THE CHALLENGING JOB OF SUBBING; 22 DAYS
Fridays are usually pretty laid back for me -- I teach one class (10 am Gentle Yoga), then the rest of the day is mine to do with as I please.
Yesterday, however, I offered to help a friend by subbing one of her corporate classes. Got there in the nick of time, and walked into 4 people who were (or were not?) very happy to see me. I took the plunge and began talking.
My friend's focus this month in this class is core power. Since I haven't seen specifically what she's been doing to cultivate that, I began with my trusty Hanuman story (remembering his power). We centered, started warming up (I used this opportunity to practice a drill to help me find fewer words), then began moving through a few sun salutations. A couple more wandered in, bringing the number to 6, and we continued. I noticed - almost immediately - that several people were working on automatic pilot, doing my friend's version of salutations -- then when they realized I hadn't asked them to do that, they had to get back in sync. An opportunity to pause for a 'beginner mind' reminder; how the presence of a sub gives us the gift of going back to that beginner mind and listening. No more auto pilot.
Core power is a good, great goal -- but, where does it come from? So, we moved from sun salutations to vasisthasana variations - from very modified to stacked feet (opportunity to demo ACTIVE feet -- drawing energy up into the pose, allowing power to permeate the entire body - especially the core - and then the organic expansion happens); then one foot in vrksasana; then WILD THING. My "air band" demo of Wild Thing (the song) brought forth laughter (oh no!), and the ice was broken. From there some eka pada rajakapotasana variations, including quad stretches Moved to dhanurasana. The hour nearly over, they cooled down a bit and took a short savasana.
Well, it was fun - and an opportunity to teach with abandon. I may sub for her again (I will, if asked), I may not -- so, I allowed myself to throw off my self-imposed limitations and go for it.
Sundari has had me do a similar exercise over the past year -- throw away the script and just teach. It's fun -- it is challenging but also very freeing. I love scripts, I love to know exactly where I'm headed. I now have a new direction that I love, as well.
Almost 60 (22 days) and doing 'air band' demos !?!?!? I guess getting older has some freeing elements to it, as well (if I allow them in).
Enjoy your Saturday,
Yesterday, however, I offered to help a friend by subbing one of her corporate classes. Got there in the nick of time, and walked into 4 people who were (or were not?) very happy to see me. I took the plunge and began talking.
My friend's focus this month in this class is core power. Since I haven't seen specifically what she's been doing to cultivate that, I began with my trusty Hanuman story (remembering his power). We centered, started warming up (I used this opportunity to practice a drill to help me find fewer words), then began moving through a few sun salutations. A couple more wandered in, bringing the number to 6, and we continued. I noticed - almost immediately - that several people were working on automatic pilot, doing my friend's version of salutations -- then when they realized I hadn't asked them to do that, they had to get back in sync. An opportunity to pause for a 'beginner mind' reminder; how the presence of a sub gives us the gift of going back to that beginner mind and listening. No more auto pilot.
Core power is a good, great goal -- but, where does it come from? So, we moved from sun salutations to vasisthasana variations - from very modified to stacked feet (opportunity to demo ACTIVE feet -- drawing energy up into the pose, allowing power to permeate the entire body - especially the core - and then the organic expansion happens); then one foot in vrksasana; then WILD THING. My "air band" demo of Wild Thing (the song) brought forth laughter (oh no!), and the ice was broken. From there some eka pada rajakapotasana variations, including quad stretches Moved to dhanurasana. The hour nearly over, they cooled down a bit and took a short savasana.
Well, it was fun - and an opportunity to teach with abandon. I may sub for her again (I will, if asked), I may not -- so, I allowed myself to throw off my self-imposed limitations and go for it.
Sundari has had me do a similar exercise over the past year -- throw away the script and just teach. It's fun -- it is challenging but also very freeing. I love scripts, I love to know exactly where I'm headed. I now have a new direction that I love, as well.
Almost 60 (22 days) and doing 'air band' demos !?!?!? I guess getting older has some freeing elements to it, as well (if I allow them in).
Enjoy your Saturday,
LAUGHING & THINKING DURING YOGA -- HORRORS ! (& 23 DAYS)
Over the past 36 hours, I've read several Facebook and blog entries (and comments) regarding laughter during yoga classes, as well as thinking. As in, some students are aghast at a class where laughter is accepted, and/or they simply want to be led through a series of movements as if they had a ring through their nose (pardon me - I have strong feelings here.)
I must have come into the world of yoga from another door, because yoga without laughter and without thinking - for me - is not yoga, it doesn't make me feel good, and it doesn't challenge me to look further than the surface, past the movement.
Why laugh? I'm not saying the whole class has to be a stand-up comedy act for me to enjoy it, but a teacher who can't utter a funny comment once in a while, or tolerate a bit of laughter from the group is (in my book) limited. Here's an example of the power of laughter: in a training in Tucson -- I think, I do know it was with John Friend. He said something, or perhaps a student demo'ing for him said something, that was a bit goofy and a few people started to giggle. The giggling soon expanded to a roomful of laughter. It died down after about a minute or so.
Then, out of the center of the room, came one individual round of laughter which caused the entire room to erupt again. This happened 3-4 times. John laughed along, tolerating perhaps the last round, then put us back to work. We had been working hard before this lapse of laughter, and we continued to work hard after; that period of uninhibited laughter took the edge off our work; for me, it took me back to my reasons for being there -- to learn, to enjoy, to NOT over-effort (kind of like letting the steam out of the pressure cooker).
Why think? Not sure about you, but I feel like the instructor doesn't think I have a brain when each and every move is spelled out and explained to me. I enjoy the sense of empowerment I get when I have to think. Thinking begins with listening. Listening is hard work, in itself. Then carrying out the instruction, while thinking "did I get it; do I understand?", makes me feel good. I also enjoy figuring things out -- like, if I do this, my knee hurts; if I change it in this way, the knee doesn't hurt - voila! Empowering my students to do a bit of thinking for themselves gives them confidence; I see growth in their poses because they're listening to me, embracing what I've said, and carrying it out in their poses. Good for them, good for me.
Just 23 days - the wisdom of six (6) decades staring me in the face.
Have a great Friday and laugh about something today -- even if it's to laugh at yourself,
I must have come into the world of yoga from another door, because yoga without laughter and without thinking - for me - is not yoga, it doesn't make me feel good, and it doesn't challenge me to look further than the surface, past the movement.
Why laugh? I'm not saying the whole class has to be a stand-up comedy act for me to enjoy it, but a teacher who can't utter a funny comment once in a while, or tolerate a bit of laughter from the group is (in my book) limited. Here's an example of the power of laughter: in a training in Tucson -- I think, I do know it was with John Friend. He said something, or perhaps a student demo'ing for him said something, that was a bit goofy and a few people started to giggle. The giggling soon expanded to a roomful of laughter. It died down after about a minute or so.
Then, out of the center of the room, came one individual round of laughter which caused the entire room to erupt again. This happened 3-4 times. John laughed along, tolerating perhaps the last round, then put us back to work. We had been working hard before this lapse of laughter, and we continued to work hard after; that period of uninhibited laughter took the edge off our work; for me, it took me back to my reasons for being there -- to learn, to enjoy, to NOT over-effort (kind of like letting the steam out of the pressure cooker).
Why think? Not sure about you, but I feel like the instructor doesn't think I have a brain when each and every move is spelled out and explained to me. I enjoy the sense of empowerment I get when I have to think. Thinking begins with listening. Listening is hard work, in itself. Then carrying out the instruction, while thinking "did I get it; do I understand?", makes me feel good. I also enjoy figuring things out -- like, if I do this, my knee hurts; if I change it in this way, the knee doesn't hurt - voila! Empowering my students to do a bit of thinking for themselves gives them confidence; I see growth in their poses because they're listening to me, embracing what I've said, and carrying it out in their poses. Good for them, good for me.
Just 23 days - the wisdom of six (6) decades staring me in the face.
Have a great Friday and laugh about something today -- even if it's to laugh at yourself,
24 DAYS & A NEW LANGUAGE
If you read yesterday's post, you know I began 'twittering'. This morning, I decided it would be a good idea to learn exactly how to go about this new venture. Unfortunately, I have yet to find the easy step-by-step instructions. I seem to have stepped right into something that's so developed, it feels like I'm a beginning skier being taken to a black diamond slope. Makes my head hurt!
I decided to read about 'hashtags' (in my vernacular, the pound - # - sign). After reading about them, I still do not know WHY they are used. If anyone can help, please let me know. The good thing: I've probably used the word 'vernacular' once in the past 25 years -- so, all this will expand my vocabulary if nothing else.
Enough -- maybe I'll twitter something today; then see what happens. And perhaps, like Facebook, things will become clearer as I work with it.
Video'd my Gentle Yoga Class yesterday. I did this just for me, besides I'm not sure that it would be viewable by anyone but myself. Especially since, during the quad stretches, there was considerable groaning, complaining, and even the previously heard "gentle my a_ _" utterance. Obviously, I don't do that kind of stretching often or enough. I hope this comment doesn't affect attendance (if anyone is reading from the class). Remember, the poses we need to do most are usually the least comfortable poses for us!
Today, Wayne's class and then pilates with Cindy (4th time this week!). Why 4 times? She asked me to step in for another student during her (Cindy's) evaluation. I found out she speaks the truth -- many pilates instructors get up close and personal as they teach. Lots of guiding, manually adjusting, etc., all to give us - the student - a tactile reference (another very rarely used word).
I'll teach YogaHour at 4 pm, then Yoga Specific at 5:45 pm (tonight's topic: Hips).
And - finally - your daily reminder: just 24 days!
Hope your day goes well,
I decided to read about 'hashtags' (in my vernacular, the pound - # - sign). After reading about them, I still do not know WHY they are used. If anyone can help, please let me know. The good thing: I've probably used the word 'vernacular' once in the past 25 years -- so, all this will expand my vocabulary if nothing else.
Enough -- maybe I'll twitter something today; then see what happens. And perhaps, like Facebook, things will become clearer as I work with it.
Video'd my Gentle Yoga Class yesterday. I did this just for me, besides I'm not sure that it would be viewable by anyone but myself. Especially since, during the quad stretches, there was considerable groaning, complaining, and even the previously heard "gentle my a_ _" utterance. Obviously, I don't do that kind of stretching often or enough. I hope this comment doesn't affect attendance (if anyone is reading from the class). Remember, the poses we need to do most are usually the least comfortable poses for us!
Today, Wayne's class and then pilates with Cindy (4th time this week!). Why 4 times? She asked me to step in for another student during her (Cindy's) evaluation. I found out she speaks the truth -- many pilates instructors get up close and personal as they teach. Lots of guiding, manually adjusting, etc., all to give us - the student - a tactile reference (another very rarely used word).
I'll teach YogaHour at 4 pm, then Yoga Specific at 5:45 pm (tonight's topic: Hips).
And - finally - your daily reminder: just 24 days!
Hope your day goes well,
BLOG, FACEBOOK, NOW TWITTER (?) & 25 DAYS
I established a twitter account this morning -- wrote in my first entry: "exploring twitter - expanding my world". All this technology, all these passwords, all this writing -- it's all growth. (I don't even really know what twitter is, but why not!)
Before I get too involved in this entry, tho, today is my oldest Grandson's birthday; so, Happy Birthday, Jake!
I got a lot of response from yesterday's blog -- that "in my heart" exercise hit home for a number of people and - because this blog is seen on Facebook - many of the comments came via that source.
I'm excited, also, because my friend, mentor, teacher - Sundari - has begun blogging about the training in Jackson (and she joined Facebook!). As I read her first entry, describing our after-hours walks through the museum, I was transported right back there. Having never been in or thought about being in a museum after hours - upon reflection, it was a very extraordinary experience. No background chatter, no one walking in front of or around you to get to the next piece, no distractions - just the works of art to be 'heard'. Great stuff. Check out her blog (link under "blogs/websites I love").
It has been a stress-filled Fall for this Anusara-Inspired™ yoga teacher. Since the Spring, I have dealt with the Dept. of Workforce Services regarding the status of teachers at my studio (independent contractors vs. employees). We are almost at the end of that road, but that road will take a turn and the future of teaching at this studio will assume a different color -- that of instructors conducting themselves as a business. Not an easy transition, but do-able and important. What does "conduct as a business" mean? LLC, business license, advertising/marketing themselves, insuring themselves, teaching at other locales as well as privates. Many already do some of this -- the regimentation of it all will be not-so-palatable for some.
On the positive side -- Workforce Services went back through 2006 and assessed $$$ up to this past quarter and it wasn't as bad as I thought it would be. There is a $$$ penalty, but my auditor is working with me to get that waived. Fingers crossed.
On other matters -- the road construction around the studio is just about finished. Some orange cones along the side of the road (marking BIG holes one wouldn't want their car to venture into), some metal plates covering other hazards; but - for the most part - done for the winter. Our parking lot is a bit messed up, with the elimination of one entry. That has people parking all over, driving every which way -- kind of feels like an "every person for themselves" mentality. Hopefully, that will calm and the landlord will re-stripe our parking lot -- giving us all some guidance.
My Mother is home from the hospital -- lots of help going in to the house to help both Mom & Dad. Daily calls from my Dad, asking questions, wondering when I'm going to be up there (not for a few weeks). I feel some guilt for not having run right up to help, but it wasn't a serious issue that caused my Mother's hospitalization; and there was plentiful help to be had and already in place. So, I'll try to let that guilt go for now.
Other smaller issues -- teachers deciding to vacate spots on the schedule and the need for a new furnace at the studio (a resultant rent increase).
Some days it has really been difficult to be "in my heart". My old mantra, 'this too shall pass', has been used repeatedly. I'm looking forward to better times for the studio and more "in my heart" moments.
Almost forgot -- just 25 days!
Enjoy your day,
Before I get too involved in this entry, tho, today is my oldest Grandson's birthday; so, Happy Birthday, Jake!
I got a lot of response from yesterday's blog -- that "in my heart" exercise hit home for a number of people and - because this blog is seen on Facebook - many of the comments came via that source.
I'm excited, also, because my friend, mentor, teacher - Sundari - has begun blogging about the training in Jackson (and she joined Facebook!). As I read her first entry, describing our after-hours walks through the museum, I was transported right back there. Having never been in or thought about being in a museum after hours - upon reflection, it was a very extraordinary experience. No background chatter, no one walking in front of or around you to get to the next piece, no distractions - just the works of art to be 'heard'. Great stuff. Check out her blog (link under "blogs/websites I love").
It has been a stress-filled Fall for this Anusara-Inspired™ yoga teacher. Since the Spring, I have dealt with the Dept. of Workforce Services regarding the status of teachers at my studio (independent contractors vs. employees). We are almost at the end of that road, but that road will take a turn and the future of teaching at this studio will assume a different color -- that of instructors conducting themselves as a business. Not an easy transition, but do-able and important. What does "conduct as a business" mean? LLC, business license, advertising/marketing themselves, insuring themselves, teaching at other locales as well as privates. Many already do some of this -- the regimentation of it all will be not-so-palatable for some.
On the positive side -- Workforce Services went back through 2006 and assessed $$$ up to this past quarter and it wasn't as bad as I thought it would be. There is a $$$ penalty, but my auditor is working with me to get that waived. Fingers crossed.
On other matters -- the road construction around the studio is just about finished. Some orange cones along the side of the road (marking BIG holes one wouldn't want their car to venture into), some metal plates covering other hazards; but - for the most part - done for the winter. Our parking lot is a bit messed up, with the elimination of one entry. That has people parking all over, driving every which way -- kind of feels like an "every person for themselves" mentality. Hopefully, that will calm and the landlord will re-stripe our parking lot -- giving us all some guidance.
My Mother is home from the hospital -- lots of help going in to the house to help both Mom & Dad. Daily calls from my Dad, asking questions, wondering when I'm going to be up there (not for a few weeks). I feel some guilt for not having run right up to help, but it wasn't a serious issue that caused my Mother's hospitalization; and there was plentiful help to be had and already in place. So, I'll try to let that guilt go for now.
Other smaller issues -- teachers deciding to vacate spots on the schedule and the need for a new furnace at the studio (a resultant rent increase).
Some days it has really been difficult to be "in my heart". My old mantra, 'this too shall pass', has been used repeatedly. I'm looking forward to better times for the studio and more "in my heart" moments.
Almost forgot -- just 25 days!
Enjoy your day,
26 DAYS & A REMINDER (COINCIDENCE?)
Yesterday, after sending my e-newsletter to students and friends, I received a very nice comment from one student.
I believe it shows a great deal of personal growth and integrity to sit down and write a totally complimentary e-mail. An e-mail intended to do nothing but provide positive feedback to the recipient. For me, it's a growth experience -- I love doing it, but it's out of that old 'comfort zone'; for others, it may be easy. Not sure how it is for the student who wrote me, but it was so meaningful to have someone notice and take the time to write it down and then send it.
So, what's the coincidence and reminder? The power of positive speaking.
This morning, a close friend mentioned the negative rhetoric overheard from co-workers about their work situation. I was in the middle of reviewing my "Yoga of Discipline" book, so looked for some appropriate quotes that could be used in response. I didn't come up with any direct quotes for this situation, but I did come away with this feeling: Negative speech is like negative prana (energy). We lose our power when we allow speech to flow without discrimination, without some kind of check.
The next coincidence / reminder? At the training last week, we were given a quiz and the person with the most correct answers won a prize. I won -- it was a quiz with 11 questions, all relating to what we observed in the museum where the training was being held. As a prize, I received a set of "Angel Therapy Oracle Cards". Every day or so, I draw a card. What did I draw this morning? "Cancel, Clear, Delete" Meaning: Negative affirmations are to be swept away, replaced with positive, radiant intentions.
Try this exercise: Sit with yourself, and write 10 sentences; 5 begin with "I am in my heart when I _______." The other 5 begin with "I am not in my heart when I __________." Example: "I am in my heart when I call an old friend." "I am not in my heart when I gossip." Like that. Don't think too much, just write. (It's even better if you can do it with an understanding friend and they can respond in kind.) Sundari asked us to do this exercise in our training last week -- powerful reminder.
What else did I come up with from "Yoga of Discipline"? Lots of stuff; including: Before I speak, pause - that's a good place to cancel, clear, delete.
O.K., so 26 days -- are you excited yet? Going to Wayne's class this a.m., pilates this afternoon, teach at 4.
Enjoy your Tuesday,
I believe it shows a great deal of personal growth and integrity to sit down and write a totally complimentary e-mail. An e-mail intended to do nothing but provide positive feedback to the recipient. For me, it's a growth experience -- I love doing it, but it's out of that old 'comfort zone'; for others, it may be easy. Not sure how it is for the student who wrote me, but it was so meaningful to have someone notice and take the time to write it down and then send it.
So, what's the coincidence and reminder? The power of positive speaking.
This morning, a close friend mentioned the negative rhetoric overheard from co-workers about their work situation. I was in the middle of reviewing my "Yoga of Discipline" book, so looked for some appropriate quotes that could be used in response. I didn't come up with any direct quotes for this situation, but I did come away with this feeling: Negative speech is like negative prana (energy). We lose our power when we allow speech to flow without discrimination, without some kind of check.
The next coincidence / reminder? At the training last week, we were given a quiz and the person with the most correct answers won a prize. I won -- it was a quiz with 11 questions, all relating to what we observed in the museum where the training was being held. As a prize, I received a set of "Angel Therapy Oracle Cards". Every day or so, I draw a card. What did I draw this morning? "Cancel, Clear, Delete" Meaning: Negative affirmations are to be swept away, replaced with positive, radiant intentions.
Try this exercise: Sit with yourself, and write 10 sentences; 5 begin with "I am in my heart when I _______." The other 5 begin with "I am not in my heart when I __________." Example: "I am in my heart when I call an old friend." "I am not in my heart when I gossip." Like that. Don't think too much, just write. (It's even better if you can do it with an understanding friend and they can respond in kind.) Sundari asked us to do this exercise in our training last week -- powerful reminder.
What else did I come up with from "Yoga of Discipline"? Lots of stuff; including: Before I speak, pause - that's a good place to cancel, clear, delete.
O.K., so 26 days -- are you excited yet? Going to Wayne's class this a.m., pilates this afternoon, teach at 4.
Enjoy your Tuesday,
27 DAYS . . .
The countdown has replaced "blue flashlight". Not promising any fireworks at the end of this count, but it will provide fodder for this blog.
"Blue flashlight" reminded me of Jack, which means you get a Halloween story about him. He loves M&M's; so much, that he does not eat any other kind of candy (his choice). So, picture Trick or Treating -- as in, not every house will provide M&M's. How did he handle this? (My mental picture of the scene is that he got a bit upset when offered a candy other than M&M's.) At each house, he looked over the candy selection. If there were M&M's, great; if not, he was heard to say "Happy Halloween! No thank you." to the candy. Poor kid ended up with about six small bags of M&M's in his bag. In this case, being selective may not be such a bad thing; at least his Mother won't have to argue with him about what to eat when.
So, moving on. I perused some blogs this morning before entering mine -- the two I selected, Rajanaka Yoga (Douglas Brooks) and YogaNerd (Zhenja LaRosa) are so out of my league that I am sitting here in awe. Of course, they write in their blogs once a month -- lots of time to write an incredible, thought-filled, and informative blog entry. My style - writing every day or so - offers readers a bit more of the mundane, everyday topics (like flashlights & countdowns). Oh, well, it works for me.
My experience teaching this weekend was less than auspicious. It is interesting how the energy of one person can affect the entire class -- especially the instructor (me). I planned the class in advance, I reviewed, I also planned to video. First, the video camera would not record. So, after a couple minutes of fumbling with that, I gave up and moved on. The energy I speak about was palpable -- stoic, non-conversational, body language that said "don't mess with me". Interesting because I enjoy this person, and thought the feeling was mutual. Maybe just off to a bad start that morning(?).
As class progressed, things got better -- a bit of laughter, and a bit of conversation. Unfortunately, for me, I allowed my well-laid plans to be thrown off, and I found myself teaching from the technical instead of from the heart.
Why mention this? Because I will learn from it. I can learn that my bad start, my bad mood, when projected into a room has the potential to affect other people and their experience. I'm not sure that happened (that others were affected); maybe only I began stuttering and stammering as a result. Perhaps no one else noticed or cared. But, I did. What's that about? And, because people are people, I'd better figure out a way to handle it in the future.
Enjoy your Monday,
"Blue flashlight" reminded me of Jack, which means you get a Halloween story about him. He loves M&M's; so much, that he does not eat any other kind of candy (his choice). So, picture Trick or Treating -- as in, not every house will provide M&M's. How did he handle this? (My mental picture of the scene is that he got a bit upset when offered a candy other than M&M's.) At each house, he looked over the candy selection. If there were M&M's, great; if not, he was heard to say "Happy Halloween! No thank you." to the candy. Poor kid ended up with about six small bags of M&M's in his bag. In this case, being selective may not be such a bad thing; at least his Mother won't have to argue with him about what to eat when.
So, moving on. I perused some blogs this morning before entering mine -- the two I selected, Rajanaka Yoga (Douglas Brooks) and YogaNerd (Zhenja LaRosa) are so out of my league that I am sitting here in awe. Of course, they write in their blogs once a month -- lots of time to write an incredible, thought-filled, and informative blog entry. My style - writing every day or so - offers readers a bit more of the mundane, everyday topics (like flashlights & countdowns). Oh, well, it works for me.
My experience teaching this weekend was less than auspicious. It is interesting how the energy of one person can affect the entire class -- especially the instructor (me). I planned the class in advance, I reviewed, I also planned to video. First, the video camera would not record. So, after a couple minutes of fumbling with that, I gave up and moved on. The energy I speak about was palpable -- stoic, non-conversational, body language that said "don't mess with me". Interesting because I enjoy this person, and thought the feeling was mutual. Maybe just off to a bad start that morning(?).
As class progressed, things got better -- a bit of laughter, and a bit of conversation. Unfortunately, for me, I allowed my well-laid plans to be thrown off, and I found myself teaching from the technical instead of from the heart.
Why mention this? Because I will learn from it. I can learn that my bad start, my bad mood, when projected into a room has the potential to affect other people and their experience. I'm not sure that happened (that others were affected); maybe only I began stuttering and stammering as a result. Perhaps no one else noticed or cared. But, I did. What's that about? And, because people are people, I'd better figure out a way to handle it in the future.
Enjoy your Monday,
COUNTING DOWN . . .
In 28 days I will reach a milestone in my life ("28 Days" was also the name of a movie about a recovering substance abuser - Sandra Bullock). Mine isn't about substance abuse, but it is a MAJOR birthday.
I don't write this so I'll get cards, gifts and letters (or e-mails), but as part of my acceptance (back to that word, again) of this particular birthday. It will be my 60th.
At the training I was at last week, on the first day, Sundari asked the youngest and the oldest to teach a pose to the group -- guess who was the 'oldest'? That has rarely happened in the past; better get used to it. And, as I listened to Sundari and John, I am reminded that I am also older than my teachers!
More on being older, later -- it's going to be a long month for you and me.
Short blog this a.m. Going in to the studio to do some cleaning before the 9:30 class. The studio's furnace was replaced yesterday afternoon - I hope successfully. There may be some residual clean-up from that project, plus I noticed the mirrors were a bit smeared as I taught yesterday.
Hope you have a nice Sunday,
I don't write this so I'll get cards, gifts and letters (or e-mails), but as part of my acceptance (back to that word, again) of this particular birthday. It will be my 60th.
At the training I was at last week, on the first day, Sundari asked the youngest and the oldest to teach a pose to the group -- guess who was the 'oldest'? That has rarely happened in the past; better get used to it. And, as I listened to Sundari and John, I am reminded that I am also older than my teachers!
More on being older, later -- it's going to be a long month for you and me.
Short blog this a.m. Going in to the studio to do some cleaning before the 9:30 class. The studio's furnace was replaced yesterday afternoon - I hope successfully. There may be some residual clean-up from that project, plus I noticed the mirrors were a bit smeared as I taught yesterday.
Hope you have a nice Sunday,
HAPPY HALLOWEEN
I was just about to shut the computer down, thinking I had little to offer to 'blog-land' this morning. Just as my finger approached the 'shut down' button, I remembered "It's Halloween".
Not sure what I can offer in the way of contemplative thoughts regarding Halloween and it's significance, but I am sure it's worth a mention, at least.
So, I googled "Halloween" and clicked on the Wikipedia site for a "cliff notes' history. Surprise, Surprise! There was the word Samhain, which I had seen in John Friend's latest Twitter entry. What is Samhain (pronounced sow-in)? It's a Celtic word meaning 'summers end'. It marks the movement from the lighter half of the year into the darker half. (All this comes from Wikipedia.)
I've copied part of the Wikipedia entry, rather than try to re-write it in any understandable way: "The celebration has some elements of a festival of the dead. The ancient Celts believed that the border between this world and the Otherworld became thin on Samhain, allowing spirits (both harmless and harmful) to pass through. The family's ancestors were honoured and invited home whilst harmful spirits were warded off. It is believed that the need to ward off harmful spirits led to the wearing of costumes and masks. Their purpose was to disguise oneself as a harmful spirit and thus avoid harm."
Interesting. I've never even been curious about Halloween; just thought it was a time to hand out candy (or hide in the darkness, if I hadn't thought ahead and bought any candy -- ahh, the real secrets come out).
So, now I know. A time to honor our ancestors - good and bad.
Hope you have a nice Halloween,
Not sure what I can offer in the way of contemplative thoughts regarding Halloween and it's significance, but I am sure it's worth a mention, at least.
So, I googled "Halloween" and clicked on the Wikipedia site for a "cliff notes' history. Surprise, Surprise! There was the word Samhain, which I had seen in John Friend's latest Twitter entry. What is Samhain (pronounced sow-in)? It's a Celtic word meaning 'summers end'. It marks the movement from the lighter half of the year into the darker half. (All this comes from Wikipedia.)
I've copied part of the Wikipedia entry, rather than try to re-write it in any understandable way: "The celebration has some elements of a festival of the dead. The ancient Celts believed that the border between this world and the Otherworld became thin on Samhain, allowing spirits (both harmless and harmful) to pass through. The family's ancestors were honoured and invited home whilst harmful spirits were warded off. It is believed that the need to ward off harmful spirits led to the wearing of costumes and masks. Their purpose was to disguise oneself as a harmful spirit and thus avoid harm."
Interesting. I've never even been curious about Halloween; just thought it was a time to hand out candy (or hide in the darkness, if I hadn't thought ahead and bought any candy -- ahh, the real secrets come out).
So, now I know. A time to honor our ancestors - good and bad.
Hope you have a nice Halloween,
BLUE FLASHLIGHT SAGA ENDS, at least for me
The worry of Wednesday is somewhat abated -- my Mother (tho still in the hospital) does not have anything serious going on. At least nothing they've found yet. A few things, tho, that would explain her back pain and other complaints lately. Ah, the beauty of aging.
The lesson for me in this? Plan.
I know that I have an aversion to consider aging and it's complications. But, in fairness to my son, I do need to think through what happens when, and then accept it. (We're back to acceptance.) Oh, I do have a will and other legal documents, but when does he (or I) take my driver's license away? When does he (or I) make the decision to look to 'assisted living'? I hope that I am able to do most of that decision making, but it is so easy to resist thinking about it.
On to lighter topics like the blue flashlight!
The blue flashlight arrived safely in California yesterday - just as UPS promised. There is a message on my phone thanking me. Before I listened to it, tho, I called them to update them on my Mother. Who answered? Jack. "thank you, grandma Leslie, for my blue flashlight" So cute! Two months ago, he would barely talk on the phone. Now, he's a veritable chatterbox. The problem? I can't understand everything he says. Who knows what he's saying as I respond "oh, that sounds like so much fun". Oh well, it's a conversation.
My advice to his parents: buy lots of batteries for that blue flashlight.
Classes yesterday went well. I'm finding words and phrases I didn't know were inside waiting to come out. My class last night was about remembering our power. I used the Hanuman story (being reminded of his power), and related it to how I feel when I do handstand or simply stand on one leg. Students can relate through their own experiences in the practice. So, most of the students present were returning to the practice after a long hiatus, or injury, so we couldn't do a real "power" class per se. At the end, I made a closing statement relating power to discipline, to creating stability in our foundations, to standing tall, and to simply being lighthearted. Where did that come from? Not sure, but I'm loving it.
Hope you have a nice Friday,
The lesson for me in this? Plan.
I know that I have an aversion to consider aging and it's complications. But, in fairness to my son, I do need to think through what happens when, and then accept it. (We're back to acceptance.) Oh, I do have a will and other legal documents, but when does he (or I) take my driver's license away? When does he (or I) make the decision to look to 'assisted living'? I hope that I am able to do most of that decision making, but it is so easy to resist thinking about it.
On to lighter topics like the blue flashlight!
The blue flashlight arrived safely in California yesterday - just as UPS promised. There is a message on my phone thanking me. Before I listened to it, tho, I called them to update them on my Mother. Who answered? Jack. "thank you, grandma Leslie, for my blue flashlight" So cute! Two months ago, he would barely talk on the phone. Now, he's a veritable chatterbox. The problem? I can't understand everything he says. Who knows what he's saying as I respond "oh, that sounds like so much fun". Oh well, it's a conversation.
My advice to his parents: buy lots of batteries for that blue flashlight.
Classes yesterday went well. I'm finding words and phrases I didn't know were inside waiting to come out. My class last night was about remembering our power. I used the Hanuman story (being reminded of his power), and related it to how I feel when I do handstand or simply stand on one leg. Students can relate through their own experiences in the practice. So, most of the students present were returning to the practice after a long hiatus, or injury, so we couldn't do a real "power" class per se. At the end, I made a closing statement relating power to discipline, to creating stability in our foundations, to standing tall, and to simply being lighthearted. Where did that come from? Not sure, but I'm loving it.
Hope you have a nice Friday,
WEDNESDAY'S WONDER & WORRY
I taught my first 'official' post-training yoga class yesterday (Wednesday). (I had taught on Tuesday, but it's a one-hour class and I'm not sure I can call that 'official' by yoga standards.)
The Wednesday class is a Gentle Yoga class, attended by students ages 40-86. Students choose this class because they have an injury, they haven't moved for a while, or they're looking for more than their gym or community center is able to offer in the way of individual attention and modification.
So, pull out the chairs and watch the eyes -- pure horror, as in "We're going to use chairs?!?! What kind of yoga is this?"
My theme yesterday revolved around acceptance. The motivation was personal, but everyone can relate -- whether they accept or reject their bodies, something about their personality, or something about another person.
The most powerful moment came when I asked everyone to stand sideways on their mat and take triangle. Acceptance walked right into the room and took center stage with this pose. Watching students, I saw all shapes and manner of triangle. I had encouraged use of blocks or (horrors) chair to support the lower hand. Everyone, tho, was trying to do their best (and keep up with their neighbor), so many were attempting to get the hand to the floor.
I pulled one out of a very distorted triangle, handed her a chair, and asked her to do the pose using the chair as a foundation for the bottom hand. Music to my ears as she opened into a very aligned trichonasana.
Since no one else had seen this transformation, I asked them to gather round and watch as we did the other side. Another song, as she opened her heart and gracefully gazed up towards her extended arm.
Having demonstrated this, I decided everyone should do the pose again. Each person wisely decided what prop to use (or not to use), and I had a room full of singing trichonasanas ("The Singing Trichonasanas" -- good name for something, hey?).
I don't always advocate using props, but - especially in this class - using props is accepting and then working with the limitations that age, surgery, chronic conditions, etc., have placed on us (even if it is only temporary). There will be time to work on the pose and, eventually perhaps, discard the prop; while we do that work, tho, the body is loving the direction the prop offers to safe, prana-filled alignment.
So, that was the 'wonder' of Wednesday.
The 'worry', you ask? I got a call yesterday afternoon that my Mother, who is 85, was being transported to the hospital in Spokane. Heart rate - 32 !!! coupled with high blood pressure. This leaves my Father, who is not mobile enough to be left on his own in their home, to be cared for. Luckily I have a cousin who will step in. Now waiting for word on just what is causing this condition. There is a bit of relief in all of this, it explains a lot of what she has been experiencing lately in her daily life -- fatigue, palpitations, anxiety, memory issues. So, waiting for updates.
Enjoy your day,
The Wednesday class is a Gentle Yoga class, attended by students ages 40-86. Students choose this class because they have an injury, they haven't moved for a while, or they're looking for more than their gym or community center is able to offer in the way of individual attention and modification.
So, pull out the chairs and watch the eyes -- pure horror, as in "We're going to use chairs?!?! What kind of yoga is this?"
My theme yesterday revolved around acceptance. The motivation was personal, but everyone can relate -- whether they accept or reject their bodies, something about their personality, or something about another person.
The most powerful moment came when I asked everyone to stand sideways on their mat and take triangle. Acceptance walked right into the room and took center stage with this pose. Watching students, I saw all shapes and manner of triangle. I had encouraged use of blocks or (horrors) chair to support the lower hand. Everyone, tho, was trying to do their best (and keep up with their neighbor), so many were attempting to get the hand to the floor.
I pulled one out of a very distorted triangle, handed her a chair, and asked her to do the pose using the chair as a foundation for the bottom hand. Music to my ears as she opened into a very aligned trichonasana.
Since no one else had seen this transformation, I asked them to gather round and watch as we did the other side. Another song, as she opened her heart and gracefully gazed up towards her extended arm.
Having demonstrated this, I decided everyone should do the pose again. Each person wisely decided what prop to use (or not to use), and I had a room full of singing trichonasanas ("The Singing Trichonasanas" -- good name for something, hey?).
I don't always advocate using props, but - especially in this class - using props is accepting and then working with the limitations that age, surgery, chronic conditions, etc., have placed on us (even if it is only temporary). There will be time to work on the pose and, eventually perhaps, discard the prop; while we do that work, tho, the body is loving the direction the prop offers to safe, prana-filled alignment.
So, that was the 'wonder' of Wednesday.
The 'worry', you ask? I got a call yesterday afternoon that my Mother, who is 85, was being transported to the hospital in Spokane. Heart rate - 32 !!! coupled with high blood pressure. This leaves my Father, who is not mobile enough to be left on his own in their home, to be cared for. Luckily I have a cousin who will step in. Now waiting for word on just what is causing this condition. There is a bit of relief in all of this, it explains a lot of what she has been experiencing lately in her daily life -- fatigue, palpitations, anxiety, memory issues. So, waiting for updates.
Enjoy your day,
NOW APPEARING ON FACEBOOK
Last week, before leaving for Driggs & Jackson, I poked around Facebook and discovered how to link this blog to Faceook. The result? Each day that I post to the blog, Facebook will pick it up and a few (or many) hours later it will appear for all my friends to read.
Facebook is still a relative mystery to me. I rarely offer comments, unless someone is doing something really remarkable (like Kara - an outstanding horsewoman & good friend - who will be volunteering her time and skills to a group of special needs children with the aid of horses). To see my face each day, sending my thoughts to the world (o.k. - not the world, just my 81 friends), is causing me pause.
As in, do I really want EVERYONE reading my thoughts. This may come from my own insecurity, my own resistance to promoting myself. Not sure. Maybe I just need to get used to it.
So, I'm thinking of a list of pros and cons to this process. Here goes:
PROS
After the training last week, I am getting e-mails and pics from many of the attendees. It is valuable to participate in trainings periodically; and, as valuable, to meet new people and hear their thoughts and questions. So, I am loving the communication. The pictures are fun too. Here's our group:
Facebook is still a relative mystery to me. I rarely offer comments, unless someone is doing something really remarkable (like Kara - an outstanding horsewoman & good friend - who will be volunteering her time and skills to a group of special needs children with the aid of horses). To see my face each day, sending my thoughts to the world (o.k. - not the world, just my 81 friends), is causing me pause.
As in, do I really want EVERYONE reading my thoughts. This may come from my own insecurity, my own resistance to promoting myself. Not sure. Maybe I just need to get used to it.
So, I'm thinking of a list of pros and cons to this process. Here goes:
PROS
- More exposure
- More readers
- Moving out of comfort zone (always a big push for me)
- More exposure - Do I really want it?
- More readers - A good thing, but do I really want it?
- Moving out of comfort zone - Letting the world (o.k. - 81 people) really SEE part of me.
After the training last week, I am getting e-mails and pics from many of the attendees. It is valuable to participate in trainings periodically; and, as valuable, to meet new people and hear their thoughts and questions. So, I am loving the communication. The pictures are fun too. Here's our group:
For more, check out Sundari's blog in a few days -- click on 'Sundari' under Blogs/Websites I Love
We've had snow (as has Jackson & Montana). Whew! Were we lucky with the weather last week, especially when you consider I and my 3 guests were driving over the pass from Driggs to Jackson and back each day. Another auspicious element to this training -- the weather was clear, sunny and almost warm!
Take care & enjoy your Wednesday,
RESTED & READY
As in, practice - teach - study. Yesterday, I took the opportunity to rest. I did a bit of paperwork at the studio in the morning, then retreated to home.
This morning, after yesterday's nap and a long night's sleep, I feel much better. More ready to apply some of what I learned last week. I say "some", because there have been times in my life that I've returned from a training or workshop and begun to try to teach everything I learned. Wrong approach. For me, it wasn't my voice, my experience, and - poor students - they got a less-than authentic class.
So, take it slow. Think about what I learned, what I observed, and how I can apply it in my life and in my teaching. Then, and only then, take it into my classes.
I listened to phone messages last night. Of note, was one from my grandson, Jack (almost 3-years-old). I sent him a card during the training, on which the photo was of a painting in the museum titled "Chief" -- a huge painting of a buffalo, emerging from the mist and gazing right out at the observer. Jack told me several things, including:
Hope you have a great Tuesday,
This morning, after yesterday's nap and a long night's sleep, I feel much better. More ready to apply some of what I learned last week. I say "some", because there have been times in my life that I've returned from a training or workshop and begun to try to teach everything I learned. Wrong approach. For me, it wasn't my voice, my experience, and - poor students - they got a less-than authentic class.
So, take it slow. Think about what I learned, what I observed, and how I can apply it in my life and in my teaching. Then, and only then, take it into my classes.
I listened to phone messages last night. Of note, was one from my grandson, Jack (almost 3-years-old). I sent him a card during the training, on which the photo was of a painting in the museum titled "Chief" -- a huge painting of a buffalo, emerging from the mist and gazing right out at the observer. Jack told me several things, including:
- Thank you for the buffalo card
- I don't cry anymore when I brush my teeth
- Something about stickers (this may be a reward system for brushing teeth and other tasks)
- Something else I didn't quite catch
- And, finally, a comment (and - I'm sure) a reminder about the flashlight - which I will send off today. What will I write about once the blue flashlight saga is over?
Hope you have a great Tuesday,
HOME LATE, BUT HOME SAFE
The final day of my training in Jackson was another great, albeit long one. The overriding message (for me) of the week, to allow my essential self to uncover itself. I am a good (great) teacher and person; yet I am wearing a lot of layers, covering those qualities up at times. If I soften, that goodness will reveal itself.
At moments, during this past week, I observed that happening. It takes practice, but it is possible. That was a BIG lesson for me.
I was also reminded to teach from my heart and to remember (and honor) my teachers. Part two of that reminder is easy for me; the first - teaching from my heart - is harder. I love technical, it's safe; the heart is risky. I know now, however, it's do-able.
Three powerful messages, don't you think?
Now back to routine. Got home late, slept a bit, up and into Monday's routine. I am keeping this short. First, after all the study and being a bit tired, it's hard to put thoughts to paper in an understandable way. This was a week I won't soon forget.
Enjoy your week,
At moments, during this past week, I observed that happening. It takes practice, but it is possible. That was a BIG lesson for me.
I was also reminded to teach from my heart and to remember (and honor) my teachers. Part two of that reminder is easy for me; the first - teaching from my heart - is harder. I love technical, it's safe; the heart is risky. I know now, however, it's do-able.
Three powerful messages, don't you think?
Now back to routine. Got home late, slept a bit, up and into Monday's routine. I am keeping this short. First, after all the study and being a bit tired, it's hard to put thoughts to paper in an understandable way. This was a week I won't soon forget.
Enjoy your week,
AUSPICIOUS MOMENTS
Each day of this training has brought with it auspicious moments -- whether in or out of the classroom. Some examples:
It will be a shorter day today. 9-4 or 4:30. But, by the time we finish, load the blankets and blocks I brought, and hit the road, it will probably be 5:30 or 6. Driving home tonight - 5 hours or so.
Have a great Sunday,
- One morning, as I stepped out onto the porch, I looked up the drive towards the road. We have a log arch over our driveway entrance. Sitting on it that morning were the owls. If you follow my blog, you'll remember the two owls from a month or so back. They have appeared this Fall, sitting in trees on our property - hopefully, getting fat from the moles burrowing through our lawn. I went back inside to tell the others to come look. Just as we stepped back out onto the deck, the owls swooped past us, right over the top of my car. Everyone tells me owls are auspicious; Bonnie (from Montana) tells me that the tribal members from the Flathead Reservation relate owls to change.
- Discovering new ways to look at pieces of art in the museum is, in itself, auspicious -- I will never walk through a museum or gallery again without paying attention.
- Listening and hearing my fellow students in this training. Many blogs back I wrote about the skill of listening -- I am re-learning and practicing those skills here. Attitude - making up my mind to listen attentively; Aligning - making eye contact, not diverting to other - maybe more interesting - things; and Action - being open to what is being said; as in, not allowing my own opinions to enter the conversation until the speaker has finished and I've taken a breath.
- Standing in line to refill coffee, and turning to the gentleman behind me. Made some light conversation, introduced myself. Discussed the art. Met his wife. Who were they? Very generous patrons of the museum, who had just sponsored (definition: given) a major work of art to the museum, which was hung during our training.
- John Friend calling yesterday morning at 10:45 am (a Saturday, mind you, after weeks of travel and before more weeks of travel), to offer his blessings and some comments for us to remember during this training and as we teach.
- Finding the blue flashlight (a more practical auspicious moment - but, nevertheless, important in the life on one cute 3-year-old).
It will be a shorter day today. 9-4 or 4:30. But, by the time we finish, load the blankets and blocks I brought, and hit the road, it will probably be 5:30 or 6. Driving home tonight - 5 hours or so.
Have a great Sunday,
BEFORE EVERYONE WAKES
The house is quiet. My three guests have yet to appear, and there's no sound or evidence that they are awakening yet. Perfect time to let my mind wander and a perfect time to write in this blog.
Yesterday was llooonnngggg (long). 9-7 again, 1 hour for lunch. The morning went longer than the first two - 5 hours, instead of 3 - which made the afternoon seem short (a good thing). Interestingly, I have been sleeping less than normal (I'm usually a 9:30-4:30 type; this week's been 11-5), but each day I've felt awake; no sleepy moments. The space? The topic? The group? The teacher? A combination of all? The latter, I think.
We began diving into sequencing yesterday. After several of these types of trainings, this clarifies a lot to me and will add to my confidence. I look at those that are new to trainings (or teaching), and think back on how overwhelming all of this can be. Yet it does all begin to make sense, to fall into place -- eventually.
As a group, we ventured into the gallery at the end of the day. Very quiet, so we can talk and laugh a bit without disturbing patrons of the museum. Sundari guided us through the museum, stopping at several pieces and asking volunteers to describe the piece applying the Principles of Alignment. In each piece, as people began to speak, the Principles came alive. It was interesting, also, to hear what some saw that others may not have seen.
I will never walk through a gallery again mindlessly. And, reflecting on the intention and power in the works represented will be a source of inspiration (and themes).
As an Anusara-Inspired® yoga instructor, there was a time when I would, in talking to an established Anusara® teacher, hear "there's a theme in there somewhere". Now I hear myself saying it -- even during casual conversation with my friends and fellow students.
So, the training proceeds. Today will include dinner as a group, and a bit more discussion. The different location, the lack of yoga clothes, not sitting on the floor -- all elements that will add to this training and build our Kula of first-ever Wyoming Teacher Training participants.
If you were wondering about the "blue flashlight", it is found. It was safely hiding under the bed just waiting to be found. I called Jack with the news, asking his Mother (very formally) if I could speak with Jack Berg. She put him on, I shared the finding with him. His response: A squeal of delight, as he told his mother "the blue flashlight, the blue flashlight". I asked him if sending it was o.k. Yes, it is. He will be patient, I think.
People are moving. Time to be a hostess and get my nose out of this computer.
Enjoy your weekend,
Yesterday was llooonnngggg (long). 9-7 again, 1 hour for lunch. The morning went longer than the first two - 5 hours, instead of 3 - which made the afternoon seem short (a good thing). Interestingly, I have been sleeping less than normal (I'm usually a 9:30-4:30 type; this week's been 11-5), but each day I've felt awake; no sleepy moments. The space? The topic? The group? The teacher? A combination of all? The latter, I think.
We began diving into sequencing yesterday. After several of these types of trainings, this clarifies a lot to me and will add to my confidence. I look at those that are new to trainings (or teaching), and think back on how overwhelming all of this can be. Yet it does all begin to make sense, to fall into place -- eventually.
As a group, we ventured into the gallery at the end of the day. Very quiet, so we can talk and laugh a bit without disturbing patrons of the museum. Sundari guided us through the museum, stopping at several pieces and asking volunteers to describe the piece applying the Principles of Alignment. In each piece, as people began to speak, the Principles came alive. It was interesting, also, to hear what some saw that others may not have seen.
I will never walk through a gallery again mindlessly. And, reflecting on the intention and power in the works represented will be a source of inspiration (and themes).
As an Anusara-Inspired® yoga instructor, there was a time when I would, in talking to an established Anusara® teacher, hear "there's a theme in there somewhere". Now I hear myself saying it -- even during casual conversation with my friends and fellow students.
So, the training proceeds. Today will include dinner as a group, and a bit more discussion. The different location, the lack of yoga clothes, not sitting on the floor -- all elements that will add to this training and build our Kula of first-ever Wyoming Teacher Training participants.
If you were wondering about the "blue flashlight", it is found. It was safely hiding under the bed just waiting to be found. I called Jack with the news, asking his Mother (very formally) if I could speak with Jack Berg. She put him on, I shared the finding with him. His response: A squeal of delight, as he told his mother "the blue flashlight, the blue flashlight". I asked him if sending it was o.k. Yes, it is. He will be patient, I think.
People are moving. Time to be a hostess and get my nose out of this computer.
Enjoy your weekend,
FRIDAY MORNING
All through the house was quiet until about 15 minutes ago. Not a bad thing, but takes away from the creative powers of blog writing.
Yesterday was another good day at the Wildlife Museum (I was mistaken in the name yesterday) of Jackson, Wyoming. 16 of us are enjoying this training with Sundari; hometowns include Jackson, Denver, Riverton, Idaho Falls, Driggs, SLC, St. George, etc. So, a diverse group with varied levels of experience teaching yoga.
I have done several teacher trainings so far. This one is unique because of the venue (the museum) and some of the components. We are doing all the required stuff, but add to that walks through the museum and applying the principles to a particular piece of art or sculpture. And, there's the mirror we each are creating of ourselves.
Lay out 16 pieces of paper, everyone lies down on one and a partner outlines them on the paper. Then, it is our job to reflect on our lives - both teaching and personal, and decorate that mirror. We aren't doing it all at once. We are doing it one day at a time, as new things about ourselves become revealed in the mirror.
My talent is not art. These two components, however, are great teaching tools. One, I am really LOOKING at the art in the museum. And, when I find a piece that speaks to me, I can journal about it, apply yoga principles to the characteristics, etc. -- an interesting way to look at these wonderful pieces.
Two, each day as we go to our 'mirror', I am reminded of what I thought the day before. Then, I can add to it as things - emotions, knowledge, wisdom - are revealed. My lack of artistic talent in drawing is a bit of a hindrance, but my mirror is become more embellished despite that.
So, onward. More teaching, more reading, more study. Long days -- 9-7, with an hour for lunch. Then there's the drive back & forth to Jackson. Oh, and dinner; because, I am NOT cooking.
Enjoy your Friday,
Yesterday was another good day at the Wildlife Museum (I was mistaken in the name yesterday) of Jackson, Wyoming. 16 of us are enjoying this training with Sundari; hometowns include Jackson, Denver, Riverton, Idaho Falls, Driggs, SLC, St. George, etc. So, a diverse group with varied levels of experience teaching yoga.
I have done several teacher trainings so far. This one is unique because of the venue (the museum) and some of the components. We are doing all the required stuff, but add to that walks through the museum and applying the principles to a particular piece of art or sculpture. And, there's the mirror we each are creating of ourselves.
Lay out 16 pieces of paper, everyone lies down on one and a partner outlines them on the paper. Then, it is our job to reflect on our lives - both teaching and personal, and decorate that mirror. We aren't doing it all at once. We are doing it one day at a time, as new things about ourselves become revealed in the mirror.
My talent is not art. These two components, however, are great teaching tools. One, I am really LOOKING at the art in the museum. And, when I find a piece that speaks to me, I can journal about it, apply yoga principles to the characteristics, etc. -- an interesting way to look at these wonderful pieces.
Two, each day as we go to our 'mirror', I am reminded of what I thought the day before. Then, I can add to it as things - emotions, knowledge, wisdom - are revealed. My lack of artistic talent in drawing is a bit of a hindrance, but my mirror is become more embellished despite that.
So, onward. More teaching, more reading, more study. Long days -- 9-7, with an hour for lunch. Then there's the drive back & forth to Jackson. Oh, and dinner; because, I am NOT cooking.
Enjoy your Friday,
STUDY, LISTEN, TALK, TEACH . . .
Speaking (writing?) to you from Driggs, sitting in my great room with Bonnie from Polson and Clytie from Salt Lake City. Tracie from St. George is still enjoying her slumber, but I'm sure we are going to wake her.
So, the training with Sundari is off to a good start. The setting - the Natural History Museum in Jackson Hole - is an amazing place for a training. And, to be in the first-ever Anusara teaching training in Wyoming is an auspicious element.
Yesterday, as we gathered in the afternoon, Sundari received a text from John Friend. He offered greetings and will be offering a blessing for us sometime this week. How special is that? We are all excited to be here and the fact the John is aware of what we're doing makes it a bit more special.
Got to keep this short this morning. Might write more this evening.
Enjoy you day,
So, the training with Sundari is off to a good start. The setting - the Natural History Museum in Jackson Hole - is an amazing place for a training. And, to be in the first-ever Anusara teaching training in Wyoming is an auspicious element.
Yesterday, as we gathered in the afternoon, Sundari received a text from John Friend. He offered greetings and will be offering a blessing for us sometime this week. How special is that? We are all excited to be here and the fact the John is aware of what we're doing makes it a bit more special.
Got to keep this short this morning. Might write more this evening.
Enjoy you day,
CONNECTING TO IDAHO & WYOMING
First the world, now Idaho and Wyoming. Will it never end? A true world traveler never stops.
Going to Jackson today to begin a 5-day training with Sundari. Lots of study this month; but, it feels good and right, and seems like a lot more is making sense in my teaching and my understanding of what I'm trying to convey to students. I also believe it's translating from the study to my classes! So, onward.
I am doubly excited because it means I will spend 5 days in Driggs with 3 other training attendees -- ladies from Polson, MT; St. George, UT; and Salt Lake. Rarely do I have opportunities to just 'hang with the chicks'. The walls of our house will be forever and indelibly etched with the sounds of lively yoga discussion. Fun! Fishing talk, beware!
Getting away from the studio for a while will be a good thing, also (just check back a few posts and you'll understand).
Even my Grandson, Jack, is excited for me to go to Driggs -- he is remembering a blue flashlight that I gave him while he visited us there. That flashlight came out of my car (one of those foot-long, metal ones that I bought once, thi nking it would be a good self-defense tool as I drove cross country many years ago). It's heavy, almost as big as he is, but apparently he loves it and it may have been a source of security for him, as it was for me on that drive. It was forgotten in the hurry to leave the house, probably landed under the bed. He wants it. The lament: "I need it. I need my blue flashlight. I need it. Now, Grandma Leslie, now."
There's a theme here, I'm sure. Themes are foremost on my mind these days; like, create a theme, then how do we take the theme into the class and make it relatable; then, how do we link it to philosophy. Let's see -- blue flashlight & intrinsic goodness, hmmm. How about:
Attitude / Alignment / Action -- Action is fueled by Attitude, and supported by Alignment. But, it all begins with the attitude.
Wow - it's early and the coffee seems to have gone to my head.
Got to walk dogs, then get ready, then throw a few last minute things in the car and hit the road. I'll miss my husband (who is staying home; who can blame him - a house full of women vs. quiet solitude with only dogs, cats, and an occasional encounter with the birds (birds are not his thing, but he will water and feed them, when needed). This is new for him -- usually it's him leaving for 3-5 days; shoe's on the other foot today.
I'll stay in touch,
Going to Jackson today to begin a 5-day training with Sundari. Lots of study this month; but, it feels good and right, and seems like a lot more is making sense in my teaching and my understanding of what I'm trying to convey to students. I also believe it's translating from the study to my classes! So, onward.
I am doubly excited because it means I will spend 5 days in Driggs with 3 other training attendees -- ladies from Polson, MT; St. George, UT; and Salt Lake. Rarely do I have opportunities to just 'hang with the chicks'. The walls of our house will be forever and indelibly etched with the sounds of lively yoga discussion. Fun! Fishing talk, beware!
Getting away from the studio for a while will be a good thing, also (just check back a few posts and you'll understand).
Even my Grandson, Jack, is excited for me to go to Driggs -- he is remembering a blue flashlight that I gave him while he visited us there. That flashlight came out of my car (one of those foot-long, metal ones that I bought once, thi nking it would be a good self-defense tool as I drove cross country many years ago). It's heavy, almost as big as he is, but apparently he loves it and it may have been a source of security for him, as it was for me on that drive. It was forgotten in the hurry to leave the house, probably landed under the bed. He wants it. The lament: "I need it. I need my blue flashlight. I need it. Now, Grandma Leslie, now."
There's a theme here, I'm sure. Themes are foremost on my mind these days; like, create a theme, then how do we take the theme into the class and make it relatable; then, how do we link it to philosophy. Let's see -- blue flashlight & intrinsic goodness, hmmm. How about:
- blue flashlight = security
- security = freedom from fear, anxiety, danger, doubt
- security brings with it a lightheartedness, an ability to see around the pitfalls to the stable ground in front of us (with a flashlight, of course). When we know there is stable ground ahead, that knowledge will give us strength to move forward, trusting in the play of our own supreme nature.
Attitude / Alignment / Action -- Action is fueled by Attitude, and supported by Alignment. But, it all begins with the attitude.
Wow - it's early and the coffee seems to have gone to my head.
Got to walk dogs, then get ready, then throw a few last minute things in the car and hit the road. I'll miss my husband (who is staying home; who can blame him - a house full of women vs. quiet solitude with only dogs, cats, and an occasional encounter with the birds (birds are not his thing, but he will water and feed them, when needed). This is new for him -- usually it's him leaving for 3-5 days; shoe's on the other foot today.
I'll stay in touch,
CONNECTING TO THE WORLD
The title might better read, 'connecting to the world of my friends', since I've linked this blog to Facebook. Maybe some of my friends do read my blog; if not, there's no excuse anymore - it will be staring them in the face (?) each time I write in it.
The Anniversary Celebration turned into a wonderful, intimate evening, as I hoped -- friends, families, fellow yoga practitioners. All gathered and visited, ate, and enjoyed Michael Lucarelli's fine classical guitar renditions. When Michael was finished (as in, his fingers had to be very tired), he invited Isabelle's friend to take over the guitar (I apologize, I remember his first name - Terrance; last name is out of my memory's reach right now.). Fun to hear two very different, yet beautiful styles of bringing the guitar to life for us.
So, all cleaned up and back to being a yoga studio, I'll just go in today to do some more cleaning, paperwork, etc., in preparation for being gone from Tuesday thru Sunday. Driggs, Jackson, Sundari, here I come -- doing Sundari's teacher training; so, it's not really a vacation.
First, tho, I am going to resolve / promise / commit to work on my closet. Yesterday, as I got ready for the Open House, I decided that jeans or yoga clothes wouldn't be appropriate - so, to the closet. What a rude awakening. The selection presented included Summer mixed with Winter, some that fit / some that didn't, when I say 'fit', I mean physically and lifestyle. Rarely, if ever, do I need a piece of clothing that looks like part of a business suit - those pieces belong to another, previous life. Of particular note is the fact that there is way too much in my closet for any one person to own, way too much.
So, now the decision - consignment, donate, discard. First, tho, I have to weed it out (the closet). Make space. Stop hoarding (thank you, Isabelle, for that insight). I do have my work cut out for me.
Perhaps by stating it, by making a public commitment, it will happen.
Hope you have a great Monday,
The Anniversary Celebration turned into a wonderful, intimate evening, as I hoped -- friends, families, fellow yoga practitioners. All gathered and visited, ate, and enjoyed Michael Lucarelli's fine classical guitar renditions. When Michael was finished (as in, his fingers had to be very tired), he invited Isabelle's friend to take over the guitar (I apologize, I remember his first name - Terrance; last name is out of my memory's reach right now.). Fun to hear two very different, yet beautiful styles of bringing the guitar to life for us.
So, all cleaned up and back to being a yoga studio, I'll just go in today to do some more cleaning, paperwork, etc., in preparation for being gone from Tuesday thru Sunday. Driggs, Jackson, Sundari, here I come -- doing Sundari's teacher training; so, it's not really a vacation.
First, tho, I am going to resolve / promise / commit to work on my closet. Yesterday, as I got ready for the Open House, I decided that jeans or yoga clothes wouldn't be appropriate - so, to the closet. What a rude awakening. The selection presented included Summer mixed with Winter, some that fit / some that didn't, when I say 'fit', I mean physically and lifestyle. Rarely, if ever, do I need a piece of clothing that looks like part of a business suit - those pieces belong to another, previous life. Of particular note is the fact that there is way too much in my closet for any one person to own, way too much.
So, now the decision - consignment, donate, discard. First, tho, I have to weed it out (the closet). Make space. Stop hoarding (thank you, Isabelle, for that insight). I do have my work cut out for me.
Perhaps by stating it, by making a public commitment, it will happen.
Hope you have a great Monday,
PARTY DAY
Today we celebrate an anniversary of ownership of The Yoga Center by Leslie for 6 (7?) years. Open House from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Light snacks, friends to meet and visit with, all accompanied by Classical Guitarist, Michael Lucarelli (who also teaches yoga at The Yoga Center). Join us, if you can.
Yesterday, I taught a class using the word, commitment, as the theme. Using words is a fun way for me to teach -- and there are so many of them. Now the challenge -- find the feeling and then apply it through words to the practice. I did it, kind of - this part of teaching Anusara Yoga (adding in language to bring about desired results and feelings) requires lots of practice. I'm still struggling with tying a word like commitment to the Anusara Philosophy of intrinsic goodness and, then, stating it to students -- but, I found a section of the Master Immersion book that may clarify this a bit for me.
So, as prepared as I was yesterday, I had 3 students come in late. Not all at the same time; one, 3 minutes late; one, 4 minutes; one 5+ minutes. I don't get upset by that, but it did affect my theme talk a bit -- as in, I forgot parts (important parts). Need to not let those late arrivals throw me off track like that.
The best part of yesterday's class: being called "yoga mom" by a young man who started his practice with me. I'm his "yoga mom" -- as he explained it, his first exposure to yoga could have gone either way - good or bad. He's giving me credit for a good start. And, he is thriving in the practice -- even as he travels around the country, he is searching out yoga. The best part -- he has learned to be a bit discriminate, exploring different styles, yet coming back to me and Anusara (like a good 'son' should).
Got to get going. Have a great Sunday,
Yesterday, I taught a class using the word, commitment, as the theme. Using words is a fun way for me to teach -- and there are so many of them. Now the challenge -- find the feeling and then apply it through words to the practice. I did it, kind of - this part of teaching Anusara Yoga (adding in language to bring about desired results and feelings) requires lots of practice. I'm still struggling with tying a word like commitment to the Anusara Philosophy of intrinsic goodness and, then, stating it to students -- but, I found a section of the Master Immersion book that may clarify this a bit for me.
So, as prepared as I was yesterday, I had 3 students come in late. Not all at the same time; one, 3 minutes late; one, 4 minutes; one 5+ minutes. I don't get upset by that, but it did affect my theme talk a bit -- as in, I forgot parts (important parts). Need to not let those late arrivals throw me off track like that.
The best part of yesterday's class: being called "yoga mom" by a young man who started his practice with me. I'm his "yoga mom" -- as he explained it, his first exposure to yoga could have gone either way - good or bad. He's giving me credit for a good start. And, he is thriving in the practice -- even as he travels around the country, he is searching out yoga. The best part -- he has learned to be a bit discriminate, exploring different styles, yet coming back to me and Anusara (like a good 'son' should).
Got to get going. Have a great Sunday,