DAY OF OPPOSITES YET THE SAME
Yesterday was the day I teach a Gentle Yoga class in the a.m., then go to the Jail in the afternoon to teach.
It certainly is opposites in many ways -- lovely ladies (and an occasional gentleman), assembling at the studio, setting up and making small talk; wanting some movement that will help them move more effectively and therapeuticaly. Now, switch gears -- go to Jail, sign in, get pass & keys, get supplies, go to pod, ask officer to gather students. The students do want the same, however -- to get some movement into their day (and get away from 'jail-life', as much as possible, if only for 1.5 hours).
Both offer unique opportunities for teaching , and I enjoy both.
The Gentle Class is an opportunity to work with a wide variety of students with many different issues going on -- from artificial knees to lumbar stenosis to just stiff -- in a relaxed environment, with all sorts of props available.
The Jail Class is an opportunity to work with people whose background I have no information about -- to teach them something many have only preconceived notions about (a "wimpy", stretching class). Many of these students have injuries, as well. I don't ask how the injuries were incurred, unless they offer; I just ask about injuries that will impact their practice. Their practice must be therapeutic, as well. But in the jail, we only have mats and blocks -- they don't allow straps, blankets, bolsters, etc.
As I mentioned in an earier post, in the Jail class I cannot touch the students. Verbal adjustments are needed. Imagine adjusting a new student in down dog (narrow stance, chest/back pulling away from knees, lumbar spine compromised, head lifted). Now, do that verbal adjustment while you have 6 others waiting patiently in their maybe less-than-perfect down dogs. A challenge, to say the least.
It requires that I move quickly, work with the most out-of-alignment first, get everyone 'safe', before they 'crash' on the floor from fatigue. Remember, these are probably strong guys, but they are not used to holding themselves in a pose for any significant amount of time.
In a public class -- I would need to do the same: quickly peruse the students, adjust the student(s) most at risk in their pose(s), remember that there are other students in the room waiting to move on. It's different, yet the same.
All offer fun challenges; all offer me opportunities to grow as a teacher.
Enjoy another sunny day (if you're in Utah),
It certainly is opposites in many ways -- lovely ladies (and an occasional gentleman), assembling at the studio, setting up and making small talk; wanting some movement that will help them move more effectively and therapeuticaly. Now, switch gears -- go to Jail, sign in, get pass & keys, get supplies, go to pod, ask officer to gather students. The students do want the same, however -- to get some movement into their day (and get away from 'jail-life', as much as possible, if only for 1.5 hours).
Both offer unique opportunities for teaching , and I enjoy both.
The Gentle Class is an opportunity to work with a wide variety of students with many different issues going on -- from artificial knees to lumbar stenosis to just stiff -- in a relaxed environment, with all sorts of props available.
The Jail Class is an opportunity to work with people whose background I have no information about -- to teach them something many have only preconceived notions about (a "wimpy", stretching class). Many of these students have injuries, as well. I don't ask how the injuries were incurred, unless they offer; I just ask about injuries that will impact their practice. Their practice must be therapeutic, as well. But in the jail, we only have mats and blocks -- they don't allow straps, blankets, bolsters, etc.
As I mentioned in an earier post, in the Jail class I cannot touch the students. Verbal adjustments are needed. Imagine adjusting a new student in down dog (narrow stance, chest/back pulling away from knees, lumbar spine compromised, head lifted). Now, do that verbal adjustment while you have 6 others waiting patiently in their maybe less-than-perfect down dogs. A challenge, to say the least.
It requires that I move quickly, work with the most out-of-alignment first, get everyone 'safe', before they 'crash' on the floor from fatigue. Remember, these are probably strong guys, but they are not used to holding themselves in a pose for any significant amount of time.
In a public class -- I would need to do the same: quickly peruse the students, adjust the student(s) most at risk in their pose(s), remember that there are other students in the room waiting to move on. It's different, yet the same.
All offer fun challenges; all offer me opportunities to grow as a teacher.
Enjoy another sunny day (if you're in Utah),
A NATARAJ
One hallmark of an Anusara studio is a murti of the Nataraj. Until this week, my studio only had Ganesh, Lakshmi & Hanuman represented.
In Tucson, Manoj (the gentleman who travels with John, helping to explain Indian philosophy and mythology, and selling status of these icons) just happened to have a wood Nataraj tucked back in the corner of his display. I found this to be a sign, since for several weeks prior to Tucson, the thought kept returning that maybe Manoj could get or find me a wooden Nataraj for the studio.
End result, we made the deal, the Nataraj arrived Monday unscathed by shipping, and yesterday I re-configured the puja space. The Nataraj now sits proudly next to Ganesh, with Hanuman and Lakshmi standing guard.
I often wonder what students think when they first walk into a yoga studio and see these symbols. Especially in a very conservative neighborhood like mine, it might give some pause. So, anyone reading this - here's a brief rundown of their meaning and why they are in the studio:
Murtis are statues of deities from Indian and Hindu mythology. They are a statue first, then - as we recognize and appreciate their qualities - to the owner they become a murti. For me - as their owner - each has many qualities that I would like to adopt in my life. When I walk into the studio and see this small gathering, I am reminded of these qualities. So let's go (for ease of writing/reading - I'll give only a brief highlight of each):
- Ganesh - the elephant-headed boy and the first murti I purchased represents OPPORTUNITY. He is recognized as the remover of obstacles and lord of beginnings. I heard a great example just yesterday reading Christina Sell's blog. She summed it up as Ganesh giving us the opportunity to learn something by placing an obstacle in our path. For example, we would like to learn patience -- Ganesh provides a traffic jam for us to practice our patience skills in.
- Hanuman - the great FRIEND of Ram (from the Ramayana) and a symbol of POWER. I love to hear stories about Hanuman, his loyal friendship and the powers he possessed, using those powers to support his friendship. To hear more, you'll have to come to my class someday.
- Lakshmi - a beautiful statue of this deity rising from the Lotus blossom (which finds its roots in the muck and mud at the bottom of ponds; just a side note). Lakshmi offers us opportunities for PROSPERITY: physical, emotional and spiritual.
- Nataraj - there's a lot to the Nataraj; so, briefly it is a murti of Shiva (Auspicious One), dancing within a ring of fire. The murti represents the 5 acts of Shiva: Creation, Sustenance, Destruction, Concealment and Revelation. (For teachers: each a great class theme or themes.)
All this, just a FYI.
SHOULDER THERAPY
I took Matt Newman's class yesterday morning at Kula. It's a Power/Level 1-2 Anusara™-Inspired class. Luckily for me, there were two other people in the class with shoulder issues to consider (Remember that face plant a few weeks ago while skiing; the one that left me with a sore right shoulder?).
Result: Matt kept chaturanga's 'therapeutic' and limited in number, and - while we did do shoulder work - emphasis was also on the hips and hamstrings, which I always need. Things I noted during the practice, which I will find helpful for my students with injuries:
Result: Matt kept chaturanga's 'therapeutic' and limited in number, and - while we did do shoulder work - emphasis was also on the hips and hamstrings, which I always need. Things I noted during the practice, which I will find helpful for my students with injuries:
- Releasing from a pose or moving without maintaining muscle energy resulted in discomfort in my shoulder. I know this and I teach this, but there's no greater teacher to give us a gentle reminder than an injury.
- Surya yantrasana was actually more uncomfortable on the side where the leg was back behind the unaffected shoulder (I was using the hand on the injured shoulder side to hold the foot, pulling on the sore shoulder). This blog requires 'visualization' -- a valuable tool, I'm finding. That surprised me, because I assumed a leg over my injured shoulder would force it forward, causing pain. Not so, because by then, we were appropriately warmed up, the shoulder stayed in it's home and the pose felt good on that side. I need to pay attention to the shoulder being seated on on both sides.
Some of you may be going "duh!, girl -- don't you know this by now". I'm finding there is so much knowledge stuffed in my head that I often get reminders that bring that knowledge forth. One valuable reason to attend public classes.
Take care,
DO NOT IGNORE . . .
We'll take a slight detour, because over the weekend, I heard of illness striking two people close to my heart.
While we can't expect to go through life unscathed by health crises, I just wanted to take a moment to list a few things you should NEVER ignore. If you suffer even one of these symptoms, get help:
While we can't expect to go through life unscathed by health crises, I just wanted to take a moment to list a few things you should NEVER ignore. If you suffer even one of these symptoms, get help:
- Sudden numbness in a part or parts of your body, especially on one side
- Confusion, or trouble understanding
- Dizziness, trouble walking, loss of balance
- Trouble seeing, blurred or double vision
- Severe headache, with no known cause
These are the signs of a possible stroke and should be taken seriously.
Have you seen those adds on TV regarding stroke symptoms? Where the person being affected denies that anything is happening. That's common. We want to deny that anything is going on, to minimize it. Don't! Better to know it's nothing by making a trip to the E.R., than risk the results of a full-blown stroke.
Also, if you witness someone suffering any of these symptoms. Don't worry about offending them -- call for help.
Only one of the friends mentioned above has stroke symptoms, but it causes me to want to share the information we may all know, but forget. (Also, my doctor says everyone over the age of 50 should be taking one aspirin a day - unless they are already on an anti-coagulant medication; this small act might work to minimize your risk.)
Take care of yourselves, your family, your friends, your students, and even those you don't know,
VIDEO CAMERAS - Yuck !!!
Filmed my Saturday a.m. class. It took a few minutes to get the video camera working (it's been a while since I've used it).
This morning, I decided (while it was still quiet in the house) to transfer the video from the camera to my laptop. As I thought that was happening, I decided to watch the video. Much better than last year, when watching one of my class videos was like watching paint dry.
Part of self-evaluating the video includes picking up the words that you use TOO frequently. My frequently abused words /phrases: breathe, pull, take, take a breath, so (really use that one too much). Now, the task: create a table, with each of these words at the top of a column, then list alternative words and phrases to use in their place.
I also noticed my posture, while better, is not great. When I stand up straight, I hope one result will be that my stomach won't stick out quite so much (vanity).
Positive parts of the video: More confidence, more knowledgeable, sequence o.k. (a bit rough on a couple transitions), carried the theme through the class, used an alignment point (shoulder blades) to support the theme throughout. I did verbally adjust, and made some physical adjustments. Also, the languaging sounded more Anusara-ish; not so technical.
With the video, I'm pleased -- while I have work to do, I see growth and progress.
In Tucson, John noted some of the missing elements of many videos. I'll mention those, just for your info. You must:
Take care & enjoy your Sunday,
This morning, I decided (while it was still quiet in the house) to transfer the video from the camera to my laptop. As I thought that was happening, I decided to watch the video. Much better than last year, when watching one of my class videos was like watching paint dry.
Part of self-evaluating the video includes picking up the words that you use TOO frequently. My frequently abused words /phrases: breathe, pull, take, take a breath, so (really use that one too much). Now, the task: create a table, with each of these words at the top of a column, then list alternative words and phrases to use in their place.
I also noticed my posture, while better, is not great. When I stand up straight, I hope one result will be that my stomach won't stick out quite so much (vanity).
Positive parts of the video: More confidence, more knowledgeable, sequence o.k. (a bit rough on a couple transitions), carried the theme through the class, used an alignment point (shoulder blades) to support the theme throughout. I did verbally adjust, and made some physical adjustments. Also, the languaging sounded more Anusara-ish; not so technical.
With the video, I'm pleased -- while I have work to do, I see growth and progress.
In Tucson, John noted some of the missing elements of many videos. I'll mention those, just for your info. You must:
- Return to the heart theme throughout the class
- Check that all students are in the general form of the pose
- Check the foundation. Give students a moment to breathe while you move through the class to assure each is 'safe' in their foundation.
- Ensure students are following your instruction(s) BEFORE you move on.
- Make a statement regarding how and why the theme connects back to the highest purpose (i.e. "this practice allows us to see the goodness within ourselves and others; it might be a bit cloaked at times, but it's there")
There may be more commonly missed points, but these are the ones mentioned. If you know of some, please share by commenting.
Now, back to the camera -- turns out the video didn't save to the laptop, and I've got to study and figure that out. Technology!Take care & enjoy your Sunday,
THE KULA OF ANUSARA™ YOGA
The first time I met John Friend was at Inner Harmony, the last year that the retreat center was operating in Cedar City (2004). I applied on a whim & a prayer, doubting that I would get in. A response to my application never came, so I called the Anusara office. I was told that they did get my application, that I wouldn't be able to attend the week I'd requested, but that I could attend the session being held earlier in the month.
So, I accepted. Hopped in my car (by myself) on a Sunday morning, drove to Cedar City (where?), and stepped into a life-changing experience.
Note: of the 65 people attending that session, I was one of 4 who had never experienced John or a group of this type before. Everyone else knew each other! Needless to say, it was interesting to be in a situation where everyone is hugging, greeting, renewing old acquaintances and me - not knowing a soul. For someone like me - who is/was shy (59 & shy?), it only heaps more challenge on an already challenging environment. But, the teachings were so good, the people were welcoming, the yoga was amazing, and the hikes during our breaks were incredibly beautiful - I stuck it out.
Finally, somewhat in the groove by Wednesday of that week, I received a call telling me of a family emergency. I needed to leave and fly to my hometown to help. I told John the reason for my departure, hopped in the car and drove back to Salt Lake.
All this to tell you that the e-mails, cards, phone calls from many of those 65 people asking me how I was doing, etc., was amazing. That was the 'kula' (community) I'd been hearing about in class and during the workshop. People who supported and cared about me, even though they had just barely met me.
I am having a similar experience at this time, as well. Granted, I know these Anusara™ teachers already, but the interest and care they show in my progress as an Anusara-Inspired™ instructor is truly amazing -- so much fun to get e-mails, texts, calls of encouragement and support. It only makes me want to work harder and teach better, knowing that I have a kula of people supporting and caring about me.
Kula in action!
So, I accepted. Hopped in my car (by myself) on a Sunday morning, drove to Cedar City (where?), and stepped into a life-changing experience.
Note: of the 65 people attending that session, I was one of 4 who had never experienced John or a group of this type before. Everyone else knew each other! Needless to say, it was interesting to be in a situation where everyone is hugging, greeting, renewing old acquaintances and me - not knowing a soul. For someone like me - who is/was shy (59 & shy?), it only heaps more challenge on an already challenging environment. But, the teachings were so good, the people were welcoming, the yoga was amazing, and the hikes during our breaks were incredibly beautiful - I stuck it out.
Finally, somewhat in the groove by Wednesday of that week, I received a call telling me of a family emergency. I needed to leave and fly to my hometown to help. I told John the reason for my departure, hopped in the car and drove back to Salt Lake.
All this to tell you that the e-mails, cards, phone calls from many of those 65 people asking me how I was doing, etc., was amazing. That was the 'kula' (community) I'd been hearing about in class and during the workshop. People who supported and cared about me, even though they had just barely met me.
I am having a similar experience at this time, as well. Granted, I know these Anusara™ teachers already, but the interest and care they show in my progress as an Anusara-Inspired™ instructor is truly amazing -- so much fun to get e-mails, texts, calls of encouragement and support. It only makes me want to work harder and teach better, knowing that I have a kula of people supporting and caring about me.
Kula in action!
ALMOST FORGOT
It's been a busy day -- preparing to teach, then teaching, then thought I was subbing, but that turned out to be a mistake (isn't that what we have calendars for -- and I had it written down correctly). Now, I just finished a practice in which I taught myself.
I've practiced talks, practiced poses, but never, I repeat NEVER, have I taught myself a whole class.
I have to tell you, it's an effective way to work on your teaching. I started out speaking very quietly, in an empty studio no less. By the end of my 'class', I was really animated and loud. I kept looking towards the door whenever I heard a noise, expecting someone to come in for information and find me on the floor, teaching NO ONE (but myself).
It takes time, but it really tells you whether a sequence works, whether your alignment principle is appropriate, whether the theme fits with the heart quality, etc., etc., etc.
Enjoy the weekend,
I've practiced talks, practiced poses, but never, I repeat NEVER, have I taught myself a whole class.
I have to tell you, it's an effective way to work on your teaching. I started out speaking very quietly, in an empty studio no less. By the end of my 'class', I was really animated and loud. I kept looking towards the door whenever I heard a noise, expecting someone to come in for information and find me on the floor, teaching NO ONE (but myself).
It takes time, but it really tells you whether a sequence works, whether your alignment principle is appropriate, whether the theme fits with the heart quality, etc., etc., etc.
Enjoy the weekend,
NO JAIL YESTERDAY
My day started as planned -- going into the studio, straightening paperwork, checking the studio and getting it ready for the Gentle Yoga class. That class went as planned - theme: Celebration (no surprise, there, after yesterday's blog).
I headed from there out to the Jail for the afternoon class. After signing in, going through the security doors, and schlepping the supply cart to the pod, I was told there was an issue in the pod that would prevent my using the classroom. So, schlep the supplies back, go back out through security, sign out. (This doesn't sound like much, but it is a 15-20 minute process both ways - in & out.)
Interesting to me that the Officers at the front desk were surprised that I wasn't upset. Apparently, it isn't unusual for volunteers to get upset when things like this happen and give the front desk Officers a piece of their mind. (Sounds like someone needs yoga!)
For me, the fact that I wasn't upset is one of the wonderful side effects of this yoga practice. It creates a calm in me, a knowledge that I'm not the only one in the equation, and an ability to flow with the pulsation we experience in life. Great stuff.
Oh, I can get my feathers ruffled, don't get me wrong. I just hope that I react appropriately and at the right time. It's just wasting energy otherwise.
Teaching my friends at Sanderson Community Center for the Deaf this morning, then subbing a class at noon.
Enjoy your day,
I headed from there out to the Jail for the afternoon class. After signing in, going through the security doors, and schlepping the supply cart to the pod, I was told there was an issue in the pod that would prevent my using the classroom. So, schlep the supplies back, go back out through security, sign out. (This doesn't sound like much, but it is a 15-20 minute process both ways - in & out.)
Interesting to me that the Officers at the front desk were surprised that I wasn't upset. Apparently, it isn't unusual for volunteers to get upset when things like this happen and give the front desk Officers a piece of their mind. (Sounds like someone needs yoga!)
For me, the fact that I wasn't upset is one of the wonderful side effects of this yoga practice. It creates a calm in me, a knowledge that I'm not the only one in the equation, and an ability to flow with the pulsation we experience in life. Great stuff.
Oh, I can get my feathers ruffled, don't get me wrong. I just hope that I react appropriately and at the right time. It's just wasting energy otherwise.
Teaching my friends at Sanderson Community Center for the Deaf this morning, then subbing a class at noon.
Enjoy your day,
26 DAYS
Yup, I've been faithfully writing in this blog for 26 days! I know it's a habit, because I'm a bit rushed this morning, but still feel it necessary to insert a few words before I go on to the next activity of the morning.
I am excited and nervous about teaching my first classes today since the training. I've been going over and over themes, heart qualities, sequences. I teach two classes and they are SO different. My first is Gentle Yoga, at the studio (the name of the class should give you an idea of what's involved). The second is at the Jail this afternoon.
Two very different audiences -- could I use the same theme, could I use something like 'celebration'? What, you ask, would Jail prisoners have to 'celebrate'? Let's see, being alive, perhaps having a family or loved one to support them in this difficult time, being able to do yoga!
Not sure that celebration will be my theme, but even the person who is a bit down, or in a difficult life situation, can find something to celebrate in their life -- it's our opportunity to help them realize it.
Enjoy Wednesday,
I am excited and nervous about teaching my first classes today since the training. I've been going over and over themes, heart qualities, sequences. I teach two classes and they are SO different. My first is Gentle Yoga, at the studio (the name of the class should give you an idea of what's involved). The second is at the Jail this afternoon.
Two very different audiences -- could I use the same theme, could I use something like 'celebration'? What, you ask, would Jail prisoners have to 'celebrate'? Let's see, being alive, perhaps having a family or loved one to support them in this difficult time, being able to do yoga!
Not sure that celebration will be my theme, but even the person who is a bit down, or in a difficult life situation, can find something to celebrate in their life -- it's our opportunity to help them realize it.
Enjoy Wednesday,
IT'S WORK
One interesting phenomenon of yoga is the number of students who start the practice, and - as soon as it becomes apparent that this involves hard work & dedication - quit.
I often wonder what those students came looking for. Or, what they realized while practicing -- maybe a glimpse of one part of their true self, one they didn't want to explore. So, it's easier for them to turn a blind eye, to quit.
This probably happens in many activities. "If I don't succeed, I'll quit."
I could have easily quit after my first few yoga classes. Being older, a bit overweight, inflexible, and very conservative -- those are all traits that don't encourage activities that require energy, exude an air of youthfulness, require we look at a spiritual picture of ourselves. It's easier to quit. It's easier to sit on the couch and watch Oprah (nothing against Oprah, I actually enjoy her show).
But, I've discovered that sitting on the couch doesn't make me feel better about myself, it doesn't connect me with other people, and it doesn't give me any insight about my true nature, my strengths and weaknesses, my capacity to serve by teaching and offering classes through my studio.
If I quit, I've failed to realize Grace - a revelation of the beauty within myself and the Universe.
A short story -- I've struggled with Urdhva Dhanurasana for 10 years now. When I was in Boston last Fall, I pushed up for one of the first, stable times. After class, I called my husband to tell him. His response: "Good for you on not giving up." He could have said a number of other things, including "FINALLY!" But, he didn't; he chose, rather, to focus on my effort and my dedication.
Thankful I didn't quit,
I often wonder what those students came looking for. Or, what they realized while practicing -- maybe a glimpse of one part of their true self, one they didn't want to explore. So, it's easier for them to turn a blind eye, to quit.
This probably happens in many activities. "If I don't succeed, I'll quit."
I could have easily quit after my first few yoga classes. Being older, a bit overweight, inflexible, and very conservative -- those are all traits that don't encourage activities that require energy, exude an air of youthfulness, require we look at a spiritual picture of ourselves. It's easier to quit. It's easier to sit on the couch and watch Oprah (nothing against Oprah, I actually enjoy her show).
But, I've discovered that sitting on the couch doesn't make me feel better about myself, it doesn't connect me with other people, and it doesn't give me any insight about my true nature, my strengths and weaknesses, my capacity to serve by teaching and offering classes through my studio.
If I quit, I've failed to realize Grace - a revelation of the beauty within myself and the Universe.
A short story -- I've struggled with Urdhva Dhanurasana for 10 years now. When I was in Boston last Fall, I pushed up for one of the first, stable times. After class, I called my husband to tell him. His response: "Good for you on not giving up." He could have said a number of other things, including "FINALLY!" But, he didn't; he chose, rather, to focus on my effort and my dedication.
Thankful I didn't quit,
HOME AGAIN
No matter how great the training, workshop, vacation, weekend getaway, whatever, it is ALWAYS good to be home. Back in my own comfort zone.
The morning practice yesterday (Sunday) was amazing. John's request of us was to do the practice as fully as possible and to remember -- because if we forget, it's a sign that it's not important to us. It is important that we live each day fully, pay attention to our lives, remember our students, and give thanks to the teachers in our lives.
What fun to practice with mindfulness and effort as the theme -- I can do my best and know that it is 'purna' (fullness, perfect) -- even if I do a splendid face plant! I WILL always remember that practice - the last time in that venue (next year, the Tucson kula will have to come up with another location for this training/workshop), the last time with that particular group of students (next year, a different group will gather), and who knows what will change in my life in the next 12 months (not that I anticipate a big change; but, change happens - its part of the pulsation of life). I also will never forget where and when I did 4 urdhva dhanurasanas in a row (last one with close to straight arms)!
It's also the last day I will have ready-made blog topics to write about. I'm on my own now to come up with stuff to write about, for a while.
Foggy and cold here in Salt Lake, expecting snow later in the day; nothing like Tucson.
The morning practice yesterday (Sunday) was amazing. John's request of us was to do the practice as fully as possible and to remember -- because if we forget, it's a sign that it's not important to us. It is important that we live each day fully, pay attention to our lives, remember our students, and give thanks to the teachers in our lives.
What fun to practice with mindfulness and effort as the theme -- I can do my best and know that it is 'purna' (fullness, perfect) -- even if I do a splendid face plant! I WILL always remember that practice - the last time in that venue (next year, the Tucson kula will have to come up with another location for this training/workshop), the last time with that particular group of students (next year, a different group will gather), and who knows what will change in my life in the next 12 months (not that I anticipate a big change; but, change happens - its part of the pulsation of life). I also will never forget where and when I did 4 urdhva dhanurasanas in a row (last one with close to straight arms)!
It's also the last day I will have ready-made blog topics to write about. I'm on my own now to come up with stuff to write about, for a while.
Foggy and cold here in Salt Lake, expecting snow later in the day; nothing like Tucson.
THANKFUL but READY
As thankful as I am for having this week and weekend, I am ready to go home - to spend time with my husband, to sleep in my own bed, to pet my dogs & cats, to teach AND I owe my Grandson, Jack, another letter.
Question I've been asked most often as this week/weekend winds down? 'what will I teach that first class 'back in the saddle'? Answer: don't know. It's all still percolating.
I will have more poses in my arsenal (poses I have, in the past, avoided teaching), and I will have new languaging skills to practice. But, what will I teach? Thankfully, I have a few days before that first class to think about it and get ready.
What we hear repeatedly is that we must develop our 'own voice'. That just repeating another teacher's instructions, ideas, themes, etc., does not sound authentic. We each have a unique way of teaching. My job over the next weeks, months, years(?) will be to take the teachings I've received and work them into MY vocabulary, MY voice.
Two more hours (just doing the morning session today), until this great time with John & friends will end - for a while. Turns out, he will come to Park City in September for a weekend workshop. I'll apply; you should too.
Take care,
Question I've been asked most often as this week/weekend winds down? 'what will I teach that first class 'back in the saddle'? Answer: don't know. It's all still percolating.
I will have more poses in my arsenal (poses I have, in the past, avoided teaching), and I will have new languaging skills to practice. But, what will I teach? Thankfully, I have a few days before that first class to think about it and get ready.
What we hear repeatedly is that we must develop our 'own voice'. That just repeating another teacher's instructions, ideas, themes, etc., does not sound authentic. We each have a unique way of teaching. My job over the next weeks, months, years(?) will be to take the teachings I've received and work them into MY vocabulary, MY voice.
Two more hours (just doing the morning session today), until this great time with John & friends will end - for a while. Turns out, he will come to Park City in September for a weekend workshop. I'll apply; you should too.
Take care,
NOW, PUT IT INTO ACTION
Saturday morning and thinking about the weekend portion of this adventure.
In the past, I have rarely stayed on for the weekend workshop after a week-long training. These trainings can be intense -- if you've been reading this blog, you know that I've been sitting a lot, doing a good bit of yoga, practicing my teaching, and being taught by other students like myself. That doesn't include the note-taking (and note typing). By the end of a week like this, I'm a bit weary.
I wouldn't mind going home today, but - since I have someone to sub my class this morning, I have a place to stay, and my husband is o.k. with it - I'm going to push the envelope a bit and do the weekend. More time with old & new friends, more time to practice those elusive poses, and more time to experience John's teaching.
Switching gears, yesterday morning was a potpourri of good information, from philosophy to books we must read to general questions. We did a practice, pausing periodically to practice adjustments and discuss points. The theme for this practice was 'Shri' (divine beauty); the heart quality - artistically celebrating our own uniqueness. In this practice, we explored adding our own uniqueness to each pose, not just emulating our neighbor or doing 'cookie cutter' versions of the poses. Fun stuff!
As you practice today, reflect on your own uniqueness -- as one student pointed out, the first thing people notice about a work of art is the last thing the artist did in creating it. So, pay attention to your foundation, take a good general form of the pose, then open and create your own work of art.
Enjoy,
In the past, I have rarely stayed on for the weekend workshop after a week-long training. These trainings can be intense -- if you've been reading this blog, you know that I've been sitting a lot, doing a good bit of yoga, practicing my teaching, and being taught by other students like myself. That doesn't include the note-taking (and note typing). By the end of a week like this, I'm a bit weary.
I wouldn't mind going home today, but - since I have someone to sub my class this morning, I have a place to stay, and my husband is o.k. with it - I'm going to push the envelope a bit and do the weekend. More time with old & new friends, more time to practice those elusive poses, and more time to experience John's teaching.
Switching gears, yesterday morning was a potpourri of good information, from philosophy to books we must read to general questions. We did a practice, pausing periodically to practice adjustments and discuss points. The theme for this practice was 'Shri' (divine beauty); the heart quality - artistically celebrating our own uniqueness. In this practice, we explored adding our own uniqueness to each pose, not just emulating our neighbor or doing 'cookie cutter' versions of the poses. Fun stuff!
As you practice today, reflect on your own uniqueness -- as one student pointed out, the first thing people notice about a work of art is the last thing the artist did in creating it. So, pay attention to your foundation, take a good general form of the pose, then open and create your own work of art.
Enjoy,
DAY FIVE
Well, this party's almost over. Today's the last day of the 5-day Teacher's Intensive training. We'll work from 9-1 today, then we're done. I will stay for the weekend workshop, where emphasis will be experiencing John as he teaches -- watching the master.
This week has been a transition for many of us; moving from the technical aspects of teaching to the languaging. Purpose: To connect with each student, on a higher level than just the physical. That doesn't mean preaching; it's more guiding them to see a better picture of themselves (and ourselves). It's a challenge, because I can get pretty technical in my teaching. I'm a pretty black & white kind of person.
We didn't practice much yesterday -- lots of listening, note-taking, demos, teaching each other (I guess you can call those activities 'practice'; but not practice like we're used to). We did, however, do a few poses towards the end of the day. (I now have a longer list of poses to work on.) As John taught one pose, he stayed in front of me - walking back and forth 5-10 students on either side - and his repeated message was that we have to let go sometimes and just move.
One of the teachings yesterday was the qualities of a great yoga teacher. Most of us have heard this, but - as a reminder - they are:
This week has been a transition for many of us; moving from the technical aspects of teaching to the languaging. Purpose: To connect with each student, on a higher level than just the physical. That doesn't mean preaching; it's more guiding them to see a better picture of themselves (and ourselves). It's a challenge, because I can get pretty technical in my teaching. I'm a pretty black & white kind of person.
We didn't practice much yesterday -- lots of listening, note-taking, demos, teaching each other (I guess you can call those activities 'practice'; but not practice like we're used to). We did, however, do a few poses towards the end of the day. (I now have a longer list of poses to work on.) As John taught one pose, he stayed in front of me - walking back and forth 5-10 students on either side - and his repeated message was that we have to let go sometimes and just move.
One of the teachings yesterday was the qualities of a great yoga teacher. Most of us have heard this, but - as a reminder - they are:
- Studentship -- the teacher is always a student
- Humility -- remember the source of our knowledge
- Trustworthiness - do not waver in the conviction to serve students
- Empathetic - sensitive to the feelings of students
- Aspire to excellence - a desire to get better & better as teachers (and students)
- Agility of mind - ability to assimilate and process information quickly; then communicate just as quickly
Though there were 139 other students in the room, as John paced in front of me, he appropriately placed emphasis on #6. Maybe someone else was behaving similarly, but just maybe he was addressing my limitations, my tendency to hold back, and - knowing me - decided I need a gentle prod to 'kick it up'. If it was intended for me -- message received.
Enjoy your Friday,
SHORTER & SHORTER & SHORTER
Blog entries this week have been short, I hope anyone reading out there will understand.
Sitting on the floor for 4-5 hours each day; practicing for 2-3 hours; up-down, up-down to teach or discuss; writing notes; then typing notes. All this leaves one in a bit of a brain fog.
What am I learning? Hard to quantify, but I have copious notes and over the months and years to come, pieces of the knowledge being transmitted will percolate to me and on to students.
Yesterday's teaching revolved around the theme of pulsation (i.e. yes & no, remembrance & forgetting). In the afternoon that teaching was particularly applicable to me (and probably others in the room). Those of us who wonder if we're good enough.
As we taught each other poses, using the theme of remembering our goodness & letting go of limiting thoughts, it was wonderful to inhale and hug in to the remembrance that I am a good teacher and person with lots to offer the community around me. Then, to exhale the limited vision I have of my own self. Finding the balance between the two, gives me a new vision of myself.
Hope this makes sense (remember, the brain fog),
Sitting on the floor for 4-5 hours each day; practicing for 2-3 hours; up-down, up-down to teach or discuss; writing notes; then typing notes. All this leaves one in a bit of a brain fog.
What am I learning? Hard to quantify, but I have copious notes and over the months and years to come, pieces of the knowledge being transmitted will percolate to me and on to students.
Yesterday's teaching revolved around the theme of pulsation (i.e. yes & no, remembrance & forgetting). In the afternoon that teaching was particularly applicable to me (and probably others in the room). Those of us who wonder if we're good enough.
As we taught each other poses, using the theme of remembering our goodness & letting go of limiting thoughts, it was wonderful to inhale and hug in to the remembrance that I am a good teacher and person with lots to offer the community around me. Then, to exhale the limited vision I have of my own self. Finding the balance between the two, gives me a new vision of myself.
Hope this makes sense (remember, the brain fog),
ACTION
I came to Tucson with the attitude of studying more about the effective teaching of Anusara™ yoga, and to connect with old and new friends. I have aligned myself with that attitude by putting myself in a training designed to give me more knowledge.
Now, the action:
Now, the action:
- I practice each day, alongside old and new friends (not to mention the opportunities to chat before, between and after each day's sessions).
- I listen to John's words reflecting his years of experience - both before and within Anusara™.
- I ask questions (years of experience have taught me that no question is 'dumb', and there are probably others in the room wondering the same thing -- so, ASK).
- I take copious (sometimes illegible) notes.
- Now, I'm typing those notes into my laptop.
Action is the result of our attitude and our alignment. If done mindfully and with good intention, it will feel good -- magic will happen.
The 'magic' doesn't mean I'll know everything after this training; but I will know more; more will percolate into my brain cells; and I will be a better teacher after this training.
Just like our practice on the mat -- we don't often get the pose perfect on the first try. It takes practice; it's always a practice.
Looking forward to Day Three,
DAY TWO
Nervous, jittery, a bit of trepidation, excitement -- all describe my feelings as I arrived at the "Y" for the first day of the Teacher's Intensive training with John Friend. Not unusual, but why nervous - after many of these trainings?
I guess it's because we never know how we'll be tested, how we'll 'perform', or - perish the thought - will we embarrass ourselves. Not abnormal feelings, but you'd think we'd get used to this by now, unless it's the first or second one of these you've attended (NOT my circumstance). However, once we placed our mats, gathered for introductions and John's opening remarks, the jitters had settled and I felt at home -- back in the company of good friends, soon-to-be-made friends, and teachers, and ready to learn and practice.
This training will expand on the philosophy and the languaging we use to transmit our themes, heart qualities, messages to our students. All directed at conducting a class where the students leave a class feeling (1) greater insight / awareness of their deeper essence, (2) better about themselves and others, and (3) that they were well taken care of (safe).
Looking forward to Day Two -- I think I'll pass on that next cup of coffee; that could have been part of the 'jitters' plaguing me yesterday (duh!).
Enjoy Tuesday,
I guess it's because we never know how we'll be tested, how we'll 'perform', or - perish the thought - will we embarrass ourselves. Not abnormal feelings, but you'd think we'd get used to this by now, unless it's the first or second one of these you've attended (NOT my circumstance). However, once we placed our mats, gathered for introductions and John's opening remarks, the jitters had settled and I felt at home -- back in the company of good friends, soon-to-be-made friends, and teachers, and ready to learn and practice.
This training will expand on the philosophy and the languaging we use to transmit our themes, heart qualities, messages to our students. All directed at conducting a class where the students leave a class feeling (1) greater insight / awareness of their deeper essence, (2) better about themselves and others, and (3) that they were well taken care of (safe).
Looking forward to Day Two -- I think I'll pass on that next cup of coffee; that could have been part of the 'jitters' plaguing me yesterday (duh!).
Enjoy Tuesday,
TUCSON
In Tucson, at my mother-in-law's home, having arrived yesterday early afternoon.
Spent the afternoon relaxing, but also read Christina Sell's blog describing the sequence the participants in John's Advanced Intensive are doing. Wow! Someday . . .
We start this morning at 9 a.m. The first challenge will be getting to the 'Y' (venue) which is located close to the University. Normally, this wouldn't be a problem, but for years the freeway has been under construction. I noticed as I drove past usual exits that they are all CLOSED. So, I'll give surface streets a try. Leave early and hope everyone going to work on Monday a.m. takes another route.
A note of APPRECIATION: Each time I start one of these trainings, it's important for me to remember all the people who support me in this work to be a really effective teacher of Anusara™ yoga. First, there's my husband, who's home alone with 3 dogs, 2 cats, and 2 birds -- all needing care & feeding (not to mention, feeding himself). Second, all my instructors who step in and cover classes, keep the studio in shape, and take care of the phone while I'm gone, etc. Third, my mother-in-law, who gets to put up with me for 8 days. Granted, I'm not here to get in her way for most of the day, but when you're used to being alone - company is nice, but I realize it could get old after 2-3 days. I would not be able to do this without all of their help and support, THANK YOU.
Continuation of the 3 A's - check in tomorrow, I may have fresh material after today!
Take care,
Spent the afternoon relaxing, but also read Christina Sell's blog describing the sequence the participants in John's Advanced Intensive are doing. Wow! Someday . . .
We start this morning at 9 a.m. The first challenge will be getting to the 'Y' (venue) which is located close to the University. Normally, this wouldn't be a problem, but for years the freeway has been under construction. I noticed as I drove past usual exits that they are all CLOSED. So, I'll give surface streets a try. Leave early and hope everyone going to work on Monday a.m. takes another route.
A note of APPRECIATION: Each time I start one of these trainings, it's important for me to remember all the people who support me in this work to be a really effective teacher of Anusara™ yoga. First, there's my husband, who's home alone with 3 dogs, 2 cats, and 2 birds -- all needing care & feeding (not to mention, feeding himself). Second, all my instructors who step in and cover classes, keep the studio in shape, and take care of the phone while I'm gone, etc. Third, my mother-in-law, who gets to put up with me for 8 days. Granted, I'm not here to get in her way for most of the day, but when you're used to being alone - company is nice, but I realize it could get old after 2-3 days. I would not be able to do this without all of their help and support, THANK YOU.
Continuation of the 3 A's - check in tomorrow, I may have fresh material after today!
Take care,
ALIGNMENT
Got a few minutes before I have to finalize packing for Tucson, so I should be able to knock out something about alignment. Ha! I notice that my writing, reading, editing, re-reading, repeat, repeat, repeat -- always seems to take much longer than it should. But, I'll give it a shot.
For me, a simple definition of alignment is setting the body in a specific way to create a pose that is effortless (almost), and feels good -- I know when it feels good, because I can hold it, I can breathe, I can really experience the organic extension.
Step back to attitude for a moment. Reflect on your practice. How easy is it to align your body, if the open, generous, strong attitude is not present? For me, one depends on the other. Lackadaisical, effortless poses are 99.9% of the time not aligned well because we lack the attitude to move them towards our optimal blueprint and an action that 'sings'.
Off our mats, we can make the same correlation.
I have on my home page, a quote section that comes up each morning with inspirational offerings. One of my favorites is: 'if you don't have time to do it right, when will you have time to do it over' (author unknown). Doing it 'right' is the alignment we make in life (and in our yoga practice).
Now go back to my urdhva dhanurasana efforts (this blog involves a lot of flashbacks). I know, because I've been told, that my alignment towards the pose is good. So, what's the problem? Maybe it's my attitude. I always dread the pose, I always used to think here comes another failure, or - worse - "everyone's watching me and thinking 'how did she get in here -- didn't the application say straight arms?'". That's my attitude stopping me from carrying the alignment into action.
So, alignment is our path to action, but depends on our attitude. Pretty simplistic, but it makes sense to me.
Next installment: Action
Have a nice Sunday
For me, a simple definition of alignment is setting the body in a specific way to create a pose that is effortless (almost), and feels good -- I know when it feels good, because I can hold it, I can breathe, I can really experience the organic extension.
Step back to attitude for a moment. Reflect on your practice. How easy is it to align your body, if the open, generous, strong attitude is not present? For me, one depends on the other. Lackadaisical, effortless poses are 99.9% of the time not aligned well because we lack the attitude to move them towards our optimal blueprint and an action that 'sings'.
Off our mats, we can make the same correlation.
I have on my home page, a quote section that comes up each morning with inspirational offerings. One of my favorites is: 'if you don't have time to do it right, when will you have time to do it over' (author unknown). Doing it 'right' is the alignment we make in life (and in our yoga practice).
Now go back to my urdhva dhanurasana efforts (this blog involves a lot of flashbacks). I know, because I've been told, that my alignment towards the pose is good. So, what's the problem? Maybe it's my attitude. I always dread the pose, I always used to think here comes another failure, or - worse - "everyone's watching me and thinking 'how did she get in here -- didn't the application say straight arms?'". That's my attitude stopping me from carrying the alignment into action.
So, alignment is our path to action, but depends on our attitude. Pretty simplistic, but it makes sense to me.
Next installment: Action
Have a nice Sunday
I'M TOO BUSY . . .
I really am. Too busy to continue my 3 A's discussion (this should have been Alignment), as the morning has been dedicated to getting ready to teach in a few hours. Don't worry, tho, it's on my list.
What this blog provides me is a ready source of themes and topics for classes. Just guess what my class this morning will hear? Right, a short discourse on the 3 A's, related to listening to one's body as we practice. Heart quality: mindfulness. I've already handwritten a couple of journal pages to get my head around what I would like the students to hear. (Up early, to get this done before husband & dogs join me - just like last week.)
Now to finish -- alignment principle(s) to work on, apex pose, sequence. Then walk the older dog, get ready, go in to the studio early to make sure it's ready, teach class, meet prospective teacher. Come home to continue getting ready for 7 days in TUCSON.
This will be my fifth year of going to Tucson for a weeklong training and weekend workshop with John Friend, founder of Anusara™ Yoga. It's always fun and rewarding -- a chance to re-connect with friends and learn more from John. Besides being fun, it always presents a challenge for me -- 7 days of yoga and lectures, lots of difficult poses and then there's the philosophy, working its way through brain circuits that were wired for 50 years to be very conservative. I always come back energized and ready to share my teachings, tho. What fun!
NOTE TO UP AND COMING TEACHERS: I have overheard conversations recently expressing the concern that they may never be accepted into a John Friend event. I do not believe that. If your studentship is sincere and dedicated, your efforts will be noticed and you will get in. It might not happen on the first application, but it will happen. Remember this: if you do not apply, you will not get it in. Now, that doesn't mean bombarding the office with unlimited applications. Review John's schedule on the Anusara™ website, www.anusara.com. Determine which ones are within your reach, and apply. Nothing ventured, nothing gained.
What this blog provides me is a ready source of themes and topics for classes. Just guess what my class this morning will hear? Right, a short discourse on the 3 A's, related to listening to one's body as we practice. Heart quality: mindfulness. I've already handwritten a couple of journal pages to get my head around what I would like the students to hear. (Up early, to get this done before husband & dogs join me - just like last week.)
Now to finish -- alignment principle(s) to work on, apex pose, sequence. Then walk the older dog, get ready, go in to the studio early to make sure it's ready, teach class, meet prospective teacher. Come home to continue getting ready for 7 days in TUCSON.
This will be my fifth year of going to Tucson for a weeklong training and weekend workshop with John Friend, founder of Anusara™ Yoga. It's always fun and rewarding -- a chance to re-connect with friends and learn more from John. Besides being fun, it always presents a challenge for me -- 7 days of yoga and lectures, lots of difficult poses and then there's the philosophy, working its way through brain circuits that were wired for 50 years to be very conservative. I always come back energized and ready to share my teachings, tho. What fun!
NOTE TO UP AND COMING TEACHERS: I have overheard conversations recently expressing the concern that they may never be accepted into a John Friend event. I do not believe that. If your studentship is sincere and dedicated, your efforts will be noticed and you will get in. It might not happen on the first application, but it will happen. Remember this: if you do not apply, you will not get it in. Now, that doesn't mean bombarding the office with unlimited applications. Review John's schedule on the Anusara™ website, www.anusara.com. Determine which ones are within your reach, and apply. Nothing ventured, nothing gained.
Enjoy your weekend,