SHRADDA

Shradda was the basis of my theme for yesterday's class.  I distilled it's meaning to trust, confidence, faith. Then I did a little dictionary research (a la Christina):

     Trust - firm belief in reliability of something/someone.
            Norse origin, 'traust' = strength
     Confidence - feeling that we can trust something or someone.
             Latin origin, 'confidentia' = full trust
     Faith - complete trust or confidence in someone/something.
             Latin origin, 'fides' = trust (Roman Goddess of Trust, even)

Sanskrit words, I find, have more than one meaning, depending on who you are talking to. Hence, where I might have just used trust, I added in confidence and faith - just to cover most of the bases. I was pleased that I could relate both confidence and faith back to trust (especially with their origins to back me up). Then, even more pleased with the origin of trust -- strength.

It provided me with a ton of material to work with in phrasing and, hopefully, inspiring my class. A Level 1 class composed of continuing and newer-to-yoga students.

When I submit my video to Anusara, I must also submit the written plan for the class I was teaching. I suppose that's so they can see what direction I had planned for the class, if I am sequencing appropriately, what my preparation looks like, etc. I had started, right after completing the on-line mentoring course with Christina, to write out my plans. They look something like this:

1. Introduction / story - A few paragraphs journaling theme that alludes to heart quality, tells students what UPA we will emphasize, and - perhaps - I'll tell them what our apex is (especially if it is a challenging pose).
2. I do write down what props I want them to have, so we can be prepared from the start (no running to get props during the class); this is a new addition to my written plan, and valuable. Nothing like a video where everyone disappears as they run to grab a strap or block!?!?!
3. My sequence - nothing fancy.  Just a list of poses we will do, in the order to be done.  I even include 'center', 'chant', 'warm-up', 'cool down', 'savasana'.
4. I use the thesaurus to find words to convey theme, heart quality. I write a list of those words at the end of my plan.  I also came across a note in regarding planning a class, where John says "be sure to explore the opposite of your heart quality".  Where I used "trust" yesterday, I ought to have explored "doubt" more -- as in 'don't doubt the strength of your legs, trust that foundation you've built'.
5. Finally, I jot down a list of a few phrases I might use to remind students of our journey. I began a few trainings back to develop a document of 'valuable phrases I've heard'. What are these? In classes, we hear John say 'be steady, full stretch' or 'do the best you can and, while doing your best, remain steady". I've written these and more down for future reference, plus many from other instructors that I've heard. Why? Because phrasing doesn't come easy for me; I tend to get pretty technical.  Therefore, I review the list, find a few that are appropriate and write them down. I may or may not use them verbatim, but it's a good reminder for me to be more creative in my speech.  

Now, depending on who comes into class, this could all change; as it could change with the energy of the group. But, no matter. I feel prepared and that translates in my teaching. When I finally have that perfect video, this document will already be typed and ready to go with it (and, if it did change - maybe I'll add a note about reason for change). What other benefit? The added time spent in preparation means a more effective class for students. I'm ready!

Have a great Sunday,

FRIDAY NOTES . . .

I enjoy blogging on Friday (or any 'notes' day) -- seems like more 'fun' to just jot down random thoughts as they come to me.

1.  Speaking of notes, I had a question during the week about my method of note taking - the process of getting them from the handwritten stage to a more useable format.  Perhaps others are curious, so here is my not-so-scientific method:  Hand-write the notes in class; then let them simmer overnight and type them into my laptop the next morning (amazingly, things distill and become clearer; I even remember more stuff the next morning - this may not work for everyone). I use the word processing program on this Mac (Word was easier, sorry - just what we're used to), and lots of the formatting tools to make important points stand out, plus space - space, to me makes things easier to read and absorb?!?!?!  I make sure I date them and put training type & location on each page and page numbers (use the 'insert', 'header' or 'footer' for this).

After reviewing the draft a couple times (I hate typos), I print the notes and file in a 3-ring binder. I have a big binder for trainings with John (I've done most with him), and 4 other smaller binders for notes related to other trainings (Christina's on-line mentoring; Sundari's teacher training; my Immersion and Teacher Trainings with the Kirks, etc.)

In this format, the notes are easy to read and I do go back and re-read them occasionally.  In fact, this blog has caused me to re-read notes several times as I look for bits of information to offer.  Each time, I have an 'ah-ha' moment as I discover something I'd forgotten.

2.  So, why do all of #1?  It relates back to yesterday's post - about remembering what's important.  When it's important, we give it our best attention and our best effort.

3.  Teaching yesterday morning - a variety of skill in the room (and languages). Got a good reminder as I scanned the various trichonasanas in action. What?  to wait and watch for a few breaths before moving in to adjust or embellish. Poses grow, and right before my eyes!  As I moved through the room, I made mental notes of the embellishments needed after checking everyone's foundation, when I moved back the poses had expanded and no longer were those adjustments needed -- amazing and beautiful to watch! And, as I commented on this to students, you could see little smiles of self-empowerment throughout the room.

4.  Another wake-up moment happened in my Gentle Yoga class.  Students in virasana - a pose they do not enjoy, yet. One mentioned her knee was uncomfortable and therefore her knees were wider (her solution). I had them all come out of the pose and explained 'shins in - thighs out' action, even in virasana. Student tries it again, no knee discomfort with knees closer together and thighs parallel. What wake-up moment? They appreciated hearing a somewhat detailed explanation of this action's (SI-TO) affect on the legs.

5.  And another wake-up moment - gave bakasana (crow) a try in YogaHour. A sore wrist or two, which lead to discussion of hand placement and energy. A request to try moving through a vinyasa using this energy and without moving the hands. I kind of felt like a drill sargeant, as every movement (from downdog to plank to cobra to down dog) was followed by "don't move your hands", "stay steady in your connection", "be commited". Wow, the power the hands can give our poses.

6.  So, what's the theme of each of these 'wake-up' moments? That students are curious, interested, and value when I tell them the 'whys' of what we are doing.

7.  O.K. the moment we've been waiting for - a tip:  I noticed yesterday that I was teaching quietly in my morning class - a result of not wanting to interrupt an ongoing savasana in the next room. Interesting that I noticed, because I was teaching some challenging poses at the time and my bigger voice would have been helpful. Came across these voice tips just now:

• Breathe - full, deep breathing enhances my voice, especially in the chant
• Excitement breeds excitement - let my voice convey my excitement about what I'm seeing
• Tone comes from the heart - how can I ask them to open their heart, if my voice is flat?
• Project to each corner - talk BIG not loud
• My voice reflects my enthusiasm, my authority, my knowledge, my kindness
• Maintain voice level through instruction
• Use my mature voice (I think this means "no baby-talk")

Hope you have a great Memorial Day weekend & be safe.

CAREFUL -- BLOGGING IS INFECTIOUS

Just finished reading a new addition to my 'favorites' list -- BJ Galvan's first blog.  The link is on my list - to the right of these paragraphs and under "blogs/websites I love".

One more viewpoint to glean from -- Love It!

My class yesterday (Gentle Yoga) was fun. It is nice to return from a weekend away and have welcoming voices telling me they're glad I'm back. I was very happy to hear that they enjoyed Marianne's subbing - that makes my heart happy. Do you notice that, once you've grown a class, it becomes like your child? You like to get away once in a while, but have to make sure that the students are well-served in your absence.

The other interesting thing I noticed yesterday is that each student comes with a history and - the longer I work with them - the easier it is to remember that history. As a human, I know that I love it when someone comments on something they remember about me; I think that applies to most people. Some are more demonstrative and receptive, but everyone appears to get a glint of appreciation(?) or maybe that's surprise when I ask or comment about something.

This reminds me of the last Tucson training (3/2009), when John and Darren had a discussion in front of all of us. John quizzed Darren (Rhodes) about their first meeting, their first shared meal, and other details about some of their work together. Darren remembered most; John remembered all of it. His point in doing this in front of us -- to show us that if something is important enough we remember.

I remember the first time I met BJ Galvan - Cincinnatti, May 2006. I remember partnering with her and how good she made me feel with her welcoming and confident voice. I also remember the first meal we shared -- a salad at the hotel restaurant. It wasn't planned, I just stumbled in there looking for food. I took a seat, noticed BJ, and was flattered when she invited me to join her. We talked a bit about the training, our experience with yoga and Anusara, and our lives away from yoga - especially about our children. From that point forward, we have remained in contact; not 'joined at the hip', but always taking a moment to touch base or share a meal when possible. And, the fact that she always takes a moment to shout out her support and encouragement makes me feel valued. A good habit to emulate.

All this to say, I remember because it's important to remember -- each student becomes a part of my life, whether they attend every class with me or show when schedules allow. Each is a valuable gift, not to be taken for granted.

Making myself cry -- time to sign off and get on with the day. Teaching at 10, Everyone's Yoga at Kula; then Pilates with Cindy; teaching YogaHour at 4pm at The Yoga Center.

Enjoy Thursday,

FLATTERED BY QUESTIONS

One of my concerns as I began this blog is 'who is going to read this thing?' and 'do I have information or material to offer that will be of value to anyone?'.  That soon turned to 'I'm not worried about who is reading, this is good for me', as I saw an aspect of my personality begin to emerge through the writing - a positive result for me of this endeavor.

On several occasions lately, a question will arrive out of the blue, telling me that there are people out there reading. Who knew? And, the fact they are asking questions of ME is very flattering.

When I reflect on the reasons for beginning to blog, one primary reason was to give information - especially information that would be helpful to others beginning or moving along the Inspired™ path. So much that we do as we progress in this journey is self-directed, meaning - Anusara® tells us what our steps and requirements are - yet, we're kind of on our own to figure it out and to accomplish the tasks needed in order to move forward.

So this blog is about 'questions'.

One thing I see happen at trainings and workshops is a reluctance by students newer to this journey to ask questions (even some seasoned students won't ask). For example, I will sit in a training and wonder about something being said by John (or whoever is speaking). Eventually, maybe, someone will ask the question; often, nothing is said. I know I used to think my questions were 'dumb, inconsequential, not smart enough'. No more. I've learned that many questions I ask are things others in the room are wondering about. So, I ask - I still hesitate, wondering if it's 'appropriate or smart enough', but I still ask.

Of course, I could take that to the opposite extreme - asking too many questions; so, I limit my questions to one or two per training. Even then, I'm not always called on. But, I try.

Just an 'aside' story -- watching Christina Sell over the years has contributed greatly 

to my growth. Her skill as a teacher is well-known; but, my first encounter with her 

was observing her ask questions of John. Such guts, I thought. And, while my 

questions may not be at her level, she inspired me to stick my neck out and ask.  

And, I'd like to reach Certification soon; in order to do so, I better ask - someone. If my questions don't get answered at the training, I'll approach one of my teachers or my mentor to discuss the issue.

All this to say, if there's a question - ask it.  Either of John, or someone who works for John, or the Forum, or your mentor, or your teacher, or someone who's walking the path with you (including me).

To date, no one has told me that any question is 'dumb' or 'not smart enough' or not worth being answered.

Enjoy your Wednesday,

BACK IN THE SADDLE

Flew back to SLC yesterday, after a great weekend with my son, daughter-in-law and two grandsons, Jack & Brady.  And, as I wrote earlier, a few days with them makes my life look positively restful -- they are on the go most days.  The third boy is due in August; life will change for all of us when he arrives!

On another note, I will be working on BJ Galvan's upcoming workshop at The Yoga Center (June 4-6). Happy to see that my Facebook invite is getting results, but need more.  Interesting to me that students at my studio have the impression that these workshops are for instructors only. I try to dispel that belief each time I host a visiting instructor; haven't figured out an effective way to do that, yet.

After applying for Certification this Winter, I am naturally curious about the recently-held 'Certified Teachers' Gathering'. As any organization grows, there are associated growing pains. Necessary, but not always easy. I am happy to be reading blogs, facebook entries, etc., that indicate the vision of Anusara remains the same. I recall a time when there were only 100 Certified instructors of the method; now that number approaches 300. Imagine the diversity that has entered the field when you increase the numbers 200%?

The Inspired™ population has also grown. My entry into this group happened when it was first established and when there were still 'Affiliated' instructors (a category that has been eliminated). The numbers for this group exploded, when all you needed to do was apply and say you had been teaching some style of yoga. The uncontrolled growth of this population resulted in the now very stringent application and qualification process (a process that is repeated annually).  The number of Inspired™ instructors stabilized (and decreased a bit) with this increased level of control.

All this to say that growth is not easy. And, even more closely monitored growth has it's 'fits and starts'.  Something done one way, one year, may change as the organization continues on it's growth path. It's part of the process - a process meant to develop teachers in the most effective manner and assure students receive the best Anusara® teaching possible.

So, I'm back. Ready to take a class this morning from Wayne, then make my way to The Yoga Center (paperwork, YUK!).  Teaching YogaHour at 4 pm.

Have a nice Tuesday,

BUSY, BUSY, BUSY . . .

When I look at my life lately, at times I think - ' this is too hectic; I ought to re-structure things so that it's calmer, not so much running around '.

After spending a couple days with my son and his family, my life is nothing in the way of 'running around' compared to theirs.  Maybe it's that they're younger; I'm active, but no way as active as they are.  Maybe I was just like them in my earlier years.

Take yesterday.  I was up early, enjoying coffee and beginning to write on the blog (notice I didn't get anything posted yesterday).  It wasn't very long before I was joined by 4 happy faces; 3 excited to go for coffee and 'coffee cake'.  Right now.  So, quickly changed clothes, loaded kids in the car and Derek (my son) and I took the two boys for 'coffee cake' (them) and coffee (us).  That was fun - back home; to get ready and go to an area park for an early picnic and to ride on a small train (trains are still of interest to Jack, but he's not quite so obsessed with them). Home in time for Brady's afternoon nap; a quick shower and hop in the car for a drive northeast to look at a community of interest. That was a bust - drove about 20 minutes only to run into a significant amount of traffic. Back to CostCo to pick up dinner fixings for today, then back home to gather everyone to go to swimming lessons. Fun to watch the boys swim for a little bit. Then shower them off, load them up, and it's off to a friend's birthday party. Home by 8:30 and feeling like it's midnight.  Wonder why?  Whew!  Just one of those activities, maybe two, would have made my day complete.

Not complaining - it's fun to be here and relaxing in the sense that I'm not thinking about the studio, my own housework/laundry, etc.  And, it does show me a bit of how other people live. There's not a lot of downtime in this household. Wait til there are 3 boys running around! Playing soccer, music lessons maybe, whatever other teams they choose to play on (I'm sure, based on my son's activities, at least one of them will be active in sports.), school activities, birthday parties, other celebrations. But, it's apparent that this will continue to be a busy house for many years.

Home tomorrow. Howard's there, cleaning (go, go, go!).

Hope you have a good Sunday,

HATE TO MISS A DAY . . .

I am enjoying my Grandsons - Jack, age 3+; and Brady, age 1+.  To Jack, I am Grandma Leslie; to Brady, Grandma 'Essie'.  And, Brady - when he says it - usually leaves off the 'grandma' part -- just 'Essie' is good enough.

As I get reacquainted with them (it's been since December), I can correlate some effort to yoga.  As in, I don't rush in -- take my time -- observe -- baby steps.  One memorable moment shortly after my arrival - Brady awakens from nap and is a bit 'grumpy'.  He is being held by his Mother and obviously that's exactly where he wants to be (and, I'm sure, he's trying to figure out just who I am).  It was that way for about 10 minutes.  I am wanting to hold and hug him, but stay back, just observing; letting Jack show me around. Then, all of a sudden, Brady stood up from her lap and ran over to me and into my arms.  Wow, what a welcoming that was - memorable and tear-creating.

Jack is more demonstrative - enjoys hugs immediately and wants to share things with me.  We made a bet last night with each other -- who would wake the other up first this morning. I felt confident I would be up and ready for him (I am an early riser, after all). I slept very well, awakened at 4:30, fell back to sleep. At 6, wouldn't you know, in runs Jack to wake me!  Darn it; he won the bet!

I am planning to enjoy the weekend. Try not to think about anything but grandchildren for a few days and direct my attention to them. Well, maybe a yoga class will feel good on Saturday morning. We'll see.

Hope you have a nice Friday and enjoy your weekend,

THURSDAY NOTES

Just checking to see if you're paying attention -- I'm switching it up a bit in the interest of a long weekend with grandchildren, beginning later this afternoon.  Who knows what/if I'll have time to write much over the next few days.

1.  Vacations have begun (at least for my demographic at The Yoga Center).  5 of the regular crew of 8-10 who attend Gentle Yoga on Wednesdays are out of town.  Class, therefore, was very small -- as in one.  Good thing, tho.  This student came in with a number of issues which wouldn't have been addressed adequately in the regular class.  Foot pain, knee pain and shoulder pain. We worked with all three; and she left with knowledge to stabilize/support the knee -- activating those toes; as well as how to make the shoulder feel better -- IBB, shoulder loop; the foot, well - we talked about ways to make it feel better (i.e. massaging it in the morning before she walks on it - her main time of pain).  Her issue is with the outer arch. Any thoughts out there?

2.  After this longer-than-normal weekend, I'll return to prepare for BJ's workshop at The Yoga Center.  Will be fun and - I hope - well attended. Lots of competing events in June - so, we'll set our intention and keep fingers crossed.

3.  Shifting my volunteer teaching in June. Inquired about need for yoga in the Juvenile Justice System here in SLC. Turns out they need a yoga instructor; the two they had have left; timing! This will solve a couple issues for me - one major one, is a desire for a longer-term population in class that I experience at the jail.  Jail prisoners are in for minor offenses, or low enough security that they are in our classes, but will be moving to the prison. So, rarely do we see someone for more than the 6 classes needed to get their 'good time'. The juveniles I hope to teach are a longer-term situation, which will give me time to see positive (or negative) results. Change isn't easy, but it's time.

Well, got to get moving. Dogs to walk, house to pick-up, laundry to finish, birds/cats to feed. Oh, and teaching at 10 am at Kula -- Everyone's Yoga.

Hope you have a nice Thursday,

YOGAHOUR - 60 MINUTES OF FUN!

About a year ago, I added a class to our schedule called YogaHour twice a week at 4 pm. It's a one-hour class, at an odd time of the day, and it's just $4.  Attendance in the class limped along at 1-3 people for almost 8 months. Then, it jumped and there is a stable population of 7-10 people who come in at 4 pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays (and, now, Fridays) for a little yoga at a very reasonable cost to students.

Why tell you this? One hour is a small investment that may introduce people who think they are 'too busy' to do yoga. Then, who knows?  They may decide they can devote another 30 minutes to the practice of yoga. This was a class I started after listening to Darren Rhodes describe his YogaHour (same price) at Yoga Oasis in Tucson, and the success his class was experiencing.

Some students (or just inquiring minds) will come into the studio just to ask "why" it's so cheap. As if nothing good could be cheap. I just smile and say "I teach it, I own the studio, and it's just one fun hour of yoga (not our usual 90-minute class - which is fun, also, but longer)." The expansion to Friday is taught by Jen F., and students are getting used to another opportunity to do yoga.

Yesterday's YogaHour was a great group and a sample of the small world we live in. I asked one of the two guys attending to move up front (his favorite spot is the back corner). Turns out he frequents the coffee shop owned by the guy he set his mat down next to. A shake of the hands and an introduction, and we were off through vascisthasana land.

As yoga instructors, we have opportunities to meet the nicest people!

Well, I just re-read this and find it awfully boring - but, got to get on with the day, so no time to re-write. Better next post, I promise.

Teaching Gentle Yoga at 10 am today at The Yoga Center - another great group, full of laughs, yet totally dedicated to their yoga and this class. I've nicknamed it TAB Yoga (Take A Break Yoga), after one student commented that she loved the class because we work hard, but we take frequent breaks. It is Gentle Yoga, after all.

Also, applying for E-RYT today.  I thought the "E" stood for education -- something that designated you as qualified to teach in a yoga Teacher Training.  Duh!  It means 'experienced' (aren't we all?).  And, if we're "E" rated, then I guess our teaching at teacher trainings counts for their recordkeeping purposes.  Don't have any plans to do Teacher Trainings, nor have I been invited to teach anyone anything; but, it never hurts to be ready.

Well, off to the races!

Have a nice Wednesday,

JAI JAI HANUMAN

Guess what we worked on yesterday morning?  Yup - Hanumanasana.  Small, experienced group, easy to monitor everyone as they move through the warm-up and then give the pose a go, moving to their full expression.

I believe I've said something about my love for the wall.  It came in very handy yesterday, again.  We used it for the dreaded thigh stretch (currently May's choice for the "30-Day Yoga Challenge" on Facebook), then supta padangusthasana with one foot pressing into the wall for stability, and then for the Hanumanasana work. Besides giving my back leg something stable to press into and hold it in place (my back leg will tend to go lots of places it shouldn't in this pose), I discovered on one of my last attempts that the wall also offers me a push-off to open the back leg in the pose a bit more. The opening of the back leg takes me further into the pose and is an action also sorely lacking for me (without a wall).

In Utah, bike rides and races are very common, I'm finding.  Those (bikes), hiking and climbing may account for a lot of the over-tight quadricep muscles in yoga classes here.  The dreaded thigh stretch is one of those love-hate (or hate-love) poses for participants in these activities (even for non-participants). We hate the thought of doing it, we hate getting into it (it is a challenge at first), and we especially hate the initial feeling of the stretch it gives the leg at the wall. But, after getting settled and taking 5 full breaths, the benefits of the pose become apparent and - upon releasing from the wall - there's an appreciation for the good the pose has to offer.  Isn't that often the case?

Now, about the class I filmed on Saturday? It (the filming) didn't happen. So disappointed to find that I had turned the camera on, set it all up, and when I pressed the "rec" button - it actually STOPPED the camera (that record button is a toggle - meaning one press on, one press off; same button). It was a good class and, the fact that John played and chanted "Jai Hanuman", and I don't have it recorded - what can I say. This is part of the process. Just record the next class.

We learned last night that Paul McCartney is coming to Utah - Wow! After reading MariaCristina's post about his performance in L.A., I am hoping we'll get tickets and go. I've always liked his work, and my husband was/is a HUGE Beatles (and post-Beatles) fan. But, I might not be so eager to make the effort to go see him, had I not read Maria's blog. The things we learn by reading about other peoples' experiences -- good stuff.

Clouding over here and trying to rain.  Off to take Wayne's class at 9:15, then some studio stuff and errands.

Hope you enjoy your day,

JUMP SWITCH REPERCUSSIONS

I knew there was a good reason that the words 'jump switch' aren't in my yoga vocabulary. Just ask the ring finger on my right hand.

Why?  Two weeks ago, as I was warming up to sub a class for Wayne, I watched one student do some very nice 'jump switches' as part of his warm-up.  He left the room. It was then that I decided to surreptitiously (aka sneakily) give the elusive (to me) action of switching legs mid-air in a lunge, a try.

FYI, when any instructor (including John) asks for a 'jump switch', I might give it the old college try; but, it rarely is pretty or successful.  I will frequently just step switch -- pulling my age card and laying it squarely on the front of my mat (sorry, Desiree).

Back to my story -- as I continued to warm-up, I decided to try a 'jump switch' or two.  After all, it'd been a while since I'd tried it and perhaps a miracle had happened and I'd find I could now perform the movement. (Also FYI, I haven't been practicing 'jump switch' and many things in yoga rarely just happen without practice.) So, I assumed down dog, brought my right leg forward to a lunge, enjoyed that for a few moments, psyched myself up for the next action. Pressed into my active fingers, lifted myself away from the floor, trying - ever so gallantly - to switch mid-air to left leg in front.  What happened?  I'm not sure. All I know is that there was much pain in my right ring finger, distal joint. So much, that I thought I'd broken it. I don't think I broke anything, just bent that joint in an unnatural direction. It still hurts on occasion - especially when I place pressure on it repeatedly during a practice (like yesterday's with Sheldon).

In 13 years of practicing yoga, no instructor has taken me through the mechanics of a 'jump switch'. Maybe there's not much to it. Maybe it's just a matter of lifting your body by jumping. When I ask successful jumpers how they do it so easily, everyone just seems to shrug and say 'it's easy'. My body, tho, appears to have an aversion to jumping. Now, my finger reminds me of that aversion.

I cannot give up until I've tried it every day for a year, then - according to some (you know who you are) I can complain and whine about it.

Will I try it again? Sure. But first, perhaps I need to find someone to walk me through the mechanics of a 'jump switch', so that I can begin to visualize it. I have to say, visualization hasn't worked in some other poses; but, you never know. Never say never, right?

All this to say ("parrot" phrase), we worked through some things yesterday that required the ring finger of my right hand to shout at me.  I tried removing it from the equation (tucking it back into my palm). I never realized how much that weak-looking finger contributes to the strength of my hand. As I say repeatedly as I teach -- no part of the body is on vacation. Now I know that applies to fingers, as well.

Today?  My kitty, Gerbil, gets his teeth cleaned and a tooth extracted. I'll drop him off, then it's up to Kula to teach at 9:15 am, Level 1.

Beautiful day in SLC being forecast. Hope you enjoy similarly wherever you are.

Jane N. - If you read blogs these next few days -- I give you my mantra, 'no one fails, no one fails, no one fails'. You Go !!!

JAI HANUMAN

The Saturday morning class was a journey to re-visit Hanumanasana (which we did in this class a couple Saturday's ago).

My theme was the word 'resolute', which has frequently come to mind - especially as I worked to sort through my parents' home.  Every time I felt a bit overwhelmed, or like just throwing my hands in the air, the word would appear in my head.  'Resolute' became my signal to continue, to just put one foot in front of the other and keep working.

I used the dictionary (a tip from Christina), to look up the meaning, the history, and some alternatives for the word.  I assigned my alignment principle (not the ONLY principle I would teach during the class, but the one I would emphasize), muscle energy. It was then I decided that the "H" pose would be my apex -- it requires a committed, resolute attitude to work on it, and - even though we just worked on it - it is one of those poses that needs a frequent visit, as I work towards getting myself to the floor.  And, with a mixed group of students, muscle energy's emphasis, I thought, would serve everyone the best; keep them safe, because I've learned that an activated hamstring is a safer hamstring to stretch.

There's a built-in 'tip' here.  One reader's may or may not notice -- the 'keep it simple' rule.

1. Theme = one word (resolute)
2. Alignment principle = one emphasis (muscle energy)

I remember, as a newer teacher of Anusara® Yoga, trying to get all 5 principles into a class; or I might have an elaborate theme that I would struggle to make meaningful to the students who attend my classes.  Then, imagine what the students are dealing with, especially if they are newer to the practice. All those things to remember, and do the poses, and feel good. Whew!!! It is a common phrase in every teacher training or mentoring or immersion I've attended -- keep things simple.  

I filmed the class.  Haven't watched the video yet, but hope it went well.  My demo could have been handled a bit more smoothly.  Since it was Tracy's birthday, I asked her to do the demo - the one thing I didn't do was ask people to gather round to watch.  As I taught, I noticed my 'parrot' word "so" made some appearances.  And - as always - when another teacher is in the class, the nerves came out until the chant was finished.

Best part of the class?  John played his guitar and sang the Hanuman chant through savasana. Many of the students present have not experienced this music before -- perfect ending.  One other 'best part' - no one balked at doing the pose and no one gave up; they all gave it their perfect effort. Wow!

The rest of the day was spent reading and relaxing. Then a nice dinner out with Howard.

Today? Breakfast with one of Howard's old college buddies, his wife and family. Then, class with Sheldon.

Enjoy Sunday,

MOVING FORWARD

Well, if you can have a bad morning - yesterday would qualify.  After making my apologies, I taught the Gentle Yoga class, and - thankfully - they are such a nice group, I forgot my worries for 90 minutes.

Today is another day, and I am moving forward. (For more reading on miscommunication, read Christina's blog entry -- lots of good nuggets in there.)

My friends, Tracy and John, are in town from St. George and coming to class this morning.  Tracy is also an Anusara-Inspired instructor.  What will that mean?  Some pressure; since I often am more nervous when my peers attend my classes.  Lately, tho, the nervous jitters disappear once the chant begins.  I do plan to film this morning.  And, a special treat -- John will play his guitar and chant during our savasana.

Class is planned - theme, alignment principle, apex pose, things to watch for, sequence.

Then, who knows.  It's a nice day, maybe a bike ride.

Have a good Saturday,

I'VE DONE IT AGAIN

Remember a few posts back, I wrote that a student took a comment I made in the wrong light?  I've done it again. 

This time to my good friend, the teacher I share the jail classes with.

This short post is a public apology to her.  I re-read my post of 2 days ago, and do see her point -- it comes across that I'm saying my method of teaching was more effective and that the students liked me better.  Not my intention, but upon re-reading, I do understand. 

She was one of my early teachers, we began volunteering together, and she has been my friend.  I hope she will accept my apology.

USING TIME WISELY & OTHER NOTES

I had some extra time yesterday morning and I decided to use the time wisely and practice a bit.  Worked on Hanumanasana like I've been planning to do for 14 months, or 12 years (?!?!).  That makes 3 sessions of working on it in the past 10 days - not bad.

I am further into the pose.  I continued working with the back foot pressing into a wall. Noticed that I can get more opening in the back leg by pressing thru that foot and extending into the room. I love walls!

I finished about the same time as Wayne's class ended, so we talked 'yoga shop' for a bit over coffee. I enjoy swapping stories and hearing his wisdom. Good for me to take that time once in a while.

Back home to continue with the laundry. Go away for a week, and I find the laundry bin filled - what's that about? That, plus one of our dogs decided that my side of the bed looked very appealing while I was gone. More laundry.

YogaHour at 4 was fun - one newer-to-yoga student in the group. He is strong yet tight (rock climber), and his adhikara (studentship) will be strong, I think. We used the wall in poses here, as well. Ardha Chandrasana-Trichonasana-back to Ardha. Then, after some shoulder opening, we revolved ardha into the wall (huh? - stand with right side against wall, take left leg back (balancing on right leg) and place left hand on a block that it is at least one foot out from the wall. Revolve chest towards wall and use right hand to help with the turn.). More walls!

Level 1 at 5:45 included one student participating in a LONG bike ride this weekend, so she wanted to keep it calmer. I could do that - we worked the hips calmly. Interesting that students think hips openers are simply that - opening the legs wide. What about the abductor muscles? We worked those, as well as the adductors. She'll get plenty of psoas and glute action on that bike ride. Next week, when she returns, we can work on those more.

In all my classes yesterday, I found myself telling the story of our mountain climber student. The one who sent me an e-mail from Pakistan, where he was climbing after safely doing a 'few' peaks in China. In that message, he noted that getting to the peak was not the only goal of his climbs - the ascent and descent were equally important parts of the journey. Wow! I use that story a lot when I talk about the importance of entry and exit from poses.

The one time someone has hurt themselves at my studio was just such an incident - a student, eager to 'go for it', aggressively moved into Hanumanasana. A loud 'pop' was heard throughout the room - one of her hamstring muscles. This student is fairly strong and flexible, but the hamstring wasn't warmed up and maybe not activated (I wasn't teaching, but I know the student and the drive behind that practice, so it's a pretty safe bet.). A case of an inattentive entry. This student is back, but still dealing with that injury. Enough said.

Starting out beautiful here. We could use a nice weekend.  Teaching at 10 - Gentle Yoga.

Enjoy your Friday,

TEACHING BREAKTHROUGH

At the jail yesterday --- a smaller-than-normal group, composed of all new students.  This can be good or not-so-good, depending on their personalities.  They will either be ready to learn and eager to do what I ask, or just happy to be away from the pod and ready to chat with their 'cellies' (their word for cellmate).  The latter type is a bit disruptive and more in need of my 'stern mother' tone.

Here's the story -- teaching away, through the centering, through the warm-up, and into down dog, with a plan to do some simple sun salutations.  I always have just taught down dog, bring one leg forward to a lunge.  The result:  students struggle, a bit embarrassed that they can't get that leg forward like their neighbor.  I have tried to use humor, encouraging a big grunt as they bring the leg forward (don't laugh, it does work; or at least, the leg comes farther forward, if they're willing to 'grunt' - sometimes, I grunt along with them).

Yesterday, tho, without even thinking about it, I had them move to down dog, release one knee to the floor, bring the other foot forward between the hands, then lift the back knee away from the floor.  TaDa!!! High Lunge. I know this is not original; I've seen it done in videos, have probably been in classes early on where it was taught this way.

What was the breakthrough, then?  The 'without even thinking about it' part.  It flowed well, it worked, and - after working out the kinks in their first lunges - they were all able to bring the leg forward from down dog almost to the foot.

Here's another tip I learned from Jordan Kirk -- when bringing the foot forward, first come up on the fingertips of the corresponding hand, energize the core and voila' -- this lifting to fingertips gives more space to get the leg forward.

The other interesting part of the class is the fact that I share teaching this class with a friend whose practice is composed of more power than mine (no Anusara®). I had always thought that she was working the group harder, and probably they enjoyed her teaching more because their got their backsides kicked. Not true. In the last two groups I've heard that I am the tougher of our 'tag-team'. They feel they work harder with me. Must be all that alignment stuff, right?

So, what else exciting happened yesterday? My Gentle Yoga class was another great example of a group of students who are truly happy to be in yoga and that 'truly happy' emotion is reflected in their welcoming nature. I had one new student, and one who appears occasionally, join the class yesterday. The others (my veterans) -- all were introducing themselves and chatting away as I entered the room. What a group! Love it!

Doing some recreational reading right now - after that test, my brain cells needed a bit of 'fluff'. We were in Driggs a couple weeks ago, and I picked up two new books. I've finished one and am working on the second (I buy the BEST books in Driggs). What are they? Hotel on the Corner of Bitter & Sweet (a fiction love story about WWII's affect on the Japanese in Seattle); and The Missing (a fiction about a kidnapping in Louisiana). Both were/are quick reads, if you're looking for something to soothe your brain cells.

Today's schedule? Teaching at 10 am at Kula; at 4 pm (YogaHour) at The Yoga Center; and at 5:45 (Level 1) also at The Yoga Center. Inbetween? Who knows.

P.S.  I believe I only used my parrot word 'so' once in this blog. Good for me!

BACK IN MY COMFORT ZONE

I returned to Salt Lake yesterday afternoon.  A comedy of errors to put it mildly -- including a schedule that put me into SLC at 3:10 pm.  I had my checked bag and was in the car by 3:30 pm, driving out of the airport at 3:33, on my way to teach a 4:00 class at The Yoga Center. The exciting part is that from the moment I turned the ignition key, the "needs gas" light was on, and I had no idea for how long it had been on before being parked(!). I decided to go for it, praying that I wouldn't be one of those people on the side of I-80.  I arrived at the studio at 3:55 pm.  Quickly changed clothes and took my seat.

This is one time I was thankful for my students' pattern of arriving either right on time or a minute or so late.  Lately, tho, people have come early -- I can only hope that they (the early-arrivers) waited.

As I sat in front of this group of students, I hoped I would remember 'how' to teach.

We worked on vascisthasana, taking it to the vrksasana variation and then doing Christina's version of 'wild thing' (starting from down dog, lifting a leg and taking it (the leg) over and behind, finally arriving in 'wild thing'). This version is a bit scarier than moving into it from vascisthasana, since you have a sort of high altitude descent into the pose.

That was the point, tho -- to push the envelope a bit. I find that's where my growth in the practice happens -- when I push the envelope open a bit further than comfortable (or pretty). The next time I go to that same place in a practice, it is easier and much more comfortable; a shift has happened.  John called this process 'diksha' once in a training.  'Diksha' is Sanskrit, meaning initiation. He used it with a connotation of threshold. Go to my threshold in a pose - take a step or two across it and see what happens.

Remember my post a few days ago, about 'making a mess'. Well, this is about the same - I don't grow or change until I make a mess. So, falling's o.k. - awkward looking poses are o.k. - just open that envelope a little more. Then go back and see what's happened.

All this to say, I didn't forget 'how' to teach.

Vascisthasana is also a good pose for me to give the 'don't move your hands/fingers' talk. In fact, one student came to me after class to say that once she applied that discipline of strengthening her connection with the ground through her fingers and palms, the discomfort in her wrists and shoulders disappeared. Nice to hear.

Teaching Gentle Yoga this morning (10 am at The Yoga Center); then to the jail this afternoon (to teach).

Enjoy your Wednesday,

GETTING & MAKING

"There is no getting what you want without making a mess."

My quote?  No, something I read in Christina's blog that she transmitted from a recent teaching of Douglas Brooks'.

I thought it very appropriate because that is, quite literally, what I am doing right now -- making a mess in order for life to move on.  The contents of the house I'm working on, while beautifully decorated at one point, are now in piles.  Granted - neat piles; but piles, nonetheless.

On top of these piles of stuff are piles of emotion.  Kind of a nervous, empty-pit feeling in my gut, alternating with a 'this is the right/only thing to be doing' emotion. A resoluteness.

Today will be moving day -- stuff to storage, stuff to shredding, stuff to ship, stuff to family members. The rest in the hands of an estate person to dispose of.  Every inch of the house has been handled, sorted, piled, packed, set aside.

No more a beautifully decorated home, but a pile of stuff representing the accumulation of several lifetimes.  Making a mess to get what I want, you might say.

I am sure there is a more philosophical definition that Douglas might apply; there always is.  For me, as a pragmatist, things/phrases always become clearer when I can apply them to life.

When I look at my life, I can nod my head to the number of times dramatic shifts have happened. They have always required that I 'make a mess'.  One example might be my movement into yoga. My life prior to these past 12 years was filled with working, socializing, shopping, keeping up (i.e. cars, house, furnishings, etc.). As I introduced myself at Inner Harmony 6 years ago, John asked what I did besides yoga - my answer 'corporate wife'.  There has been a big shift from that lifestyle. Externally I may look the same, but inside there's a greater sense of self - not based in how much I have or how good I look (though I do want to look nice). I am different. In order to be different, I had to tear down some of the old structure of my life and rebuild.  Make a mess to get what I want.

Too much to do today to contemplate this brief foray into philosophy and its application to my life much further.

Enjoy your Monday,

NOTES FOR THE HECK OF IT

Even though this has been a week of a different sort, I'll do a 'notes' blog; just to stay in practice.

1.  It's Mother's Day -- don't forget!  (Not that any of you would.)

2.  On the subject of subs (substitute yoga teachers), I ought to say 'no comment'.  My track record is awful. I arrange diligently for a sub to cover each of my classes. I remind each of those people, 3-5 days in advance (more and they'll need another reminder). I feel confident that I've covered all bases. I receive the e-mail when I'm out of town away from my class lists, telling me that they 'forgot' - sometimes with a lengthy explanation. Ah, yes, no comment. Most trips it's one class that gets 'forgotten'; this trip, TWO. I apologize to my students who might be reading this.

3.  Reminder to self - do not accumulate more 'stuff' than I can possibly use. Do not put notes, financial info, magazine articles, etc., together in paper bags and stuff them in a closet - or many closets. Do not save any information (other than simple tax return materials) longer than 7 years. Do not put my jewelry in a 'safe' place, especially since memory loss may happen.

#3 could become lengthy, so I'll stop here - just some of the 'stuff' I've learned over the past several days as I sort through my parents' home. And, even though they know what I'm doing - it still feels invasive; needs to get done, tho.

4.  On yoga, went back through a few sets of notes looking for pertinent information - pertinent, meaning, things I've experienced recently that I can relate and communicate about.  The first I found was the note "create rapport with students by (1) asking questions and (2) creating familiarity", taken from my level 2 teacher training with John (10/2008). This struck me, because I've been in some classes where I felt like I was just another body - the instructor didn't appear to care who I was and even missed the all important "any injuries" question.

I start each of my classes with a 'get to know each other minute'. Granted, if you have a class of 40, this is not possible; however, in my classes of 8-12, it is more than do-able. If I'm new to the group, I introduce myself and ask everyone to tell me their names (if I don't already know them). I strive to ask about injuries before class, but if that doesn't happen - then it happens during this 'minute'. Sometimes, I'll ask why people came to yoga. A dialogue, rather than a monologue.  (This 'minute', by the way, may not show up on a video I submit - since I've never heard that's something they want to see.)

5.  Another yoga note - common AMS (addho mukha svanasana) - down dog - misalignments (and my thoughts on solutions):

• Hands not wide enough (index & middle finger juncture lines up with outer edge of shoulder)
• Fingers not spread wide enough or too wide (contrast, then find the balance - the place that feels stable)
• Palms lifting from floor ('be committed, keep your hands pressed firmly into the floor')
• Fingers moving (ditto - 'be committed, don't shift fingers; fingers moving eliminates your connection to the earth and affect shoulder action')
• Elbows bent (recently, I've been asking students to hug forearms to midline - that usually solves it)
• Head hanging (I think ears between biceps is a good instruction, any others?)
• Shoulders and thoracic spine moving towards hands (student bends knees, I press my hand into back at shoulder blade height and push carefully, yet firmly)
• Lumbar spine moving towards hands ('bend knees slightly, extend hips towards ceiling - curve usually will correct. Keep that and begin to straighten knees. If LS bulges, repeat.')
• Knees fall to inside (block between thighs will help this, plus give insight to inner spiral's effect on the LS)
• Heels on floor - not necessarily a misalignment in some people (widen stance - as Desiree says "heels on floor is an invitation to take a wider stance from hands to feet").

Always open to feedback -- if you have any thoughts about additional misalignments or solutions, let me know.  

That's enough for now.  Got to go sort through some paper bags.  

Happy Mother's Day to everyone.

CHECKING IN . . .

That's the 'subject line' I use whenever I send an e-mail to my mentor, Sundari.  It seems an apt phrase, one that covers a wide range of topics and I use it when I'm just rambling my recent activities to her - yoga and otherwise.  So, since I am out of my yoga world for a few days, it seems to fit here -- a rambling of thoughts.

I think about Sundari a lot these days, especially when planning a class, teaching that class, and now - video'ing the classes.  Why?  Because of something she has taught me.

I will start most of my classes with a story - either a personal anecdote or some point of yoga philosophy; something that fits in with what I plan to teach that day/class - this (as you know) is my theme.  In my planning, I will assign a heart quality to the theme.  Then, depending on if I'm planning backwards or forwards, I decide on the apex pose.  (I say 'backwards or forwards' because sometimes I start with an idea of the pose I want to teach; other times the apex pose just seems to appear as the class planning progresses.  Then, what alignment principle serves the apex pose I'm working towards, and - finally - the sequence (the path) to and from the apex.

Now, the biggy?  WHY.

This is where Sundari really comes into the picture.  Each time she has watched me teach (either in person or on video), she comes back with that question, "Why?"  As in, why do my students care?

An example:  One of my favorite classes to teach is related to the Hanuman story of 'remembering our power'.  If you don't remember, Hanuman was a mischevious monkey as a baby.  So mischeiveous that the sages removed his 8 powers; powers that would return only when he was reminded he had them. The remembrance for Hanuman happened when he went to search for Sita. (Thank you to Siana for this story.) I think that is a great metaphor for my life; and may be applicable to many people; so I use it a lot.

Sundari might ask:  "why do people care if they remember their power?"

It's a great theme when trying an arm balance or Hanumanasana or ___(you name a pose here)_____. How many students do you have who, like me, had never balanced on their hands before yoga? That's the 'why' -- we just have to figure out how to explain it to our students and have it inspire them to try the tricky arm balance; or just move towards the general form of the pose (like my Gentle Yoga students with Hanumanasana).

So you do the 'math' here; why do people care if they remember their power? Or, as you teach today, ask yourself 'why?' about your theme.

Have a grateful Friday,

THE ADVENTURERS OF GENTLE YOGA

I sat down in front of my Gentle Yoga class yesterday, to be greeted with "what's that 'Hanuman' pose you wrote about this morning?"  I explained it, some groans in the room.  But a certain excitement and curiosity, as well.

So (parrot word?), I decided -- why not?  Even if it's not full Hanumansana, the sequence to get there and to at least move towards the general form of the pose, won't hurt them and it's a change from our usual sequences.  In this group - as in many in Utah, I've discovered - the quads are the villains.  They are so tight on some people, it sometimes is hard for me to believe -- I sometimes think 'how come you can't get your foot closer to your hip -- oh, it's the quads, again!'

Is it the walking we do, the hiking, the gardening (lots of gardening going on around here)?  Whatever causes it, it's rampant in Utah.

So a sequence moving towards Hanumanasana, a sequence that requires quad warming and lengthening, is a good thing.  Then, we move to the hamstrings.  Hamstrings, while tight, are not as frequently (at least, in my classes) as limiting as those quads.

We did about the same as the previous day's class -- using the wall for the back foot.  I've seen instructors use the wall for the front foot (even pressed the front foot into another person's foot).  The back foot gives us stability and grounding from which to work more intently on the front leg.  My theory.  Perhaps not the first one to do it or think of it, but I love the feeling of my back foot against the wall.

This will be short - working on parental issues for the next few days.  I'll be in touch, but perhaps not so insightful as the 'parrot word' blog -- still shaking my head over that one!

Have a great Thursday,

A BRIEF JOURNEY . . .

When I wrote my blog yesterday, I thought 'how boring is this; writing about "parrot words"'.  Yet, of all my blog entries, this one got the most comments!!!! (Most of those comments came through Facebook, so are not reflected here.) Another example of "keep it simple" works.

I taught one class yesterday - YogaHour.  It was a smaller group than normal, so we took a journey into Hanumanasana.  One hour is the time it takes me to get warmed up to even try that pose, so the smaller group made it more available - fewer people to get through the warm-ups and to worry about.  These students had not tried the pose before, so we used the wall.  Back foot against the wall, front leg extending into the room - with a bolster and blanket(s) available to slip under the hamstring and rest into once their extension was complete.

I learned that, for me, the wall provided support for the back leg -- which (on me) will always try to go off in a direction not desired in this pose.  With something to press into, I could keep the back leg in alignment while focusing most of my attention on the front leg.  Then, with the bolster and blanket(s), I could actually stay there a while, allowing the front leg to rest into the support (props pressing into the thickest part of the hamstring muscles).

A year ago, I vowed that I would get into this pose.  Still working on it, though I have to admit my efforts have not been very dedicated. I am further into the pose, more relaxed in the knowledge of how to get there, just not 'there' yet.  Maybe I will re-enliven that effort.

Not a lot of time left after our attempts at the pose, got in a gentle hamstring reliever and a twist, then savasana.  The short journey, tho, was fun. One student's comment:  "life changing".

This morning - Gentle Yoga at 10 am.   

Have a nice Wednesday,

ALTERNATE WORDS

As I review my videos (yes, I do watch them reluctantly), I am on the look out for 'parrot' words, in addition to ways to improve my teaching.

What's a 'parrot' word -- well, it is a word that repeatedly shows up in a class, coming out of an instructor's mouth.  Some examples: "beautiful", "excellent", "take", "allow", and so on.  One or two times in a class = not so bad; but, used every pose, or even every 2nd, 3rd or 4th pose = not so good.

There are even words - I hear - that the Certification Committee (video reviewers, in particular), are on the prowl for.  Words they are so weary of hearing, that one ought to avoid using them anywhere as they teach their classes.  I've picked up that one of those words is "allow".  For example, "allow your breath to move . . . ".

A brief departure from the message -- first the video; now English usage!  

If you look up the word "allow", you will find a definition that relates to 'permit'.  When you think about the breath, there's no 'permit' to it -- it will come and go, no matter how much you want to 'permit' it to. So ('so', by the way, frequently shows up in my class dialogue), what do we do?

I made a list of parrot words a few months ago -- just came across it.  What are/were some of them?  "bring", "take", "pull", "take a breath".  I also noticed recently, that the phrase "all right" has crept into my frequently-used verbiage.  I had begun a few months back to find alternatives to use.  Good reminder!

Back to my example of 'allow'.  The most frequently used place that 'allow' appears is during savasana - either as I am settling people in or as I return them to seated (i.e. "allow your breath to return" ??? where did it go ???).  Instead, I've come up with:

1.  Inhale deeply, exhale fully
2.  Breathe deeply
3.  Use & enjoy the regularity of your breath to settle you into savasana
4.  Focus on your breath; this focus will keep you 'in the room' (I use this one if I have a majority of newer-to-yoga students; since, the tendency may be to use savasana to review 'to do' or grocery lists, to think about the rest of the day.  I like to remind them they are still involved in their yoga practice.)

Notice each of these is directive -- at this point in the practice, I might want to soften and 'permit' people to do their own thing.  However, I am still teaching; these students are still just that - students in a class of mine. They deserve my best effort and 'being nice' may not serve them best.

Sometimes a 'parrot' word, like "so", just ought to be eliminated. Why use it? I used to be afraid of 'dead air space' (space where I wasn't talking). No more -- that's the time I use to check if people have done what I've asked. And, as one student has taught me, poses grow and expand the more time we give them - sometimes being silent and watching is a gift of teaching, as well.

Rambling thoughts.  If you have some to share, I'd love to hear them.  Besides lists of words, I also keep a list of phrases that inspire me.  When it comes to my Anusara journey, I have become an accomplished list-maker and note-taker.

Have a nice Tuesday,

THE VIDEO

The DVD of my Saturday class is created - why do I want to tell you this; because I am discovering that the filming is the easy part.  Getting that video from camera to computer to disc is another thing.

The first couple times, I gave in and took the camera to a person whose business it is to create videos from peoples' cameras, photos, old tapes, etc.  That was more time consuming and a bit costly, but not over-the-top.  If a person does not have the computer system to process a video, then this is the way to go.  It does mean, however, that you are without your camera for a couple of days and one of those videos came through less-than-stellar in quality and content (maybe it could have been camera operator error).

Because Sundari lives in Wilson, WY, I have needed to do videos of my classes as she has mentored me.  (Oh, there was the occasional visit, but the opportunity to see a regular, full-length class didn't always happen during those visits.)  Therefore, I had to test the video waters, so to speak.  I remember talking to Wayne about the process -- his theory:  that all this, including the video - filming it, processing it, getting it in; that all these things that test our patience are part of the process of becoming Certified, becoming better teachers.

You are wondering, "how does doing a video make me a better yoga teacher?"  Well, let me list the ways:

1. First, there is the class - both I and students have to overcome an initial self-confidence issue to even get in front of the camera.  This will teach me how much they trust and like me.  For some, I'd think it might be easier to just leave - unless, they enjoy my classes.  I've never had a student leave (pat myself on the back). 
2. Then, I have to watch the video -- a true test of acceptance. I never look or sound great to myself.
3. I had to learn to operate a video camera.  I'm still not a pro, but I can get the camera on - I can get it recording - and it will record the entire class.  This was not always the case.  And, I read of people who have been sure they've taught the 'perfect' class, only to discover that the camera shut off somewhere in the middle, or the battery died, or whatever. 
4. Once the class is on the camera - now what?  Well, I told you what I used to do. With my new Mac, I am able to create the DVD - transfer it from camera to computer; edit it, if needed (take out the section where my hand moves in front of the camera to turn it on, for example); then start the process of preparing the 'movie' for burning to a disc. This process took about 8 hours yesterday.  4 of those were 'waiting around hours' -- waiting for help at the Apple store. The other 4 were the computer 'doing its work'.
5. So, now that I have a completed DVD in my hands, I feel compelled to check and review it.  Another lesson in acceptance.  I described one of my first videos as 'watching paint dry'. Even I think I've improved since that one.  
6. Now, pull out Anusara's 'video self evaluation' form.  15 questions ranging from 'did you look at outer form of pose' to 'did students leave feeling better'.  If I'm perfectly honest, the answer to these two is yes; one or two of the others, not so sure. For good measure, I added my comments - I like the '5 pros, 5 cons' format.  So, I wrote 5 good things and 5 not-so-good things.  
7. Keep doing it (video'ing, that is).  Some days it might be easier to throw up my hands and say "I'm too old for all this"; but, that's not true. I can't pull back into that cocoon of safety; of not extending myself. This is one goal (Certification) that I have to do my best to achieve. I want this; I know I'm a good teacher worthy of Certification, and if it means I have to learn to operate a video camera, so be it. 

This video will go to Sundari, along with my 15 answers and my comments.  It, in no way, is one I'd want to submit.  But, whatever video goes in to the Certification Committee, it must be approved by her. So, this is a 'practice' video, offered for fine tuning. 

I re-read the 7 things I learned -- seems the prominent things are 'patience' and 'self-acceptance' and 'tenacity'.  All things I heard last week in a class, and have been teaching myself.  Whoaaaa!

And, there's an 8th thing -- learn to set up and operate a microphone on the camera.  While my voice is audible through the camera, the addition of a mic will make it even better (???).  

Hope you have a nice Monday -- it's a bit overcast here, but there's no new snow on the ground - that's a good thing.  

ALWAYS USE THE NOTES

When I attend a workshop or training, I take voluminous notes.  (I've told you this, but I'll do it again.) For me, it's best to give those notes and the teachings a few hours to settle. So, usually, I transcribe the notes into an easier-to-read format the following morning. Not only do they become easier-to-read, but my mind is a bit clearer and I can embellish, even adding in things I didn't write down but heard during the previous day's teaching.

As I look around the room each day, I notice that everyone is doing likewise - taking mucho notes. I'm sure each has a different way of handling those notes. Some are very diligent - making drawings or using different colored pens, I assume to highlight different aspects of what's being written. My way is not the only way, nor is it perfect.

Over time, however, I've figured out what works for me.  The interesting part is that what works for me also makes my notes more accessible.  What do I mean by that? That, I rarely - if ever - look back through handwritten notes for information. They're too rough and a lot of the time, my memory of the moment is gone; making it hard for me to re-create the teaching accurately. FYI, my handwriting is kind of sloppy and note taking, especially with JF, is a challenge - so, there's a lot of cryptic stuff hastily jotted down.

Why bring this up again? Because, I was looking through those 'nicely typed' notes this morning for a 'tip' to offer. What did I find? A potential solution for a student struggling with a super-tight set of glute muscles on one side.

As I re-read a set of therapy notes from a 2008 training, I came across the bullet point "tight psoas muscle = tight butt". Then, I'd outlined a couple manual adjustments to help relieve the psoas and thigh tightness. Bonanza! Now, when the student comes back to class, I have something concrete to offer her. Oh, we were stretching her thighs, but it was obviously difficult for her by herself. With my help, if she wants it, things might start to loosen a bit.

The previous paragraph relates to one thing JF always tells us "don't answer the question that hasn't been asked". That was such a powerful statement to me that I've remembered it since one of my first trainings with him. Didn't even need to write it down, though I did. I've watched students, then I offered advice not asked for, and subsequently I saw them disappear for a while. Kind of like TMI (too much information); and they may not have been ready to do the work -- because the work is hard to 'fix' things our habits have deeply ingrained into our body and personalities.

All this to say that our notes offer valuable supplemental information to the manuals we receive at trainings. Organize them in a way that works for you, refer back to them frequently; they are a resource for our future teaching - not just an exercise in taking notes. You may find - like I did - that they offer a potential solution to a student's 'issue' someday.

On another subject, I video'd yesterday morning's class. I planned to video, not matter how many or who showed up. This was a 'test', to be sent to Sundari, for her 'fine tuning' input. I'm going into the Apple store today to learn how to get it from the camera, through the computer, and onto a disc. This part of the process has been the bane of my video experience.

I was pleased with how it went and pleased with how my students handled a camera in the room. One slight issue - the student who warmed up during the entire intro, until I asked her to sit for our centering and chant. I'll be interested in feedback on how to handle those kinds of things. For now, tho, just get it on a disc - that's my mission today.

Going to a class this morning. Then the Apple store. Weird weather in many places -- today, more snow in SLC.

Have a great day,

NOTES ON SATURDAY

In my fervor yesterday, I forgot that Fridays are usually 'notes' days.  Oh well, I need to be able to change it up once in a while.  So, this week - it's notes on Saturday:

1.  As I taught this week, in each class I spent my time sitting during savasana reflecting on the class.  Not necessarily on what I taught, but what I had seen.  Why?  A few posts back (actually, many posts back), I wrote about advice I had received that - if I wanted something to happen in a class, I must ask for it and I must assure that it is happening.  What I saw in my classes this week is the fruition of this advice -- what a nice feeling.

Then, I read MariaCristina's blog regarding teaching in line with how she practices.  Her writing about this came as a result of something she read in Christina Sell's blog.  Christina pointed out that when John teaches, there are no comments like "just do what you can"; "move to child's pose, as needed".  That John expects everyone will be giving their best effort (and, I think, he expects that people will take care of themselves and - if something hurts - will tell him if there's a problem).  MariaCristina pointed out that her favorite yoga instructors do the same -- 'coddling' doesn't happen in these classes.

I read the same blog (Christina's).  And, I've noticed a shift in my teaching since reading it.  If you want to learn more, read MariaCristina's blog from yesterday or search back through April for Christina's entry on this topic.

2.  I sense a pressure -- got to get the video moving.  This process of Certification is interesting to watch.  I applied, I waited.  I was accepted, I was happy and content.  I enjoyed that feeling of acceptance for a while, before requesting the test.  I requested the test, enjoyed the challenge, got it in on time.  The process for these first 3 1/2 months has been relaxed - I even sense that relaxation and that acceptance translating to my teaching; a good thing.

Now, however, I feel I better stop languishing in the glow of acceptance and get busy.  Busy with the video.  Filming this morning's class and sending it to Sundari - even if it's not perfect, she'll be able to look at it, offer input.  This isn't the video meant to go in; this is the video to check progress, to evaluate what needs fine tuning.

3.  Next week I'll be dealing with parental issues.  Dedicating 7 days to that effort, even though each day lately seems to brings more concerns, more decisions to make, more plans to set in place.

Had hoped to give a tip from a workshop or training, but running out of time -- got to get ready to teach.  Maybe tomorrow.

Enjoy Saturday,