Effective yesterday, I no longer teach at the studio in Carlsbad.
It wasn't a tough decision; besides my inability to grow classes there, I had long been concerned about the lack of public awareness of the studio due to lack of advertising.
When I owned a studio, I quickly learned to let people go. I wished them well. In my 7 years of studio ownership, I only had one negative experience and that one still haunts me. It does no good to hold a teacher in a position he/she does not want to be in. The energy (or lack of) will show; no matter how good an actor they are. Their class attendance will dwindle as students realize they ought to attend classes with someone who will be around for a while. The studio does not benefit from this; the students do not benefit; fellow teachers do not benefit. And, I found, there were lots of teachers around to fill the void created, teachers who are energetic and enthusiastic, and eager to teach. Win, Win.
So, life goes on.
It has been a week fraught with illness (still that "darn" cold) and drama (above). I look forward to spending the next weekend with Sundari at a workshop -- fun, fun, fun!
Will write more (on a different topic) tomorrow.
Enjoy your Tuesday,
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
Thursday, January 26, 2012
GOOD MORNING !!!
I must admit there are not many mornings that I wake up, go through my routine, sit down to the computer and see this: A compliment, out of the blue, from a former student.
I'll take it, I need it, I want it. Thank you to the writer for taking the time to put your thoughts into typewritten form and send them to me. I appreciate it, more than you'll ever know.
Which brings up a thought I've been harboring for a few weeks. The affect my actions (or lack thereof) have on other people. Especially as a yoga teacher, as I stand in front of a room of people, spouting my words of wisdom and instructions. Are they listening? Or, does it go in one ear and out the other.
I remember one student who arrived in my class after a significant surgery. She was in her 60's, a bit out of shape, yet wanting to work -- wanting to 'un-congeal' a bit. Because the surgery happened in her ribcage, I watched her as I instructed students to take arms overhead, clasp their hands and bend to one side and then the other. The grimace on her face worried me; it was so expressive it made me think the pose was causing pain. So, I asked her, 'is something hurting?'. She answered 'no, I'm just thinking'. Whew! I was relieved I wasn't causing her pain.
However, I also learned a lesson -- you can not tell what a person is thinking from their facial expressions. They may sit in my class, expressionless or with an expression like I described above, yet they may still be hearing my message, my instructions. And, for some (maybe many) these thoughts, comments, jokes, instructions, information, etc., are sinking in and are affecting their lives as they go forward, off their mats and into their lives.
Here's the quote from which I created the 'un-congeal' comment: (if I've shared it before, please bear with me -- as one who was almost congealed when yoga 'happened', it says a ton):
Hope you have a great Thursday!
And, thank you, again, to the writer who started my morning off in a grand fashion! You know who you are and I always appreciated that I could see my teaching reflected in your eyes. Good stuff!
I'll take it, I need it, I want it. Thank you to the writer for taking the time to put your thoughts into typewritten form and send them to me. I appreciate it, more than you'll ever know.
Which brings up a thought I've been harboring for a few weeks. The affect my actions (or lack thereof) have on other people. Especially as a yoga teacher, as I stand in front of a room of people, spouting my words of wisdom and instructions. Are they listening? Or, does it go in one ear and out the other.
I remember one student who arrived in my class after a significant surgery. She was in her 60's, a bit out of shape, yet wanting to work -- wanting to 'un-congeal' a bit. Because the surgery happened in her ribcage, I watched her as I instructed students to take arms overhead, clasp their hands and bend to one side and then the other. The grimace on her face worried me; it was so expressive it made me think the pose was causing pain. So, I asked her, 'is something hurting?'. She answered 'no, I'm just thinking'. Whew! I was relieved I wasn't causing her pain.
However, I also learned a lesson -- you can not tell what a person is thinking from their facial expressions. They may sit in my class, expressionless or with an expression like I described above, yet they may still be hearing my message, my instructions. And, for some (maybe many) these thoughts, comments, jokes, instructions, information, etc., are sinking in and are affecting their lives as they go forward, off their mats and into their lives.
Here's the quote from which I created the 'un-congeal' comment: (if I've shared it before, please bear with me -- as one who was almost congealed when yoga 'happened', it says a ton):
"There are two kinds of people...One kind you can just tell by looking at them at what point they congealed into their final selves. It might be a very nice self, but you know you can expect no more surprises from it. Whereas, the other kind keep moving, changing...They are fluid, moving forward...making new trysts with life, and the motion of it keeps them young. In my opinion they are the only people who are still alive. You must be constantly on your guard, Justin, against congealing." — Gail Godwin, "The Finishing School"
Hope you have a great Thursday!
And, thank you, again, to the writer who started my morning off in a grand fashion! You know who you are and I always appreciated that I could see my teaching reflected in your eyes. Good stuff!
Sunday, January 22, 2012
Quite the 4 days or, 3 Little Boys & A 'Performance'
I left off last Wednesday, preparing to drive in to Encinitas for the kick-off practice of "Igniting The Center", title of the 2012 Anusara Tour. My drive in was uneventful, I was able to help a bit before the practice began, and - if you've been following anyone/thing on Facebook - you may have seen the 30 or so photos taken on day one. I'm in there somewhere -- perspiring, heart-racing, attempting to do things I've never done before (or, perhaps I did do them, but am horribly out of practice now).
In short, it was a great event -- 94 poses in 3.5 hours; broken into 4 sections, each ending with a 5-minute meditation. No breaks, tho. The expectation (which was stated in a pre-event e-mail) was that we would arrive prepared to stay on the mat for the full practice time. Discipline. I believe it may be an underlying theme for the year.
The following morning (Thursday), Howard and I were up early, cleaning & packing, preparing to fly to Spokane for my Dad's Memorial Service on Friday. All went smoothly, especially considering we were flying into the Pacific Northwest's biggest snowstorm of the year (and, largest for a number of years, I think). Runway was white, autos moving slowly thru deep snow, stressful beginning. Derek and his family (Jess, Jack, Brady & Carson) also flew up, but on a different airline -- their flight was also almost uneventful and the boys made it with flying colors.
What do you tell a 5- and 3-year-old about a memorial service? How do you describe what is happening and why? We (Howard and I) had never had to face it, so we asked Derek & Jessica. They had explained death (which the boys already had an idea about) and went on to tell the boys this would be a celebration of their great-grandfather's life. In their minds, they quickly turned the event into a 'performance'. From that moment on, the circumstances of this visit to Spokane were termed "great-grandpa's performance". And, a performance it was.
Friday morning, still snow on the ground, we all piled into one big SUV and made the drive out to the Veteran's Memorial Cemetery west of Spokane. That part of the state is a bit flatter, so the landscape looked cold and grey, flat and - as we approached - the American flag was seen waving over the barren, white ground. The service was short. We all gathered in a small service area (concrete and glass), with full view of the landscape, flag, and headstones. A chaplain offered prayer, condolences, and praise. We watched the flag ceremony conducted by 6 very cold USAF Airmen, heard Taps being played by a bugler standing outside, and - tho warned - were all startled as the 21-gun volley began. Impressive.
From there, we gathered as a family for lunch, then headed to the Presbyterian Church for a public service. Another moment to remember, as a brass quintet played two of Dad's favorite marches. My cousin, Dave, and I offered a few words, the minister asked if anyone would like to share - few did; however, one man did stand -- he was unknown to us -- and relayed stories of having known Dad 46 years ago, as Dad piloted KC-135's. Wow! That was impressive, to come to a ceremony where you are unknown to the family, to honor your fellow Air Force officer.
Service over, we headed to Dave's house. The boys were able to play in the snow, ride on a tractor with Dave as he fed the deer out back of his house. We stayed inside where it was warm and visited.
All in all, a great 'performance', Dad. We honored and we remembered, and I don't think anyone will forget that day for quite a while.
The next day (yesterday), it was up and off to the airport. This time, we all struggled with snowstorms and high winds to make it back to San Diego. Home safe and sound, all is well here. Life will go back to normal.
I hope you have a great Sunday!
In short, it was a great event -- 94 poses in 3.5 hours; broken into 4 sections, each ending with a 5-minute meditation. No breaks, tho. The expectation (which was stated in a pre-event e-mail) was that we would arrive prepared to stay on the mat for the full practice time. Discipline. I believe it may be an underlying theme for the year.
The following morning (Thursday), Howard and I were up early, cleaning & packing, preparing to fly to Spokane for my Dad's Memorial Service on Friday. All went smoothly, especially considering we were flying into the Pacific Northwest's biggest snowstorm of the year (and, largest for a number of years, I think). Runway was white, autos moving slowly thru deep snow, stressful beginning. Derek and his family (Jess, Jack, Brady & Carson) also flew up, but on a different airline -- their flight was also almost uneventful and the boys made it with flying colors.
What do you tell a 5- and 3-year-old about a memorial service? How do you describe what is happening and why? We (Howard and I) had never had to face it, so we asked Derek & Jessica. They had explained death (which the boys already had an idea about) and went on to tell the boys this would be a celebration of their great-grandfather's life. In their minds, they quickly turned the event into a 'performance'. From that moment on, the circumstances of this visit to Spokane were termed "great-grandpa's performance". And, a performance it was.
Friday morning, still snow on the ground, we all piled into one big SUV and made the drive out to the Veteran's Memorial Cemetery west of Spokane. That part of the state is a bit flatter, so the landscape looked cold and grey, flat and - as we approached - the American flag was seen waving over the barren, white ground. The service was short. We all gathered in a small service area (concrete and glass), with full view of the landscape, flag, and headstones. A chaplain offered prayer, condolences, and praise. We watched the flag ceremony conducted by 6 very cold USAF Airmen, heard Taps being played by a bugler standing outside, and - tho warned - were all startled as the 21-gun volley began. Impressive.
From there, we gathered as a family for lunch, then headed to the Presbyterian Church for a public service. Another moment to remember, as a brass quintet played two of Dad's favorite marches. My cousin, Dave, and I offered a few words, the minister asked if anyone would like to share - few did; however, one man did stand -- he was unknown to us -- and relayed stories of having known Dad 46 years ago, as Dad piloted KC-135's. Wow! That was impressive, to come to a ceremony where you are unknown to the family, to honor your fellow Air Force officer.
Service over, we headed to Dave's house. The boys were able to play in the snow, ride on a tractor with Dave as he fed the deer out back of his house. We stayed inside where it was warm and visited.
All in all, a great 'performance', Dad. We honored and we remembered, and I don't think anyone will forget that day for quite a while.
The next day (yesterday), it was up and off to the airport. This time, we all struggled with snowstorms and high winds to make it back to San Diego. Home safe and sound, all is well here. Life will go back to normal.
I hope you have a great Sunday!
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
UP EARLY & EXCITED - ABOUT TODAY & YESTERDAY
First, about today -- in about 2 hours, I'll be ready and in my car on the way into Encinitas for the kick-off of "IGNITING THE CENTER"; Anusara's theme and John Friend's tour name for 2012. It will be a 4-hour practice with John on each day -- today, tomorrow and Friday, all mixed level so everyone can participate. Promises to be fun.
I will be able to participate today, then off to Spokane tomorrow for my Dad's memorial on Friday. I'll be sad to miss those two days, but there are so many people hoping to attend that it's o.k. that I'm just able to participate in the first day -- and, to think, I participated in purnahuti (the finish) of 2011 with John and now the first of 2012 -- auspicious, I think - don't you?
And, about yesterday: It was one of those days when privates and semi-privates were the norm -- meaning, in each of my classes I had either one or two students. Not setting the world on fire, attendance-wise, but - in each case - the teaching was fun, inspiring and helpful (for me and attendees).
First class of the day was attended by a fellow yoga instructor. She has appeared in my class several times over the last month, and I enjoy her personality and presence very much. (Not to mention, she pays me nice compliments about my teaching.) Her practice is beautiful and she will be attending Thursday's practice with John (her first exposure to him). This was an opportunity to offer her some refinements that I believe he will be looking for -- kind of a head start, you'd say (things like -- width of the hands on the mat, what to do with arms in uttanasana, not moving fingers, like that). Her primary practice has not been Anusara, but she is intrigued by it all. Then I offered her some suggestions from Doug Keller's recent webinar that will be helpful with an old pelvic injury. Good stuff.
From there (Carlsbad), it was off to Temecula. My first class (Therapeutic/Gentle), was almost a non-event; meaning that, at 2:15, no one had arrived. As I was helping in the studio, two women arrived at 2:16 hoping to take the "2:30 class". Well, they had the time a bit off, but we all decided a one-hour class would work and it was off to work we went. One struggles with knee pain, back pain and the residual effects of breast cancer surgery 4+ years ago. The other's major issue is osteoarthritis in both knees, so bad that going to the floor is a non-option. We used chairs, did some standing poses and balance work, used the wall, then back to the chairs, and finished with a seated meditation. As new students, I let them rest into the chair back during this short meditation -- just too much to ask new, compromised students to sit up straight without the support. I used much of the knowledge I've gained over the years through many therapeutic trainings, plus was - once again - thankful for that Doug Keller webinar.
Between this class and the next, I spoke at length with two 50-year-old women (who stopped by the studio) about what / which yoga would be best for them. One struggles with fibromyalgia and a bad hip (or SI joint?), the other with both rheumatoid and osteoarthritis plus back & neck surgery (rods, etc.). I mention this, because I think it is amazing there are so many people struggling with issues who want to do yoga. They just need to find the right class, not get discouraged, and not get hurt.
Prenatal turned into another private session. Good for me and good for her. The student is 20 weeks into her pregnancy and arrived complaining of a sore back. A beautiful young woman, she has neglected her posture -- hyper-extended knees, kyphosis, and the beginnings of a pretty good neck thrust. All this because she is tall and during high school, she wanted to be short like the other girls, so she slouched. Now, she wants to change it. No better time than the present, and it will be easier now than later. We worked the usual shoulder blade stuff, which did not make her happy. Then I remembered "lift your heart" -- I offered her that instruction and 'voila!', a taller, more relaxed person stood in front of me.
Then I really took a look at her knees -- since much of posture and alignment issues begin below the hips. The hyperextension was causing a large bulge behind one knee (which is a hallmark of locked knees), tho she was not having any discomfort and had never noticed it herself. I stood her on a rolled blanket (heels on floor, top of the foot - from arch forward - on the roll), asked her to soften her knees yet lift and spread toes, creating muscular energy through the legs. Another voila!, as that bulging tissue was 'sucked' back into it's home. We did some movement from this place, talked about the value of NOT locking knees, talked about effective stretching. I believe there were many 'Ah-Ha' moments for her in this private. Moments that might not have happened in a roomful of students. More good stuff.
So, you see, it doesn't take much to get me excited -- a few bad knees, a bad hip here and there, poor posture. Oh, and practicing with John Friend. It will be a great day!
I hope yours is the same -- GREAT!
I will be able to participate today, then off to Spokane tomorrow for my Dad's memorial on Friday. I'll be sad to miss those two days, but there are so many people hoping to attend that it's o.k. that I'm just able to participate in the first day -- and, to think, I participated in purnahuti (the finish) of 2011 with John and now the first of 2012 -- auspicious, I think - don't you?
And, about yesterday: It was one of those days when privates and semi-privates were the norm -- meaning, in each of my classes I had either one or two students. Not setting the world on fire, attendance-wise, but - in each case - the teaching was fun, inspiring and helpful (for me and attendees).
First class of the day was attended by a fellow yoga instructor. She has appeared in my class several times over the last month, and I enjoy her personality and presence very much. (Not to mention, she pays me nice compliments about my teaching.) Her practice is beautiful and she will be attending Thursday's practice with John (her first exposure to him). This was an opportunity to offer her some refinements that I believe he will be looking for -- kind of a head start, you'd say (things like -- width of the hands on the mat, what to do with arms in uttanasana, not moving fingers, like that). Her primary practice has not been Anusara, but she is intrigued by it all. Then I offered her some suggestions from Doug Keller's recent webinar that will be helpful with an old pelvic injury. Good stuff.
From there (Carlsbad), it was off to Temecula. My first class (Therapeutic/Gentle), was almost a non-event; meaning that, at 2:15, no one had arrived. As I was helping in the studio, two women arrived at 2:16 hoping to take the "2:30 class". Well, they had the time a bit off, but we all decided a one-hour class would work and it was off to work we went. One struggles with knee pain, back pain and the residual effects of breast cancer surgery 4+ years ago. The other's major issue is osteoarthritis in both knees, so bad that going to the floor is a non-option. We used chairs, did some standing poses and balance work, used the wall, then back to the chairs, and finished with a seated meditation. As new students, I let them rest into the chair back during this short meditation -- just too much to ask new, compromised students to sit up straight without the support. I used much of the knowledge I've gained over the years through many therapeutic trainings, plus was - once again - thankful for that Doug Keller webinar.
Between this class and the next, I spoke at length with two 50-year-old women (who stopped by the studio) about what / which yoga would be best for them. One struggles with fibromyalgia and a bad hip (or SI joint?), the other with both rheumatoid and osteoarthritis plus back & neck surgery (rods, etc.). I mention this, because I think it is amazing there are so many people struggling with issues who want to do yoga. They just need to find the right class, not get discouraged, and not get hurt.
Prenatal turned into another private session. Good for me and good for her. The student is 20 weeks into her pregnancy and arrived complaining of a sore back. A beautiful young woman, she has neglected her posture -- hyper-extended knees, kyphosis, and the beginnings of a pretty good neck thrust. All this because she is tall and during high school, she wanted to be short like the other girls, so she slouched. Now, she wants to change it. No better time than the present, and it will be easier now than later. We worked the usual shoulder blade stuff, which did not make her happy. Then I remembered "lift your heart" -- I offered her that instruction and 'voila!', a taller, more relaxed person stood in front of me.
Then I really took a look at her knees -- since much of posture and alignment issues begin below the hips. The hyperextension was causing a large bulge behind one knee (which is a hallmark of locked knees), tho she was not having any discomfort and had never noticed it herself. I stood her on a rolled blanket (heels on floor, top of the foot - from arch forward - on the roll), asked her to soften her knees yet lift and spread toes, creating muscular energy through the legs. Another voila!, as that bulging tissue was 'sucked' back into it's home. We did some movement from this place, talked about the value of NOT locking knees, talked about effective stretching. I believe there were many 'Ah-Ha' moments for her in this private. Moments that might not have happened in a roomful of students. More good stuff.
So, you see, it doesn't take much to get me excited -- a few bad knees, a bad hip here and there, poor posture. Oh, and practicing with John Friend. It will be a great day!
I hope yours is the same -- GREAT!
Monday, January 16, 2012
SPEAKING OF COMPLIMENTS . . .
I am a bit hooked on Facebook; I admit it. I have relied on it for connection, for quotes, for class ideas, etc., etc., etc. Despite it's flaws, it has been a good friend to me over the past 10 months.
Why just 10 months? That has been the length of time since we moved from Salt Lake to Fallbrook. It is also the length of time I've been uprooted from a pretty solid yoga community with a lot of connection. Therefore, it has served as a 'yoga lifeline' for me; keeping me connected to yoga friends I know (and, some I haven't met yet), and to friends who have never given yoga a try.
Some days, tho, despite all the benefits, I wonder about my emotional release valve when reading some entries. For example, this morning, I'm reading posts and came upon one where one 'chastised' another for a spelling error. I realize that the one doing the chastising might claim it was 'teasing', but I still wonder. What did I do? I called that person on it -- meaning I commented that despite the spelling error, the event mentioned would still be fun.
Necessary? No. Appropriate? Not sure. Nice? Certainly not. Did I feel better? Yes and No. Almost went back and erased it. Yet, I believe the chastising was unnecessary, so I vented.
Ah, well, I do believe age is releasing my inhibitions.
This week will be another busy one. Teaching in 2 hours in Temecula, then tomorrow, and - fun - we are practicing in Encinitas with John on Wednesday. And I am excited to begin a webinar with Eric Stoneberg this evening. An Anusara Yoga instructor and Tantric scholar whose blog I have read for quite a while.
Hope you have a great Monday and a nice week,
Why just 10 months? That has been the length of time since we moved from Salt Lake to Fallbrook. It is also the length of time I've been uprooted from a pretty solid yoga community with a lot of connection. Therefore, it has served as a 'yoga lifeline' for me; keeping me connected to yoga friends I know (and, some I haven't met yet), and to friends who have never given yoga a try.
Some days, tho, despite all the benefits, I wonder about my emotional release valve when reading some entries. For example, this morning, I'm reading posts and came upon one where one 'chastised' another for a spelling error. I realize that the one doing the chastising might claim it was 'teasing', but I still wonder. What did I do? I called that person on it -- meaning I commented that despite the spelling error, the event mentioned would still be fun.
Necessary? No. Appropriate? Not sure. Nice? Certainly not. Did I feel better? Yes and No. Almost went back and erased it. Yet, I believe the chastising was unnecessary, so I vented.
Ah, well, I do believe age is releasing my inhibitions.
This week will be another busy one. Teaching in 2 hours in Temecula, then tomorrow, and - fun - we are practicing in Encinitas with John on Wednesday. And I am excited to begin a webinar with Eric Stoneberg this evening. An Anusara Yoga instructor and Tantric scholar whose blog I have read for quite a while.
Hope you have a great Monday and a nice week,
Thursday, January 12, 2012
WOW, SUCH A GREAT COMPLIMENT!
After yesterday's class, as I was cleaning up my paperwork and preparing to leave, the studio owner came over to me and said "you know, one of the students you taught yesterday came up to me after class and said 'she is no ordinary yoga teacher' about you.".
Now, I can take this comment one of two ways - good or not-so-good. I choose the good.
Why? Because I have seen this student repeatedly in classes over the past 2 weeks. And -- because someone comes to your class more than once doesn't necessarily mean they enjoy it -- her comments to me have been positive. She feels stronger, she is feeling more stable (on a very unstable knee), and (this is me speaking) she is smiling.
This is good for me to hear - a comment made to someone other than myself. I often have students thank me for a nice class, and indicate they'll be back. I don't see them again. That could just be due to the fact that my teaching schedule is not the most convenient for people (middle of the work day, or perhaps just as they need to be picking children up from school - like that). But, I wonder. Are they telling me the truth, or are they just saying something nice in order to get out of the room graciously? (Personally, I know I've done it -- just said 'thank you, nice class' and slipped out, never to return.)
I know that I am not the 'ordinary' yoga teacher. I'm not even the 'regular' yoga teacher. As Christina Sell once said about her teaching, "I'm an acquired taste.". I need to borrow that phrase for this blog post.
Another why?
It takes a long time for my classes to grow -- it's now been 8 months since I began teaching in California. Classes are spottily attended, at best. I know, I know -- not the best times, people don't know me, classes I teach are not what the majority of people want (basic, gentle). I do realize, however, that I teach differently from others -- I am slower, more deliberate (I take comfort in John's quote "to make the ordinary extraordinary, sometimes you have to slow things down a bit"). I am nit picky about alignment, and when I discover something I can go on ad nauseum about the benefits, contraindications, etc., of the movement or lack thereof (just ask me what I learned from Doug Keller's webinar last night, for example). I won't even talk about being 'older'; but I do think that's a factor -- I don't LOOK like a yoga teacher; people will often walk into a studio, look at me, and inquire "are YOU the instructor?", emphasis on YOU.
Enough about all this. But, I did want to share my great compliment -- what a wonderful way to end the day and to begin another -- thinking about this, "I am not an ordinary yoga teacher" and I am very happy with that.
Hope you have a great Thursday,
Now, I can take this comment one of two ways - good or not-so-good. I choose the good.
Why? Because I have seen this student repeatedly in classes over the past 2 weeks. And -- because someone comes to your class more than once doesn't necessarily mean they enjoy it -- her comments to me have been positive. She feels stronger, she is feeling more stable (on a very unstable knee), and (this is me speaking) she is smiling.
This is good for me to hear - a comment made to someone other than myself. I often have students thank me for a nice class, and indicate they'll be back. I don't see them again. That could just be due to the fact that my teaching schedule is not the most convenient for people (middle of the work day, or perhaps just as they need to be picking children up from school - like that). But, I wonder. Are they telling me the truth, or are they just saying something nice in order to get out of the room graciously? (Personally, I know I've done it -- just said 'thank you, nice class' and slipped out, never to return.)
I know that I am not the 'ordinary' yoga teacher. I'm not even the 'regular' yoga teacher. As Christina Sell once said about her teaching, "I'm an acquired taste.". I need to borrow that phrase for this blog post.
Another why?
It takes a long time for my classes to grow -- it's now been 8 months since I began teaching in California. Classes are spottily attended, at best. I know, I know -- not the best times, people don't know me, classes I teach are not what the majority of people want (basic, gentle). I do realize, however, that I teach differently from others -- I am slower, more deliberate (I take comfort in John's quote "to make the ordinary extraordinary, sometimes you have to slow things down a bit"). I am nit picky about alignment, and when I discover something I can go on ad nauseum about the benefits, contraindications, etc., of the movement or lack thereof (just ask me what I learned from Doug Keller's webinar last night, for example). I won't even talk about being 'older'; but I do think that's a factor -- I don't LOOK like a yoga teacher; people will often walk into a studio, look at me, and inquire "are YOU the instructor?", emphasis on YOU.
Enough about all this. But, I did want to share my great compliment -- what a wonderful way to end the day and to begin another -- thinking about this, "I am not an ordinary yoga teacher" and I am very happy with that.
Hope you have a great Thursday,
Monday, January 9, 2012
SUNDAY'S CLASS
Sunday mornings are great at Living Yoga in Temecula -- receptive and welcoming students, good numbers, and - perhaps - an opportunity to video; which I did yesterday.
The situation was just too good -- enough people, in a big enough room, and well-schooled (maybe not everyone in Anusara, but that turned out to be o.k. for this group).
And, what's the rest of the story? Not sure it will fly -- why?
First, I always have a written out plan with me (not that I read from it verbatim, but I do refer to it just to make sure I'm covering all the bases) -- The plan I hoped to use I left in the car which Howard (husband) was driving to run errands as he waited for me. Duh!
Second, I found myself being too directive, not using linking words enough. Oh, I knew I was doing it (being directive) and I tried to get them in (linking words), but I am not sure I did it often enough or with the right placement to create the desired sense of flow in my sequence.
Third, I almost forgot to demo. When I remembered that I ought to do one (not sure if it is a 'requirement'), it was at 'apex time'. Therefore, I demo'd the apex, which was Warrior I (this was a Basic class). I demo'd the pose, talking as I did it. I didn't re-cap, reminding everyone of two things to remember in this pose, and I didn't ask if anyone had a question -- these are key inclusions.
Fourth, I used my alignment emphasis (IS/OS) enough, but am not sure the verbiage I used gives credit to that emphasis for how each of the related movements felt (if that makes sense). An example: "confidently take your thighs back and apart, into the space you've created scoop your tailbone; now from the stability created by the two actions of IS and OS, raise your arms extending into your personal, extraordinary Warrior I" (see #5 for explanation).
Fifth, I am worried I totally blanked on the heart quality. I used John's recent quote in my opening comments "To make the ordinary extraordinary, sometimes you have to slow things down a bit." I believe it is so applicable to our practices and can be used effectively to help bring home the point that tadasana is an extraordinary pose with the right attitude. I used that simile through the class but is "extraordinary" a heart quality? Not sure.
I wish I had some good reasons for all of the above (the only explainable one is the first -- that I left it in the car). And, my memory ought to be good enough to remember or create a sequence 'on the fly'. Obviously, it isn't. Or, the excitement of all the right elements coming together just overwhelmed me. Who knows?
Now, what's the good in this? That I can think about that class and even without watching it, know what I left out. That bodes well for including it next time. Wish me luck.
Today? Gentle Yoga, back in Temecula this morning; Library Class at 3pm in Fallbrook. More opportunities to practice, I'm thinking.
Have a great Monday,
The situation was just too good -- enough people, in a big enough room, and well-schooled (maybe not everyone in Anusara, but that turned out to be o.k. for this group).
And, what's the rest of the story? Not sure it will fly -- why?
First, I always have a written out plan with me (not that I read from it verbatim, but I do refer to it just to make sure I'm covering all the bases) -- The plan I hoped to use I left in the car which Howard (husband) was driving to run errands as he waited for me. Duh!
Second, I found myself being too directive, not using linking words enough. Oh, I knew I was doing it (being directive) and I tried to get them in (linking words), but I am not sure I did it often enough or with the right placement to create the desired sense of flow in my sequence.
Third, I almost forgot to demo. When I remembered that I ought to do one (not sure if it is a 'requirement'), it was at 'apex time'. Therefore, I demo'd the apex, which was Warrior I (this was a Basic class). I demo'd the pose, talking as I did it. I didn't re-cap, reminding everyone of two things to remember in this pose, and I didn't ask if anyone had a question -- these are key inclusions.
Fourth, I used my alignment emphasis (IS/OS) enough, but am not sure the verbiage I used gives credit to that emphasis for how each of the related movements felt (if that makes sense). An example: "confidently take your thighs back and apart, into the space you've created scoop your tailbone; now from the stability created by the two actions of IS and OS, raise your arms extending into your personal, extraordinary Warrior I" (see #5 for explanation).
Fifth, I am worried I totally blanked on the heart quality. I used John's recent quote in my opening comments "To make the ordinary extraordinary, sometimes you have to slow things down a bit." I believe it is so applicable to our practices and can be used effectively to help bring home the point that tadasana is an extraordinary pose with the right attitude. I used that simile through the class but is "extraordinary" a heart quality? Not sure.
O.K., enough for 'true confessions' -- I'll watch it. I am not even sure that the camera captures much of the 13 students in the room; I set it up, hurriedly went back to signing people in, and never re-checked it. I do know that it was on, however. So, we'll see.
Now, what's the good in this? That I can think about that class and even without watching it, know what I left out. That bodes well for including it next time. Wish me luck.
Today? Gentle Yoga, back in Temecula this morning; Library Class at 3pm in Fallbrook. More opportunities to practice, I'm thinking.
Have a great Monday,
Sunday, January 8, 2012
GONE, BUT NOT FORGOTTEN (?)
I haven't written for a while. In fact, it's the longest break I think I've taken since this blog's creation -- which is almost 3 years ago!?!?! Why?
First, I think the cold (which lasted 2+ weeks and symptoms still plague me) affected my creative sense -- it's challenging to come up with contemplative, funny, interesting things to write when your sinuses are screaming "open, open, open", or you are sneezing like a train, or the non-stop passage of tissues from box to nose is enough to draw you away from the keyboard. Many excuses.
Then, there was my mood (also affected by the cold, I'm sure). It was in the basement or cellar. And, just in the last 3 days, has been riding the slow escalator back to first floor. (HAHAHAHAHA -- making myself laugh here.)
Finally, I just wasn't making the time. Yes, MAKING the time. Because, like many activities, I can find lots of reasons to believe I am just too busy to get it done.
This morning, however, I read an inspiring blog by Livia Shapiro, also an Anusara-Inspired yoga instructor. Her topic: a rant that clearly supported and, in fact, cheered-on the practice of Anusara Yoga. Good stuff for me to read. I needed that.
Not that I've been doubting my yoga 'choice'; I just needed a reminder of how good it is. Of how much it has brought into my life and of how much it has changed my life. What I have been 'doubting' is my own ability to 'get it done'. Meaning 'get Certified'. Kind of stuck in the video process -- trying, but running into detours along the way (i.e. classes are too small or students not cooperative or I don't juggle all the balls needed). It's been a challenge and the last few weeks have only added to my frustration level.
My mood was sensed by a fellow teacher (Maria Cristina), and she suggested that I just teach for a while. Not worry about the video for a week or two. Just do what I love and work on the suggestions of my assessor (Sarah). Good advice. That I plan to follow.
Today? Guest-teaching for my friend Vicki in Temecula, then a movie, then the Grand-Dudes are coming for dinner (trying out a new recipe). As I wrote that, it occurred to me that maybe I've reached the first floor -- it's been ages since I've tried a new recipe; a sure sign that the mood and surrounding fog are lifting.
Enjoy your Sunday,
First, I think the cold (which lasted 2+ weeks and symptoms still plague me) affected my creative sense -- it's challenging to come up with contemplative, funny, interesting things to write when your sinuses are screaming "open, open, open", or you are sneezing like a train, or the non-stop passage of tissues from box to nose is enough to draw you away from the keyboard. Many excuses.
Then, there was my mood (also affected by the cold, I'm sure). It was in the basement or cellar. And, just in the last 3 days, has been riding the slow escalator back to first floor. (HAHAHAHAHA -- making myself laugh here.)
Finally, I just wasn't making the time. Yes, MAKING the time. Because, like many activities, I can find lots of reasons to believe I am just too busy to get it done.
This morning, however, I read an inspiring blog by Livia Shapiro, also an Anusara-Inspired yoga instructor. Her topic: a rant that clearly supported and, in fact, cheered-on the practice of Anusara Yoga. Good stuff for me to read. I needed that.
Not that I've been doubting my yoga 'choice'; I just needed a reminder of how good it is. Of how much it has brought into my life and of how much it has changed my life. What I have been 'doubting' is my own ability to 'get it done'. Meaning 'get Certified'. Kind of stuck in the video process -- trying, but running into detours along the way (i.e. classes are too small or students not cooperative or I don't juggle all the balls needed). It's been a challenge and the last few weeks have only added to my frustration level.
My mood was sensed by a fellow teacher (Maria Cristina), and she suggested that I just teach for a while. Not worry about the video for a week or two. Just do what I love and work on the suggestions of my assessor (Sarah). Good advice. That I plan to follow.
Today? Guest-teaching for my friend Vicki in Temecula, then a movie, then the Grand-Dudes are coming for dinner (trying out a new recipe). As I wrote that, it occurred to me that maybe I've reached the first floor -- it's been ages since I've tried a new recipe; a sure sign that the mood and surrounding fog are lifting.
Enjoy your Sunday,
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