Monday, August 31, 2009

HORSES, HORSES, EVERYWHERE

Just a short note to the blog about a coincidence (i.e. six degrees of separation).

Got a call this morning regarding a private session for a gentleman new to the practice. He wondered if a private (or two) was a good idea to get him started. After discussing, we decided he could do a private with me today, Monday afternoon.

First question: injuries? Well, just a couple things related to riding and jumping horses.

Didn't I just read Donna Farhi's blog; and comment on how enjoyable it was to read about her experiences teaching yoga, raising and training her horses (she does dressage), and her life in New Zealand?

Small world! I'm sure I have more than one student who works with horses, but it just seemed to be too coincidental to go un-commented upon.

That's all; good night!

Sunday, August 30, 2009

EVER FORGET WHERE YOU READ IT?

Yesterday morning I was putting the finishing touches on my 9 am class plan, and wanted to use a line I know I had read somewhere. (Important to give appropriate credit where it's due.)

I knew I had read it recently. So, what have I been reading in the last week?
  • Donna Farhi's 'Insights' on her website -- read 'em all, good stuff
  • "Eat, Taste, Heal" -- an Ayurvedic book of recipes and information recommended by Cate Stillman
  • Anusara® Teacher Training Manual
  • "The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society" -- a great little book that sits outside of the realm of 'curriculum reading'

So, I spent a precious 20 minutes searching Donna's writings, sure that I had read it there.

What was I looking for, you ask? "It is yoga throughout every phase of the pose, not just in the final form."

Where did I read it? Well, this morning as I reviewed previous posts, I came upon it in an entry I made 4-5 entries ago. It is a quote from the Anusara® Teacher Training Manual.

Not only did I read it, but I wrote it and commented about it! Where, oh where, is that razor sharp memory going? I hope it's just getting a bit dulled by the mountains of information I'm trying to cram into this 'boomer brain'.

Now, why am I writing about something that has little to do with yoga? Not sure, just thought it interesting that I read it, I embraced it, I wrote it, I commented on it, then I promptly forgot it. Bad sign.

The class I taught went on without the quote -- tho I did paraphrase it, without giving credit.

Going to do yardwork today. Did some yesterday and felt really good about the result; anxious to make the rest of the (visible) flower beds look as good.

Enjoy YOUR Sunday,

Saturday, August 29, 2009

GIDDY TO THE POINT OF 'FLUORISHMENT'

What a nice day -- enjoyable to teach the Gentle Yoga class yesterday morning. Small group, but included was one person newer to the practice. As is my tendency, I worry I give too much information -- I want them to know all the helpful information; and, I guess, I want them to know it RIGHT NOW. So, I had to restrain myself and the information a bit and just teach.

Then a bit of grocery shopping, lunch with Howard, a bit of reading, a nap (I've heard rumor that Darren Rhoades takes a nap every afternoon; gives me license to do likewise - or at least as often as possible. No guilt allowed.), a bit of domestic paper shuffling, then back to the studio to prepare for the 5:40 pm class.

It was a smaller-than-normal number in attendance. Some I had met in previous classes, some new to me. But, all had done yoga before. My class plan changed, as I met and got re-acquainted with those in attendance.

My theme, heart quality, and alignment emphasis did not, however. Hugging in to create stability; steadfast; muscle energy.

Why "giddy to the point of fluorishment"? I found myself having so much fun, I really had to contain myself; I had to remind myself that I was there for the students, to teach and keep them safe (NOT to have TOO much fun and FORGET them). Giddiness, like that, has not happened to me before. I can be funny, I can crack jokes, but never have I felt so energized and so happy to be teaching. I'm usually pretty sedate, maybe to the point of being boring(?). I think I may have just jumped off a plateau and UP to the next level.

During the class, we moved through warm-ups, some salutations, some standing twists, then took legs wide to work on parsvakonasana (first time, elbow on knee; second time, hand to outside of front foot). The 'capper' was trichonasana / ardha chandrasana / trichonasana -- using muscle energy to support and allow the poses to open and ALSO to allow those smooth and graceful transitions between poses. We did that series twice, as well. The first time through, I encouraged use of a block; second time, their choice.

A couple sets of tight shoulders in the room, and all of these poses are challenging to tight-shouldered students as they take the arm up. What to do? I encouraged keeping the upper hand on the waist or rib cage, elbow bent, to encourage the upper shoulder blade to move on to the back. Who can concentrate on working through any of these poses when their shoulder 'screams' at them (or just becomes immobile) as they try to extend the upper arm; so, why not keep it in a place of accessibility, while we work on other aspects of the pose?

With everyone's upper hand on the waist, I encouraged them to open their heart and chest as they took their shoulder blades onto the back 'with a dramatic fluorish'. Wow! Then, take the arm up if it was available to them. So much more opening. Even some smiles from the tight-shouldered few. Our shoulders can really get in the way sometimes and inhibit our opening (body and mind).

(Don't get me wrong, I'm not saying ignore taking the arm up forever. I'm saying get the foundation of the pose established in their minds, allow them to feel the opening of their heart, THEN work on the arm. Even in my limited time as a teacher - 5 yrs - I've seen people scrunched over in all of these poses, because their shoulder and/or back won't allow the opening when they try to take the arm up. So, why do it? Leave it, for now, and enjoy the action of the poses.)

The word started as 'drama', morphed to 'fluorishment' (in my excitement), then became a 'dramatic fluorish'. If nothing else, they will remember that word from this class -- and it may, unbeknownst to them, initiate actions to open heart, body and mind.

Go forth in 'fluorishment',

Friday, August 28, 2009

TURMOIL

We never enjoy turmoil in our lives. And, we never expect to find it in the yoga world -- after all, aren't we supposed to be calm, loving, go-with-the-flow types of people?

Worse yet, in this merry band called Anusara®, who would ever think that turmoil, personal battles, egos, etc., would ever DARE to raise their ugly heads? But, they do -- even in our small kula of Salt Lake City.

I won't go into detail. Suffice it to say, it will be a learning experience for all. For me, it creates a sadness; a sense of loss. At the same time, it is important to keep moving forward. The challenge will be to stay connected to all the parties involved in this rift, recognizing that each is an important part of my life -- a part that I'm not willing to let go of, but must recognize and accept that the dynamics of each relationship will change.

I also have many great things to focus on - my teaching, my continued journey, my students, my relationships within the extended kula.

The reality is that we are human; even those of us who dedicate our yoga practice to Anusara® Yoga. And, as such, we are blessed with human frailties and shortcomings. Enough said.

Today is Friday -- what happens on Friday? I teach! Gentle Yoga this morning; then, I'm subbing a class this evening for my friend, Jen. Both classes are Anusara-Inspired™. One gentle (obviously) and one more energetic. Fun!

The challenge in subbing for Jen is that she is younger, more flexible, more adept at much of the asana, not to mention a very different type of instructor than I am (tho we're both Inspired™). Don't get me wrong -- I'm not discounting my skills, just stating fact; we couldn't be more different. We started our journey into Anusara® at about the same time; in fact, Jen convinced me to attend our first teacher training with Desiree Rumbaugh. The rest is history.

What Jen and I do share is laughter. Rarely are we together that we don't find something to laugh about -- to the point of being 'teenager silly'. We have fun, as friends do.

Her students will have to step back a bit, embrace their 'beginner mind', and - perhaps - take a tidbit or two away from my teaching. Things we all must do when we encounter a different teacher standing in for one of our favorites.

Now, what do I teach these students? (Note to self: read previous post -- I may already know the answer.)

Enjoy your Friday,

Tuesday, August 25, 2009

YOU MAY ALREADY KNOW THE ANSWER . . .

I was poking around on the internet over the weekend and, out of curiosity for dates, I logged onto Donna Farhi's website to check when she will be in Salt Lake City.

Donna, who lives in New Zealand, is a workshop/training presenter who has practiced yoga for 30 years and authored four books (for more info, go to http://www.donnafarhi.co.nz/donna/). The website is fun because it gives you a glimpse of life in New Zealand, Donna's love for horses, and a sample of her writing skill (check out the section titled "Donna's Insight").

Three years ago, I attended a training here in Salt Lake conducted by Donna. She is a very skilled practitioner and teacher, and it was - for me - one of the earlier trainings I've attended. Because it was NOT Anusara®, I found myself in a group of new people, different dynamics, out of my 'comfort zone'. Note: I keep doing that 'comfort zone' thing to myself, don't I?

A vivid memory from that training is the method Donna uses with regards to questions. I've inserted a poem that describes it perfectly:

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

"May you, as the
poet Rilke suggests, gradually live
your way into the answers." - Donna Farhi


In her 'insights', Donna devotes one article to specifically that -- her theory behind the way she handles questions. How does she do it? She basically ignores most questions; sometimes prefacing the silence with, 'you know the answer'.

For us, as Americans(?), that is a bit unsettling -- to be told "No, I won't answer; you probably already know the answer." We paid the money, we want the answer!

Yet, reflect on our Anusara® trainings. Doesn't John (or our other Anusara® teachers) use comparison frequently to get us to do just that -- figure it out ourselves? His tone may be a bit less brusque, but it is essentially the same technique.

I have long taught students that, in the face of a minor pain/discomfort in a pose, they should go back through the steps that got them there. Compare those steps with the Universal Principles of Alignment and make adjustments (even experiment a bit) to see what pulls them out of that discomfort. After all, I won't always be by their side to diagnose and/or solve their yoga dilemmas.

Glitch in blogging -- first draft, thankfully, was saved but only partially. Why did that happen? Maybe I know the answer.

More to think about,

Saturday, August 22, 2009

GO BACK TO THE B0OK

This morning I'm up early to prepare for a 9 am class. I started last night, feeling little inspiration.

As I looked around our family room, the first book I spotted was the Anusara Teacher Training Manual (conveniently opened to possible 'heart quality' ideas). Since I was feeling less-than-inspired, I decided to re-read some of the manual. Started last night, made it through 3 sections and set it aside to resume in the morning.

This morning, up and reading. Finding lots of material that I had forgotten, overlooked in previous readings, or maybe just hadn't paid attention to (or heard).

In our curriculum, there is so much reading that - if we have done one (or two or three or four) teacher trainings, the manual may sit unopened after that first flurry of teacher training exuberance. At least, that's been my history. I do open it occasionally to check possible heart qualities, look at the lists of poses for the ones I have overlooked teaching, etc.

This time, I opened it and read each line of chapter 9 (course curriculum) through to the Syllabus of poses -- highlighting important points. Lots of gems in there that - unfortunately for me - have gotten sidelined by other information.

As John says -- stick to the basics; keep it simple. The manual helps us do just that; succinctly telling us how, what and why to teach in order to engage our students.

One line that jumped off the page for me this morning: "It is yoga throughout every phase of the pose, not just in the final form." Why? Because I've been trying to teach this, but have yet to come up with such a simple way to say it. Now I have it! All because I went 'back to the book'.

Hope you have a great weekend,

Friday, August 21, 2009

TRANSITIONS

I attended Wayne's class yesterday morning -- his theme and our practice revolved around our transitions, staying steady and strong as we move from one pose to the next.

Naturally - as good yoga teachers do - I used a similar thought process for my YogaHour class. I did use a different sequence and there was some original thought to my class. But, in all honesty, it does help me to attend a class, listen to the phrasing being used and the instructions, incorporate it into my own practice; and then -- maybe use some of it in one of my subsequent classes.

I attended a class at my studio a couple weeks ago. Response of fellow students in the class: 'what is a yoga teacher doing in class?'. Kind of caught me off guard. Either we yoga teachers disguise our professions very well, or these students never go to the classes with teachers in attendance, or - worse - few of us yoga teachers actually attend public classes.

The last option does happen - more often than we would care to admit. We get so caught up in teaching, practicing on our own, studying, attending workshops (and, some of us have full-time jobs to attend to), that we forget about public classes. A gold mine we can use to our own advantage, when needed.

As I work towards Certification, it is part of my curriculum to attend a certain number of public classes with a Certified Anusara® Instructor. So, best I not forget those public classes.

Plus, as I said before, it's a goldmine of good information, teaching ideas, theming ideas, etc., to be had. And, since most yoga instructors know and accept that it will happen, I don't need to feel guilty when I 'borrow' something from them.

Thursday, August 20, 2009

WRITING

I have always enjoyed writing, but never explored it too much. As is my nature, I probably thought I had little to offer the 'reading' world; so, why bother.

This past year, I've ventured beyond typing copious notes from workshops and trainings, to writing this blog, to writing letters (and a vacation journal) for my grandsons, and - now - to setting some of my experiences down in more detail. I've submitted one article to Anusara's® website and it now appears in Kula News.

The title is "Yoga for Everyone" and describes my experience teaching a volunteer yoga class at the SLC Jail. I have shared teaching responsibilities for this class for 5 years (!!!). I won't go into all the details (if you're interested, you can check out the article on the website). Suffice it to say, it is another example of 'Leslie stepping out of her comfort zone.'.

As I was excitedly re-reading my submission last night, I took a few extra minutes to read BJ Galvan's account of her adventures in South America. Wow! BJ is a wonderful writer and her article is full of great descriptive phrases, and tons of shri -- photos, too!

Back to my writing -- how do I get 'shri' into clanging metal doors, serious & not-to-be-fooled-with officers, potential uncomfortable teaching situations? Well, maybe my next article I'll do better at that aspect.

We can't all be in shri-filled situations, can we? Or, maybe we have to look for the shri in the fact that students in the jail are there for the same reasons as the students in Peru -- to experience yoga, to know more about themselves, and to create beauty in their lives (tho my students probably wouldn't say it that way).

For me, the shri was in just writing the article, editing and proofing it, submitting it, and waiting (I submitted it about the time the website was undergoing a big re-vamping). It's a bit of me out there for people to read, to learn more about me and that big population of non-mainstream type student waiting (unknowlingly?) for yoga.

I taught my Gentle Yoga class yesterday -- wide spectrum of challenging students. Samples: post back surgery, severe balance issues, hip replacement, newer to yoga and a bit stiff. I love teaching this group; they are so appreciative, so happy to be moving, and represent the kula at its best.

Today, I teach YogaHour at 4 pm -- one hour, $4 -- not a bad deal for students. For me, I feel more free when teaching this group. Not sure why; maybe because it is a less-formal format. We work hard, but we also laugh; it's fun for me and them.

If you have completed your Immersions & a Level I Teacher Training, check out Christina Sell's next offering -- an on-line mentoring group to help you through next steps. Videos, teaching, applications, etc., etc., etc. If you hope to apply for Certification, and don't have a mentor yet to work with you until you apply, this is a good 'next step'.

Enjoy your Thursday,

Wednesday, August 19, 2009

THE KULA

One of the many things I love about Anusara® yoga is the kula -- the community.

There are three things that define and set Anusara® apart from other yoga styles (we discussed this at length with John in Tucson, March 2009):
  1. Anusara® yoga instructors look for the good in all people and things. That's why, when I approach a student, hopefully I preface any recommendations with the positive I am seeing. We hear this over and over in our trainings and workshops. How many of you like to have someone approach you with a "Lift your left leg" command? I'd much rather hear "Leslie, your right leg looks straight and strong; now engage and lift your left leg to fully support the pose." I'll do almost anything for an instructor who sees and acknowledges my positive first.
  2. There is a method / plan in place for each class. Each class is planned in advance with a theme/message, and the poses are sequenced to take the class to an apex (peak) pose. So, if I want a class to do urdhva dhanurasana (wheel or full backbend) as the apex pose, I will sequence poses leading to it that will prepare back, shoulders, legs for this apex. Similar planning is used to wind down from the apex. This happens for each class.
  3. We have a kula (community) to support and enrich our teaching. I know that other styles of yoga also would claim this; and, I can't dispute that. I do know that I feel supported by everyone, from John Friend to the person I meet for the first time at an Anusara® workshop or training who I trust to help me into handstand. We all feel part of something bigger than ourselves that can serve to make us better yoga students and teachers.
I received a call yesterday from a woman with whom I have gotten acquainted at several workshops and trainings. Even though we have not seen each other for 8 months, and have only met in yoga settings and an associated dinner/lunch, it was easy to settle into an easy banter, make plans for a future training. Just like old friends - sharing news, talking about future plans - the kula in action.

Additionally, the blog I referenced a day or so ago (Dakota Yogi), is written by a yoga teacher I have never met. Yet, the kula of Anusara® Yoga has brought us together via Facebook and our blogs. Our mutual love of Anusara® makes it easy to be friends and to communicate with one another without ever meeting (though, I hope to meet Doc, in person, someday soon).

For me, the Anusara® method gives me what most of us desire:
  1. Recognition (what's good about me, then what can we do to improve it)
  2. A plan (we all want to know where we're headed, and not go there blindly)
  3. Friendship and camaraderie along the way (the best)

Here's to the Kula,

Monday, August 17, 2009

TOUGH WEEKEND

Well, it's been one of the least enjoyable weekends I've spent with my parents. Lots of discussion about the future, lots of not-so-happy reactions, and lots of silence (my mother has suddently lost her hearing --- ).

My parents still feel they are able to live independently, with help coming in almost daily in the form of housekeeper, bookkeeper, bath-aide. I think my father would gladly move to an apartment in an assisted living facility, but my mother is very attached to her 'things' and this house (which - interestingly - she hated when they bought). Both are struggling with challenges - dad, movement & diabetes; mom, memory & anxiety.

So, for now, we'll give it a bit more time. And, I'll keep remembering Sundari's words of wisdom: 'this, too, is your yoga'.

While I've been away, I've kept track of stuff via internet (getting to love Facebook). I also learned this morning that Doc Savage (South Dakota) has started a blog, www.centipedes-world.blogspot.com. Gave it a read -- good one, and made a comment. I know that I love to receive comments and it took about a month before I got one. You wonder who could be out there reading all this stuff, and - then - why are you bothering to write it. Turns out you are writing it for yourself (really, not kidding); and that's a good thing.

I return to SLC tomorrow and back to my life. Got a husband, 2 houses, 2 dogs, 2 cats, & 2 birds, all calling my name. (It's tough to be so popular!)

I'm going to keep moving in my teaching and my practice. I worry that if I stop and focus on something I can't change right now (my parents), I may not get started again. So, I've added a class in September. Going to teach a 3-class series called Basics, with a focus on Anusara® Yoga. So, someone new to yoga can attend, as well as someone who wants to explore Anusara® more - the language, the philosophy, etc. This will challenge me, as well. If you're in SLC, join me and check it out! Info is on my website, www.yogautah.com.

Enjoy your week,

Friday, August 14, 2009

BE BRAVE, JUST HIT THAT 'SEND' BUTTON

Well, the good news is that John Friend has started a blog. Many of you know that and are probably reading it. For some of you, this may be news. The other good news is that he's only made 3 entries, so you can get in on the ground floor of reading and following it.

To find the blog, go to the Anusara® website, and look at the 'Community' menu. Click on 'John's Blog'.

Yesterday's entry was about offering and accepting feedback. The message explained the mechanics of feedback and was directed towards the appropriate manner in which to accept feedback. (I was pleased to have him write that not all feedback is accurate or written in stone; but we do need to listen to it, absorb it, and contemplate it anyway. There is probably a part of even an inaccurate statement that we can learn from.)

So, I offered a comment to that blog entry. Sundari, my mentor, used a tool -- write down 5 positives from a feedback session and 5 areas to be improved. This - as I review it to make sure I'm doing (or trying to do) what she suggested - is valuable to remind me of what needs to happen AND what I am doing well. My tendency would be to focus only on the 'needing improvement' areas and forget about the positive.

As I typed the comment, I felt a bit nervous. I read, adjusted, re-read, adjusted again, re-read, and read again.

Why was I nervous? That age-old thought that what I have to say or ask may be viewed as 'not so intelligent' or 'doesn't she know that already'.

Not so. Several times I've asked questions and people thank me for asking. We're all a bit fearful of putting ourselves out there, of exposing our bare underbellies. Mine is just a bit more calloused than others, and I don't worry about it so much anymore. I need to know the stuff, or to comment on it, and therefore I will usually go for it.

Except when it's John Friend's blog entry I'm commenting on -- for that, the old nervous, self-conscious Leslie returned. But, in the end, I HIT that 'send' button.

Enjoy your day and your weekend. Off to Spokane (see previous post for details).

Thursday, August 13, 2009

SETTLING BACK IN

I've settled back into a sort-of routine in the last few days -- being back to real life after vacation. Now, it's time to pack again. Going to visit my parents for a long weekend in Spokane.

I'm packing my equanimity for that trip. Aging parents and the associated dynamics will require a big dose of it. FYI, my parents are in their mid-80's. They are still in their home, with help coming in periodically (housekeeper, bookkeeper, bath-aide, Fire Department - when my Dad takes a tumble, plus a cousin whose family is very attentive).

Still, I worry. I have my ideas of what would be best for them; but it doesn't fit their wishes right now. So - wait, worry, watch.

I've been using the word equanimity a lot this week -- as a theme in classes, as a reminder to not overreact. I will apply the word a lot this coming weekend -- try to stay calm, not dramatize, take time to look at the bigger picture.

To think that 24 months ago, this powerful word was a bit foreign to me! I would read it in Gurumayi's writings, think about it, decide to look it up in the dictionary later, then forget. It was vaguely in my mind that it meant 'equal', but I was never confident enough in my knowledge to add it to my vocabulary. (equanimity = calm temperament, evenness of temper even under stress)

Today, it's in my mind and my vocabulary constantly. Such a good word!

Well, another blog dedicated to rambling on about a word (last entry is was 'props').

P.S. I've been re-reading the books I have with compilations of Gurumayi's talks. In those talks, she always is referencing Baba Muktananda (her teacher). I finally purchased one of his books (a compilations of selected essays), started reading it last night. Lots to think about.

Enjoy your day,

Tuesday, August 11, 2009

BACK TO REALITY (?)

I returned yesterday from five (yes, 5) nights in Driggs, that included a short hiatus from blog writing and minimal yoga business.

The time away included LOTS of quality time, however, with my son, daughter-in-law, and grandsons - Jack & Brady. We got to experience several aspects of spending vacations with family -- the fun of being together, the stress of illness (a 24-hr bug Jack got on day 3), irritable individual moments (me) -- but, all-in-all, an experience I wouldn't trade for anything.

Highlights for me: Jack walking out in the morning to greet the day with "it's a beautiful day". Brady taking his (almost) first step into my arms. Derek and I taking one day to go fishing together. Watching Jess work efficiently and effectively as the Mother, Wife, Protector, Always-On-The-Alert person in this group of four. Howard and I were able to relax and laugh, and just enjoy being with family. Great stuff!

So, it's back to SLC for me; San Diego for Derek & family; and Howard is on the road -- reality, I guess.

There were a series of missteps at my studio in my absence -- a slight glitch in a once-monthly class (I'll find out more later this morning); a sub forgetting to teach one of my classes; a private session of mine cancelling at the last minute (causing one early-rising sub a bit of frustration).

It will be interesting(?) to go to the studio this afternoon and see what state it's in after five days away.

One thing I remember from working with John so much is the importance of creating a sacred space in which to practice and teach. So, when I see props dissheveled and out of place, it doesn't fit with that 'sacred' space type of thinking I've embraced.

Unfortunately, it doesn't bother everyone and not all of the instructors who teach at the studio have received that lesson from their teachers. So, props in disarray is not a problem for them. I also need to remember that many of them are racing from studio to studio or from studio to job, and don't have time to stop and straighten up the props. The next instructor bears the brunt and often doesn't have time before his/her students arrive to get things back in shape.

I've just spent 3 minutes wondering why, after 5 days, all I'm thinking about at this moment is the PROPS???

One of the interesting parts of blog-writing is just letting the fingers start to translate thought to computer screen. Never quite sure what will come out; and then it's a process of weaving it back into some bigger picture. How can I weave props into anything?

Perhaps it's part of the equanimity I must hold forth as I step back into this reality. Staying calm, realizing it's not everyone's priority (though, it should be), and accepting it. This equanimity will help with handling whatever fallout I receive from late-arriving instructors (or instructors who don't arrive at all), to students cancelling at the last minute. Even to my continuing saga of Dept. of Workforce relations. Ah, there -- I wove it (woved?, weaved?).

Last night, I read John's first two entries of his new blog -- his history and knowledge make my writing look a bit trite. Oh, well, a dose of equanimity will help with that also.

Welcome back & have a beautiful day,

Wednesday, August 5, 2009

SECRETLY SMILING

We met our son and his family at the airport yesterday. I was surprised at the level of excitement I felt as their arrival approached. I'm always happy to see them, but they've never come (as a foursome) to our turf; we've always gone there.

So, I left early for the airport and waited anxiously in the park&wait lot. Then drove up to the short-term parking, also a few minutes earlier than needed (but, with the valid excuse that I wanted to use the restroom before their arrival). Just as I walked in, Derek called from the plane which was sitting on the tarmac waiting for a gate (Jack, the almost 3-yr-old) can be heard in the background telling me he is on the plane.) So, Howard and I wait.

20 (or 30) minutes later, the family can be seen coming towards us. It's important to note, that part of my secret wish was that, upon seeing me, Jack would run straight to me and into my arms.

What happened?

Exactly that! There was a slight hesitation, since both Howard and I were there -- like 'who should I go to'; lucky for me, he decided to come my way first. Wow! What fun these grandkids are! Even Brady, who is approaching 1 yr., was all smiles and willing to be picked up and embraced. (Remember, because they live in California, we see these little people just once every few months, or so; making this reunion - and the associated reactions - even more remarkable.)

Oh, and lest I forget -- Jess & Derek (parents of these wonderful children - our son & daughter-in-law), were met with hugs, as well.

We visited for a short time, helped herd kids and baggage for a bit, made restroom stops, changed diapers, loaded our SUV (boy, am I glad we put the cartop carrier on!), and sent them on their way to Idaho. We (Howard and I) were exhausted -- we've traveled with one child (Derek) many years ago, but never two, and there's a whole industry out there creating things you must have. I know those 'things' make life easier, it's just a LOT to carry around (car seats, portable cribs, stroller, not to mention baggage).

I loved being greeted with so much love. I secretly smile and get goosebumps each time I think about that reunion. It was all I hoped for, but didn't dare let myself anticipate. Then - the final 'icing on the cake' -- Jack cried as they drove away, when he learned he wouldn't see us again until tonight!

Back to yoga -- today I teach my Gentle Yoga group, and then do a presentation to a large group of IRS employees.

What does the IRS want with yoga? A way to relax / de-stress. What better group for that?

The reactions will be interesting to observe. I did a similar presentation to a group of Juvenile Justice employees -- very 'mainstream' Utah. While they did everything I asked them to, I always wonder how effective it was; as in, did they use any of the techniques I taught them?

I always love an opportunity to talk about yoga and the affect it can have on our lives -- if it just sparks the curiosity of one (or a few) of these 120 folks, I'll feel very grateful.

Enjoy your day,

Tuesday, August 4, 2009

ANTICIPATION

would be the perfect word for today.

Our son and family arrive at noon today to begin their visit with us. Everyone's excited. Jack (pictured with me in my blog photo) has been asking every 5 minutes when they are leaving 'on vacation'.

A bit overshadowed by the family's arrival, is a presentation I'm making to the IRS in Ogden, Wednesday afternoon. 120 IRS people (yikes!!!) who are looking for ways to reduce stress in their stress-filled jobs. So, I have some preparation to do for that, as well!

Finally reached Anusara regarding the Santa Fe training & the associated listing on their website. Apparently, there is no information yet about schedule, so that's why the information is vague. If you're interested in attending, I guess the best thing to do is apply and watch for information.

I think this will be short -- just too much to think about, to be able to concentrate on this blog entry.

Enjoy your Tuesday,

Saturday, August 1, 2009

SWITCHIN' IT UP

I've written every other blog entry during the daylight hours; it's time to try out an evening entry. Just like we move our mat around in our classrooms, switching it up once in a while is a good thing -- keeps things interesting and different.

The Saturday a.m. private cancelled for today, so that left the 9 am class to teach. A small group; several regulars plus one new student. The new person was very body aware and fit in very well; and the regulars - as always - were happy to welcome someone new and accepted gracefully the need to slow down just a bit.

I had re-read a couple of Zhenja LaRosa's blog entries early this morning. How inspiring! She also reminded me of the important role of expansion in our yoga poses. I've been emphasizing the idea of lengthening through the torso, rather than using the arms/shoulders to create length. I have realized over the past months the importance of that length for the health and wellbeing of my neck. Zhenja writes about a similar experience, and the way she breaks it all down is amazing. Her blog is yoganerd.blogspot.com.

So, having this in my hip pocket, I taught a class emphasizing side body length. Heart quality: expansion. As we expand in our yoga poses and experience, we can translate that expansion to other parts of our lives, more fully experiencing and connecting to the world and people around us.

The new student got to experience parvritta trikonasana (not exactly a 'beginner' pose). We used the wall, pressing the back heel against it for support in this pose and using a block the first time through. Then, as they felt appropriate, they could use the block or not on the second round. The expansion we had cultivated throughout the class in the torso, supported by strong legs (and the wall), made for some nice openings.

After class, my husband and I took our annual drive up to the Park City Arts Festival. Fun to see lots of great, creative and traditional artwork in one space. Lunch, a trip to the grocery store, and Lululemon(!!!) followed. Then home.

We are looking forward to next week when our son will bring his family to Utah and then to Driggs for a short vacation. Will be fun to have them visit us for a change (aka the theme of this blog entry).

Enjoy the rest of your weekend,