Yes, wondering what this week will bring, and how I will handle the issues that arose last week. breathe - surrender (but not too much) - soften.
What happened last week? An up-and-coming instructor resigned to get a 'real' job. The Dept. of Workforce Services is beefing up it's efforts to eliminate the independent contractor status for yoga instructors. A website issue reared its ugly head, as it has every few weeks.
What will happen this week? Who knows.
I do know that it will be a busy week. Subbing a couple classes (including the resigned instructor's), teaching my own classes, attend some classes, more fliers out for Christina's workshop (yes -- there is still space, if you are out there in 'blogland' and would like to attend), then there's the routine studio stuff -- paperwork, bills, data entry.
In all this activity, I feel like I've kind of slipped out of 'student' mode -- don't seem to be reading as much as I should, haven't pushed myself in my practice (I'm sure Chistina will change that), all in all feeling a bit overwhelmed. I re-read last week's favorite blog quote -- 'don't go back to sleep'. I think I'll leave it up for another week -- a good reminder.
Started reading (or re-reading, I should say) Yoga of Discipline last night. A series of transcribed talks by Gurumayi Chidvilisinanda. I probably should be reading something from the Anusara® reading list, but there are times when I need to read something I can relate to immediately, without having to contemplate or meditate upon before even beginning to understand. Not that her writing doesn't require contemplation -- it's different, tho.
On with the day,
Monday, June 29, 2009
Saturday, June 27, 2009
NO WHINING . . .
Owning a yoga studio offers a new set of dynamics to the process of being a yoga teacher.
I started to write about the different issues I faced this week, and decided 'bad idea'. As I read the draft, it sounded whiney and - after all - I am a grown person who took on this studio, so deal with it.
But, I would like to say that it doesn't make teaching easier.
Each situation I faced this past week offered me insight about my reactions and my 'habits'. Not necessarily a bad idea to look at once in a while, because it's not always a pretty picture -- I could use some work in those areas. I'll just stop here and leave you wondering ---
Teaching a private plus 2 classes today (I think). Calendar could use some work, too.
If I keep writing, I'll be digging myself out of a deep hole by the time I get to the studio. So, change the subject.
Fun class yesterday a.m. I love it when someone comes in complaining about a physical issue, I offer a minor (but important) alignment tip, and they say "wow, that feels so much better!". Good alignment and magic happens; so simple.
Enjoy your weekend,
I started to write about the different issues I faced this week, and decided 'bad idea'. As I read the draft, it sounded whiney and - after all - I am a grown person who took on this studio, so deal with it.
But, I would like to say that it doesn't make teaching easier.
Each situation I faced this past week offered me insight about my reactions and my 'habits'. Not necessarily a bad idea to look at once in a while, because it's not always a pretty picture -- I could use some work in those areas. I'll just stop here and leave you wondering ---
Teaching a private plus 2 classes today (I think). Calendar could use some work, too.
If I keep writing, I'll be digging myself out of a deep hole by the time I get to the studio. So, change the subject.
Fun class yesterday a.m. I love it when someone comes in complaining about a physical issue, I offer a minor (but important) alignment tip, and they say "wow, that feels so much better!". Good alignment and magic happens; so simple.
Enjoy your weekend,
Thursday, June 25, 2009
DILEMMA
Scrolling through my Facebook homepage this morning (it does become somewhat of an addiction, as I found out last week when access was limited). Read an announcement by another studio owner that that studio has been voted 'Best in Utah' by SL magazine.
It's a big studio with a strong owner and a good core group of instructors. Why not?
But, what about me? (selfish thought) Did this magazine study all the studios in the State of Utah? And, if so, when did they visit my studio? What criteria did they use to measure 'best'?
Back in 2001, The Yoga Center received the same award. I think, at that time, it was one of two formal yoga studios in the Salt Lake area. I didn't own it then, so I can't speak to the selection process.
Water under the bridge. Now, the dilemma --
What do I do? Do I swallow my pride and congratulate the studio owner? or, do I ignore it and proceed with business as usual? Ah, the competitive nature rears it's ugly head ---
I decided that on a Facebook page I developed, called "Yoga In Utah" to offer my congratulations, right before I plugged the upcoming workshop with Christina Sell. And, I'll send an e-mail to the studio owner, also offering congratulations.
Darn! It's tough being the turtle in this race. The Yoga Center also has great instructors, nice selection of classes, small - but mighty student population.
Personally, I think we all (and that includes every studio in Utah) are "Best in State".
Enjoy,
It's a big studio with a strong owner and a good core group of instructors. Why not?
But, what about me? (selfish thought) Did this magazine study all the studios in the State of Utah? And, if so, when did they visit my studio? What criteria did they use to measure 'best'?
Back in 2001, The Yoga Center received the same award. I think, at that time, it was one of two formal yoga studios in the Salt Lake area. I didn't own it then, so I can't speak to the selection process.
Water under the bridge. Now, the dilemma --
What do I do? Do I swallow my pride and congratulate the studio owner? or, do I ignore it and proceed with business as usual? Ah, the competitive nature rears it's ugly head ---
I decided that on a Facebook page I developed, called "Yoga In Utah" to offer my congratulations, right before I plugged the upcoming workshop with Christina Sell. And, I'll send an e-mail to the studio owner, also offering congratulations.
Darn! It's tough being the turtle in this race. The Yoga Center also has great instructors, nice selection of classes, small - but mighty student population.
Personally, I think we all (and that includes every studio in Utah) are "Best in State".
Enjoy,
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
HANUMAN POWER
I so enjoy teaching a class, watching people smile when they realize they've just done something they thought out of their realm of possibility.
My $4 yogahour class is moving along swimmingly -- a consistent group of students, with new ones sprinkled in here and there.
Yesterday, I decided it was time to move this group towards handstand.
Each person in the class had reasons they could have used to avoid "L" at the wall. I know that, they know that, but no one used a single one. Each took their mat to the wall, listened to instructions, and gave it a try. When it came time to try it again, this time lifting one leg at a time away from the wall, each did that without hesitation.
All did both legs, and - as I watched the last student finish up her second side - I glanced over my shoulder to see two doing it side by side for a third time!
Such a feeling of accomplishment for them (and me). Not just because they did it, but because they didn't let age, physical conditioning, past ailments, whatever get in their way.
When students step out of their comfort zone, I call it "Hanuman Power" (reflecting back on the story of Hanuman's power being temporarily stripped by the Sages -- that is, until someone reminded him that he had it all along, he'd just forgotten).
Enjoy your day,
My $4 yogahour class is moving along swimmingly -- a consistent group of students, with new ones sprinkled in here and there.
Yesterday, I decided it was time to move this group towards handstand.
Each person in the class had reasons they could have used to avoid "L" at the wall. I know that, they know that, but no one used a single one. Each took their mat to the wall, listened to instructions, and gave it a try. When it came time to try it again, this time lifting one leg at a time away from the wall, each did that without hesitation.
All did both legs, and - as I watched the last student finish up her second side - I glanced over my shoulder to see two doing it side by side for a third time!
Such a feeling of accomplishment for them (and me). Not just because they did it, but because they didn't let age, physical conditioning, past ailments, whatever get in their way.
When students step out of their comfort zone, I call it "Hanuman Power" (reflecting back on the story of Hanuman's power being temporarily stripped by the Sages -- that is, until someone reminded him that he had it all along, he'd just forgotten).
Enjoy your day,
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
108 ...
Some of us do 108 sun salutations; I do 108 posts! As of today, that is.
I have been busy entertaining grandsons and visiting old friends over the weekend, so have neglected this blog. Please forgive me -- that applies to readers and myself.
Even gave myself a break from yoga this weekend. I'm in San Diego, and - while there isn't a ton of Anusara here - there are some good and upcoming instructors. (It's kind of like Utah - slim pickings, but what you find is quality stuff.)
I find that short breaks are sometimes beneficial to my practice and my teaching. When I return, I am less on "auto pilot"; able to re-focus my energy and my mind to the practice.
I used to beat myself up a bit if I missed a couple days of practice (kind of like I do with this blog, now). Then I paid attention to myself as I practiced. Granted, I hadn't made tons of progress in poses during the 'vacation', but I noticed that I was more attentive, able to hear the finer instructions that each teacher voiced, and glad to be back to the practice -- making for a refreshed experience.
So, I don't beat myself up anymore - I know that I'll return and that not much will have changed or 'degenerated'. It's not a bad thing to take a little break once in a while.
Good classes on Friday and Saturday. Numbers not huge, but we aren't doing this for the numbers, right? In each class, forward strides were made, students had 'ah-ha' moments, and we had fun -- that's important.
Enjoy your week,
I have been busy entertaining grandsons and visiting old friends over the weekend, so have neglected this blog. Please forgive me -- that applies to readers and myself.
Even gave myself a break from yoga this weekend. I'm in San Diego, and - while there isn't a ton of Anusara here - there are some good and upcoming instructors. (It's kind of like Utah - slim pickings, but what you find is quality stuff.)
I find that short breaks are sometimes beneficial to my practice and my teaching. When I return, I am less on "auto pilot"; able to re-focus my energy and my mind to the practice.
I used to beat myself up a bit if I missed a couple days of practice (kind of like I do with this blog, now). Then I paid attention to myself as I practiced. Granted, I hadn't made tons of progress in poses during the 'vacation', but I noticed that I was more attentive, able to hear the finer instructions that each teacher voiced, and glad to be back to the practice -- making for a refreshed experience.
So, I don't beat myself up anymore - I know that I'll return and that not much will have changed or 'degenerated'. It's not a bad thing to take a little break once in a while.
Good classes on Friday and Saturday. Numbers not huge, but we aren't doing this for the numbers, right? In each class, forward strides were made, students had 'ah-ha' moments, and we had fun -- that's important.
Enjoy your week,
Friday, June 19, 2009
GOING BACK
to the picture of me and my grandson, Jack. Wish I had some great yoga photo to use, but I don't; and I always look a bit surprised in my face shots -- so, this picture makes me look approachable, at least.
Speaking of Jack, I will see him this weekend. Each time there is so much change, it's amazing -- talking, physically more adept, even more fun. Then there's Brady -- a little charmer with the deepest dimples. I hear he's much more mobile since I was last with them, so he'll be fun too. Jack, I understand, is vying for more attention since this mobility has set in.
Ran into a different and new challenge in teaching this week -- the student who is unsuited for a class, and proceeds to do their own practice while I teach the other students a more gentle and therapeutic form of yoga practice.
My reaction -- to try to ignore and focus on the students who were appropriately in the class. Unfortunately, I observed that it was distracting to other students. We continued, everyone doing their best, following instructions (with one exception), and got through it.
What should I have done? Well, not sure. One opinion: I should have said something - which would certainly have been disruptive to the class. Another, that if this student appears in class again, that will be the time to talk -- before I begin teaching and find us in another uncomfortable situation. Since I didn't do option 1; I will do option 2 before beginning any class with this student.
In eavesdropping on a conversation this student was having after class (loudly - so, not hard to eavesdrop), it becomes apparent that her occupation is as a schoolteacher. I wonder what her reaction / action would have been if faced with a similar situation.
Interestingly, the situation created a rumble in me -- that of feeling upset about the impact on other students, and less than respected as the teacher. To resolve this, it will be important to say something when/if this student arrives in one of my classes again.
Enjoy Friday,
Speaking of Jack, I will see him this weekend. Each time there is so much change, it's amazing -- talking, physically more adept, even more fun. Then there's Brady -- a little charmer with the deepest dimples. I hear he's much more mobile since I was last with them, so he'll be fun too. Jack, I understand, is vying for more attention since this mobility has set in.
Ran into a different and new challenge in teaching this week -- the student who is unsuited for a class, and proceeds to do their own practice while I teach the other students a more gentle and therapeutic form of yoga practice.
My reaction -- to try to ignore and focus on the students who were appropriately in the class. Unfortunately, I observed that it was distracting to other students. We continued, everyone doing their best, following instructions (with one exception), and got through it.
What should I have done? Well, not sure. One opinion: I should have said something - which would certainly have been disruptive to the class. Another, that if this student appears in class again, that will be the time to talk -- before I begin teaching and find us in another uncomfortable situation. Since I didn't do option 1; I will do option 2 before beginning any class with this student.
In eavesdropping on a conversation this student was having after class (loudly - so, not hard to eavesdrop), it becomes apparent that her occupation is as a schoolteacher. I wonder what her reaction / action would have been if faced with a similar situation.
Interestingly, the situation created a rumble in me -- that of feeling upset about the impact on other students, and less than respected as the teacher. To resolve this, it will be important to say something when/if this student arrives in one of my classes again.
Enjoy Friday,
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
NOTES
Just a few thoughts, since this week's activities are causing me to be a bit scattered -- so, better to keep away from trying to write blog entries about any one, lengthy topic.
What's this about? Call yesterday - new student, visiting from out of state, worried that she'll be 'bored' if she comes to a class at my studio. No yoga class should be boring; you can make of the class what you want and expect. Expect to be bored, and I'll bet you'll be bored; expect to listen and learn - no matter the level of intensity - and I'll bet you'll have a good experience (even if you don't break a sweat). Enough!
Found out per a Facebook quiz that I belong in South Dakota. The next day I get an invitation to join the Anusara® Kula of the Black Hills. Something supernatural about that. Pictures reflect a wonderful kula.
Cleaning my house in anticipation of a book club meeting tomorrow afternoon. I enjoy the group, but cleaning to host a meeting makes me question joining. Look for the good -- the house is getting clean (at least in the rooms to be used), pictures are getting hung, etc. As I dust, vacuum, clean glass shelves and 'nick nacks', I have to wonder what other parts of my life are getting ignored.
Back to paragraph 2 -- I can find enjoyment in cleaning my house. It's not boring or drudgery, I just need to adjust my attitude.
Watched John's video on the Yoga Journal website yesterday. Wouldn't you know the theme he used during this backbending practice was the 3 A's -- attitude, alignment and action; with emphasis on attitude.
I'll check my attitude and wish you a great day!
What's this about? Call yesterday - new student, visiting from out of state, worried that she'll be 'bored' if she comes to a class at my studio. No yoga class should be boring; you can make of the class what you want and expect. Expect to be bored, and I'll bet you'll be bored; expect to listen and learn - no matter the level of intensity - and I'll bet you'll have a good experience (even if you don't break a sweat). Enough!
Found out per a Facebook quiz that I belong in South Dakota. The next day I get an invitation to join the Anusara® Kula of the Black Hills. Something supernatural about that. Pictures reflect a wonderful kula.
Cleaning my house in anticipation of a book club meeting tomorrow afternoon. I enjoy the group, but cleaning to host a meeting makes me question joining. Look for the good -- the house is getting clean (at least in the rooms to be used), pictures are getting hung, etc. As I dust, vacuum, clean glass shelves and 'nick nacks', I have to wonder what other parts of my life are getting ignored.
Back to paragraph 2 -- I can find enjoyment in cleaning my house. It's not boring or drudgery, I just need to adjust my attitude.
Watched John's video on the Yoga Journal website yesterday. Wouldn't you know the theme he used during this backbending practice was the 3 A's -- attitude, alignment and action; with emphasis on attitude.
I'll check my attitude and wish you a great day!
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