the first time) creates space in our lives; space for new things, new ideas, new people.  That was my theme, then, for this class.  I could easily make it relatable; and my heart quality was courage.  In my mind, it takes courage to open your safe, comfortable life and allow space for other, new and different things. 

After class, one of my students apologized for falling during the video; for 'ruining it' for me - her words.  (Remember, this is Gentle Yoga -- everyone has a reason for being there.)  I reassured her that it was not ruined and it was not a big deal.  Personally, I believe it's important for the Certification Committee to see and embrace that there are people who do yoga who are not able to stand on their hands or do backbends; people for whom standing on their feet is a challenge.  This probably won't be the video I submit, but I would never discard a video in which someone takes a tumble -- that would be inauthentic, in my book. 

Talked with my parents in the afternoon.  All sounds a bit better, so I am feeling better on that front.  Besides, my shift yesterday to an upward spiral, has me feeling stronger and more able to deal with what I know is inevitably in my future. 

I also re-listened to Jack's phone message (Jack is my Grandson, remember), where he thanked me for the buffalo card, told me about brushing teeth, and reminded me about HIS blue flashlight (we're back to the blue flashlight, folks!).  Brought tears  to my eyes and happiness to my heart.  I'll save that one forever. 

Hope your Thursday starts as auspiciously as mine has,

4 DAYS, 4 SIGNS (& still counting - 18)

This morning, up early going through my usual routine.  Sit for a while, then coffee, then log on.  First place I go?  Facebook -- just to see what some of the world has been up to the previous day. 

First entry I read this morning?  One from Christina re:  the 3rd spiral of Anusara Yoga(?).  From reading the comment, and the responses, I will assume that she is referring to (coincidentally) the spiral I've been experiencing.  That of feeling 'less than', questioning my decisions, 'poor me' - a downward spiral of my spirit.  Wow!  (someone -- correct me if I'm wrong)

This on the heels of the YogaHub notes regarding compassion, and BJ's newsletter where she talks about blessings and challenges. 

So, then there was a 4th that arrived through this magic machine I call a laptop:  Sundari's blog regarding the training I attended with her and its site - the museum.  Reminded me that on day, one her first teachings was to tell us that we were in this group to unveil our skills -- that our essential self doesn't need to be achieved, just uncovered (excerpted, I believe, from the Shiva Sutras).  This statement hit me hard, and I was so busy writing, that maybe I got the source wrong -- in any case, it was a powerful reminder and acknowledgment for me.  (I've pulled my copy of the Shiva Sutras - need to review it.)

I also received a note from one of my students, telling me to stop the countdown and look forward to 70.  Probably good advice.  I have, however, started down this countdown path so I'll continue.

So, taking Christina's advice -- LETTING. IT. GO.  Spiralling back up and out -- watch out world!

Found another blog to follow -- look to the right.  Maria Cristina's blog.  Besides being full of wisdom and information, go down to "The Hardest Class Ever", posted 11/5.  It is laugh out loud funny (and a reminder or cautionary note about the attitude "I am a yoga teacher, hear me roar" - her quote).

Off to walk dogs, then a bit of housework, then teach Gentle Yoga at 10 (they should be thankful I haven't just taken a class like MariaChristina describes).  Haircut at noon, Jail at 2:30 (hey, I could kick a few ___'s there; we'll see who shows up).   I know one thing -- officers or prisoners, watch out!  Because I am one of the strongest grey-haired women you've met in a while. 

Enjoy Wednesday,

POST 200 (AND 19 DAYS)

 I wrote an entire blog entry and just erased it.  Upon re-reading, it sounded a bit pathetic and had symptoms of 'poor me' strongly thrown into each paragraph. 

So, I'll spare you that and the details. 

I realized over the weekend that this coming birthday is bringing forth lots of emotional response from me.  No other birthday has affected me quite this way.  Each one - 30, 40, 50 - I've received and enjoyed, as in 'no big deal'.  As I approach this milestone, it is important for me to remember that I am healthier and more consistantly happy than at any of the others.  At age 30, I was working through the issues of divorce (yuk!).  At age 40, I was moving a lot, working a lot, raising a teenager and juggling the emotional ups and downs of a blended family.  At age 50, I was fatter, less disciplined, coming out of a depressed period.  The good part of 50?  I was starting down a path that would lead me to a happier, healthier future. 

So -- if you (and I) reflect on these other milestones, 60 will be a VERY GOOD (as in SUPER) year. 

Got to get on with this day.  I started writing this blog an hour ago -- of course, it was a double entry - thankfully, the first is history.

Enjoy Tuesday,

20 DAYS & 199 POSTS - - -

Had I posted just one more time in the past 8 months, these two numbers would have lined up as 20 and 200.  I suppose I could post twice today; somehow, that takes away the magic.

I am not doing anything to curtail magic this week, because I need it.  Worrisome week -- just as the studio issues wind down, the issues with my parents escalate.  Last phone call yesterday, one from my parents wondering why they haven't heard from me!?!?!?!  I calmly reminded them both that I had spoken to one or both of them every day in the past 10 days; with the exception of yesterday.  Red flags on this call. 

What should be a normal week might take a turn -- not sure.  Coincidentally (by magic?), I received BJ's newsletter late yesterday.  Beautifully written, one quote jumped off the page at me: 

"I count everything as blessings, every thing is a blessing, a gift of Grace. One of the blessings of yoga is developing the capacity to count those blessing that are disguised as challenges."

I've heard this before, maybe worded a bit differently.  The fact that it arrived on the evening of a difficult day for me was fortuitous.  I too can look at my life and see TONS of blessings.  My task now is to look at the challenges facing me and re-direct my energy to reveal the blessings disguised there. 

Here's to a magic-filled week for you and me,

SIMPLY 21 DAYS

I'm up early, going through my routine while the house is quiet.  I logged on, came to the blog and thought - maybe I'll skip it today.  But, then I remembered -- everyone needs reminding, including me, that I have just 21 days left in the land of 50. 

Saturday was normal by Saturday standards -- I taught in the a.m.  I had planned to video, but made a last-minute decision to just try to put into practice some of the things I've been trying to incorporate into my teaching.  So, pressure off; no video. 

Did a bit of grocery shopping, then Howard and I went to lunch (really GOOD fish tacos), and ran some errands.  Back at home, we did a bit of Fall yard clean-up.  Not an exciting day, but a good day. 

I suppose you're wondering what will happen in 21 days?  It will be quiet.  My son and his family - Jess, Jack & Brady - are traveling to spend Thanksgiving and the following weekend with us.  So, quiet and special. 

At a loss for many words this morning.  Have a nice Sunday!

THE CHALLENGING JOB OF SUBBING; 22 DAYS

Fridays are usually pretty laid back for me -- I teach one class (10 am Gentle Yoga), then the rest of the day is mine to do with as I please. 

Yesterday, however, I offered to help a friend by subbing one of her corporate classes.  Got there in the nick of time, and walked into 4 people who were (or were not?) very happy to see me.  I took the plunge and began talking. 

My friend's focus this month in this class is core power.  Since I haven't seen specifically what she's been doing to cultivate that, I began with my trusty Hanuman story (remembering his power).  We centered, started warming up (I used this opportunity to practice a drill to help me find fewer words), then began moving through a few sun salutations.  A couple more wandered in, bringing the number to 6, and we continued.  I noticed - almost immediately - that several people were working on automatic pilot, doing my friend's version of salutations -- then when they realized I hadn't asked them to do that, they had to get back in sync.  An opportunity to pause for a 'beginner mind' reminder; how the presence of a sub gives us the gift of going back to that beginner mind and listening.  No more auto pilot. 

Core power is a good, great goal -- but, where does it come from?  So, we moved from sun salutations to vasisthasana variations - from very modified to stacked feet (opportunity to demo ACTIVE feet -- drawing energy up into the pose, allowing power to permeate the entire body - especially the core - and then the organic expansion happens); then one foot in vrksasana; then WILD THING.  My "air band" demo of Wild Thing (the song) brought forth laughter (oh no!), and the ice was broken.  From there some eka pada rajakapotasana variations, including quad stretches  Moved to dhanurasana.  The hour nearly over, they cooled down a bit and took a short savasana. 

Well, it was fun - and an opportunity to teach with abandon.  I may sub for her again (I will, if asked), I may not -- so, I allowed myself to throw off my self-imposed limitations and go for it. 

Sundari has had me do a similar exercise over the past year -- throw away the script and just teach.  It's fun -- it is challenging but also very freeing.  I love scripts, I love to know exactly where I'm headed.  I now have a new direction that I love, as well.

Almost 60 (22 days) and doing 'air band' demos !?!?!?  I guess getting older has some freeing elements to it, as well (if I allow them in). 

Enjoy your Saturday,

LAUGHING & THINKING DURING YOGA -- HORRORS ! (& 23 DAYS)

Over the past 36 hours, I've read several Facebook and blog entries (and comments) regarding laughter during yoga classes, as well as thinking.  As in, some students are aghast at a class where laughter is accepted, and/or they simply want to be led through a series of movements as if they had a ring through their nose (pardon me - I have strong feelings here.)

I must have come into the world of yoga from another door, because yoga without laughter and without thinking - for me - is not yoga, it doesn't make me feel good, and it doesn't challenge me to look further than the surface, past the movement. 

Why laugh?  I'm not saying the whole class has to be a stand-up comedy act for me to enjoy it, but a teacher who can't utter a funny comment once in a while, or tolerate a bit of laughter from the group is (in my book) limited.  Here's an example of the power of laughter:  in a training in Tucson -- I think, I do know it was with John Friend.  He said something, or perhaps a student demo'ing for him said something, that was a bit goofy and a few people started to giggle.  The giggling soon expanded to a roomful of laughter.  It died down after about a minute or so. 

Then, out of the center of the room, came one individual round of laughter which caused the entire room to erupt again.  This happened 3-4 times.  John laughed along, tolerating perhaps the last round, then put us back to work.  We had been working hard before this lapse of laughter, and we continued to work hard after; that period of uninhibited laughter took the edge off our work; for me, it took me back to my reasons for being there -- to learn, to enjoy, to NOT over-effort (kind of like letting the steam out of the pressure cooker).

Why think?  Not sure about you, but I feel like the instructor doesn't think I have a brain when each and every move is spelled out and explained to me.  I enjoy the sense of empowerment I get when I have to think.  Thinking begins with listening.  Listening is hard work, in itself.  Then carrying out the instruction, while thinking "did I get it; do I understand?", makes me feel good.  I also enjoy figuring things out -- like, if I do this, my knee hurts; if I change it in this way, the knee doesn't hurt - voila!  Empowering my students to do a bit of thinking for themselves gives them confidence; I see growth in their poses because they're listening to me, embracing what I've said, and carrying it out in their poses.  Good for them, good for me. 

Just 23 days - the wisdom of six (6) decades staring me in the face. 

Have a great Friday and laugh about something today -- even if it's to laugh at yourself,

24 DAYS & A NEW LANGUAGE

If you read yesterday's post, you know I began 'twittering'.  This morning, I decided it would be a good idea to learn exactly how to go about this new venture.  Unfortunately, I have yet to find the easy step-by-step instructions.  I seem to have stepped right into something that's so developed, it feels like I'm a beginning skier being taken to a black diamond slope.  Makes my head hurt!

I decided to read about 'hashtags' (in my vernacular, the pound - # - sign).  After reading about them, I still do not know WHY they are used.  If anyone can help, please let me know.   The good thing:  I've probably used the word 'vernacular' once in the past 25 years -- so, all this will expand my vocabulary if nothing else.

Enough -- maybe I'll twitter something today; then see what happens.  And perhaps, like Facebook, things will become clearer as I work with it. 

Video'd my Gentle Yoga Class yesterday.  I did this just for me, besides I'm not sure that it would be viewable by anyone but myself.  Especially since, during the quad stretches, there was considerable groaning, complaining, and even the previously heard "gentle my a_ _" utterance.   Obviously, I don't do that kind of stretching often or enough.  I hope this comment doesn't affect attendance (if anyone is reading from the class).  Remember, the poses we need to do most are usually the least comfortable poses for us!

Today, Wayne's class and then pilates with Cindy (4th time this week!).  Why 4 times?  She asked me to step in for another student during her (Cindy's) evaluation.  I found out she speaks the truth -- many pilates instructors get up close and personal as they teach.  Lots of guiding, manually adjusting, etc., all to give us - the student - a tactile reference  (another very rarely used word). 

I'll teach YogaHour at 4 pm, then Yoga Specific at 5:45 pm (tonight's topic:  Hips).

And - finally - your daily reminder:  just 24 days!

Hope your day goes well,

BLOG, FACEBOOK, NOW TWITTER (?) & 25 DAYS

I established a twitter account this morning -- wrote in my first entry:  "exploring twitter - expanding my world".  All this technology, all these passwords, all this writing -- it's all growth.  (I don't even really know what twitter is, but why not!)

Before I get too involved in this entry, tho, today is my oldest Grandson's birthday; so, Happy Birthday, Jake! 

I got a lot of response from yesterday's blog -- that "in my heart" exercise hit home for a number of people and - because this blog is seen on Facebook - many of the comments came via that source. 

I'm excited, also, because my friend, mentor, teacher - Sundari - has begun blogging about the training in Jackson (and she joined Facebook!).  As I read her first entry, describing our after-hours walks through the museum, I was transported right back there.  Having never been in or thought about being in a museum after hours - upon reflection, it was a very extraordinary experience.  No background chatter, no one walking in front of or around you to get to the next piece, no distractions - just the works of art to be 'heard'.  Great stuff.  Check out her blog (link under "blogs/websites I love").

It has been a stress-filled Fall for this Anusara-Inspired™ yoga teacher.  Since the Spring, I have dealt with the Dept. of Workforce Services regarding the status of teachers at my studio (independent contractors vs. employees).  We are almost at the end of that road, but that road will take a turn and the future of teaching at this studio will assume a different color -- that of instructors conducting themselves as a business.  Not an easy transition, but do-able and important.  What does "conduct as a business" mean?  LLC, business license, advertising/marketing themselves, insuring themselves, teaching at other locales as well as privates.  Many already do some of this -- the regimentation of it all will be not-so-palatable for some.

On the positive side -- Workforce Services went back through 2006 and assessed $$$ up to this past quarter and it wasn't as bad as I thought it would be. There is a $$$ penalty, but my auditor is working with me to get that waived. Fingers crossed.

On other matters -- the road construction around the studio is just about finished.  Some orange cones along the side of the road (marking BIG holes one wouldn't want their car to venture into), some metal plates covering other hazards; but - for the most part - done for the winter.  Our parking lot is a bit messed up, with the elimination of one entry.  That has people parking all over, driving every which way -- kind of feels like an "every person for themselves" mentality.  Hopefully, that will calm and the landlord will re-stripe our parking lot -- giving us all some guidance. 

My Mother is home from the hospital -- lots of help going in to the house to help both Mom & Dad.  Daily calls from my Dad, asking questions, wondering when I'm going to be up there (not for a few weeks).  I feel some guilt for not having run right up to help, but it wasn't a serious issue that caused my Mother's hospitalization; and there was plentiful help to be had and already in place.  So, I'll try to let that guilt go for now. 

Other smaller issues -- teachers deciding to vacate spots on the schedule and the need for a new furnace at the studio (a resultant rent increase).

Some days it has really been difficult to be "in my heart".  My old mantra, 'this too shall pass', has been used repeatedly.  I'm looking forward to better times for the studio and more "in my heart" moments.

Almost forgot -- just 25 days! 

Enjoy your day,

26 DAYS & A REMINDER (COINCIDENCE?)

Yesterday, after sending my e-newsletter to students and friends, I received a very nice comment from one student. 

I believe it shows a great deal of personal growth and integrity to sit down and write a totally complimentary e-mail.  An e-mail intended to do nothing but provide positive feedback to the recipient.  For me, it's a growth experience -- I love doing it, but it's out of that old 'comfort zone'; for others, it may be easy.  Not sure how it is for the student who wrote me, but it was so meaningful to have someone notice and take the time to write it down and then send it. 

So, what's the coincidence and reminder?  The power of positive speaking. 

This morning, a close friend mentioned the negative rhetoric overheard from co-workers about their work situation.  I was in the middle of reviewing my "Yoga of Discipline" book, so looked for some appropriate quotes that could be used in response.  I didn't come up with any direct quotes for this situation, but I did come away with this feeling:  Negative speech is like negative prana (energy).  We lose our power when we allow speech to flow without discrimination, without some kind of check.

The next coincidence / reminder?  At the training last week, we were given a quiz and the person with  the most correct answers won a prize.  I won -- it was a quiz with 11 questions, all relating to what we observed in the museum where the training was being held.  As a prize, I received a set of "Angel Therapy Oracle Cards".  Every day or so, I draw a card.  What did I draw this morning?  "Cancel, Clear, Delete"  Meaning:  Negative affirmations are to be swept away, replaced with positive, radiant intentions. 

Try this exercise:  Sit with yourself, and write 10 sentences; 5 begin with "I am in my heart when I _______."  The other 5 begin with "I am not in my heart when I __________."  Example:  "I am in my heart when I call an old friend."  "I am not in my heart when I gossip."  Like that.  Don't think too much, just write.  (It's even better if you can do it with an understanding friend and they can respond in kind.)   Sundari asked us to do this exercise in our training last week -- powerful reminder. 

What else did I come up with from "Yoga of Discipline"?  Lots of stuff; including:  Before I speak, pause - that's a good place to cancel, clear, delete. 

O.K., so 26 days -- are you excited yet?  Going to Wayne's class this a.m., pilates this afternoon, teach at 4. 

Enjoy your Tuesday,

27 DAYS . . .

The countdown has replaced "blue flashlight".  Not promising any fireworks at the end of this count, but it will provide fodder for this blog. 

"Blue flashlight" reminded me of Jack, which means you get a Halloween story about him.  He loves M&M's; so much, that he does not eat any other kind of candy (his choice).  So, picture Trick or Treating -- as in, not every house will provide M&M's.  How did he handle this?  (My mental picture of the scene is that he got a bit upset when offered a candy other than M&M's.)  At each house, he looked over the candy selection.  If there were M&M's, great; if not, he was heard to say "Happy Halloween! No thank you." to the candy.  Poor kid ended up with about six small bags of M&M's in his bag.  In this case, being selective may not be such a bad thing; at least his Mother won't have to argue with him about what to eat when. 

So, moving on.  I perused some blogs this morning before entering mine -- the two I selected, Rajanaka Yoga (Douglas Brooks) and YogaNerd (Zhenja LaRosa) are so out of my league that I am sitting here in awe.  Of course, they write in their blogs once a month -- lots of time to write an incredible, thought-filled, and informative blog entry.  My style - writing every day or so - offers readers a bit more of the mundane, everyday topics (like flashlights & countdowns).  Oh, well, it works for me. 

My experience teaching this weekend was less than auspicious.  It is interesting how the energy of one person can affect the entire class -- especially the instructor (me).  I planned the class in advance, I reviewed, I also planned to video.  First, the video camera would not record.  So, after a couple minutes of fumbling with that, I gave up and moved on.  The energy I speak about was palpable -- stoic, non-conversational, body language that said "don't mess with me".  Interesting because I enjoy this person, and thought the feeling was mutual.  Maybe just off to a bad start that morning(?). 

As class progressed, things got better -- a bit of laughter, and a bit of conversation.  Unfortunately, for me, I allowed my well-laid plans to be thrown off, and I found myself teaching from the technical instead of from the heart.

Why mention this?  Because I will learn from it.  I can learn that my bad start, my bad mood, when projected into a room has the potential to affect other people and their experience.  I'm not sure that happened (that others were affected); maybe only I began stuttering and stammering as a result.  Perhaps no one else noticed or cared.  But, I did.  What's that about?  And, because people are people, I'd better figure out a way to handle it in the future. 

Enjoy your Monday,

COUNTING DOWN . . .

In 28 days I will reach a milestone in my life ("28 Days" was also the name of a movie about a recovering substance abuser - Sandra Bullock).  Mine isn't about substance abuse, but it is a MAJOR birthday. 

I don't write this so I'll get cards, gifts and letters (or e-mails), but as part of my acceptance (back to that word, again) of this particular birthday.  It will be my 60th. 

At the training I was at last week, on the first day, Sundari asked the youngest and the oldest to teach a pose to the group -- guess who was the 'oldest'?   That has rarely happened in the past; better get used to it.  And, as I listened to Sundari and John, I am reminded that I am also older than my teachers! 

More on being older, later -- it's going to be a long month for you and me. 

Short blog this a.m.  Going in to the studio to do some cleaning before the 9:30 class.  The studio's furnace was replaced yesterday afternoon - I hope successfully.  There may be some residual clean-up from that project, plus I noticed the mirrors were a bit smeared as I taught yesterday.

Hope you have a nice Sunday,