This may sound simple to most of you, but wrapping arms around legs has never been easy. I had perfected it to one side, but the other remained elusive. Yesterday, that changed!
Not sure why. Maybe it's because I've lost a few pounds -- but, I usually won't accept extra poundage as an excuse for not doing something, so I must apply the same logic to myself. Better reason -- it may be because I'm become more mobile in my shoulders. What has changed?
First, the training with Sundari offered me an 'opportunity' to have her work my shoulders and shoulder blades. Second, Adam has been doing similarly - though, not with the compassion that Sundari offered. He is getting in there and making them move (shoulder blades). I am sure I had bruises. It's all for the greater good, so I will accept and appreciate it, through discomfort and all.
Where did this breakthrough happen? I attended a class at Yoga Tejas yesterday morning. A good one, themed around Halloween -- turning on the lights inside, so our spirit world - which is scary at times - wouldn't be quite so forbidding; then hugging to the midline for security; and putting on our 'costume' of choice. We worked with balance poses, requiring that midline hug, then opening with our bright inner light and 'costume' on. Fun class.
This will be short -- just checking in. I find giving myself permission to write less frequently, results in not writing (duh!). But, I want to write and it's good for me. So, need to find the balance.
Hope you have a good Halloween Sunday,
Sunday, October 31, 2010
Saturday, October 30, 2010
FRIDAY FORGOTTEN
I awoke this morning with this blog on my mind. And, what was I thinking? That I had forgotten to post yesterday. Not necessarily forgotten - I thought about it; I just was juggling many things in the morning, so decided to pass. I forgot, however, that it was Friday and my favorite day to post. Otherwise, I might have done differently. Oh, well.
So, imagine it's Friday and you are reading this on Friday morning or afternoon.
I believe I mentioned my week actually began on Wednesday (perhaps that could be my excuse!?!?!), due to our journey to play with Grandsons last weekend. It will be a short week's worth of 'notes'. But a week worthy of comment, because I now know people are listening.
Wednesday, as I have done for the past 3 years, I taught Gentle Yoga. It was a snowy morning, which makes attendance questionable - as in, some may choose to stay inside. Happy to see many turned out and even happier when one mentioned her ankle was a bit stiff. Her words "the chi seems to be stuck in my ankle". Well, I had talked about Prana (or chi) the week prior; as in, when the prana can move easily through the body, we feel good. Why would this make me 'happier'? To have a student use a word they haven't heard or used in their 60+ years of life, means they are listening.
Later on Wednesday (and again on Thursday), I taught the semi-private I have mentioned before (the couple who are both a bit stiff). Good for them -- trying to get in some classes before they head out of town for a couple weeks. And, good for them, that they are practicing what we work on in class at home. The result -- after Wednesday's session, he is beginning to notice and move his shoulder blades on demand; she is working on "owning" the pose.
What do I mean by "own" -- in this situation, she is flexible enough to place hands flat on floor with straight legs. Rather than do that, I asked her to come to fingertips and bend elbows out to side, accessing shoulderblades and maybe moving more deeply into the fold. I asked her to 'own' the pose. She can do it very well, why not do it with a bit more finesse. Sounds silly as I write it, but in the context of this couple, it works -- and, that is what I look for in students - a way to connect. I think she will continue to work well in this pose and the concept of 'owning' it will serve her (might not serve everyone, tho).
Thursday also included pilates. I was alone with Cindy, which means she made me work hard. Usually my jacket doesn't come off until mid-way into the session. This time, jacket off after the first movement series. Good session. Then, back to the studio for the semi-private you already heard about. And, then Yoga Hour. A small group, but fun, nevertheless. Some of my first students from when I started the class attended; great to connect with them.
Friday, another Gentle Yoga class. As usual, a smaller group. What does that mean? Well, one of two things -- we either work harder or we work more gently. This week, it was a blend; with a little bit of camel thrown in -- just to see if the hyoid bone lesson had sunk in. And, for me, there was the residual good feeling from a note in which a student had told me the benefit my offerings to them about the breath was having for her (something she has known for a long time, but has embraced as she began attending class regularly). More proof people are listening!
What tip can I offer after this week? A simple one. There was a student in class this week with a sore hip. Young, active person, who runs. I asked what she could observe about recent activity -- nothing out of the ordinary. I mentioned that most problems begin with the feet and that the hip may be reacting to her running shoes - were they worn down? No, she just bought new ones. Well, how about if the new shoes are putting her back into better foot alignment, therefore the hip is being asked to readjust and is just 'telling' her about how the change is affecting it (the hip). After class, she came up to tell me that she is a 'pronator' by nature, and is trying to over-compensate to correct that issue. Maybe that's part of the problem. If possible, someone should watch her run (in the new shoes), and tell her what the right foot is doing -- that may answer the hip issue. What's the tip? Look at the whole person when offering therapeutic advice, and start with the feet - especially when looking at an issue in the lower body.
AND -- I share my good moments with my teachers. I've had a couple reminders lately that my teachers need to know - just like I need to know - that the teachings are being received and embraced. They deserve the credit, as much as I do. After all, they taught me.
Today? R&R (fighting off a slight cold -- expecting that it will either resolve itself or move into a full-blown, sneezing, stuffy, sore throat condition).
Hope your Saturday (Friday?) is a good one,
So, imagine it's Friday and you are reading this on Friday morning or afternoon.
I believe I mentioned my week actually began on Wednesday (perhaps that could be my excuse!?!?!), due to our journey to play with Grandsons last weekend. It will be a short week's worth of 'notes'. But a week worthy of comment, because I now know people are listening.
Wednesday, as I have done for the past 3 years, I taught Gentle Yoga. It was a snowy morning, which makes attendance questionable - as in, some may choose to stay inside. Happy to see many turned out and even happier when one mentioned her ankle was a bit stiff. Her words "the chi seems to be stuck in my ankle". Well, I had talked about Prana (or chi) the week prior; as in, when the prana can move easily through the body, we feel good. Why would this make me 'happier'? To have a student use a word they haven't heard or used in their 60+ years of life, means they are listening.
Later on Wednesday (and again on Thursday), I taught the semi-private I have mentioned before (the couple who are both a bit stiff). Good for them -- trying to get in some classes before they head out of town for a couple weeks. And, good for them, that they are practicing what we work on in class at home. The result -- after Wednesday's session, he is beginning to notice and move his shoulder blades on demand; she is working on "owning" the pose.
What do I mean by "own" -- in this situation, she is flexible enough to place hands flat on floor with straight legs. Rather than do that, I asked her to come to fingertips and bend elbows out to side, accessing shoulderblades and maybe moving more deeply into the fold. I asked her to 'own' the pose. She can do it very well, why not do it with a bit more finesse. Sounds silly as I write it, but in the context of this couple, it works -- and, that is what I look for in students - a way to connect. I think she will continue to work well in this pose and the concept of 'owning' it will serve her (might not serve everyone, tho).
Thursday also included pilates. I was alone with Cindy, which means she made me work hard. Usually my jacket doesn't come off until mid-way into the session. This time, jacket off after the first movement series. Good session. Then, back to the studio for the semi-private you already heard about. And, then Yoga Hour. A small group, but fun, nevertheless. Some of my first students from when I started the class attended; great to connect with them.
Friday, another Gentle Yoga class. As usual, a smaller group. What does that mean? Well, one of two things -- we either work harder or we work more gently. This week, it was a blend; with a little bit of camel thrown in -- just to see if the hyoid bone lesson had sunk in. And, for me, there was the residual good feeling from a note in which a student had told me the benefit my offerings to them about the breath was having for her (something she has known for a long time, but has embraced as she began attending class regularly). More proof people are listening!
What tip can I offer after this week? A simple one. There was a student in class this week with a sore hip. Young, active person, who runs. I asked what she could observe about recent activity -- nothing out of the ordinary. I mentioned that most problems begin with the feet and that the hip may be reacting to her running shoes - were they worn down? No, she just bought new ones. Well, how about if the new shoes are putting her back into better foot alignment, therefore the hip is being asked to readjust and is just 'telling' her about how the change is affecting it (the hip). After class, she came up to tell me that she is a 'pronator' by nature, and is trying to over-compensate to correct that issue. Maybe that's part of the problem. If possible, someone should watch her run (in the new shoes), and tell her what the right foot is doing -- that may answer the hip issue. What's the tip? Look at the whole person when offering therapeutic advice, and start with the feet - especially when looking at an issue in the lower body.
AND -- I share my good moments with my teachers. I've had a couple reminders lately that my teachers need to know - just like I need to know - that the teachings are being received and embraced. They deserve the credit, as much as I do. After all, they taught me.
Today? R&R (fighting off a slight cold -- expecting that it will either resolve itself or move into a full-blown, sneezing, stuffy, sore throat condition).
Hope your Saturday (Friday?) is a good one,
Thursday, October 28, 2010
NOTHING NEW -- YET
In my last post, I alluded to a new 'look' for the blog. Checked out options this morning; choices between red, pink, green, even purple, are just too much to think about this morning. So, we'll wait for a while.
After a busy weekend playing with grandsons, I returned Tuesday night and am still a bit turned around, time-wise. Begin a week on Wednesday, and try it. Well, teaching Gentle Yoga yesterday morning, I had lots of good stories to tell about the way it is now with 3 grandsons, and the way it used to be (back when I went to visit and made a trip to Yoga Del Mar for some yoga; ahhh, the good old days). Now, I call it good if I can get in a few good stretching moments.
Yesterday morning, I started the day with reviewing my latest video. Then, I turned to a printout of the latest self-evaluation form from Anusara. If we honestly answer the questions (I did have to say 'no' and 'maybe' at least once), we can see the parts missing from our teaching. Where did I say no? Did I connect the heart quality and theme through my demo? No, I was too busy keeping it to 1-2 minutes and trying to point out just two things that I wanted them to get from the demo. I don't think I even considered heart quality/theme during the demo -- after all, it was just me doing and talking about the poses I was demo'ing. Lesson learned.
After the self-eval., I still feel good about the video and have sent it on to Sundari. Keep fingers crossed!
In Gentle Yoga, we worked with skull loop -- my favorite loop this year. After all, for me, it is the key to backbending. I just wish saying 'hyoid bone' many times was a bit less tongue-tying (or, as I try to say it this morning many times over, it's more of a lip-challenge). But, I digress.
I hadn't intended to do that - teach skull loop, but as I watched students move into anjanae asana, and take their gaze up (by dropping their head back), it seemed like a good teaching moment. (Seeing teaching moments, is also a variation of a question on the Self-Evaluation form -- "Did you teach to what you were seeing?) The connection from skull loop to the upper and mid back, will help in this pose -- which can be a bit challenging for the lower back. It was amazing to watch the following attempts at the pose - so much more potent (and beautiful).
Then home for a bit, and back to the studio (I felt like a yo-yo yesterday) to teach a semi-private. We worked skull loop here, also. Home again, where we have 3 inches of snow on the deck -- yes, snow; in October. We've gone from balmy, sunny Fall to Winter -- FAST! Maybe we'll journey back to the balmy, but winter is here today.
Today?
After a busy weekend playing with grandsons, I returned Tuesday night and am still a bit turned around, time-wise. Begin a week on Wednesday, and try it. Well, teaching Gentle Yoga yesterday morning, I had lots of good stories to tell about the way it is now with 3 grandsons, and the way it used to be (back when I went to visit and made a trip to Yoga Del Mar for some yoga; ahhh, the good old days). Now, I call it good if I can get in a few good stretching moments.
Yesterday morning, I started the day with reviewing my latest video. Then, I turned to a printout of the latest self-evaluation form from Anusara. If we honestly answer the questions (I did have to say 'no' and 'maybe' at least once), we can see the parts missing from our teaching. Where did I say no? Did I connect the heart quality and theme through my demo? No, I was too busy keeping it to 1-2 minutes and trying to point out just two things that I wanted them to get from the demo. I don't think I even considered heart quality/theme during the demo -- after all, it was just me doing and talking about the poses I was demo'ing. Lesson learned.
After the self-eval., I still feel good about the video and have sent it on to Sundari. Keep fingers crossed!
In Gentle Yoga, we worked with skull loop -- my favorite loop this year. After all, for me, it is the key to backbending. I just wish saying 'hyoid bone' many times was a bit less tongue-tying (or, as I try to say it this morning many times over, it's more of a lip-challenge). But, I digress.
I hadn't intended to do that - teach skull loop, but as I watched students move into anjanae asana, and take their gaze up (by dropping their head back), it seemed like a good teaching moment. (Seeing teaching moments, is also a variation of a question on the Self-Evaluation form -- "Did you teach to what you were seeing?) The connection from skull loop to the upper and mid back, will help in this pose -- which can be a bit challenging for the lower back. It was amazing to watch the following attempts at the pose - so much more potent (and beautiful).
Then home for a bit, and back to the studio (I felt like a yo-yo yesterday) to teach a semi-private. We worked skull loop here, also. Home again, where we have 3 inches of snow on the deck -- yes, snow; in October. We've gone from balmy, sunny Fall to Winter -- FAST! Maybe we'll journey back to the balmy, but winter is here today.
Today?
- Still cleaning (can you tell the house has not been my priority for a while?)
- Pilates at 1 pm
- Semi-private at 2:30 pm
- Yoga Hour at 4 pm, taught by me
Hope your day is a good one,
Monday, October 25, 2010
SO, HERE IT IS . . . POST #500
Let the whistles blow and the cymbals clash; let the sparklers light the sky; etc., etc., etc. I've done it -- 500 posts; as I sit here, it's almost as anti-climactic as the 60th birthday countdown. Oh, well!
When I'm away from the studio, I depend on Facebook and e-mail to keep me informed of goings on. This morning, I found an entry from BJ Galvan, a forwarded one of Scott Marmorstein doing a jig to a Jamaican tune. I usually would pass by this type of message, however this morning I paused and watched the video. Reminder, Scott is the young man who works with JF frequently and is an energy healter (cakras). The other fact many of us know is that he nearly died 8 or so months ago from heart issues.
I watched the 'jig' video, then noticed in the history bar another video of Scott from a year ago. He's seated in front of a window and talks about his work. Such a difference between now (the jig, the look, the energy) and a year ago (posture, the look, the energy). If you can find it, check it out. So happy to see him and to see him looking well and happy.
Our grandsons are great! We had a fun day yesterday -- took in Sealife (an aquarium extension of Legoland). Well done and a perfect place for pre-school and early school-age children. Since the boys have been to this place many times, we were given the tour - taken into all the nooks and crannies, encouraged to watch the puppet show and the dive show; just take it all in, move with their flow (a 2 and a 4-year-old flow is very different than our 60+ year flow). It was a fun morning, that even included lunch at the aquarium. Such good grandparents - pat, pat, pat (the sound of me patting myself on the back). Then back home for naps, more play, dinner, then we (the older ones) could relax.
Today, I'll enjoy grandsons some more; Howard will work. Our housesitter is 'in charge' - dealing with pets and care of SLC house. The studio? Well, I'm not missing any classes; and it can run itself for a couple days.
I was serious about ordering the printed archive of the first 500 posts. I plan to continue, maybe I'll change the display - I've seen some pretty neat ones around the internet.
Thank you for reading,
When I'm away from the studio, I depend on Facebook and e-mail to keep me informed of goings on. This morning, I found an entry from BJ Galvan, a forwarded one of Scott Marmorstein doing a jig to a Jamaican tune. I usually would pass by this type of message, however this morning I paused and watched the video. Reminder, Scott is the young man who works with JF frequently and is an energy healter (cakras). The other fact many of us know is that he nearly died 8 or so months ago from heart issues.
I watched the 'jig' video, then noticed in the history bar another video of Scott from a year ago. He's seated in front of a window and talks about his work. Such a difference between now (the jig, the look, the energy) and a year ago (posture, the look, the energy). If you can find it, check it out. So happy to see him and to see him looking well and happy.
Our grandsons are great! We had a fun day yesterday -- took in Sealife (an aquarium extension of Legoland). Well done and a perfect place for pre-school and early school-age children. Since the boys have been to this place many times, we were given the tour - taken into all the nooks and crannies, encouraged to watch the puppet show and the dive show; just take it all in, move with their flow (a 2 and a 4-year-old flow is very different than our 60+ year flow). It was a fun morning, that even included lunch at the aquarium. Such good grandparents - pat, pat, pat (the sound of me patting myself on the back). Then back home for naps, more play, dinner, then we (the older ones) could relax.
Today, I'll enjoy grandsons some more; Howard will work. Our housesitter is 'in charge' - dealing with pets and care of SLC house. The studio? Well, I'm not missing any classes; and it can run itself for a couple days.
I was serious about ordering the printed archive of the first 500 posts. I plan to continue, maybe I'll change the display - I've seen some pretty neat ones around the internet.
Thank you for reading,
Sunday, October 24, 2010
#499
Yesterday's class (Saturday) was one where I felt really connected to a new voice, yet still teaching and still doing all the same 'stuff'. What do I mean?
Well, it was interesting to hear myself offer instructions, and - while offering these instructions - interlace them with verbiage supporting my theme, heart quality, UPA's, etc. It all seemed to click. The problem? Not enough people in the room to do a viable video (one that the Certification Committee will accept). But, no matter. I am so happy that things are finally falling into place; it's kind of like my 'urdhva feeling' -- a whole new world is opening to me.
My theme yesterday centered around Desire-Study-Work (also known as Attitude-Alignment-Action). I went back through notes and found that during this past year these three elements have been the topic of some key teachings I've received.
First, from John -- our desire fuels our practice. When we move from this desire; a place of focus, many things become possible. Second, from Desiree -- study and practice the basics. Her point? We don't have to do the many challenging poses every time we go to the mat; they are always available to us to attempt or accomplish, if we are well-schooled in the basics. Third, from Christina -- do the work. Practice, get on your mat push yourself a bit further than is comfortable once in a while, do the work.
Oh, I learned tons of other stuff this year, but these three fit right into what I hoped to teach yesterday morning. Desire brought them to class; study keeps them coming to class; and work -- well, we lengthened lunge and down dog stances, we worked some backbends (difficult for some in the room), we tried ustrasana (camel) without resorting to one hand on the foot, then the other -- both hands hit the feet at the same time. I didn't necessarily ask for this, tho I did suggest it -- their desire to do the pose incorporating the UPA's and truly lengthening into the backbend (study), resulted in each doing Ustrasana, both hands moving to the feet at the same time while the rest of their body's remained in good alignment (the work).
I also had a little side-learning experience. One student, who has had a back injury, commented after the first attempt at just moving part of the way up and back into Ustrasana (camel), that her body was shaking all over. I decided to give a little assist and - sure enough - as she began to rise with my hands on her ribcage, she did begin to tremble all over (FYI, she was not in any pain.). Once her hands reached her heels, the trembling stopped. It began again, as I assisted her up and out of the pose. All I can figure is that her body is fearful of the potential for pain in backbends. It doesn't matter that we are applying the UPA's to prevent injury. The body knows what hurting the back felt like; it doesn't want to go there again, hence the response (the shaking). I think that, as she works the UPA's, and her body comes to accept that this movement does not result in a painful experience, the shaking may subside. We'll see. Interesting!
Today?
Well, it was interesting to hear myself offer instructions, and - while offering these instructions - interlace them with verbiage supporting my theme, heart quality, UPA's, etc. It all seemed to click. The problem? Not enough people in the room to do a viable video (one that the Certification Committee will accept). But, no matter. I am so happy that things are finally falling into place; it's kind of like my 'urdhva feeling' -- a whole new world is opening to me.
My theme yesterday centered around Desire-Study-Work (also known as Attitude-Alignment-Action). I went back through notes and found that during this past year these three elements have been the topic of some key teachings I've received.
First, from John -- our desire fuels our practice. When we move from this desire; a place of focus, many things become possible. Second, from Desiree -- study and practice the basics. Her point? We don't have to do the many challenging poses every time we go to the mat; they are always available to us to attempt or accomplish, if we are well-schooled in the basics. Third, from Christina -- do the work. Practice, get on your mat push yourself a bit further than is comfortable once in a while, do the work.
Oh, I learned tons of other stuff this year, but these three fit right into what I hoped to teach yesterday morning. Desire brought them to class; study keeps them coming to class; and work -- well, we lengthened lunge and down dog stances, we worked some backbends (difficult for some in the room), we tried ustrasana (camel) without resorting to one hand on the foot, then the other -- both hands hit the feet at the same time. I didn't necessarily ask for this, tho I did suggest it -- their desire to do the pose incorporating the UPA's and truly lengthening into the backbend (study), resulted in each doing Ustrasana, both hands moving to the feet at the same time while the rest of their body's remained in good alignment (the work).
I also had a little side-learning experience. One student, who has had a back injury, commented after the first attempt at just moving part of the way up and back into Ustrasana (camel), that her body was shaking all over. I decided to give a little assist and - sure enough - as she began to rise with my hands on her ribcage, she did begin to tremble all over (FYI, she was not in any pain.). Once her hands reached her heels, the trembling stopped. It began again, as I assisted her up and out of the pose. All I can figure is that her body is fearful of the potential for pain in backbends. It doesn't matter that we are applying the UPA's to prevent injury. The body knows what hurting the back felt like; it doesn't want to go there again, hence the response (the shaking). I think that, as she works the UPA's, and her body comes to accept that this movement does not result in a painful experience, the shaking may subside. We'll see. Interesting!
Today?
- Enjoying my son, my daughter-in-law and my grandsons
Hope you have a nice day,
Friday, October 22, 2010
POST #497
I've unexpectedly arrived at post #497 ! Send up the fireworks, it's a monumental moment (well, in 3 more posts), as I will reach 500! Then, I'll order the printed archive -- just for my own memory's sake.
It's also Friday - my favorite day to post. I love just typing snippets of information; no big, overall message to think about. Just bullet points of the week, plus a tip, and we call it good.
And, it's been a great week -- each day with a highlight to share. Now, let's see if I can remember:
1. Monday - Class with Tiffany was the highlight. Adhikhara setting the stage for my teaching this week, as I was reminded of the importance and value of paying attention to the details, of refinement and discipline in my practice.
2. Tuesday - I attended another class, this one with Wayne. (p.s. both Wayne and Tiffany were mentored into and through the Certification process by Jamie Allison) It was a smaller group than Tiffany's, so we were able to get a bit more individual attention and there was more banter (very important questions, NOT small talk) during the class. Four urdhva dhanurasana's (backbends), one with feet on blocks (now, that's another first for me!). We went to the wall with chairs (chairs at wall for stability), and tried the same pose with our feet on the chair seat. Made it to the top of my head. Not disappointed -- I couldn't do that a couple weeks ago.
3. Wednesday - the fun (and growing) Gentle Yoga class. What more can I say? I love this group of people who have given me their trust. Such a gift!
4. Thursday - Highlight? Semi-private with somewhat-stiffer-than-most couple. It is great to be with people as they discover that yoga is not a bunch of whoo-ey (sp?). Those were their words, plus: "A while back, I would have listened to you and said bull____. Today, I feel all the things you are talking about; there is something about yoga I can't explain." I just smiled and said "magic" in a small, wistful voice. Then, I applied all my muscle strength to both of their VERY tight shoulder blades! Whew.
5. And, Friday? Well, we'll see who shows for Gentle Yoga. Then some practice - working on the stuff Adam showed me earlier in the week, plus doing some things to re-open that upper back of mine.
6. My 'tip' for the week? I've worked consistently with the breath since returning from the therapy training with Sundari. I turned to those notes, and immediately read this:
Wherever you go in this movement, are you in the flow of prana? Are you aware of the breath in transition? The sign of an advanced practice is this awareness. How is prana flowing? Are you receiving your breath? Are you giving back? Thru awareness we discover ways to collaborate with the breath. We must be the example; it moves thru us to others.
I love that I don't have to put my foot behind my head (or do any number of other challenging poses), in order to feel that I am moving towards an advanced practice. It's not just about being 'advanced', but knowing that when I place hands mindfully, or breathe with purpose and intention, I move to a more refined place in my practice, I feel very good. Because, I know what it feels like to struggle with a pose for 12 years and then to have it break loose, like a dam breaking open. What's good about that -- that the 12 years created enough awareness in me that I can know what was holding me back and what it took to move over the threshhold. It wasn't easy; it was worth it.
Friday's Events:
It's also Friday - my favorite day to post. I love just typing snippets of information; no big, overall message to think about. Just bullet points of the week, plus a tip, and we call it good.
And, it's been a great week -- each day with a highlight to share. Now, let's see if I can remember:
1. Monday - Class with Tiffany was the highlight. Adhikhara setting the stage for my teaching this week, as I was reminded of the importance and value of paying attention to the details, of refinement and discipline in my practice.
2. Tuesday - I attended another class, this one with Wayne. (p.s. both Wayne and Tiffany were mentored into and through the Certification process by Jamie Allison) It was a smaller group than Tiffany's, so we were able to get a bit more individual attention and there was more banter (very important questions, NOT small talk) during the class. Four urdhva dhanurasana's (backbends), one with feet on blocks (now, that's another first for me!). We went to the wall with chairs (chairs at wall for stability), and tried the same pose with our feet on the chair seat. Made it to the top of my head. Not disappointed -- I couldn't do that a couple weeks ago.
3. Wednesday - the fun (and growing) Gentle Yoga class. What more can I say? I love this group of people who have given me their trust. Such a gift!
4. Thursday - Highlight? Semi-private with somewhat-stiffer-than-most couple. It is great to be with people as they discover that yoga is not a bunch of whoo-ey (sp?). Those were their words, plus: "A while back, I would have listened to you and said bull____. Today, I feel all the things you are talking about; there is something about yoga I can't explain." I just smiled and said "magic" in a small, wistful voice. Then, I applied all my muscle strength to both of their VERY tight shoulder blades! Whew.
5. And, Friday? Well, we'll see who shows for Gentle Yoga. Then some practice - working on the stuff Adam showed me earlier in the week, plus doing some things to re-open that upper back of mine.
6. My 'tip' for the week? I've worked consistently with the breath since returning from the therapy training with Sundari. I turned to those notes, and immediately read this:
Wherever you go in this movement, are you in the flow of prana? Are you aware of the breath in transition? The sign of an advanced practice is this awareness. How is prana flowing? Are you receiving your breath? Are you giving back? Thru awareness we discover ways to collaborate with the breath. We must be the example; it moves thru us to others.
I love that I don't have to put my foot behind my head (or do any number of other challenging poses), in order to feel that I am moving towards an advanced practice. It's not just about being 'advanced', but knowing that when I place hands mindfully, or breathe with purpose and intention, I move to a more refined place in my practice, I feel very good. Because, I know what it feels like to struggle with a pose for 12 years and then to have it break loose, like a dam breaking open. What's good about that -- that the 12 years created enough awareness in me that I can know what was holding me back and what it took to move over the threshhold. It wasn't easy; it was worth it.
Friday's Events:
- 10 am, Gentle Yoga at The Yoga Center
- Practice
- Whatever happens, happens
Enjoy your Friday,
Thursday, October 21, 2010
A GREAT DAY
Each day this week has been 'great'; yesterday, tho, was 'extra great' or 'great with an extra dollop of whip cream'.
My morning started with breakfast with Jen -- we have worked together for 6+ years. Jen 'inspired' me to take my first teacher training with Desiree; and we've attended many classes, workshops and trainings together (sometimes being mistaken for mother (me)/daughter (Jen) - but, we won't go there). It was a good conversation - sharing info on how our lives and teaching progress.
Then, off to teach Gentle Yoga. I've said this before, will say it again -- the pattern at my studio is for students to arrive right on time for class or a minute or two late. Not this class - they began to arrive 10 minutes early yesterday! Perhaps it's because they're eager to be with me (!?!?!) or perhaps it's because the class is growing lately, and they would like to be in their favorite or non-squeaky spot. (FYI, the floor has some noise-producing qualities that accompany your poses, if you are placed just right.)
No matter the reason, it is fun to see the studio filling and to hear the banter among these fun people. No one sits and tries to meditate, or tries to warm-up; no -- they're in class to enjoy the community; each other. Once we start class, tho, the room quiets to a very respectful decibel level -- with only the brief comment and/or groan and/or laugh to be heard. We worked with the breath, the arms - exploring 'hugging'. I asked if everyone understood what I meant by "hug" muscles. A couple were brave and inquisitive enough to say 'no'; so we did a bit of exploration and explanation. We worked the shoulders and shoulder blades, and did a bit of 'energy thumping' that I picked up at the therapy training a couple weeks ago. All in all, a fun time for me (and, I hope, for them).
On to my own 'private' with Adam -- we all know that my goal is to kick to the wall in handstand. I had an interesting awakening yesterday. While I'm not kicking to the wall, I can be aided to the wall and stay there for much longer than two or three weeks ago. But, that's not what I discovered. As we worked, Adam's attention was on my hips and legs -- getting them stretched out and warmed up for kicking up (all this, by the way, will also improve much of my overall practice).
Towards the 45-minutes mark of our 60-minute session, we went to the wall and I attempted to kick up; not yet, so he helped me. Here's what I discovered -- my shoulders and upper back are tight and, because we had focused on my legs, the upper body was not 'melting' as I had felt it 'melt' in earlier sessions. Why? Because we didn't do any of the challenging work to open up the upper back. It was easier for me, in this session, to actually balance - take feet away from wall - than to allow the legs to rest on the wall and melt my heart into the room. And, I felt it! Isn't it amazing when you feel and are aware of something like that? (I didn't necessarily figure it out myself - he did explain it to me.) Once verbally explained, I was able to reflect on the feeling in my body and realize why it was easier to stay more upright in the pose, as opposed to melting heart and moving feet to the wall. Amazing!
On to other things - picked up Howard from the airport, home for a quick bite of lunch, then on to get my hair cut. After that, relax. Then there was an unexpected phone conversation with Sundari - such a nice way to finish the day.
Today?
My morning started with breakfast with Jen -- we have worked together for 6+ years. Jen 'inspired' me to take my first teacher training with Desiree; and we've attended many classes, workshops and trainings together (sometimes being mistaken for mother (me)/daughter (Jen) - but, we won't go there). It was a good conversation - sharing info on how our lives and teaching progress.
Then, off to teach Gentle Yoga. I've said this before, will say it again -- the pattern at my studio is for students to arrive right on time for class or a minute or two late. Not this class - they began to arrive 10 minutes early yesterday! Perhaps it's because they're eager to be with me (!?!?!) or perhaps it's because the class is growing lately, and they would like to be in their favorite or non-squeaky spot. (FYI, the floor has some noise-producing qualities that accompany your poses, if you are placed just right.)
No matter the reason, it is fun to see the studio filling and to hear the banter among these fun people. No one sits and tries to meditate, or tries to warm-up; no -- they're in class to enjoy the community; each other. Once we start class, tho, the room quiets to a very respectful decibel level -- with only the brief comment and/or groan and/or laugh to be heard. We worked with the breath, the arms - exploring 'hugging'. I asked if everyone understood what I meant by "hug" muscles. A couple were brave and inquisitive enough to say 'no'; so we did a bit of exploration and explanation. We worked the shoulders and shoulder blades, and did a bit of 'energy thumping' that I picked up at the therapy training a couple weeks ago. All in all, a fun time for me (and, I hope, for them).
On to my own 'private' with Adam -- we all know that my goal is to kick to the wall in handstand. I had an interesting awakening yesterday. While I'm not kicking to the wall, I can be aided to the wall and stay there for much longer than two or three weeks ago. But, that's not what I discovered. As we worked, Adam's attention was on my hips and legs -- getting them stretched out and warmed up for kicking up (all this, by the way, will also improve much of my overall practice).
Towards the 45-minutes mark of our 60-minute session, we went to the wall and I attempted to kick up; not yet, so he helped me. Here's what I discovered -- my shoulders and upper back are tight and, because we had focused on my legs, the upper body was not 'melting' as I had felt it 'melt' in earlier sessions. Why? Because we didn't do any of the challenging work to open up the upper back. It was easier for me, in this session, to actually balance - take feet away from wall - than to allow the legs to rest on the wall and melt my heart into the room. And, I felt it! Isn't it amazing when you feel and are aware of something like that? (I didn't necessarily figure it out myself - he did explain it to me.) Once verbally explained, I was able to reflect on the feeling in my body and realize why it was easier to stay more upright in the pose, as opposed to melting heart and moving feet to the wall. Amazing!
On to other things - picked up Howard from the airport, home for a quick bite of lunch, then on to get my hair cut. After that, relax. Then there was an unexpected phone conversation with Sundari - such a nice way to finish the day.
Today?
- 9:30 am Meeting
- 1:00 pm Pilate
- 2:30 pm Semi-Private
- 4:00 pm Yoga Hour (I'm teaching)
Hope your day is a good one!
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
BRIEFLY . . .
Not a lot of time this morning; meeting a friend for breakfast before the Gentle Yoga class. Still have to walk dogs and get myself ready; running out of time. But I did want to share a few notes about my day, yesterday.
First -- Wayne's class was great. Something about reaching Certification does affect your approach and manner in teaching. For both Tiffany and Wayne, I see a relaxed confidence. Hope to be in their shoes, soon. Back to the class -- 4 urdhvas; even one successful one with feet on blocks -- they continue to feel easier, even on the slippery-er mat I was using yesterday. Handstand - well, still a work in progress, but I had 'hang-time', and once up - with Wayne's help - I could stay there, even pulled feet away from wall for 1-2 seconds at a time.
Then, Pilates - feeing stronger and more confident in many of the moves. But, Cindy always finds something new to throw into the mix. I guess that keeps it from become too routine.
Back to the studio for a semi-private. An update - this is the couple who came to me with no yoga knowledge and they are stiff. They found that yoga was enjoyable and eye-opening, then knee pain set in (torquing in golf swing) and he went to the doctor (a good thing). The negative - doctor said no more yoga; torn meniscus. Well, we talked, and they are back. Their goal: to follow the physician's advice, but still stay involved in yoga. My plan: to just work with them from the hips up. Hoping to free the shoulders, and create freedom in their necks. A good compromise.
Lindsay takes over yoga hour at 4 on Tuesdays. I listened to the first few minutes of the class (from the undercover space of my office). Strong, confident voice. She's a keeper!
FYI, information on the Certification video: I asked Anusara about the requirement that we video a Level 1 or Level 1-2 class; could my Gentle Yoga class qualify? Official answer: "yes, so long as there is explanation to that affect, and the assessors know that they are looking at a class that includes modifications. It must include use of the UPA's and other language / theming elements." If you'd like to see that e-mail, let me know.
So, today?
First -- Wayne's class was great. Something about reaching Certification does affect your approach and manner in teaching. For both Tiffany and Wayne, I see a relaxed confidence. Hope to be in their shoes, soon. Back to the class -- 4 urdhvas; even one successful one with feet on blocks -- they continue to feel easier, even on the slippery-er mat I was using yesterday. Handstand - well, still a work in progress, but I had 'hang-time', and once up - with Wayne's help - I could stay there, even pulled feet away from wall for 1-2 seconds at a time.
Then, Pilates - feeing stronger and more confident in many of the moves. But, Cindy always finds something new to throw into the mix. I guess that keeps it from become too routine.
Back to the studio for a semi-private. An update - this is the couple who came to me with no yoga knowledge and they are stiff. They found that yoga was enjoyable and eye-opening, then knee pain set in (torquing in golf swing) and he went to the doctor (a good thing). The negative - doctor said no more yoga; torn meniscus. Well, we talked, and they are back. Their goal: to follow the physician's advice, but still stay involved in yoga. My plan: to just work with them from the hips up. Hoping to free the shoulders, and create freedom in their necks. A good compromise.
Lindsay takes over yoga hour at 4 on Tuesdays. I listened to the first few minutes of the class (from the undercover space of my office). Strong, confident voice. She's a keeper!
FYI, information on the Certification video: I asked Anusara about the requirement that we video a Level 1 or Level 1-2 class; could my Gentle Yoga class qualify? Official answer: "yes, so long as there is explanation to that affect, and the assessors know that they are looking at a class that includes modifications. It must include use of the UPA's and other language / theming elements." If you'd like to see that e-mail, let me know.
So, today?
- Breakfast with Jen
- Gentle Yoga at 10 am at The Yoga Center
- Private (my own) to follow
- Then home, back to the fun of sorting and cleaning
Hope your Wednesday is a good one,
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
ADHIKHARA
I did all the things on yesterday's list, including attend Tiffany's class last night. Another great offering, filled with her great languaging, a bit of inspiration from Jaime Allison's weekend workshop, and a supportive group of students (including me).
Her theme? You guessed it, adhikhara, the Sanskrit word for studentship.
For me, adhikhara has always been foremost in my mind -- maybe that's a reflection of being raised in a military household. When being taught something, we listened and then we did exactly as told. Yoga is not so rigid as my upbringing, but I do listen and I do carry out instructions to the best of my ability.
For example, it just took one time with John for me to fully embrace the hand placement and significance of the commitment to that placement in my practice. You will not see my hands move when palms are on the floor, for example moving from down dog to plank to the floor to cobra and back to down dog. It won't happen, not in my hands. (And, some faithful readers will remember there is a way to adjust the placement without lifting your knuckles and/or fingertips; because, sometimes, adjustment is needed.)
So, we moved skillfully through class last night. We were reminded about active feet (think mantra: activate your feet and legs by lifting and spreading your toes, hold that energy and with strong legs inner spiral, scoop tailbone, root and rise). We were asked to stay steady in our hands. And, we were skillfully reminded that we were in a classroom setting and that - while we each are our own teacher - we must respect the person in the seat of the teacher (one funny saying -- 'all you peripheral poachers, take your top arm back to your hips' -- an instruction given to bring everyone into unison as we opened the body to modified vasisthasana without taking the top arm up).
How easy is it to be in a class, listening, following, then all of a sudden there's this sudden burst of 'how about if I do this' -- which, by the way, was NOT asked for by the instructor. I find it challenging, sometimes, to just do what I'm asked to do; to really listen; to wait. I remind myself that waiting and listening are all part of an advanced practice - that usually does the trick and brings me back to being attentive to the person in the seat of the teacher!
Great class, great for me to experience these instructions that - while seemingly innocuous - when carried out well, bring out the advanced practitioner in all of us.
Today's plan:
Her theme? You guessed it, adhikhara, the Sanskrit word for studentship.
For me, adhikhara has always been foremost in my mind -- maybe that's a reflection of being raised in a military household. When being taught something, we listened and then we did exactly as told. Yoga is not so rigid as my upbringing, but I do listen and I do carry out instructions to the best of my ability.
For example, it just took one time with John for me to fully embrace the hand placement and significance of the commitment to that placement in my practice. You will not see my hands move when palms are on the floor, for example moving from down dog to plank to the floor to cobra and back to down dog. It won't happen, not in my hands. (And, some faithful readers will remember there is a way to adjust the placement without lifting your knuckles and/or fingertips; because, sometimes, adjustment is needed.)
So, we moved skillfully through class last night. We were reminded about active feet (think mantra: activate your feet and legs by lifting and spreading your toes, hold that energy and with strong legs inner spiral, scoop tailbone, root and rise). We were asked to stay steady in our hands. And, we were skillfully reminded that we were in a classroom setting and that - while we each are our own teacher - we must respect the person in the seat of the teacher (one funny saying -- 'all you peripheral poachers, take your top arm back to your hips' -- an instruction given to bring everyone into unison as we opened the body to modified vasisthasana without taking the top arm up).
How easy is it to be in a class, listening, following, then all of a sudden there's this sudden burst of 'how about if I do this' -- which, by the way, was NOT asked for by the instructor. I find it challenging, sometimes, to just do what I'm asked to do; to really listen; to wait. I remind myself that waiting and listening are all part of an advanced practice - that usually does the trick and brings me back to being attentive to the person in the seat of the teacher!
Great class, great for me to experience these instructions that - while seemingly innocuous - when carried out well, bring out the advanced practitioner in all of us.
Today's plan:
- 9:30 am - Level 1-2 with Wayne at The Yoga Center
- Noon - Pilates with Cindy (I remembered)
- 2:30 pm - Private session taught by me at The Yoga Center (think shoulders & neck)
- 4:00 pm - Yoga Hour, taught by Lindsay at The Yoga Center
- Time to get the other car washed? We'll see.
Enjoy your Tuesday,
Monday, October 18, 2010
WE DO WHAT WE HAVE TO DO . . .
This past weekend, I had signed up for Jaime Allison's workshop at The Shop in Park City. I did make it to the Friday session, but not the rest of it. It just didn't fit.
There are times to do and to study, and then there are times to cultivate the home fires. This was one of those weekends. Therefore, I decided to forego the Saturday and Sunday sessions -- hard to do, but I'm glad I did it.
I know I would have learned a lot from Jaime, that it would have been fun to 'hang out' with yoga friends, but there are times when another part of my life comes calling and I need to pay attention to all aspects. (Thank you, Ponteir.)
So, Saturday night we (Howard and I) took a leisurely drive up one of the area canyons to enjoy what's left of the Fall colors. We had a nice dinner at a restaurant overlooking the canyon, where the ambiance was littered with background noise -- "we're out of penne"; "there's no caesar salad"; "mashed potatoes won't be ready for 30 minutes". For some patrons this was troubling, the majority tho (including us) simply laughed and rolled with the punches. Fun to not be too locked into our expectations sometimes.
Yesterday - more cleaning and sorting. Then, a run to the airport and a couple stops on the way back to stock up on studio supplies. I took an hour of the day for 'retail' therapy, then home to clean some more.
Today's Plans:
There are times to do and to study, and then there are times to cultivate the home fires. This was one of those weekends. Therefore, I decided to forego the Saturday and Sunday sessions -- hard to do, but I'm glad I did it.
I know I would have learned a lot from Jaime, that it would have been fun to 'hang out' with yoga friends, but there are times when another part of my life comes calling and I need to pay attention to all aspects. (Thank you, Ponteir.)
So, Saturday night we (Howard and I) took a leisurely drive up one of the area canyons to enjoy what's left of the Fall colors. We had a nice dinner at a restaurant overlooking the canyon, where the ambiance was littered with background noise -- "we're out of penne"; "there's no caesar salad"; "mashed potatoes won't be ready for 30 minutes". For some patrons this was troubling, the majority tho (including us) simply laughed and rolled with the punches. Fun to not be too locked into our expectations sometimes.
Yesterday - more cleaning and sorting. Then, a run to the airport and a couple stops on the way back to stock up on studio supplies. I took an hour of the day for 'retail' therapy, then home to clean some more.
Today's Plans:
- Clean & sort (broken record)
- Deliver supplies to Yoga Center
- Car washed(?), depends on weather
- Phone conference re: my parents' care
- I do plan to attend Tiffany's class
Hope your Monday is productive yet enjoyable,
Sunday, October 17, 2010
VIDEO'ING
The 'rules' of video'ing a class state there must be a specific number of students in the room for the video to 'count'. That's a challenge some days, especially when I've been away so much this year. Just as I get the class to size, I leave town and a sub steps in.
Not that subs are bad -- they give our students a different perspective, perhaps offer them new tools to work with. The negative? The continuity is gone, at least for one or two weeks. And, when I do that repeatedly (no matter what the reason), students cannot count on me and may drift away - temporarily perhaps - but away, nevertheless.
For yesterday's Level 1 class, I planned to video. Even tho I had been gone the week before and there was a sub in my place, I decided to set the intention, put the camera up, and pray. At 9 am, there were not enough to do a viable video; I decided to turn on the camera anyway, if only for myself. By 9:05, more than enough had come into the room.
The camera kept rolling, I kept talking, as people filtered in. How did I handle it? I kept talking, smiling and nodding as the late arrivals entered. I also was pretty directive (as in, pointing out to them) about where their mats ought to go -- I wanted them IN the video. BTW, one of the things video reviewers look for is how I handle the late arriving student - do I let it fluster me, or throw me off my track. I did pretty well in this regard, I think.
Class continued, camera rolling, and we started moving. At one point in the class, I thought, 'this seems kind of slow'. But, my theme was sensitivity, noticing how we react and what our body is saying to us as we practice. That requires 'slow', in my book. I also, fortunately, had attended Jamie Allison's class the night before. Hers was not a 'fast' class - hers was very methodical, working her theme (Kali) and offering precise alignment instruction. Yet, I was sweating from the 2nd AMS (down dog). Slower, when done with intention and refinement, can be sweat-producing.
I decided to not worry about 'slow', and simply serve the people in the room. I did it -- I believe everyone was served (unlike some earlier classes, where I paid attention to the newer students yet not so much to the seasoned).
At home, I created the DVD successfully! Now, I'll review it and fill out a self-critique evaluation form provided by Anusara®. Then, package form and DVD up, and send them off to Sundari in Maui (so far away, but still close).
Today's plans:
Not that subs are bad -- they give our students a different perspective, perhaps offer them new tools to work with. The negative? The continuity is gone, at least for one or two weeks. And, when I do that repeatedly (no matter what the reason), students cannot count on me and may drift away - temporarily perhaps - but away, nevertheless.
For yesterday's Level 1 class, I planned to video. Even tho I had been gone the week before and there was a sub in my place, I decided to set the intention, put the camera up, and pray. At 9 am, there were not enough to do a viable video; I decided to turn on the camera anyway, if only for myself. By 9:05, more than enough had come into the room.
The camera kept rolling, I kept talking, as people filtered in. How did I handle it? I kept talking, smiling and nodding as the late arrivals entered. I also was pretty directive (as in, pointing out to them) about where their mats ought to go -- I wanted them IN the video. BTW, one of the things video reviewers look for is how I handle the late arriving student - do I let it fluster me, or throw me off my track. I did pretty well in this regard, I think.
Class continued, camera rolling, and we started moving. At one point in the class, I thought, 'this seems kind of slow'. But, my theme was sensitivity, noticing how we react and what our body is saying to us as we practice. That requires 'slow', in my book. I also, fortunately, had attended Jamie Allison's class the night before. Hers was not a 'fast' class - hers was very methodical, working her theme (Kali) and offering precise alignment instruction. Yet, I was sweating from the 2nd AMS (down dog). Slower, when done with intention and refinement, can be sweat-producing.
I decided to not worry about 'slow', and simply serve the people in the room. I did it -- I believe everyone was served (unlike some earlier classes, where I paid attention to the newer students yet not so much to the seasoned).
At home, I created the DVD successfully! Now, I'll review it and fill out a self-critique evaluation form provided by Anusara®. Then, package form and DVD up, and send them off to Sundari in Maui (so far away, but still close).
Today's plans:
- House stuff
- Whatever else happens
Have a nice Sunday,
Friday, October 15, 2010
FRIDAY NOTES . . .
It's been a nice week - lots accomplished at home and at the studio. I've encountered some great students in the classes I've taught - students who do the work and who have taken the time to share feedback with me. I love it when that happens.
After five days with Sundari at the Therapeutic Training, there is a shift -- I'm noticing it; my voice is changing! What does that mean? That I am not so much in the technical of teaching, more in the feeling. And, I'm not forgetting the technical. Just using a different, more sensitive and serving voice.
"Serving" is an interesting word to use. Sundari frequently uses it in sentences like: "Are you serving your students?". Even the video self-review form from Anusara® includes the question: "Were all of the students in the class served?"
I recently filmed and then reviewed a DVD from one of my Saturday classes. As I watched, I noticed that my critical eye is becoming more discerning. And, what did I notice about 'serving'? That I did it, especially to the new-to-me student; however, I was not so attentive to the students who have attended the class for a while. For that reason, I decided this was not the video to submit to anyone. Got to do it over, and do it with the element of 'serving' more present in my teaching.
Here's another thing I noticed about watching that DVD: the more I do it, the more I am able to watch and catch things that need to change (and, I notice things that are good about it). It DOES get easier.
My Tip For This Friday:
If it was your first (or second) yoga class, and you were a student in your class, would you know what it means when the instructor says: "hugging muscles to the bone, take your thighs back". I'm thinking about this more, myself -- especially since Sundari has been saying to me for a long time -- "tell them how". As in, how do students hug their muscles and/or how does one take their thighs back?
It seems pretty simple to me; hugging muscles to the bone or thighs back. But, put myself in my student's position and that changes; I don't (until I've attended a number of classes) know how to hug or to move my thighs back. I need to be taught -- that's an element of serving the student.
And, remember, it is the rare student who will ask -- after all, who wants to look like they don't understand; or perhaps they think, 'it will come to me; I'll just wait for her/him (the instructor) to elaborate later on'. Precious time wasted.
Today's Schedule:
After five days with Sundari at the Therapeutic Training, there is a shift -- I'm noticing it; my voice is changing! What does that mean? That I am not so much in the technical of teaching, more in the feeling. And, I'm not forgetting the technical. Just using a different, more sensitive and serving voice.
"Serving" is an interesting word to use. Sundari frequently uses it in sentences like: "Are you serving your students?". Even the video self-review form from Anusara® includes the question: "Were all of the students in the class served?"
I recently filmed and then reviewed a DVD from one of my Saturday classes. As I watched, I noticed that my critical eye is becoming more discerning. And, what did I notice about 'serving'? That I did it, especially to the new-to-me student; however, I was not so attentive to the students who have attended the class for a while. For that reason, I decided this was not the video to submit to anyone. Got to do it over, and do it with the element of 'serving' more present in my teaching.
Here's another thing I noticed about watching that DVD: the more I do it, the more I am able to watch and catch things that need to change (and, I notice things that are good about it). It DOES get easier.
My Tip For This Friday:
If it was your first (or second) yoga class, and you were a student in your class, would you know what it means when the instructor says: "hugging muscles to the bone, take your thighs back". I'm thinking about this more, myself -- especially since Sundari has been saying to me for a long time -- "tell them how". As in, how do students hug their muscles and/or how does one take their thighs back?
It seems pretty simple to me; hugging muscles to the bone or thighs back. But, put myself in my student's position and that changes; I don't (until I've attended a number of classes) know how to hug or to move my thighs back. I need to be taught -- that's an element of serving the student.
And, remember, it is the rare student who will ask -- after all, who wants to look like they don't understand; or perhaps they think, 'it will come to me; I'll just wait for her/him (the instructor) to elaborate later on'. Precious time wasted.
Today's Schedule:
- GENTLE YOGA, 10 am, at The Yoga Center
- Appointment at 1 pm
- Jamie Allison at The Shop
Enjoy your Friday,
Thursday, October 14, 2010
WHY?
Why, when I encounter a new-to-me or new-to-yoga student, am I hearing "I tried it, but I couldn't do it." or "I took a beginner class, but it was more like a workout class." or "I was intimidated."
Sometimes, I suppose, it's just because - at the time they tried it - the student didn't like yoga (!?!?!?). But, many times - in my experience - if I probe a bit, it turns out that the class or the instructor just wasn't truly geared to teach beginners.
I don't try to change #3 -- the intimidation one; because I think that's within a person's make-up to decide whether it's worth facing that bit of intimidation in order to do something good for themselves.
But #1 and #2? Those I can address. I think there may be a common misconception that the new-to-teaching instructor is best off teaching beginners. But, I don't agree. My belief is that it takes a lot of experience to teach beginners. Granted, it can be frustrating at times. For that reason, perhaps the more experienced instructors choose to let others do it.
But, just think of the learning challenges and opportunities that teaching beginners will offer:
Sometimes, I suppose, it's just because - at the time they tried it - the student didn't like yoga (!?!?!?). But, many times - in my experience - if I probe a bit, it turns out that the class or the instructor just wasn't truly geared to teach beginners.
I don't try to change #3 -- the intimidation one; because I think that's within a person's make-up to decide whether it's worth facing that bit of intimidation in order to do something good for themselves.
But #1 and #2? Those I can address. I think there may be a common misconception that the new-to-teaching instructor is best off teaching beginners. But, I don't agree. My belief is that it takes a lot of experience to teach beginners. Granted, it can be frustrating at times. For that reason, perhaps the more experienced instructors choose to let others do it.
But, just think of the learning challenges and opportunities that teaching beginners will offer:
- An opportunity to meet new people,
- An opportunity to listen, 'hear' them, as they try to do something very foreign with their bodies,
- The opportunity to practice saying the same instruction three different ways; because sometimes that's what it takes -- not everyone processes information the same way,
- Circumstances that offer practice modifications, and
- Many times, there is an opportunity to work with injuries.
- Best of all, there is that moment when it 'clicks'; when the pose looks strong and viable, when the poses begin to sing.
I am not saying there are no newer-to-teaching instructors who could do this, because I'm sure there are many. It's just that I believe the new-to-yoga students deserve our full attention to assure their experience is a good one, one that offers an optimistic view of the journey (and the challenges) the practice of yoga will offer. That means that we, as studio owners or program planners, need to pay close attention to how we handle our newer students.
Granted, there are many students who run the gauntlet, grow their practices, and love yoga, despite how they began the practice. I'm thinking of the ones who may be turned off by our lack of attentiveness to their cultivation. It's one thing to market and get them into the studios or fitness centers, then what happens?
Just a brief foray into my thoughts on the attention paid new-to-yoga students.
Granted, there are many students who run the gauntlet, grow their practices, and love yoga, despite how they began the practice. I'm thinking of the ones who may be turned off by our lack of attentiveness to their cultivation. It's one thing to market and get them into the studios or fitness centers, then what happens?
Just a brief foray into my thoughts on the attention paid new-to-yoga students.
Today?
- Subbing for Mary, 9 am, Level 1 at The Yoga Center
- 1 pm, Pilates
- 4 pm, Yoga Hour at The Yoga Center
Have a nice Thursday,
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
THREE COMMENTS
Three comments -- all about the same; same person? Same issue, for sure. No matter, I'll try to describe my experience with the hyoid bone (a small horseshoe-shaped bone that sits at the front of our throats and anchors our tongue; where skull and shoulder loop intersect).
Three weeks ago, when I had a true breakthrough on urdhva dhanurasana, it was because I finally 'heard' JF say take my head back and look more towards my hands and feet as I moved from the top of my head. At first, it was like a slow motion elevator. Perhaps that was because I could hardly believe it was happening, I was experiencing 'lift off'; not having to struggle to get 3-4 inches away from the floor, but truly experiencing my shoulder blades assisting in the lift.
So, since then, I've continued to do that - take my head back; and, each time it gets easier.
FYI, I put the word 'heard' in quotes, because I know I have been told this by many teachers; for some reason, this time I 'heard' it and I was able to execute it.
The past week, with Sundari in Wyoming, we spent days working shoulder loop, and on Sunday did get to the backbends. In ustrasana, her instructions went like something this:
Three weeks ago, when I had a true breakthrough on urdhva dhanurasana, it was because I finally 'heard' JF say take my head back and look more towards my hands and feet as I moved from the top of my head. At first, it was like a slow motion elevator. Perhaps that was because I could hardly believe it was happening, I was experiencing 'lift off'; not having to struggle to get 3-4 inches away from the floor, but truly experiencing my shoulder blades assisting in the lift.
So, since then, I've continued to do that - take my head back; and, each time it gets easier.
FYI, I put the word 'heard' in quotes, because I know I have been told this by many teachers; for some reason, this time I 'heard' it and I was able to execute it.
The past week, with Sundari in Wyoming, we spent days working shoulder loop, and on Sunday did get to the backbends. In ustrasana, her instructions went like something this:
- Inner body bright (from hips to arm pits get long)
- Gaze forward, move your hyoid bone back
- Begin to move shoulder loop
- Once again, re-emphasize inner body bright
- Your gaze is still forward, hyoid bone engaged
- Shoulder loop begins to spin a bit faster
- Heart lifting, as you begin to lift your gaze and extend the occiput
- Shoulder loop spinning faster
- Inner body expanding
- Gaze moving back; hyoid bone toned and occiput extending
- repeat, repeat, repeat
Before I knew it, my hands were on my ankles without the usual collapse on one side, just a nice ride back.
Then, we moved to urdhva dhanurasana. Her first instruction, soften. Simply place my feet and hands, then allow the arm pits to move to the floor. Engage the hyoid bone (how? press my occiput into the floor), keep that engagement as I press hands into the floor and lift to top of head. With hyoid toned, top of head pressing into the floor (this is the occiput extending), re-position hands as needed, and begin the journey to urdhva dhanurasana. Do take gaze back further towards hands and feet, but do not lose the tone of the hyoid. Once we disconnect form the hyoid, we disconnect kidney and shoulder loop (this info, thanks to Wayne). Wow! How many times do we have to hear something for it to begin to stick? Many, I guess.
Not sure about 'anonymous' or 'imagine', but this works for me. Almost effortlessly, I've been rising into urdhva dhanurasana each time that instruction is given. Once again, this is something I've heard again and again, different verbiage depending on the instructor. I finally 'heard' it.
So, give it a try. Let me know if anything changes.
Enjoy your evening,
AHHH, PAINTERS
Gotta love 'em, tho. I would not want to be doing any of this myself. What do I mean? That, even tho the inside of my house is coming back together; now, the painters are on the outside. That should be easy; but, only if you have no dogs.
I came home last night (gone from 9-6, while painters were doing their thing - sealing & staining the deck, touching up the trim paint, preparing doors for painting). My two dogs had spent the day in the basement (or lower level). I released them from their confinement, ready to set them free in the back yard, only to find the sliders to the deck tarped over! What does that mean? No traffic on the deck allowed. My alternative, now, is to walk them every so often so they can relieve themselves.
We used to do this 24/7 in San Diego, because of the living situation we were in (condo with patio, no yard). Funny how you fall out of patterns and into easier ones.
Up early this morning to two 'hoppin' dogs ready and eager to relieve themselves. What? A mini-walk at 5:15 am? You've got to be kidding me! We did it, tho, and I can now enjoy my coffee, my time. We'll take a longer walk in a couple hours when the sun begins to rise.
What does this have to do with teaching yoga? Nothing! Just taking the opportunity to vent a bit.
Except that there may be some stories and themes in here. Let's go back and examine.
I came home last night (gone from 9-6, while painters were doing their thing - sealing & staining the deck, touching up the trim paint, preparing doors for painting). My two dogs had spent the day in the basement (or lower level). I released them from their confinement, ready to set them free in the back yard, only to find the sliders to the deck tarped over! What does that mean? No traffic on the deck allowed. My alternative, now, is to walk them every so often so they can relieve themselves.
We used to do this 24/7 in San Diego, because of the living situation we were in (condo with patio, no yard). Funny how you fall out of patterns and into easier ones.
Up early this morning to two 'hoppin' dogs ready and eager to relieve themselves. What? A mini-walk at 5:15 am? You've got to be kidding me! We did it, tho, and I can now enjoy my coffee, my time. We'll take a longer walk in a couple hours when the sun begins to rise.
What does this have to do with teaching yoga? Nothing! Just taking the opportunity to vent a bit.
Except that there may be some stories and themes in here. Let's go back and examine.
- Do we have habits? Yes. Habits we ought to change? Yes. Well, there you go - a theme. A favorite quote that might apply: "we make our habits, then our habits make us". Now, why do we want to change? (attach a spiritual/philosophical reason here).
- Push the envelope, but not too far. In several instances, I've stressed these two dogs to their limits -- yesterday from 9-6, and last night. We do want to grow, expand, but not at the risk of resultant negative consequences (you get my drift). Why?
- Obviously, they needed a little more time to run and play during the day. Not one of the two main reasons we do yoga (chit ananda / awareness & beauty), but a good one in my book -- play. Usually these dogs wake up a bit slowly; this morning, they were excited and eager to get out of this house -- and, I found, not just to relieve themselves. More to get a breath of fresh air and move around a bit -- play. Why?
- If I take care of my business or the practicalities (walking the dogs), I have time. We could stretch this a bit and apply it to our yoga practice; like - if I approach the practice with purpose and love, I will align more skillfully. The poses will become more accessible. Why do I care if this happens?
Notice I left the 'whys?' blank. I could have filled in my reasons, but we each have our own and they will ultimately bring us back to a connection with our heart and the divine, but I will say it differently than you.
Things went almost as planned yesterday. Class with Wayne was great -- the urdhvas get easier and easier. I even think my arms are becoming straight, and I was able to lift one heel, then the other, on the third urdhva dhanurasana. Think hyoid bone. Curious? Ask me. (All I can think through this past few weeks, is about the difference one small adjustment or piece of knowledge can make -- think 12 years of working at this pose.)
The semi-private turned into a private, and just a short one. One of the duo must have knee surgery; so, they will put yoga on hold until after that happens - doctor's advice. I'm disappointed; there are many things we could do that don't involve the knee and would be beneficial - especially in the shoulder/neck region. But, it's their decision.
Yoga Hour was fun; a small group and - for just the second time - I taught urdhva dhanurasana. One student had not been able to push up the previous time. This visit, using hyoid bone technique, urdhva #1 was done with slight pressure in the shoulder blade region from my fist; #2 and #3 were done without help. Hoo-Ray! Another student commented that, even though she has been able to do the pose, the way out of the pose has always been a mystery to her. We cleared that up; how? (from Sundari) chin towards chest, bend elbows, head and shoulders to floor, hips to floor - smooth.
Interesting that students don't know the way OUT of challenging poses. Something to think about.
Today's schedule:
- Gentle Yoga, 10 am, at The Yoga Center
- My own private with Adam, early afternoon
- Home time
Have a great day,
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
RUNNING BEHIND
On time, that is. I spent yesterday doing laundry, resting, taking my cat to the vet, doing laundry, re-aligning some of the house, doing laundry, resting, doing laundry, answering phone messages and e-mails, doing laundry -- notice a pattern here? There was no Good Fairy residing at home 'doing laundry' for me while I was gone; plus I brought a good bit home with me (laundry, that is). The Good Fairy (in the form of my husband, Howard) did, however, keep the house picked up and took care of clearing out and cleaning the living room -- which had become a repository of sorts for all the stuff we moved in order to paint. So, thank you for that.
I was not able, after all, to attend Tiffany's class; just didn't fit into the scheme of things. Maybe Wednesday.
Since I had offered to send out the list of attendees at our Therapy training, with contact information, I spent some of the day catching up on e-mail conversations with a few of those people. One of the things I found challenging about this path is that everyone is pretty focused on their work and - when not in trainings or workshops - you can feel somewhat alone. Thank goodness Sundari has been my mentor; since she and I formalized our relationship, she has never left me with that feeling (you can imagine my panic when I heard she was going to Maui for the winter). Even before, when we did not have the formal mentor/student relationship, she was always willing to answer questions or discuss 'stuff'.
How did I counter than 'alone' feeling when it did come up? For me, the answer has been to step out of my comfort zone and ask questions, do research, find the people who do have time to talk. So, one of my goals is to emulate Sundari's efforts; hence, this blog and - also - a willingness to answer questions, discuss things, figure out how to move in and thru this extensive and very thorough training process. And, as a result, I learn more. I benefit and I hope others do, as well.
I can become pretty isolated if I just think "I'll figure it out" and then - even worse - I keep that information all to myself. Not that I shout things from the rooftops, but I will share what I've learned, if asked. And, that's a biggie -- sometimes I have to ask. Not easy, it may reveal that I don't know something, or I missed the memo, or I didn't pay attention. Lots of 'ego' wrapped up there.
Wow, as I write and read, I realize I've forgotten how to write. This sounds like a sermon. But, for now, I'll leave it. It will remind me what and how not to write.
Today?
Wayne's Level 1-2, 9:30 at The Yoga Center
Semi-Private at 2:30 (I'm teaching)
Inbetween stuff -- laundry (more?), paperwork at the studio, etc.
Have a terrific Tuesday,
I was not able, after all, to attend Tiffany's class; just didn't fit into the scheme of things. Maybe Wednesday.
Since I had offered to send out the list of attendees at our Therapy training, with contact information, I spent some of the day catching up on e-mail conversations with a few of those people. One of the things I found challenging about this path is that everyone is pretty focused on their work and - when not in trainings or workshops - you can feel somewhat alone. Thank goodness Sundari has been my mentor; since she and I formalized our relationship, she has never left me with that feeling (you can imagine my panic when I heard she was going to Maui for the winter). Even before, when we did not have the formal mentor/student relationship, she was always willing to answer questions or discuss 'stuff'.
How did I counter than 'alone' feeling when it did come up? For me, the answer has been to step out of my comfort zone and ask questions, do research, find the people who do have time to talk. So, one of my goals is to emulate Sundari's efforts; hence, this blog and - also - a willingness to answer questions, discuss things, figure out how to move in and thru this extensive and very thorough training process. And, as a result, I learn more. I benefit and I hope others do, as well.
I can become pretty isolated if I just think "I'll figure it out" and then - even worse - I keep that information all to myself. Not that I shout things from the rooftops, but I will share what I've learned, if asked. And, that's a biggie -- sometimes I have to ask. Not easy, it may reveal that I don't know something, or I missed the memo, or I didn't pay attention. Lots of 'ego' wrapped up there.
Wow, as I write and read, I realize I've forgotten how to write. This sounds like a sermon. But, for now, I'll leave it. It will remind me what and how not to write.
Today?
Wayne's Level 1-2, 9:30 at The Yoga Center
Semi-Private at 2:30 (I'm teaching)
Inbetween stuff -- laundry (more?), paperwork at the studio, etc.
Have a terrific Tuesday,
Sunday, October 10, 2010
HOME AGAIN, FULL
Yes, full. Full of new (and refreshed) information, full of new (and refreshed) friends, full of passion - passion for teaching, passion for my students, passion for this practice of Anusara® yoga.
I returned this evening from 5 days in Wyoming (Granite Hot Springs area), where 20 women (students and teachers) gathered to study Therapeutics with Certified Anusara® yoga instructor, Sundari.
First, here's the scene: the Safari Club outside Jackson, WY - a compound with facilities to accommodate groups for meetings, meals, sleeping, etc. We arrived Tuesday, late afternoon, and unloaded to settle into our space. We were all housed in the main building of the compound. The upstairs sleeping area was designated "quiet", so when we went up there, talk was minimal and then at a whisper level. Downstairs was the practice room, dining area, library, office, etc. Great space.
Tuesday evening, we had a great dinner prepared by Marcia (a wonderfully creative cook and yoga teacher from Lander, WY), then Sundari introduced us and explained a few 'ground rules' -- things like when you go for a walk, you must sign out and in, and take a can of bear mace with you. Other, less scary, things included our schedule for each day, evening activities, biomat usage, hot springs info, etc.
Each day included meditation and pranayama from 7am-7:45 am; then breakfast from 8-9:15 am. At 9:15 am, we convened for 3 hours of practice and lecture. Lunch promptly at 12:30, time for walks or hot springs or whatever, and we re-convened at 3:45 for another 3 hours of practice/lecture. Dinner followed. Tuesday and Wednesday night, sleep followed dinner. The next two nights, we were treated to videos - one the Anusara® video on Transformation; the other, Anodea Judith's new video, co-created with her son, on the cakra system. Saturday night was campfire night -- lots of hooping and hollering, sans alcohol! (sans = without) I am sure the hunters camping in the area were wondering 'what in the world?'.
I have attended many trainings on this journey, including multiple therapy trainings. All have been great with good information and teaching. This one, however, was special. Imagine 20 women studying with an exceptional teacher and really diving into the therapeutics of yoga. It was palpably outstanding. Enough said - for now.
I'm typing my notes -- still have today's to translate from scribbles to legible, typewritten format. Once done, I may write more about the substance of the training - or, you might have to read each Friday and watch for 'tips'.
So, tomorrow?
I returned this evening from 5 days in Wyoming (Granite Hot Springs area), where 20 women (students and teachers) gathered to study Therapeutics with Certified Anusara® yoga instructor, Sundari.
First, here's the scene: the Safari Club outside Jackson, WY - a compound with facilities to accommodate groups for meetings, meals, sleeping, etc. We arrived Tuesday, late afternoon, and unloaded to settle into our space. We were all housed in the main building of the compound. The upstairs sleeping area was designated "quiet", so when we went up there, talk was minimal and then at a whisper level. Downstairs was the practice room, dining area, library, office, etc. Great space.
Tuesday evening, we had a great dinner prepared by Marcia (a wonderfully creative cook and yoga teacher from Lander, WY), then Sundari introduced us and explained a few 'ground rules' -- things like when you go for a walk, you must sign out and in, and take a can of bear mace with you. Other, less scary, things included our schedule for each day, evening activities, biomat usage, hot springs info, etc.
Each day included meditation and pranayama from 7am-7:45 am; then breakfast from 8-9:15 am. At 9:15 am, we convened for 3 hours of practice and lecture. Lunch promptly at 12:30, time for walks or hot springs or whatever, and we re-convened at 3:45 for another 3 hours of practice/lecture. Dinner followed. Tuesday and Wednesday night, sleep followed dinner. The next two nights, we were treated to videos - one the Anusara® video on Transformation; the other, Anodea Judith's new video, co-created with her son, on the cakra system. Saturday night was campfire night -- lots of hooping and hollering, sans alcohol! (sans = without) I am sure the hunters camping in the area were wondering 'what in the world?'.
I have attended many trainings on this journey, including multiple therapy trainings. All have been great with good information and teaching. This one, however, was special. Imagine 20 women studying with an exceptional teacher and really diving into the therapeutics of yoga. It was palpably outstanding. Enough said - for now.
I'm typing my notes -- still have today's to translate from scribbles to legible, typewritten format. Once done, I may write more about the substance of the training - or, you might have to read each Friday and watch for 'tips'.
So, tomorrow?
- Back to the routine
- Paperwork
- Class with Tiffany
Hope you have a great day,
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
SHE'S OFF (Again)
Yes, I am off to another training -- 3 this year, whew! But, going to Wyoming to study therapeutics with Sundari for 5 days will be very helpful and, with her going to Maui for the winter, I felt it important to do this training. It is interesting how we each pick and choose what we study, and how our choices change over the years.
So, this is short; just to tell you that I'll be off-line for the next 5 days. (No coverage in the place we'll be; there is a land line and a computer there, so I might surprise you -- no promises, tho.)
Good subs planned, so if you're a student who attends my classes, you will be well taken care of.
Enjoy your week!
So, this is short; just to tell you that I'll be off-line for the next 5 days. (No coverage in the place we'll be; there is a land line and a computer there, so I might surprise you -- no promises, tho.)
Good subs planned, so if you're a student who attends my classes, you will be well taken care of.
Enjoy your week!
Sunday, October 3, 2010
'GOOD STUFF' SALE DAY
Today's the day (actually, this morning's the morning) that I'm having my "Good Stuff" Sale. Everything is laying in the entry, or on the sides of the garage, or in the side yards, waiting to be moved into place. As soon as this is written and I've had a second cup of coffee (and it gets a bit lighter out), I'll start moving stuff into place. I wonder who will show (or, if anyone will show). My advertising is minimal, and the fact that it's just happening Sunday morning 8-12, may hamper attendance; we'll see. No matter, it's a step towards de-cluttering.
Friday's Gentle Class was smaller, but no less fun. One long-time student returned from a cruise, and her sense of humor always adds to the fun mix ('Gentle, my a_ _!', she's been heard to utter in class.). These are the moments that will encourage me to print out my first 500 posts to this blog -- as a reminder of the really fun and enriching times I've experienced teaching yoga.
Friday afternoon was filled with cleaning (do you get the impression my house has been 'neglected' over the past couple years?), window coverings were returned, painter came to look at our deck which is in dire need of a sealing. Then, the fun stuff, more yoga -- returned to The Yoga Center to participate in the weekly practice that Jen leads. What am I noticing these day? The weight loss definitely enhances the feel of many poses. My hamstrings are stronger. Once at the wall in handstand, I can stay there for longer and longer. There was more, but the list could get pretty long, so I'll stop here.
Do we think there is an "Anusara® Secret Shopper" network out there? I wonder. (FYI, a 'secret shopper' is a method employed by retail and service industries to ensure clients receive good service. They hire someone to shop and to report back.) O.K. - so why my question? I received a call in the midst of the Friday afternoon hubbub at the house, from a gentleman who had injured his back. He called for advice. After telling him he ought to see a physician, I tried to talk him through postural alignment and a couple things that might offer relief. A few more questions left me wondering; the capper? his e-mail address (I offered to send a link to JF's internet videos on back issues and posture). It included the word 'grace'. Maybe there isn't a network; just wondering, tho.
Saturday began with an early morning private. Student mentioned that her arms were weak, validated by a test her chiropractor performed. So, we did "L" at the wall -- no, not standing down dog, but the preparation for handstand. I think it's important for people to see they may not be as weak as someone else tells them they are. And, while I realize handstand is not a process of arm strength, the confidence you need can be easily deflated IF you think you're weak. First attempt, a face plant of sorts (whoops!); second attempt, both feet on wall, "L" beginning to form; then, she asked for a third go at it -- plant hands, lift hips, lift feet onto wall, move into pose -- easy as that. Good stuff! Better yet, she was beaming from ear to ear with excitement and amazement.
Level 1 students arrived. Not many will ask for specific things, nor do I always ask. This morning, I asked. Request for work at the wall. Which we did -- chest openers, wall dog, wall parsottonasan, modified Warrior I (block between knee and wall), modified parsvokonasan (top hand pressing into wall), chair pose (backside against wall), chair pose twist (backside against wall), full expression of vrksasana (foot on inner thigh, backside against wall for stability). Then 'L' pose for them, also -- each did it at least twice. While we do many of these poses in the middle of the room routinely, the involvement of the wall offers stability and opening that may not happen otherwise. More good stuff!
Left for a bite of lunch, then returned to give a short talk to teacher training students on heart languaging, and my "Road to Certification" journey. Appreciate being invited to do this; another 'comfort zone expansion' moment.
Today?
"Good Stuff" Sale - 9-12 noon
Sort the leftovers for donation
Rest, relax, read, whatever
Hope you enjoy your Sunday,
Friday's Gentle Class was smaller, but no less fun. One long-time student returned from a cruise, and her sense of humor always adds to the fun mix ('Gentle, my a_ _!', she's been heard to utter in class.). These are the moments that will encourage me to print out my first 500 posts to this blog -- as a reminder of the really fun and enriching times I've experienced teaching yoga.
Friday afternoon was filled with cleaning (do you get the impression my house has been 'neglected' over the past couple years?), window coverings were returned, painter came to look at our deck which is in dire need of a sealing. Then, the fun stuff, more yoga -- returned to The Yoga Center to participate in the weekly practice that Jen leads. What am I noticing these day? The weight loss definitely enhances the feel of many poses. My hamstrings are stronger. Once at the wall in handstand, I can stay there for longer and longer. There was more, but the list could get pretty long, so I'll stop here.
Do we think there is an "Anusara® Secret Shopper" network out there? I wonder. (FYI, a 'secret shopper' is a method employed by retail and service industries to ensure clients receive good service. They hire someone to shop and to report back.) O.K. - so why my question? I received a call in the midst of the Friday afternoon hubbub at the house, from a gentleman who had injured his back. He called for advice. After telling him he ought to see a physician, I tried to talk him through postural alignment and a couple things that might offer relief. A few more questions left me wondering; the capper? his e-mail address (I offered to send a link to JF's internet videos on back issues and posture). It included the word 'grace'. Maybe there isn't a network; just wondering, tho.
Saturday began with an early morning private. Student mentioned that her arms were weak, validated by a test her chiropractor performed. So, we did "L" at the wall -- no, not standing down dog, but the preparation for handstand. I think it's important for people to see they may not be as weak as someone else tells them they are. And, while I realize handstand is not a process of arm strength, the confidence you need can be easily deflated IF you think you're weak. First attempt, a face plant of sorts (whoops!); second attempt, both feet on wall, "L" beginning to form; then, she asked for a third go at it -- plant hands, lift hips, lift feet onto wall, move into pose -- easy as that. Good stuff! Better yet, she was beaming from ear to ear with excitement and amazement.
Level 1 students arrived. Not many will ask for specific things, nor do I always ask. This morning, I asked. Request for work at the wall. Which we did -- chest openers, wall dog, wall parsottonasan, modified Warrior I (block between knee and wall), modified parsvokonasan (top hand pressing into wall), chair pose (backside against wall), chair pose twist (backside against wall), full expression of vrksasana (foot on inner thigh, backside against wall for stability). Then 'L' pose for them, also -- each did it at least twice. While we do many of these poses in the middle of the room routinely, the involvement of the wall offers stability and opening that may not happen otherwise. More good stuff!
Left for a bite of lunch, then returned to give a short talk to teacher training students on heart languaging, and my "Road to Certification" journey. Appreciate being invited to do this; another 'comfort zone expansion' moment.
Today?
"Good Stuff" Sale - 9-12 noon
Sort the leftovers for donation
Rest, relax, read, whatever
Hope you enjoy your Sunday,
Friday, October 1, 2010
FABULOUS FRIDAYS
Well, what better title for a post as I sit looking out at the morning sky, the lights of the city sparkling back at me through CLEAN windows. Good stuff!
Despite the cleaning, re-alignment of household articles, and sorting that I've been doing, I have to say it's been a good week. I've accomplished a lot at home, I've taught some great classes with wonderful students, and the private sessions I've taught have been 'over the top'.
Here's the weekly rundown, in case you just read this on Fridays for the 'tip':
1. Saturday's private was fun (this is the one I almost forgot!?!??!) - client new-to-yoga and struggling with chronic fatigue and a back/neck issue. I find as I work with this person that the breath and the action of moving from our heart, our core, are very powerful. Chronic fatigue watch out, as we work with these two elements.
2. Sunday -- house stuff and lunch with Howard (husband) at Sundance, after a leisurely drive through the Alpine Loop enjoying the Fall color.
3. Monday -- more house stuff (broken record), then a semi-private session with the stiffer-than-some couple. This was their second session with me and they were more relaxed (as was I). We moved, we laughed a bit, we shared one or two sarcastic comments (yes, an Anusara-Inspired™ instructor can be sarcastic - in the right setting). I suppose you could say that's the chemistry between student and teacher evolving; we learn about each other, our likes and dislikes, our tolerance for jokes, our desire to be serious and hard working. From that knowledge, I can begin to interlace the teaching and the teaching becomes more meaningful, for me and them.
Then, class with Tiffany. Like I said earlier - language, technical skill, theme/heart quality, fun, feeling good --- all were present during and after class.
4. Tuesday -- subbed for Wayne, more house stuff (br -broken record), back to teach the huge (for me and for 4 pm) Yoga Hour class. Yoga Hour's have evolved into a fun, relaxed 60 minutes of yoga. We just do it, and it appears to be working. Teachers and students love it.
5. Wednesday -- house stuff (br), Gentle Yoga, my own private session with Adam, the second (but, third overall) semi-private for the stiffer-than-some-but-getting-looser couple (I even got a joke with Cajun accent, no less). A very rewarding day.
6. Thursday -- tons of house stuff (br), then Pilates, then another Yoga Hour class. FYI, Leslie has been on a diet of sorts (actually, just cutting down on the amount and changing the type of food I eat), and I've lost about 12 pounds. Everything -- house stuff, yoga, pilates -- everything gets easier without those extra pounds.
7. So, it's Friday -- taking a moment to write this before some more house stuff (br), before going in to teach Gentle Yoga. We worked spanda Wednesday; maybe we'll go for purna today -- full on, perfect, complete (with some spanda thrown in).
8. Tip: I remember when I started teaching, how easy it was to teach -- to talk, to do, to move through a practice. I often rarely looked at the students. Probably because it was hard to speak and describe without doing. Also, I now realize, it's hard to look at students who are looking back at you with questioning gazes, grimaces, perhaps a smile now and then.
I started the process of NOT practicing with students by simply removing the mat from my teaching space. I have 2 blankets on which I sit during the beginning and during savasana. I also place the props I want students to use next to the blankets. (That way when students arrive, they can see what they may need, and they prepare their space similarly (though they do have a mat).) The rest of the time I am up, moving in and around students. Occasionally I demo or ask someone to demo a pose. I rarely do the poses. One exception - a new student -- then I will do a few things, but not much.
And, thank goodness, standing up and taking in the class gets easier. I serve the students better - they know I'm watching. It also becomes fun to field the gazes, grimaces, smiles, etc. -- why? it expands my comfort zone boundaries a lot. Love it.
Today?
Gentle Yoga, 10 am at The Yoga Center
More house stuff (br)
Practice with Jen at 5:40 pm, back at The Yoga Center
Enjoy your fabulous Friday,
Despite the cleaning, re-alignment of household articles, and sorting that I've been doing, I have to say it's been a good week. I've accomplished a lot at home, I've taught some great classes with wonderful students, and the private sessions I've taught have been 'over the top'.
Here's the weekly rundown, in case you just read this on Fridays for the 'tip':
1. Saturday's private was fun (this is the one I almost forgot!?!??!) - client new-to-yoga and struggling with chronic fatigue and a back/neck issue. I find as I work with this person that the breath and the action of moving from our heart, our core, are very powerful. Chronic fatigue watch out, as we work with these two elements.
2. Sunday -- house stuff and lunch with Howard (husband) at Sundance, after a leisurely drive through the Alpine Loop enjoying the Fall color.
3. Monday -- more house stuff (broken record), then a semi-private session with the stiffer-than-some couple. This was their second session with me and they were more relaxed (as was I). We moved, we laughed a bit, we shared one or two sarcastic comments (yes, an Anusara-Inspired™ instructor can be sarcastic - in the right setting). I suppose you could say that's the chemistry between student and teacher evolving; we learn about each other, our likes and dislikes, our tolerance for jokes, our desire to be serious and hard working. From that knowledge, I can begin to interlace the teaching and the teaching becomes more meaningful, for me and them.
Then, class with Tiffany. Like I said earlier - language, technical skill, theme/heart quality, fun, feeling good --- all were present during and after class.
4. Tuesday -- subbed for Wayne, more house stuff (br -broken record), back to teach the huge (for me and for 4 pm) Yoga Hour class. Yoga Hour's have evolved into a fun, relaxed 60 minutes of yoga. We just do it, and it appears to be working. Teachers and students love it.
5. Wednesday -- house stuff (br), Gentle Yoga, my own private session with Adam, the second (but, third overall) semi-private for the stiffer-than-some-but-getting-looser couple (I even got a joke with Cajun accent, no less). A very rewarding day.
6. Thursday -- tons of house stuff (br), then Pilates, then another Yoga Hour class. FYI, Leslie has been on a diet of sorts (actually, just cutting down on the amount and changing the type of food I eat), and I've lost about 12 pounds. Everything -- house stuff, yoga, pilates -- everything gets easier without those extra pounds.
7. So, it's Friday -- taking a moment to write this before some more house stuff (br), before going in to teach Gentle Yoga. We worked spanda Wednesday; maybe we'll go for purna today -- full on, perfect, complete (with some spanda thrown in).
8. Tip: I remember when I started teaching, how easy it was to teach -- to talk, to do, to move through a practice. I often rarely looked at the students. Probably because it was hard to speak and describe without doing. Also, I now realize, it's hard to look at students who are looking back at you with questioning gazes, grimaces, perhaps a smile now and then.
I started the process of NOT practicing with students by simply removing the mat from my teaching space. I have 2 blankets on which I sit during the beginning and during savasana. I also place the props I want students to use next to the blankets. (That way when students arrive, they can see what they may need, and they prepare their space similarly (though they do have a mat).) The rest of the time I am up, moving in and around students. Occasionally I demo or ask someone to demo a pose. I rarely do the poses. One exception - a new student -- then I will do a few things, but not much.
And, thank goodness, standing up and taking in the class gets easier. I serve the students better - they know I'm watching. It also becomes fun to field the gazes, grimaces, smiles, etc. -- why? it expands my comfort zone boundaries a lot. Love it.
Today?
Gentle Yoga, 10 am at The Yoga Center
More house stuff (br)
Practice with Jen at 5:40 pm, back at The Yoga Center
Enjoy your fabulous Friday,
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