Looked at yesterday's list of activities; accomplished all.
In her class last night, Tiffany gave me a good reminder that ideas for themes do not have to take tons of effort to create -- that I can look around me and find a theme. Hers was related to sighting an eagle on a recent hike. The whole class wove itself in and through an image of ourselves as beautiful, soaring eagles. Of course, our shoulder blades got a good amount of emphasis; but, there was this subtler message - that of focusing closely, yet seeing the big picture -- at the same time.
Interesting that, when I am with a teacher I know and trust, I don't dissect the class. I'm not looking for themes, heart qualities, philosophic connection, apex, sequencing -- I simply let myself enjoy. (Well, I am paying attention to the languaging - hers is so good and it's important for me to absorb some of that.) Once again, I left feeling better - isn't that the way it's supposed to be? Yes!
Back to teaching my own classes today. For whatever reason, August has begun with substantial attendance numbers in most of the classes we offer. Perhaps people are winding down from Summer - who knows; we'll just enjoy the upturn. The instructors who teach at the studio are stepping up with great energy, new ideas and lots of support for one another. I'm having a bit of trouble keeping up with it all; but I'll manage and I'll enjoy it.
JF is in town (Park City, actually) in two weeks = fun, fun, fun! Kicking everything up a notch in preparation. I'll be attending his Immersion 3 and the weekend workshop. If Immersion 3 is anything like Immersion 1, I'd better be ready for lots of asana and tons of discussion/note taking/etc.
Lynn Lakusiak is Certified! Love it! Congratulations!
Tuesday's Activities:
Level 1 at 10 am (I'm teaching)
Paperwork, cleaning, blankets(?) - blankets in the summer at the laundromat = NO fun;
gotta do it sometime, tho
YogaHour at 4 pm (I'm teaching)
Have a good Tuesday,
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Monday, August 9, 2010
ACTIVITIES
Home for a full day on Sunday; how strange was that? Actually, it was nice not to have to think about packing for another trip.
We did have plans to drive to Park City for the annual Arts Festival. Hopped in the car early, drove up for breakfast at a local eatery, then checked out each booth at the Festival. We were there early enough that crowds were not an issue - at least, not until 11 am or so.
As we walked the booths, I was amazed by the number of people I saw who I have met teaching yoga. Even more surprising? That I remembered many names, and was able to easily say "Hello, ____"; perhaps chat for a minute, then move on. Love that (being able to remember names).
Since I finished my Certification written exam, there has been a pile of books and papers residing on the dining room table. I dust around it and it is a neat pile, but a pile nevertheless. I just finished perusing exactly what is in that pile (note, in the months since I completed the exam, this pile has been added to as yoga materials arrived in the house). Contents:
We did have plans to drive to Park City for the annual Arts Festival. Hopped in the car early, drove up for breakfast at a local eatery, then checked out each booth at the Festival. We were there early enough that crowds were not an issue - at least, not until 11 am or so.
As we walked the booths, I was amazed by the number of people I saw who I have met teaching yoga. Even more surprising? That I remembered many names, and was able to easily say "Hello, ____"; perhaps chat for a minute, then move on. Love that (being able to remember names).
Since I finished my Certification written exam, there has been a pile of books and papers residing on the dining room table. I dust around it and it is a neat pile, but a pile nevertheless. I just finished perusing exactly what is in that pile (note, in the months since I completed the exam, this pile has been added to as yoga materials arrived in the house). Contents:
- Many printouts of Yoga Journal articles; in particular, I enjoy Julie Gudmested's writing. FYI, Julie is a yoga teacher and physical therapist -- a lot of knowledge and insight to be gained from her articles. Also found some of Sally Kempton's offerings. All of these I need to organize, perhaps re-read in some cases -- especially as their topics relate to many students arriving in my classes (knees, sciatic issues, scoliosis, etc.).
- Lesson plans. I type my lesson plans - especially since completing Christina's on-line mentoring program. Remember, too, that when a video is submitted, it must be accompanied by the plan for the class -- I guess so they can see if/how I followed it or, if I deviated is the reason visible on the video(?), etc. Note to self -- in the future, date the plans (so much easier to file). It also would be helpful to grade it after using it -- something like A+++ or C or 'train-wreck' -- like that.
- Books. Some read, some not, some I need to read. I maintain a library at the studio that is available for instructors and students to use (they can check out a book for up to 2 weeks -- so far, I haven't lost too many books to forgetfulness). I also have a small library of my favorite and 'required' reading books at home. Need to decide where these 'dining room table residers' will go.
- Miscellaneous notes. From workshops, trainings, etc. Typed yet? Can't tell - need to spend some time studying these.
Some work to do, but at least now I know what work; before it was just a 'pile' to be dusted around.
Today's Activities:
- Continue organizing/cleaning at home,
- An airport run - not for me, tho,
- Visit the studio - paperwork and do some cleaning there, also,
- Work on hamstrings (mine), and
- Tiffany's class, 5:30 pm.
Have a good Monday,
Sunday, August 8, 2010
OR, WE COULD THINK 'COMMIT'
Yesterday, I tried to start a post and was interrupted unexpectedly with the call to board the plane. That was a good thing, but not good for finalizing a thought process.
The poem I was working with offers a number of avenues to go with for heart quality, theme, etc. As I re-read it this morning (see yesterday's post), I thought 'commit'. For me, there was choice, and then commitment involved in my beginning and continuing the practice. My story, now apply it to the students in the room, now apply it to the 'why does it matter'?
A couple years ago, I was re-reading the Master Immersion booklet from Park City, 2007. I stumbled upon (or read - finally) the section called "Mastering the Efficacy of the Practice". This gave me a bullet-point list of qualities or indications that we are moving on the path to awakening. Why does finding this matter? Because, for me, it is always a challenge to link my story, my theme, my heart quality to the philosophical without having it sound 'scripted'. This list offers me a point of departure to linking my story to a philosophic reason for it's telling. I revised the wording of the list from JF's, so that I can insert a heart quality and choose one of the points of progress. It begins like this:
The poem I was working with offers a number of avenues to go with for heart quality, theme, etc. As I re-read it this morning (see yesterday's post), I thought 'commit'. For me, there was choice, and then commitment involved in my beginning and continuing the practice. My story, now apply it to the students in the room, now apply it to the 'why does it matter'?
A couple years ago, I was re-reading the Master Immersion booklet from Park City, 2007. I stumbled upon (or read - finally) the section called "Mastering the Efficacy of the Practice". This gave me a bullet-point list of qualities or indications that we are moving on the path to awakening. Why does finding this matter? Because, for me, it is always a challenge to link my story, my theme, my heart quality to the philosophical without having it sound 'scripted'. This list offers me a point of departure to linking my story to a philosophic reason for it's telling. I revised the wording of the list from JF's, so that I can insert a heart quality and choose one of the points of progress. It begins like this:
When I commit, I say yes
- to my inner strength and steadfastness – I have an abiding sense and knowing of my spiritual essence
- and I trust in the Divine’s play, that my choice and my commitment are supremely good.
- and I trust the wisdom of this commitment, to the interconnection of life – I know that my decision and my commitment is valid.
There were about 10 points in JF's writing -- as I think of something myself, I add it to the list. This is just an example of the 'keys' I have created for myself so that if I'm a bit 'stumped' about the 'why does it matter', I can refer to the list and perhaps find a starting point from which to continue developing the class.
Once that's done, it's on to 'choosing' an apex or a sequence (sequencing from the individual or the universal). Lately, I've enjoyed choosing a pose to work towards (individual), and backing out of the apex - selecting a sequence to address the chosen apex pose (areas that need to be opened PLUS areas where I see things go awry).
Continuing to remind people why they're in class is great motivation, a good reason to have the philosophic connection strongly in my head. Say I have chosen #1 above, I could use instructions like "use your inner strength to stabilize . . . " or "with knowing, extend your arms . . .". Like that.
To close, I also must remind people why all this matters -- I could go back to a line in the poem and read it, or simply reflect on the strength or knowledge they may have discovered during the class.
This is all pretty simple, but if it offers an idea - a good thing. It helps me, also, to write and remember.
Have a nice Sunday,
Saturday, August 7, 2010
QUOTES & POEMS
I am waiting for my plane at John Wayne Airport (just 50 minutes drive from my son's home in Carlsbad; not much different than flying into San Diego). Didn't think there would be time to post, but I have a few minutes before my plane arrives, is cleaned, and we board -- so, here goes.
Moving around my computer and I came to a quote. That led me to review my document "quotes", in which I keep quotes (obviously) and short poems that speak to me. I came to this one and upon re-reading it, could find so much correlation to my life since beginning a dedicated yoga practice 13 years ago. Here it is:
Before the fixative or heat of kiln.
Enough - they just called the flight.
I hope you all have a great day! I'm on my way home.
Moving around my computer and I came to a quote. That led me to review my document "quotes", in which I keep quotes (obviously) and short poems that speak to me. I came to this one and upon re-reading it, could find so much correlation to my life since beginning a dedicated yoga practice 13 years ago. Here it is:
The Decision
There is a moment before a shape
hardens, a color sets.There is a moment before a shape
Before the fixative or heat of kiln.
The letter might still be taken
from the mailbox.
The hand held back by the elbow,
the word kept between the larynx pulse
and the amplifying drum-skin of the room's air.
The thorax of an ant is not as narrow.
The green coat on old copper weighs more.
Yet something slips through it--
looks around,
sets out in the new direction, for other lands.
Not into exile, not into hope. Simply changed.
As a sandy track-rut changes when called a Silk Road:
it cannot be after turned back from.
~Jane Hirshfield
If you read my post a week or so ago, where I relayed my history since beginning yoga, you will be able to understand why this poem spoke to me; and why I saved it.
Poems and quotes are great theme sources. From this poem, I can speak of my experience (my story); I can probably relate it to others; I will dig to find the philosophic connection -- the 'why does it matter' that Sundari always asks me about. This poem will offer me a segue to the story of Hanuman, remembering the powers that the Sages caused him to forget as a youngster. This story applies to so many people, myself included. Who knew I could ever balance on my hands, or stand on my head -- power remembered.
Enough - they just called the flight.
I hope you all have a great day! I'm on my way home.
Friday, August 6, 2010
IF IT'S FRIDAY, IT'S A 'NOTES' DAY
An old title, but my brain is a bit frazzled from this new activity (taking care of multiple grandchildren), so - we'll go with it.
1. The priority this week - help son and family
transition from a family of four to five, as Carson arrived home (unexpectedly) from his NICU stay of 9 days. Here are some pics of all the boys:
2. I've enjoyed the pictures from Wanderlust -- looks like a great time. And, the fact that JF showed for the festivities made it all the more special for attendees, I'm sure. I especially loved the pictures of Sianna teaching. I don't know her well (have only done one day of a workshop with her and practiced next to her one other time); but I sense she is a person who, even in a photograph, personifies grace in action.
3. In the nick of time, Abby Tucker posts some tips for handstand. The hiccup -- I have to get one of those trampoline things people jog on. Desiree loves hers, so maybe it will serve other purposes than helping me kick up. Nice video on Facebook of Abby - check it out.
And, if I'm ever on a transatlantic flight, Tara Judelle, gives some tips on Facebook for handstand in the restroom (paper towels under the hands). Interesting how many people commented on the sanitary aspect of this experience.
4. Three ways of saying things comes in handy in more than just teaching yoga, I've discovered. This week with Grandsons is teaching me lots of ways to re-phrase, look for the good, watch my reactions, breathe, stay calm, stay focused, etc., etc., etc.
5. Because I have done a number of privates lately -- either intentionally or not (meaning just one person comes to a class) -- my observation skills are improving. I went back to my notes from JF Advanced Therapeutics, Santa Fe 2007, and found this entry "use minimum amount of energy to make a shift". I remember how much I doubted that entry; but see, now, that it works. Sometimes an action as simple as sync-ing with the breath helps with assists and movement (I've also noticed this when partnering -- how much further I can go once I work in sync with my partner's breath).
I continued reading and came to "don't think too much, just feel". Well, 3 years ago I probably was thinking 'I'll never get this; how can I feel someone's energy?'. Today, I believe it's different. I think, but I don't over-think; if that makes sense.
One of my great challenges has been to watch, rather than talk and move/adjust all the time (this applies to the class setting, as well). Empty spaces are uncomfortable (to me), but offer great learning opportunities. Time to observe, time to watch movement evolve, time to think.
Something to think about.
Enjoy Friday and Saturday,
 |
| Brady, Age almost-2 |
transition from a family of four to five, as Carson arrived home (unexpectedly) from his NICU stay of 9 days. Here are some pics of all the boys:
 |
| Jack, age almost-4 |
 |
| And, Carson - age 2 weeks |
2. I've enjoyed the pictures from Wanderlust -- looks like a great time. And, the fact that JF showed for the festivities made it all the more special for attendees, I'm sure. I especially loved the pictures of Sianna teaching. I don't know her well (have only done one day of a workshop with her and practiced next to her one other time); but I sense she is a person who, even in a photograph, personifies grace in action.
3. In the nick of time, Abby Tucker posts some tips for handstand. The hiccup -- I have to get one of those trampoline things people jog on. Desiree loves hers, so maybe it will serve other purposes than helping me kick up. Nice video on Facebook of Abby - check it out.
And, if I'm ever on a transatlantic flight, Tara Judelle, gives some tips on Facebook for handstand in the restroom (paper towels under the hands). Interesting how many people commented on the sanitary aspect of this experience.
4. Three ways of saying things comes in handy in more than just teaching yoga, I've discovered. This week with Grandsons is teaching me lots of ways to re-phrase, look for the good, watch my reactions, breathe, stay calm, stay focused, etc., etc., etc.
5. Because I have done a number of privates lately -- either intentionally or not (meaning just one person comes to a class) -- my observation skills are improving. I went back to my notes from JF Advanced Therapeutics, Santa Fe 2007, and found this entry "use minimum amount of energy to make a shift". I remember how much I doubted that entry; but see, now, that it works. Sometimes an action as simple as sync-ing with the breath helps with assists and movement (I've also noticed this when partnering -- how much further I can go once I work in sync with my partner's breath).
I continued reading and came to "don't think too much, just feel". Well, 3 years ago I probably was thinking 'I'll never get this; how can I feel someone's energy?'. Today, I believe it's different. I think, but I don't over-think; if that makes sense.
One of my great challenges has been to watch, rather than talk and move/adjust all the time (this applies to the class setting, as well). Empty spaces are uncomfortable (to me), but offer great learning opportunities. Time to observe, time to watch movement evolve, time to think.
Something to think about.
Enjoy Friday and Saturday,
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
CARSON (aka Champ) IS HOME
My newest grandson, Carson, arrived home from the hospital last night. I am with the family, trying to be helpful; so, feel very blessed to be here when he gets to experience his parents and brothers in this environment for the first time. Everyone getting to know one another.
For having a rocky start - he has earned the nickname 'Champ'. And, I'll call him the "calm champ". Very laid back, sleeps through all the noise and activity his family members can produce, and - even when awake - just seems to be taking it all in; equanimity in action.
As for me? Well, I miss my teaching - this is the second week I've been gone (all for good reason, but I still miss it). And, I'm re-learning the skills needed to navigate through the day with a 4-year-old and a 2-year-old. Keeping me on my toes.
Yesterday's challenge - take Jack and Brady to their swim lessons (by myself). Doesn't sound too involved; but, managing car seats, walking through parking lots with the two of them (and swimming paraphernalia), changing out of wet suits and into dry clothes -- I now have a new appreciation for Mothers of more than one (I just had one). I think I learned this a few years back when I did similar care for my two older grandsons; but, this must be a bit like childbirth -- I'd forgotten.
Another impact of this - my blog writing is suffering. Not much time in the a.m. before boys are up, and then there is no time. Writing this late, after boys are in bed and things have settled down.
So, back to SLC on Saturday, and back to routine on Monday.
For having a rocky start - he has earned the nickname 'Champ'. And, I'll call him the "calm champ". Very laid back, sleeps through all the noise and activity his family members can produce, and - even when awake - just seems to be taking it all in; equanimity in action.
As for me? Well, I miss my teaching - this is the second week I've been gone (all for good reason, but I still miss it). And, I'm re-learning the skills needed to navigate through the day with a 4-year-old and a 2-year-old. Keeping me on my toes.
Yesterday's challenge - take Jack and Brady to their swim lessons (by myself). Doesn't sound too involved; but, managing car seats, walking through parking lots with the two of them (and swimming paraphernalia), changing out of wet suits and into dry clothes -- I now have a new appreciation for Mothers of more than one (I just had one). I think I learned this a few years back when I did similar care for my two older grandsons; but, this must be a bit like childbirth -- I'd forgotten.
Another impact of this - my blog writing is suffering. Not much time in the a.m. before boys are up, and then there is no time. Writing this late, after boys are in bed and things have settled down.
So, back to SLC on Saturday, and back to routine on Monday.
Sunday, August 1, 2010
FRIENDS ON FACEBOOK
I am one who has a small number of friends on Facebook (especially when compared with some). Why? Well, I have this understanding of the word 'friend' (def: A person whom one knows and with whom one has a bond of mutual affection.), and that understanding (and my Facebook activities) follows the definition.
I probably will hesitate to ask 'so and so' to be my friend, if I have never met them, or if we do not have a connection of some sort - just goes against something in my head. I will, however, extend my hand or accept 'friendship' requests from people I don't know, if I'd like to get to know a person, or their work, better -- i.e. Elena Brower. I don't know Elena, but I know of her, I respect and admire her work as an Anusara® Yoga instructor, and there is much I can learn from having a connection (i.e. Facebook 'friend' or 'fan').
I'm not 'dis-sing' the networking aspect of Facebook -- that's good. It's just that, for me, getting past the 'friend' label is a toughie. Maybe I'd be better at accumulating a good number of 'friends' if, instead, they were called 'connections' or 'contacts' or 'links'.
Just a thought.
That leads to what I noticed this morning. I'm following my routine - read my blogs, read my Facebook page, post my own blog entry. Yoga, yoga, yoga, yoga -- 95% of the entries are about yoga. Yoga quotes, yoga friends finding new friends, yoga updates on Wanderlust, yoga postings on who is attending what workshop, etc., etc., etc. Then, snap back to my former reality - an entry by a friend from the past (high school, no less!) who is having trouble finding huckleberries this year; had to buy them.
This leads to some serious gear shifting. Reading along, yoga, yoga, yoga; whoa, brake and shift onto a totally different subject. Just an observation. It's early.
I am home - wonderful to be home. Arrived about noon yesterday, Howard picked me up and took me to lunch, then home to unpack, do some laundry, get a bit organized, sit for a few minutes. Up to teach a private, and then to a dinner at a student's home.
My private was the same student I wrote about earlier in the week - the whiplash. Student returned and we continued to work with the shoulder blades (and, a comment was made that awareness has shifted - a good thing). We also did some of the work I experienced in Karen's class earlier in the week (thank you, Karen). Good thing.
Dinner was great -- so nice to hang out with students. We all get to see another side of one another -- plus see how we look in non-yoga clothes. It was fun and the fact that her husband did all the work - we women were his guests, was special. Thank you.
Today? Organizing to go to help Grandson Carson's family tomorrow. Fortunately, Howard will be home, so not too much to do to get house ready -- just clean up my own stuff.
Oh, and some paperwork for the studio.
Enjoy Sunday,
I probably will hesitate to ask 'so and so' to be my friend, if I have never met them, or if we do not have a connection of some sort - just goes against something in my head. I will, however, extend my hand or accept 'friendship' requests from people I don't know, if I'd like to get to know a person, or their work, better -- i.e. Elena Brower. I don't know Elena, but I know of her, I respect and admire her work as an Anusara® Yoga instructor, and there is much I can learn from having a connection (i.e. Facebook 'friend' or 'fan').
I'm not 'dis-sing' the networking aspect of Facebook -- that's good. It's just that, for me, getting past the 'friend' label is a toughie. Maybe I'd be better at accumulating a good number of 'friends' if, instead, they were called 'connections' or 'contacts' or 'links'.
Just a thought.
That leads to what I noticed this morning. I'm following my routine - read my blogs, read my Facebook page, post my own blog entry. Yoga, yoga, yoga, yoga -- 95% of the entries are about yoga. Yoga quotes, yoga friends finding new friends, yoga updates on Wanderlust, yoga postings on who is attending what workshop, etc., etc., etc. Then, snap back to my former reality - an entry by a friend from the past (high school, no less!) who is having trouble finding huckleberries this year; had to buy them.
This leads to some serious gear shifting. Reading along, yoga, yoga, yoga; whoa, brake and shift onto a totally different subject. Just an observation. It's early.
I am home - wonderful to be home. Arrived about noon yesterday, Howard picked me up and took me to lunch, then home to unpack, do some laundry, get a bit organized, sit for a few minutes. Up to teach a private, and then to a dinner at a student's home.
My private was the same student I wrote about earlier in the week - the whiplash. Student returned and we continued to work with the shoulder blades (and, a comment was made that awareness has shifted - a good thing). We also did some of the work I experienced in Karen's class earlier in the week (thank you, Karen). Good thing.
Dinner was great -- so nice to hang out with students. We all get to see another side of one another -- plus see how we look in non-yoga clothes. It was fun and the fact that her husband did all the work - we women were his guests, was special. Thank you.
Today? Organizing to go to help Grandson Carson's family tomorrow. Fortunately, Howard will be home, so not too much to do to get house ready -- just clean up my own stuff.
Oh, and some paperwork for the studio.
Enjoy Sunday,
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