A DAY IN THE LIFE OF LIBRARY YOGA!
I began the yoga class at the Library in September 2011. It is a volunteer effort; no charge to the students and no money to me, but that's what 'volunteer' is about -- an opportunity to give back, without expectation of monetary reward.
3-4 students attended the first class, people who regularly practice yoga. From there, it stayed about the same 3, 4, 5 people in the room every Monday for about 2 months. Eventually, the word got out, and the class began to grow. Yesterday (Monday), there were 21 people in class. That's been about the average for the past 4 months. Most are 'regulars', meaning they have made Monday yoga part of their current life's schedule.
I call it yogahour (stealing the name from another instructor), but a better name might be 'melting pot' yoga -- it brings together all manner of people -- new to yoga, experienced in yoga, different nationalities, different ages, some significant injuries/conditions, and varying ages (yesterday's class included two 12-year-olds, a few 65+ year olds and many inbetween).
About 10 minutes into class, a woman unknown to me entered the room. I was struck by how, when I offered her a pink mat, she refused it - opting for green, instead. Someday, I'll ask her why. As we continued, I could see she was experienced.
The class went on uneventfully. One of the pitfalls, I thought as I taught, was the risk of paying too much attention to the young people in the room. It's fun to teach focused 12-year-olds , but to pay too much attention to them is to rob the others of their experience. So, my challenge was to move in and through the room, verbally offering tips, hints and advice to everyone.
This is a one-hour class. We laugh a lot, and the structure is pretty much related to who or what condition arrives in class. That gives me the freedom to ask at the start of class if anyone has a request; something I don't normally do. Two requests -- down dog and revolved knee-down lunge twist; interesting. We began by warming up, threw in a couple down dogs, the revolved lunge, then moved to some standing poses, and finally Garudasana (eagle) pose. Lots of wall space in the room, so I had students stand with their backs about 12 inches from the wall. That way, when they sat down into the pose (eagle), they could press their seat into the wall and use it (or not) to help with their balance. It was fun and I loved the groans as I asked everyone to repeat the pose, both sides (it's always better the second time around, don't you know?).
Class ends. The late-arriving student introduced herself with the question "you teach Anusara yoga, don't you?" Why, yes, I replied. That led to a longer conversation. Seems she's been practicing yoga for much longer than me, even knew John Friend from the ashram days (pre-Anusara). And, she has continued to practice Anusara, studying with many people I know. For me, it was interesting to hear a non-teacher, long-time practicing Anusara student's perspective on the current Anusara situation. Basically, her stance: 'let it go; it happens everywhere; don't destroy the system'. I'm sure there's more, but for me that was good to hear. Supports my current thought process.
Today? Teaching at Living Yoga, 2pm (therapeutic/gentle), and again at 4:30pm (prenatal).
Hope you have a great Tuesday!
3-4 students attended the first class, people who regularly practice yoga. From there, it stayed about the same 3, 4, 5 people in the room every Monday for about 2 months. Eventually, the word got out, and the class began to grow. Yesterday (Monday), there were 21 people in class. That's been about the average for the past 4 months. Most are 'regulars', meaning they have made Monday yoga part of their current life's schedule.
I call it yogahour (stealing the name from another instructor), but a better name might be 'melting pot' yoga -- it brings together all manner of people -- new to yoga, experienced in yoga, different nationalities, different ages, some significant injuries/conditions, and varying ages (yesterday's class included two 12-year-olds, a few 65+ year olds and many inbetween).
About 10 minutes into class, a woman unknown to me entered the room. I was struck by how, when I offered her a pink mat, she refused it - opting for green, instead. Someday, I'll ask her why. As we continued, I could see she was experienced.
The class went on uneventfully. One of the pitfalls, I thought as I taught, was the risk of paying too much attention to the young people in the room. It's fun to teach focused 12-year-olds , but to pay too much attention to them is to rob the others of their experience. So, my challenge was to move in and through the room, verbally offering tips, hints and advice to everyone.
This is a one-hour class. We laugh a lot, and the structure is pretty much related to who or what condition arrives in class. That gives me the freedom to ask at the start of class if anyone has a request; something I don't normally do. Two requests -- down dog and revolved knee-down lunge twist; interesting. We began by warming up, threw in a couple down dogs, the revolved lunge, then moved to some standing poses, and finally Garudasana (eagle) pose. Lots of wall space in the room, so I had students stand with their backs about 12 inches from the wall. That way, when they sat down into the pose (eagle), they could press their seat into the wall and use it (or not) to help with their balance. It was fun and I loved the groans as I asked everyone to repeat the pose, both sides (it's always better the second time around, don't you know?).
Class ends. The late-arriving student introduced herself with the question "you teach Anusara yoga, don't you?" Why, yes, I replied. That led to a longer conversation. Seems she's been practicing yoga for much longer than me, even knew John Friend from the ashram days (pre-Anusara). And, she has continued to practice Anusara, studying with many people I know. For me, it was interesting to hear a non-teacher, long-time practicing Anusara student's perspective on the current Anusara situation. Basically, her stance: 'let it go; it happens everywhere; don't destroy the system'. I'm sure there's more, but for me that was good to hear. Supports my current thought process.
Today? Teaching at Living Yoga, 2pm (therapeutic/gentle), and again at 4:30pm (prenatal).
Hope you have a great Tuesday!
AGAIN? THIS COULD BE HABIT FORMING!
Yesterday, another drive in to Del Mar. Another drive accompanied by the 'traffic gods' -- 40 minutes door-to-door, Fallbrook to YogaDelMar, to practice for 2 hours with Desiree Rumbaugh and Geri Portnoy and forty 50+ year olds. A few new faces; many repeats from last week.
First, let me say thank you to Desiree and Geri for putting this together, this opportunity to practice EVERY week with a group of women and men similar in age to me. I am loving it. And, as Desiree asked when we began -- "Who couldn't wait for it to be Wednesday?" -- my arm was among the first to shoot into the air.
So, how'd I do? Fine. Enjoyed every minute of week 2 of "Wisdom Warriors". The goal is to move through a full spectrum of Level 1 (Anusara syllabus) poses -- standing, balance, inversions, seated, twists, etc., etc. And, that we did. What do I love most? I love the laughter, the feeling of camaraderie in the room and I love that I can stay 'in the room' -- not tired, tho there is room for much improvement in my inversions. (I am also woefully weak in my backbending skills; therefore it's important to confess that we skipped urdhva dhanurasana this week; as we did a lot of backbending in other ways earlier in the class.)
I bought a pass = commitment.
One of the side benefits of this weekly practice is a reminder of all the poses I forget are out there to teach and to be enjoyed. Not to mention the exercises that open me up and prepare me to do these poses. I hope to carry this forward to my classes.
Speaking of classes, today is Basics at 4pm at Living Yoga. A small but faithful group. Last week I took them into a few arm balances -- new territory for at least one. It was great to see each find something in the poses they had not experienced before -- especially if it was to get feet off the floor or simply into the beginning shape of the pose. Why? Because our bodies will remember and next time, it will be easier. Yes!
Raining here in sunny So. California; good for the avocado trees (and good for our water budget).
Hope you have a great Thursday!
First, let me say thank you to Desiree and Geri for putting this together, this opportunity to practice EVERY week with a group of women and men similar in age to me. I am loving it. And, as Desiree asked when we began -- "Who couldn't wait for it to be Wednesday?" -- my arm was among the first to shoot into the air.
So, how'd I do? Fine. Enjoyed every minute of week 2 of "Wisdom Warriors". The goal is to move through a full spectrum of Level 1 (Anusara syllabus) poses -- standing, balance, inversions, seated, twists, etc., etc. And, that we did. What do I love most? I love the laughter, the feeling of camaraderie in the room and I love that I can stay 'in the room' -- not tired, tho there is room for much improvement in my inversions. (I am also woefully weak in my backbending skills; therefore it's important to confess that we skipped urdhva dhanurasana this week; as we did a lot of backbending in other ways earlier in the class.)
I bought a pass = commitment.
One of the side benefits of this weekly practice is a reminder of all the poses I forget are out there to teach and to be enjoyed. Not to mention the exercises that open me up and prepare me to do these poses. I hope to carry this forward to my classes.
Speaking of classes, today is Basics at 4pm at Living Yoga. A small but faithful group. Last week I took them into a few arm balances -- new territory for at least one. It was great to see each find something in the poses they had not experienced before -- especially if it was to get feet off the floor or simply into the beginning shape of the pose. Why? Because our bodies will remember and next time, it will be easier. Yes!
Raining here in sunny So. California; good for the avocado trees (and good for our water budget).
Hope you have a great Thursday!
SUCH FUN!
Yesterday, I made the 40-minute drive in to Del Mar (this, my friends, is VERY good time; the traffic 'gods' were with me). It's probably 40+ miles of 2-lane highway (some of it under construction, yet) and freeway driving from my home to Del Mar. I love the studio, Yoga Del Mar, owned by Geri Portnoy, but it is a long drive and often fraught with traffic 'demons'; so, I don't make this drive often enough.
Why, then, yesterday? Because Desiree Rumbaugh and Geri Portnoy scheduled a 2-hour practice for those of us 50-years-of-age or older. They call the practice group "Wisdom Warriors", and the plan is for it to gather weekly at Yoga Del Mar on Wednesdays, 1-3 pm. It will be co-taught by Desiree and Geri - a good thing, since Desiree is often traveling.
I left my house at noon, arrived at the studio 40 minutes later -- amazing! (You have to live here to appreciate just how amazing.) When I walked in, there were perhaps 20 women and 2 men in the room. As the group gathered, mats shifted, until 40 (FORTY) 50+ year olds lined the walls ready to do yoga. Geri and Desiree took position between our two rows of 20, and this first week Desiree led the practice, with Geri assisting. We even enjoyed Andrew multi-tasking between practice, playing DJ, and assisting.
It's important for me to say that I was a bit nervous about this. It has been a while since I have pushed myself. It is so easy to walk out to our small studio, warm up, then do whatever I am planning for my Gentle or Basics classes. I rarely think about urdhva dhanurasana and kicking up to a handstand -- well, let's just say, even when alone for me this is an embarrassing attempt. My worry (nervousness) came from the fear that I have let myself travel the Gentle/Basic path for so long that I would not be able to keep up.
Wrong.
I did keep up. I felt good through the entire 2 hours; could have gone on longer. I still didn't kick up to handstand by myself, and I still didn't get my head off the floor in urdhva (a definite backslide), but everything else felt good, great even. Small things please me. For example, just getting my leg on top of my shoulder and being able to squeeze in to the midline -- WOW! Love that feeling.
We capped off the afternoon with a snack at a local market (Barney's). And, we agreed this weekly practice is a VERY good idea. Looking forward to next week.
Here's to doing yoga with friends. Hope you have a great Thursday,
Why, then, yesterday? Because Desiree Rumbaugh and Geri Portnoy scheduled a 2-hour practice for those of us 50-years-of-age or older. They call the practice group "Wisdom Warriors", and the plan is for it to gather weekly at Yoga Del Mar on Wednesdays, 1-3 pm. It will be co-taught by Desiree and Geri - a good thing, since Desiree is often traveling.
I left my house at noon, arrived at the studio 40 minutes later -- amazing! (You have to live here to appreciate just how amazing.) When I walked in, there were perhaps 20 women and 2 men in the room. As the group gathered, mats shifted, until 40 (FORTY) 50+ year olds lined the walls ready to do yoga. Geri and Desiree took position between our two rows of 20, and this first week Desiree led the practice, with Geri assisting. We even enjoyed Andrew multi-tasking between practice, playing DJ, and assisting.
It's important for me to say that I was a bit nervous about this. It has been a while since I have pushed myself. It is so easy to walk out to our small studio, warm up, then do whatever I am planning for my Gentle or Basics classes. I rarely think about urdhva dhanurasana and kicking up to a handstand -- well, let's just say, even when alone for me this is an embarrassing attempt. My worry (nervousness) came from the fear that I have let myself travel the Gentle/Basic path for so long that I would not be able to keep up.
Wrong.
I did keep up. I felt good through the entire 2 hours; could have gone on longer. I still didn't kick up to handstand by myself, and I still didn't get my head off the floor in urdhva (a definite backslide), but everything else felt good, great even. Small things please me. For example, just getting my leg on top of my shoulder and being able to squeeze in to the midline -- WOW! Love that feeling.
We capped off the afternoon with a snack at a local market (Barney's). And, we agreed this weekly practice is a VERY good idea. Looking forward to next week.
Here's to doing yoga with friends. Hope you have a great Thursday,
ON MUSIC IN MY YOGA CLASSES
I do not play music when teaching my yoga classes. Oh, confession -- there was a time when I put on a Deva Premal song during savasana; but, since moving to So. Calif., music has been non-existant in my classes.
This isn't because I don't like music; I do. It's because it's not part of my teaching 'vocabulary'.
Having attended classes where music is a big part, I know that I can get involved in the music; more involved in the music than I am in listening to what the instructor has to say. I find myself tapping to the tune, rather than focusing on my yoga. Perhaps that's the reason I've chosen to (consciously or unconsciously) leave it out of my 'vocabulary'.
I hadn't thought much about it, until after one of my classes last week. As we finished up, one of the students commented "I didn't even notice that you weren't playing any music, until class was over; and I didn't miss it."
It is challenging for me to plan a class, to keep everyone doing what they need to be doing to stay safe. Add to that, creating a playlist of music and, for me, that's overload -- more than I need or want to be doing as I plan a class.
That's just my 'thing'. I won't walk out of a class I'm attending with music, but you won't hear any in mine.
Today? Library class - curious to see how a recent publicity 'plug' will affect attendance.
Hope you have a great Monday!
This isn't because I don't like music; I do. It's because it's not part of my teaching 'vocabulary'.
Having attended classes where music is a big part, I know that I can get involved in the music; more involved in the music than I am in listening to what the instructor has to say. I find myself tapping to the tune, rather than focusing on my yoga. Perhaps that's the reason I've chosen to (consciously or unconsciously) leave it out of my 'vocabulary'.
I hadn't thought much about it, until after one of my classes last week. As we finished up, one of the students commented "I didn't even notice that you weren't playing any music, until class was over; and I didn't miss it."
It is challenging for me to plan a class, to keep everyone doing what they need to be doing to stay safe. Add to that, creating a playlist of music and, for me, that's overload -- more than I need or want to be doing as I plan a class.
That's just my 'thing'. I won't walk out of a class I'm attending with music, but you won't hear any in mine.
Today? Library class - curious to see how a recent publicity 'plug' will affect attendance.
Hope you have a great Monday!
FACIAL EXPRESSIONS - ALMOST PRICELESS
"ALMOST" -- because in many cases they aren't worth a darn! The problem with them is that I allow myself to look at the expression, read into it whatever insecurity I'm feeling, and live with that. That is, until the person whose face I'm looking at tells me what's going on.
What am I talking about? I teach 5 classes each week. In each of those classes, I can quickly point out the people who I wonder about. You know, the stoic ones, or the ones grimacing, or the ones who are not quick to laugh at my jokes. I immediately jump to "they're not happy with me" or "I'm not teaching them what they came to class for" -- always, without fail.
Last week, however, I got a wonderful surprise. Behind the features - whatever they might be - lies a wealth of information waiting to come out. Here's an example:
One student, very fit, but because of a traumatic injury attends Gentle Yoga; and, she was very quiet for the first few weeks. You got it -- I'm feeling insecure. Then, at the end of class last week, the comment: "you know, since I've been using my hands in the way you're teaching, my issue with carpal tunnel has decreased." Whoaaa! Be still my heart.
Then -- same student -- a week later: "the circumference of my injured leg is increasing due to the work in these yoga classes". Another 'whoaa' moment.
And, from another quiet student, the comment: "your pace is perfect, the sequence great; I work harder in your gentle class than in some basic classes".
All this to say that I must not look at students and read something into their facial expressions -- it just will not be accurate. I thought I had learned this a few years ago, when I asked a grimacing student if something was hurting. Her response "no, I'm just thinking".
Just like I will never know the full extent of a student's history, I cannot trust facial expressions. They will deceive me every time. Even the smiling, seemingly attentive student might be thinking "this class can't end soon enough!"
Hope you have a great Saturday!
What am I talking about? I teach 5 classes each week. In each of those classes, I can quickly point out the people who I wonder about. You know, the stoic ones, or the ones grimacing, or the ones who are not quick to laugh at my jokes. I immediately jump to "they're not happy with me" or "I'm not teaching them what they came to class for" -- always, without fail.
Last week, however, I got a wonderful surprise. Behind the features - whatever they might be - lies a wealth of information waiting to come out. Here's an example:
One student, very fit, but because of a traumatic injury attends Gentle Yoga; and, she was very quiet for the first few weeks. You got it -- I'm feeling insecure. Then, at the end of class last week, the comment: "you know, since I've been using my hands in the way you're teaching, my issue with carpal tunnel has decreased." Whoaaa! Be still my heart.
Then -- same student -- a week later: "the circumference of my injured leg is increasing due to the work in these yoga classes". Another 'whoaa' moment.
And, from another quiet student, the comment: "your pace is perfect, the sequence great; I work harder in your gentle class than in some basic classes".
All this to say that I must not look at students and read something into their facial expressions -- it just will not be accurate. I thought I had learned this a few years ago, when I asked a grimacing student if something was hurting. Her response "no, I'm just thinking".
Just like I will never know the full extent of a student's history, I cannot trust facial expressions. They will deceive me every time. Even the smiling, seemingly attentive student might be thinking "this class can't end soon enough!"
Hope you have a great Saturday!
SPIRIT AND BRAVERY
Each of us, as yoga teachers, has a memorable student; one who is struggling but still makes it to class, no matter what.
One of mine was Jean, a woman my age, who arrived in my Gentle Yoga class while I owned the studio in Salt Lake. She was fit and feisty, a retired French teacher, who had never done yoga but had recently noticed her balance lacking and wanted to 'fix' it. So we worked, and worked and worked. But, nothing worked.
For the many months after she arrived in my class, she went to physicians searching for a reason her balance was leaving her. Finally, almost one year into our relationship, an answer: PSP (progressive supranuclear palsy). A disease in the Parkinson's family, but with a more definitive end result -- most patients will pass within 5 years of diagnosis. The disease affects balance, ability to swallow, vision; a real nasty 'bugger'.
However, Jean came to class the week after learning of the diagnosis almost relieved -- as if to say, 'finally, I know what is going on with me'. We continued. She always had a spot reserved by the post, and she always arrived early to help me get props out and to chat. When I would ask her how she was, her usual answer was "practically perfect".
As the disease progressed, Jean stopped driving and friends or husband brought her to class; many days I or one of the other students drove her home. Students rallied to her support in class as well -- helping her up when she fell and offering her words of praise and encouragement. Her pat response upon falling -- "I'm okay".
When the disease reached a point at which she was falling quite often, I asked her if I could share her diagnosis with the rest of the class. Why? It only seemed fair to the others in class to understand why she was falling and what to do when it happened. She agreed, with one caveat -- 'don't tell them about the dying part'. So, that day, I told the class that Jean had finally found out that she had a condition that would rob her of her balance; if she fell, we would pick her up and continue.
So, we continued. Modifications in our poses happened. A cane became part of her accessories. A wild and colorful one, much like I imagined she had been before PSP.
Last year, in March, about 3+ years since I first met Jean, I moved away from Salt Lake. One of my going away gifts from her was a picture frame, with the words "Gentle, my ass" written on one side; "I'm okay" on the other. I placed it on our bookshelves, eye level, and have passed it (and looked at it) every day we have lived in this house.
Jean passed earlier this month. Interesting that she had been on my mind over the past 2 weeks, I'd even been talking about her in my 'new' Gentle Yoga classes here in California. Such a brave friend. I miss her.
I hope you all had a wonderful Easter weekend, and that you have a great day and week!
One of mine was Jean, a woman my age, who arrived in my Gentle Yoga class while I owned the studio in Salt Lake. She was fit and feisty, a retired French teacher, who had never done yoga but had recently noticed her balance lacking and wanted to 'fix' it. So we worked, and worked and worked. But, nothing worked.
For the many months after she arrived in my class, she went to physicians searching for a reason her balance was leaving her. Finally, almost one year into our relationship, an answer: PSP (progressive supranuclear palsy). A disease in the Parkinson's family, but with a more definitive end result -- most patients will pass within 5 years of diagnosis. The disease affects balance, ability to swallow, vision; a real nasty 'bugger'.
However, Jean came to class the week after learning of the diagnosis almost relieved -- as if to say, 'finally, I know what is going on with me'. We continued. She always had a spot reserved by the post, and she always arrived early to help me get props out and to chat. When I would ask her how she was, her usual answer was "practically perfect".
As the disease progressed, Jean stopped driving and friends or husband brought her to class; many days I or one of the other students drove her home. Students rallied to her support in class as well -- helping her up when she fell and offering her words of praise and encouragement. Her pat response upon falling -- "I'm okay".
When the disease reached a point at which she was falling quite often, I asked her if I could share her diagnosis with the rest of the class. Why? It only seemed fair to the others in class to understand why she was falling and what to do when it happened. She agreed, with one caveat -- 'don't tell them about the dying part'. So, that day, I told the class that Jean had finally found out that she had a condition that would rob her of her balance; if she fell, we would pick her up and continue.
So, we continued. Modifications in our poses happened. A cane became part of her accessories. A wild and colorful one, much like I imagined she had been before PSP.
Last year, in March, about 3+ years since I first met Jean, I moved away from Salt Lake. One of my going away gifts from her was a picture frame, with the words "Gentle, my ass" written on one side; "I'm okay" on the other. I placed it on our bookshelves, eye level, and have passed it (and looked at it) every day we have lived in this house.
Jean passed earlier this month. Interesting that she had been on my mind over the past 2 weeks, I'd even been talking about her in my 'new' Gentle Yoga classes here in California. Such a brave friend. I miss her.
I hope you all had a wonderful Easter weekend, and that you have a great day and week!
"What wisdom can you find that is greater than kindness"
REPEAT
I may have written about this, but - if I did - it was at least 3 years ago. Hopefully, you've forgotten and/or will forgive me.
My reading lately has included Doug Keller's "Yoga as Therapy" books, and some that he has recommended by other authors about the role of fascia in our movement (or lack of movement). Needless to say, I am learning lots - if not tons - of new stuff; my level of awareness and my ability to work with students has increased exponentially.
My point in writing all this is to say that my vocabulary has increased, as well. I can throw anatomy words around with the best of them now. So, what's the problem?
My students hear my new-found knowledge -- of course, using the big words and they don't understand. What? Lately, as I've worked with people on hip movement, I've used the word 'psoas' a lot. Come to find out, few students know what the 'psoas' is and/or where it is located. How do I know this? They've been asking.
Step back to 3 years ago, when a student in a previous class asked me what her 'abs' were.
Why write about this? To caution myself to never assume my students know where a body part is (I've even taken to telling them why I explain things carefully - the 'abs' story.) I would rather they hear it 3, 4, 5 times, than not know what or where a particular body part is and its function. It's part of the yoga - you know that awareness part.
And - one other thing: Classes have been HUGE this week by my standards (I almost hate to write that, it may jinx the rest of the week). 22 at the Library, 7 (read it, SEVEN) in the Therapeutic/Gentle class, and 4 (yes, FOUR) in prenatal.
Today is Wednesday, no classes to teach; going to take care of a sore throat.
Hope you have a great day!
p.s. Psoas = one of our hip flexors, a big one that helps us to walk and run. A multiple segmented muscle, one end of the psoas connects to the spine; the other, to the upper, inner thigh. It lies at the center of our bodies, connecting "top to bottom, inside to outside, core to periphery, breathing to walking" (quoting Doug Keller here). Love this.
My reading lately has included Doug Keller's "Yoga as Therapy" books, and some that he has recommended by other authors about the role of fascia in our movement (or lack of movement). Needless to say, I am learning lots - if not tons - of new stuff; my level of awareness and my ability to work with students has increased exponentially.
My point in writing all this is to say that my vocabulary has increased, as well. I can throw anatomy words around with the best of them now. So, what's the problem?
My students hear my new-found knowledge -- of course, using the big words and they don't understand. What? Lately, as I've worked with people on hip movement, I've used the word 'psoas' a lot. Come to find out, few students know what the 'psoas' is and/or where it is located. How do I know this? They've been asking.
Step back to 3 years ago, when a student in a previous class asked me what her 'abs' were.
Why write about this? To caution myself to never assume my students know where a body part is (I've even taken to telling them why I explain things carefully - the 'abs' story.) I would rather they hear it 3, 4, 5 times, than not know what or where a particular body part is and its function. It's part of the yoga - you know that awareness part.
And - one other thing: Classes have been HUGE this week by my standards (I almost hate to write that, it may jinx the rest of the week). 22 at the Library, 7 (read it, SEVEN) in the Therapeutic/Gentle class, and 4 (yes, FOUR) in prenatal.
Today is Wednesday, no classes to teach; going to take care of a sore throat.
Hope you have a great day!
p.s. Psoas = one of our hip flexors, a big one that helps us to walk and run. A multiple segmented muscle, one end of the psoas connects to the spine; the other, to the upper, inner thigh. It lies at the center of our bodies, connecting "top to bottom, inside to outside, core to periphery, breathing to walking" (quoting Doug Keller here). Love this.
ARDHA CHANDRASANA
I have been having tons of fun teaching ardha chandrasana (half moon pose) in my classes this week. Such an informative pose and - yesterday - as I drove home, I looked into the sky and there it was -- an almost half moon. Validating my effort, I'd say.
On Thursday, in the Basics class, I began this teaching -- 2 newer students, and one seasoned practitioner (who mentioned she struggled with stacking the hips in half moon pose). Well, that set the course. We warmed up, then moved to the wall for the benefit of everyone. At first, the pose was done with the hips and shoulders supported by the wall, and the bottom hand on a block -- what a feeling, to open into a pose without fear of falling!
Then, we shifted mats so that the short end was at the wall, and did the pose again, stretching their lifted legs into the wall behind themselves. This requires a bit of trial and error, to figure out just how far from the wall is optimal. But once everyone figured it out, the poses looked amazing.
And, finally, we moved away from the wall (still had the block, however). Gave the pose a try without support. Interesting that I could see everyone working, figuring out what was happening as their poses wobbled, and then fixing the problem. Great awareness. And, the person who struggled with 'stacking the hips'; well, she figured out that stacking the hips is practically impossible -- the top hip is not able to do it; I should say, rather, the bottom hip won't open to that extent, so the top of the pelvis will stay a bit forward. Once she figured that out, that trying to stack hips was throwing her out of balance, her poses were amazing.
Switch to Friday morning, Gentle Yoga. Ardha chandrasana again (what? in a Gentle class? Yes.) And, they loved it -- none had done the pose before and the use of the wall to lean into and open up against is such a valuable tool; the block helps, as well. Had them all laughing a bit giddily -- arms extended after coming out of their poses (image: you've just scored a '10') Best of all, grinning!
Today? Going to Grand-Dude's t-ball game, then to lunch with the family. This is one major reason we moved to So. California. Love it.
Hope you have a great Saturday!
On Thursday, in the Basics class, I began this teaching -- 2 newer students, and one seasoned practitioner (who mentioned she struggled with stacking the hips in half moon pose). Well, that set the course. We warmed up, then moved to the wall for the benefit of everyone. At first, the pose was done with the hips and shoulders supported by the wall, and the bottom hand on a block -- what a feeling, to open into a pose without fear of falling!
Then, we shifted mats so that the short end was at the wall, and did the pose again, stretching their lifted legs into the wall behind themselves. This requires a bit of trial and error, to figure out just how far from the wall is optimal. But once everyone figured it out, the poses looked amazing.
And, finally, we moved away from the wall (still had the block, however). Gave the pose a try without support. Interesting that I could see everyone working, figuring out what was happening as their poses wobbled, and then fixing the problem. Great awareness. And, the person who struggled with 'stacking the hips'; well, she figured out that stacking the hips is practically impossible -- the top hip is not able to do it; I should say, rather, the bottom hip won't open to that extent, so the top of the pelvis will stay a bit forward. Once she figured that out, that trying to stack hips was throwing her out of balance, her poses were amazing.
Switch to Friday morning, Gentle Yoga. Ardha chandrasana again (what? in a Gentle class? Yes.) And, they loved it -- none had done the pose before and the use of the wall to lean into and open up against is such a valuable tool; the block helps, as well. Had them all laughing a bit giddily -- arms extended after coming out of their poses (image: you've just scored a '10') Best of all, grinning!
Today? Going to Grand-Dude's t-ball game, then to lunch with the family. This is one major reason we moved to So. California. Love it.
Hope you have a great Saturday!
WHY I VOLUNTEER
I spend one hour each week teaching a class at the local library here in Fallbrook. This is a free class -- for students and for me. No money changes hands. I am on the library schedule, they provide 10 mats for those students who don't have one, and they provide a beautiful, large space in which I teach the class.
As I began this class yesterday, I explained to students that the class began last September (the first yoga class the library had offered), and - for several weeks - I routinely had 4 students (all of whom are still with me). This number gradually increased until, yesterday, there were 19 in the room. This has been the case for the past several months; consistently, an average of 18-22 attend. I love that - a big class, yet I often will demean it with the caveat that "it's free, so that explains the large number".
However, yesterday I heard many comments from students before, during and after class. Comments that explained their presence. Comments like: I explain what they are doing, I give them time to get into and out of poses, I don't create an 'exercise' session out of their yoga class, I don't leave them feeling they can't do the poses I am asking them to move into. One even told me she was a bit 'giddy' at home earlier in the day as she anticipated coming to class because it's fun!
FYI, this group is a mixed bag, to say the least. Ages range from about 30 to 70 (guessing here). In the room I have students with physical limitations, chronic health issues, beginning students, out-of-shape students, students who may have done yoga 10-15-20 years ago and are returning to the practice. I even have very experienced students. You name it, it could be in the room. My kind of teaching!
I write about the class this morning because I had one particularly poignant comment made to me after class. It was from a woman struggling with MS. She uses a cane due to poor balance, weakness and spasticity in her legs. This comment, added to the others, makes my volunteer effort so meaningful.
During class, I suggested we do a couple partner poses. For this woman, partner poses strike fear -- she feared that her limitations would wreck the experience of her partner, or that she would embarrass herself. Surprisingly, for her, the partner was helpful and understanding. She was even more surprised when another student stepped in to offer his help as she struggled to maintain her balance.
So, what was her comment? "The other students were so helpful, I couldn't believe it; they were so helpful and so nice. I worried when you said 'partner poses', but my partners were so helpful. I just can't believe it; they were so nice."
Wow! To be able to teach a class where everyone feels accepted and comfortable is a BIG deal. One not to be demeaned in any way by me. I am grateful, and I know that they are there for a reason -- perhaps it's not just me, but I do contribute to their experience. I'll take credit for that.
Today? Teaching Therapeutic/Gentle Yoga and Prenatal Yoga in Temecula this afternoon.
Hope you have a great Tuesday!
As I began this class yesterday, I explained to students that the class began last September (the first yoga class the library had offered), and - for several weeks - I routinely had 4 students (all of whom are still with me). This number gradually increased until, yesterday, there were 19 in the room. This has been the case for the past several months; consistently, an average of 18-22 attend. I love that - a big class, yet I often will demean it with the caveat that "it's free, so that explains the large number".
However, yesterday I heard many comments from students before, during and after class. Comments that explained their presence. Comments like: I explain what they are doing, I give them time to get into and out of poses, I don't create an 'exercise' session out of their yoga class, I don't leave them feeling they can't do the poses I am asking them to move into. One even told me she was a bit 'giddy' at home earlier in the day as she anticipated coming to class because it's fun!
FYI, this group is a mixed bag, to say the least. Ages range from about 30 to 70 (guessing here). In the room I have students with physical limitations, chronic health issues, beginning students, out-of-shape students, students who may have done yoga 10-15-20 years ago and are returning to the practice. I even have very experienced students. You name it, it could be in the room. My kind of teaching!
I write about the class this morning because I had one particularly poignant comment made to me after class. It was from a woman struggling with MS. She uses a cane due to poor balance, weakness and spasticity in her legs. This comment, added to the others, makes my volunteer effort so meaningful.
During class, I suggested we do a couple partner poses. For this woman, partner poses strike fear -- she feared that her limitations would wreck the experience of her partner, or that she would embarrass herself. Surprisingly, for her, the partner was helpful and understanding. She was even more surprised when another student stepped in to offer his help as she struggled to maintain her balance.
So, what was her comment? "The other students were so helpful, I couldn't believe it; they were so helpful and so nice. I worried when you said 'partner poses', but my partners were so helpful. I just can't believe it; they were so nice."
Wow! To be able to teach a class where everyone feels accepted and comfortable is a BIG deal. One not to be demeaned in any way by me. I am grateful, and I know that they are there for a reason -- perhaps it's not just me, but I do contribute to their experience. I'll take credit for that.
Today? Teaching Therapeutic/Gentle Yoga and Prenatal Yoga in Temecula this afternoon.
Hope you have a great Tuesday!
NERVOUS; ME ?!?!?!?
I taught yesterday, the Saturday 10am Basics-Int. class at Living Yoga in Temecula. Unlike many studios, the weekend morning classes (with a Sunday a.m. exception) are rotated among instructors. Rather than have one instructor assigned to each class, we are asked to sign up each month to teach the next month's classes. Interesting, and different from scheduling at many studios.
I am one of the less-senior instructors at the studio (meaning less time teaching there; not younger), therefore I get the opportunity to teach a weekend class less often -- it's a seniority thing. But, I was able to sign up to teach yesterday morning's class.
And, why was I nervous? I suppose it's because I rarely teach a large group like this promised to be, and the majority of my classes are Gentle or Therapeutic. Knowing that I would be standing in front of a group of students who are in class for the movement, not for help with inhibiting physical issues, was the source of this nervousness. It's been a while, and I wondered over and over what would I teach them? Fortunately, all class plans for the past 2 years are saved on this computer and I was able to go back through them and come up with an idea or two.
I decided to use a theme of 'balance' -- my nervousness reflected a lack of balance in my teaching. Additionally, the system of teacher/class assignment at this studio offers students another type of balance. That of balance in experiencing different teaching styles -- rather than always attend the 'powerful' or 'fun' or 'inspiring' or 'flowing' (etc., etc, etc.), they are being asked to experience all of us. To experience the balance of different styles. (FYI, I labeled mine 'nit-picky'.)
Where did we go from there? Well, we 'balanced' our inner and outer spiral, created length, and moved towards a modified version of Hanumanasana. Modified how? Placing mats at the wall, setting up with back foot against the molding and carefully extending the front foot into the room. With blocks to support the hamstrings of the front leg, several had a 'ta-da' moment -- lifting their arms in celebration while in the pose.
That was fun, but the best part for me was listening to the balance and harmony in their voices as we chanted at the beginning of class. So good.
I'm hopeful they enjoyed the class; at the very least, they now know what/where their psoas muscle is (how many times do you mention psoas without explaining what/where it is?) I'm learning many students hear it over and over, but rarely get the opportunity to ask -- I guess my presence offered them the chance to ask. FYI, I never assume that a room of students knows the meaning of all the words I use -- my lesson came from a 80+ year old student who once asked me where her 'abs' were.
So, today? Planning to go in to spend time with the Grand-Dudes, assuming everyone is healthy.
Hope you have a nice Sunday,
I am one of the less-senior instructors at the studio (meaning less time teaching there; not younger), therefore I get the opportunity to teach a weekend class less often -- it's a seniority thing. But, I was able to sign up to teach yesterday morning's class.
And, why was I nervous? I suppose it's because I rarely teach a large group like this promised to be, and the majority of my classes are Gentle or Therapeutic. Knowing that I would be standing in front of a group of students who are in class for the movement, not for help with inhibiting physical issues, was the source of this nervousness. It's been a while, and I wondered over and over what would I teach them? Fortunately, all class plans for the past 2 years are saved on this computer and I was able to go back through them and come up with an idea or two.
I decided to use a theme of 'balance' -- my nervousness reflected a lack of balance in my teaching. Additionally, the system of teacher/class assignment at this studio offers students another type of balance. That of balance in experiencing different teaching styles -- rather than always attend the 'powerful' or 'fun' or 'inspiring' or 'flowing' (etc., etc, etc.), they are being asked to experience all of us. To experience the balance of different styles. (FYI, I labeled mine 'nit-picky'.)
Where did we go from there? Well, we 'balanced' our inner and outer spiral, created length, and moved towards a modified version of Hanumanasana. Modified how? Placing mats at the wall, setting up with back foot against the molding and carefully extending the front foot into the room. With blocks to support the hamstrings of the front leg, several had a 'ta-da' moment -- lifting their arms in celebration while in the pose.
That was fun, but the best part for me was listening to the balance and harmony in their voices as we chanted at the beginning of class. So good.
I'm hopeful they enjoyed the class; at the very least, they now know what/where their psoas muscle is (how many times do you mention psoas without explaining what/where it is?) I'm learning many students hear it over and over, but rarely get the opportunity to ask -- I guess my presence offered them the chance to ask. FYI, I never assume that a room of students knows the meaning of all the words I use -- my lesson came from a 80+ year old student who once asked me where her 'abs' were.
So, today? Planning to go in to spend time with the Grand-Dudes, assuming everyone is healthy.
Hope you have a nice Sunday,
BEEN A LONG COUPLE WEEKS
My last post, March 16, seems long ago; tho just 7 days. This has been a winter of illness for me. Not horrible illness, just one cold after another, and - this past 2 weeks - the flu. (No, I didn't get a flu shot this year.) Hopefully, it is gone and I can get on without further 'stuff' for a while.
I looked at the blog and thought 'why not go back to the format I used a while back?' What was that, you ask? To offer a 'tip' on Fridays. Not only is it helpful for me to write about and, as a result, remember; but it also takes some of the pressure off of finding a topic to write about. So, here goes:
This comes from my friend and teacher, Sundari.
On the topic of 'down dog' -- when teaching that pose, I have recently been asking students to do the following: rather than 'pop' right into it, to take their time - begin with bent knees, establish the foundation of the arms, move the heart towards the knees (but, don't lose the shoulders), experience how the back feels -- long and strong, as one stretches hips towards the sky. All this happening BEFORE the legs straighten.
Why do this? Watch your students the first time you ask them to move to down dog (without any discussion of the above). What happens first? They lift knees away from the floor and immediately the legs straighten -- at the expense of what? The back. Legs straighten, back rounds (at least, in most cases).
Bring them back to their knees. Demo what happens when the legs go straight first by rounding your back (I can do this naturally, some of you might have to fake it.) Then show them what it looks like when you keep the knees bent as you set up the hands to the hips. Now, move your students back into the pose, with a strong command to keep knees bent. Sometimes it helps to actually tell students to bend the knees 3 inches, or so, and keep them that way.
I use suggestions like: "From hands to heart pull energy; stabilize your arms by sending energy back to the hands and also stretch to the hips. Keeping knees bent, lengthen from hands to hips. Remember how your back feels now. Begin to stretch thighs towards the wall behind you. If (or when) you feel your back lose the alignment it had when knees were bent, you have more work to do. Re-bend the knees, lengthen from shoulders to hips, and try it again."
I was reminded of this action when I saw a pic of a HUGE class, all in down dog. And, most with rounded backs and straight legs. Ouch!
Hope you have a great Friday. Any questions, please ask.
I looked at the blog and thought 'why not go back to the format I used a while back?' What was that, you ask? To offer a 'tip' on Fridays. Not only is it helpful for me to write about and, as a result, remember; but it also takes some of the pressure off of finding a topic to write about. So, here goes:
This comes from my friend and teacher, Sundari.
On the topic of 'down dog' -- when teaching that pose, I have recently been asking students to do the following: rather than 'pop' right into it, to take their time - begin with bent knees, establish the foundation of the arms, move the heart towards the knees (but, don't lose the shoulders), experience how the back feels -- long and strong, as one stretches hips towards the sky. All this happening BEFORE the legs straighten.
Why do this? Watch your students the first time you ask them to move to down dog (without any discussion of the above). What happens first? They lift knees away from the floor and immediately the legs straighten -- at the expense of what? The back. Legs straighten, back rounds (at least, in most cases).
Bring them back to their knees. Demo what happens when the legs go straight first by rounding your back (I can do this naturally, some of you might have to fake it.) Then show them what it looks like when you keep the knees bent as you set up the hands to the hips. Now, move your students back into the pose, with a strong command to keep knees bent. Sometimes it helps to actually tell students to bend the knees 3 inches, or so, and keep them that way.
I use suggestions like: "From hands to heart pull energy; stabilize your arms by sending energy back to the hands and also stretch to the hips. Keeping knees bent, lengthen from hands to hips. Remember how your back feels now. Begin to stretch thighs towards the wall behind you. If (or when) you feel your back lose the alignment it had when knees were bent, you have more work to do. Re-bend the knees, lengthen from shoulders to hips, and try it again."
I was reminded of this action when I saw a pic of a HUGE class, all in down dog. And, most with rounded backs and straight legs. Ouch!
Hope you have a great Friday. Any questions, please ask.
PRE-K vs. COLLEGE (or, something like that)
When I began practicing Anusara Yoga, the spirals, loops, shins in/thighs out -- all of the 'lingo' truly intimidated and confused me. I came out of the healthcare arena; I was used to the lingo of American medicine. Now, teach me about loops and spirals?!?!?!? I was one very confused yoga student.
I read the Anusara book, trying to get a grasp; no luck. Then my teacher recommended a book by Doug Kellar, "Hatha Yoga in the Anusara Style". FYI, Doug was a close friend (business partner?) of JF's early on, they had a falling out, Doug went away. The book was still out there, still available for purchase. I bought one. Read it cover to cover, every word. I still have it, I still use it.
Mr. Kellar has a writing style that, for me, is clear and understandable. No more did I wonder about loops and spirals and their effect on our yoga poses.
Spring forward 13 years, to a workshop with Sundari. I spotted among her books one about Pranayama (breathwork) by Doug Kellar. My curiosity was piqued. That evening, I went on-line, found that the book was still available. Also found two others I couldn't live without -- Yoga as Therapeutics, Parts 1 & 2.
All this history to tell you that there is a world of learning to be had outside of the Anusara Teaching manual. I believe that book is a good intro, but to be the best yoga teacher I can be means I've got to step outside the box a bit and look around. Now, some might say "oh, no, you don't need that -- just do what JF said in his therapeutic training". But here's the clicker: Never in JF's manuals, or therapy trainings, or anywhere, has the fact that everyone will have a different angle to their upper femur, been mentioned. Never. That's significant. That tells me that there are many more things I need to know that are not covered in the manual. That's not a bad thing, just that the door is open - now, step thru and explore a bit.
My title for this blog post came from a recent Facebook thread in which people debated whether they had enough knowledge or if there was more. What I learn in classes, therapy trainings, teacher trainings -- all along the way -- is good; but it is not enough. I have to look around, study with other people, read other peoples' books, hear others' opinions. Wow, do I still have a lot to learn. This is one of the unexpected benefits of this recent upheaval within Anusara; a hiatus in which to look around, check out other 'stuff', like that.
Today -- Friday -- teaching a new Gentle Yoga group. Last week, we worked on IS/OS of the arms (do you believe it?), for them it was the gateway to straighter elbows in their poses. Wonder what today holds?
Enjoy your Friday,
I read the Anusara book, trying to get a grasp; no luck. Then my teacher recommended a book by Doug Kellar, "Hatha Yoga in the Anusara Style". FYI, Doug was a close friend (business partner?) of JF's early on, they had a falling out, Doug went away. The book was still out there, still available for purchase. I bought one. Read it cover to cover, every word. I still have it, I still use it.
Mr. Kellar has a writing style that, for me, is clear and understandable. No more did I wonder about loops and spirals and their effect on our yoga poses.
Spring forward 13 years, to a workshop with Sundari. I spotted among her books one about Pranayama (breathwork) by Doug Kellar. My curiosity was piqued. That evening, I went on-line, found that the book was still available. Also found two others I couldn't live without -- Yoga as Therapeutics, Parts 1 & 2.
All this history to tell you that there is a world of learning to be had outside of the Anusara Teaching manual. I believe that book is a good intro, but to be the best yoga teacher I can be means I've got to step outside the box a bit and look around. Now, some might say "oh, no, you don't need that -- just do what JF said in his therapeutic training". But here's the clicker: Never in JF's manuals, or therapy trainings, or anywhere, has the fact that everyone will have a different angle to their upper femur, been mentioned. Never. That's significant. That tells me that there are many more things I need to know that are not covered in the manual. That's not a bad thing, just that the door is open - now, step thru and explore a bit.
My title for this blog post came from a recent Facebook thread in which people debated whether they had enough knowledge or if there was more. What I learn in classes, therapy trainings, teacher trainings -- all along the way -- is good; but it is not enough. I have to look around, study with other people, read other peoples' books, hear others' opinions. Wow, do I still have a lot to learn. This is one of the unexpected benefits of this recent upheaval within Anusara; a hiatus in which to look around, check out other 'stuff', like that.
Today -- Friday -- teaching a new Gentle Yoga group. Last week, we worked on IS/OS of the arms (do you believe it?), for them it was the gateway to straighter elbows in their poses. Wonder what today holds?
Enjoy your Friday,
THE TRIGGER FINGER EPISODE
2 years ago, I decided it was time to practice 'jump-switch'. If you are unfamiliar with yoga, imagine being in a runners' lunge, right leg forward, hands on the floor. With one swift and smooth move, you weight your hands, lift legs from the ground, and land with left leg forward, right leg back -- another lunge.
Sounds wonderful, doesn't it? I thought so, and I have never been able to 'get' it. Hence, this story: I was warming up to teach a class of climbing athletes, decided to try a 'jump-switch' when no one was watching (I have issues of feeling 'less than', at times). What happened? First attempt - I lifted off, felt GREAT pain in the distal (closest to fingernail) joint of my right ring finger, came down in a lump, praying it wasn't broken (it wasn't).
I taught the class, still feeling that finger. For many months, the pain and discomfort persisted tho lessening each day. My therapy: to caress it and gently pull on the joint to create space, also some Ibuprofen. But, as the pain dissipated, I noticed discomfort in the joint closer to my palm (you know, the one that rings have trouble getting over some times), I'll call it the middle joint. I continued creating space in the joints of that finger, but something new was happening.
Every so often, when I bent that finger significantly, the middle joint would lock in that bent position. Now, I don't know about you, but when something 'locks' up in my body, I WANT IT UNLOCKED, THE SOONER THE BETTER. I kept creating space, slept with my hand firmly under my pillow so that it wouldn't bend in the night. My fear: that, if it remained stuck for any period of time, it might not UNSTICK. After months of fear, angst, worry, I made an appointment to have the finger looked at by a orthopedic physician specializing in the hand.
Yesterday was the day. My choice of physician was assisted by Google, but I chose a physician within one of the larger physician conglomerates in San Diego. I had little to go on but his picture, and he looked young. A one-hour drive from home, I left early, arrived early, and was nervous (I am usually never nervous in these situations). I think the prospect of a deformed hand, maybe even surgery, was at work here.
Physician's quick diagnosis: Trigger Finger. (or, stenosing tenosynovitis) Cause - inflammation and irritation (could have come from the initial injury; tho it usually results from medical conditions - which I don't have - or trauma to the base of the finger or palm), and each time the finger 'sticks' it only creates more inflammation/irritation, setting me up for continued issues.
What did he do? Well, he gave me a shot, in my palm about 2 inches below the affected joint. Finger went numb for a while. Since then, it has locked once more mildly, and I am hopeful this does the trick.
Oh, and about the physician: A young Woody Harrelson, short hair, boots and all. Younger than my son, I'm sure (that means early 30's). The cuteness factor took care of any credibility issues I might have with age. That, plus when he entered the room, he introduced himself -- how many physicians do that? Nice.
So, there you have it. Any questions about Trigger Finger, just ask -- I have a 3-page handout from the physician.
Hope you have a great Wednesday; off today to get my hair cut and colored -- that's nice, too.
Sounds wonderful, doesn't it? I thought so, and I have never been able to 'get' it. Hence, this story: I was warming up to teach a class of climbing athletes, decided to try a 'jump-switch' when no one was watching (I have issues of feeling 'less than', at times). What happened? First attempt - I lifted off, felt GREAT pain in the distal (closest to fingernail) joint of my right ring finger, came down in a lump, praying it wasn't broken (it wasn't).
I taught the class, still feeling that finger. For many months, the pain and discomfort persisted tho lessening each day. My therapy: to caress it and gently pull on the joint to create space, also some Ibuprofen. But, as the pain dissipated, I noticed discomfort in the joint closer to my palm (you know, the one that rings have trouble getting over some times), I'll call it the middle joint. I continued creating space in the joints of that finger, but something new was happening.
Every so often, when I bent that finger significantly, the middle joint would lock in that bent position. Now, I don't know about you, but when something 'locks' up in my body, I WANT IT UNLOCKED, THE SOONER THE BETTER. I kept creating space, slept with my hand firmly under my pillow so that it wouldn't bend in the night. My fear: that, if it remained stuck for any period of time, it might not UNSTICK. After months of fear, angst, worry, I made an appointment to have the finger looked at by a orthopedic physician specializing in the hand.
Yesterday was the day. My choice of physician was assisted by Google, but I chose a physician within one of the larger physician conglomerates in San Diego. I had little to go on but his picture, and he looked young. A one-hour drive from home, I left early, arrived early, and was nervous (I am usually never nervous in these situations). I think the prospect of a deformed hand, maybe even surgery, was at work here.
Physician's quick diagnosis: Trigger Finger. (or, stenosing tenosynovitis) Cause - inflammation and irritation (could have come from the initial injury; tho it usually results from medical conditions - which I don't have - or trauma to the base of the finger or palm), and each time the finger 'sticks' it only creates more inflammation/irritation, setting me up for continued issues.
What did he do? Well, he gave me a shot, in my palm about 2 inches below the affected joint. Finger went numb for a while. Since then, it has locked once more mildly, and I am hopeful this does the trick.
Oh, and about the physician: A young Woody Harrelson, short hair, boots and all. Younger than my son, I'm sure (that means early 30's). The cuteness factor took care of any credibility issues I might have with age. That, plus when he entered the room, he introduced himself -- how many physicians do that? Nice.
So, there you have it. Any questions about Trigger Finger, just ask -- I have a 3-page handout from the physician.
Hope you have a great Wednesday; off today to get my hair cut and colored -- that's nice, too.
THE WAY IT IS
Relating back to the poem I posted last Thursday, it is all pretty much the same.
Same drama with regards to Anusara Yoga -- not knowing, just being patient as things filter out. Offering a comment here and there on Facebook. Trying to stick with Howard's advice: "don't write anything on Facebook that you don't want in print on the front page of your local newspaper". Good advice.
Those of us who are/were in the Certification process have joined together in a group called the "Honey Badgers" on Facebook (honey badgers are relentless creatures, especially when backed into a corner). Why? Well, we need to do something to keep our minds occupied and off the crisis. The group's intent is to offer connection, communication, and support to one another, with the caveat -- no discussion of the Anusara issues. We are simply about working towards our goal of becoming the best yoga teachers we can be -- much like a honey badger would do.
People wonder about why I just don't teach, forget about it (the goal). When that happens, I remember this line of the poem: "People wonder about what you are pursuing.".
Some days I wonder too. And, I am still teaching, still studying. I have not, however lost sight of my goal, my thread.
At this stage, I am happy to be in my sixties. Through all this - watching the angst and petty-ness of some comments, the mean-ness of others, and - of course - the well thought through comments - I remain calm.
Not letting go, but not getting carried away, either.
Today? Teaching at the Library. Request for shoulder and neck work; better get back to the books.
Enjoy your Monday and your week,
Same drama with regards to Anusara Yoga -- not knowing, just being patient as things filter out. Offering a comment here and there on Facebook. Trying to stick with Howard's advice: "don't write anything on Facebook that you don't want in print on the front page of your local newspaper". Good advice.
Those of us who are/were in the Certification process have joined together in a group called the "Honey Badgers" on Facebook (honey badgers are relentless creatures, especially when backed into a corner). Why? Well, we need to do something to keep our minds occupied and off the crisis. The group's intent is to offer connection, communication, and support to one another, with the caveat -- no discussion of the Anusara issues. We are simply about working towards our goal of becoming the best yoga teachers we can be -- much like a honey badger would do.
People wonder about why I just don't teach, forget about it (the goal). When that happens, I remember this line of the poem: "People wonder about what you are pursuing.".
Some days I wonder too. And, I am still teaching, still studying. I have not, however lost sight of my goal, my thread.
At this stage, I am happy to be in my sixties. Through all this - watching the angst and petty-ness of some comments, the mean-ness of others, and - of course - the well thought through comments - I remain calm.
Not letting go, but not getting carried away, either.
Today? Teaching at the Library. Request for shoulder and neck work; better get back to the books.
Enjoy your Monday and your week,
LOVE THIS . . .
From Karen Sprute-Francovich:
The Way It Is
There’s a thread you follow. It goes among
things that change. But it doesn’t change.
People wonder about what you are pursuing.
You have to explain about the thread.
But it is hard for others to see.
While you hold it you can’t get lost.
Tragedies happen; people get hurt
or die; and you suffer and get old.
Nothing you do can stop time’s unfolding.
You don’t ever let go of the thread.
things that change. But it doesn’t change.
People wonder about what you are pursuing.
You have to explain about the thread.
But it is hard for others to see.
While you hold it you can’t get lost.
Tragedies happen; people get hurt
or die; and you suffer and get old.
Nothing you do can stop time’s unfolding.
You don’t ever let go of the thread.
~ William Stafford ~
SO, HOW'D IT GO -- THE WORKSHOP, THAT IS?
Few people knew I was presenting a workshop. I guess I kept it a pretty good secret.
For a while, I thought I might break the attendance barrier -- after all, there were people signed up in advance (3). In the final count, 4 students chose to attend. What to do?
I've been taking another on-line course (LOVE those on-line courses) with Eric Stoneberg, New York yoga instructor and philosophy buff who studies with Douglas Brooks. I became acquainted with Eric thru his blog, after stumbling on it one day and reading a long, but interesting, post about Akhilandeshvari (I think). I kept reading, and loved his writing on the 16 Laksmi's. Then, the moon goddesses. And, this was just the blog.
Back to the course -- this month's topic is Ganesh (last month it was Lalita Tripura Sundari). Ganesh, as Eric explains it, stands at every threshhold (in India, this is literally 99% true, as each household and business has a Ganesh monitoring the door).
As I planned this workshop, I wondered exactly how to 'do' it -- it's not like a class where you sequence to an apex pose. It's a longer 'class', focusing - in this case - on a specific body part, the hips. I put my workshop ideas together with some thoughts from Eric's presentation and, voila! For the opening, I spoke a bit about the threshhold idea, then we did a short Ganapati mantra 11 times (why 11? That's the number of times we must do something to remember.) I continued using Ganesh throughout the class -- equating hip opening to walking across a threshhold into a new room (a new thought process about the process of opening our hips - see next paragraph).
Then, I needed a goal for the workshop -- something students would take away from this session. I decided that the goal would be 'hip opening is better done from the inside out'. Meaning that, opening will happen more effectively if we strengthen our body and mind, and use both to create opening.
And, what happened? Well, I ran out of time -- I looked up at the clock, as we finished standing poses, only to discover that it was 3:55. Oh, no! 5 minutes to do some more effective hip opening stuff on the floor, and get in a good savasana. We did do a couple of the things I had planned, then to savasana. My consolation -- reflecting on the work we had done, I could truly see why Martin Kirk says 'every pose is a hip opening pose'.
Response from students was positive. The best one? "It hardly seemed like 2 hours." That's good. I'll take it.
Maybe I'll do another one -- "Happy Hips, Part Deux, II, or 2".
Hope your Monday is a good one. Library, here I come!
For a while, I thought I might break the attendance barrier -- after all, there were people signed up in advance (3). In the final count, 4 students chose to attend. What to do?
Proceed, full speed.
I've been taking another on-line course (LOVE those on-line courses) with Eric Stoneberg, New York yoga instructor and philosophy buff who studies with Douglas Brooks. I became acquainted with Eric thru his blog, after stumbling on it one day and reading a long, but interesting, post about Akhilandeshvari (I think). I kept reading, and loved his writing on the 16 Laksmi's. Then, the moon goddesses. And, this was just the blog.
Back to the course -- this month's topic is Ganesh (last month it was Lalita Tripura Sundari). Ganesh, as Eric explains it, stands at every threshhold (in India, this is literally 99% true, as each household and business has a Ganesh monitoring the door).
As I planned this workshop, I wondered exactly how to 'do' it -- it's not like a class where you sequence to an apex pose. It's a longer 'class', focusing - in this case - on a specific body part, the hips. I put my workshop ideas together with some thoughts from Eric's presentation and, voila! For the opening, I spoke a bit about the threshhold idea, then we did a short Ganapati mantra 11 times (why 11? That's the number of times we must do something to remember.) I continued using Ganesh throughout the class -- equating hip opening to walking across a threshhold into a new room (a new thought process about the process of opening our hips - see next paragraph).
Then, I needed a goal for the workshop -- something students would take away from this session. I decided that the goal would be 'hip opening is better done from the inside out'. Meaning that, opening will happen more effectively if we strengthen our body and mind, and use both to create opening.
And, what happened? Well, I ran out of time -- I looked up at the clock, as we finished standing poses, only to discover that it was 3:55. Oh, no! 5 minutes to do some more effective hip opening stuff on the floor, and get in a good savasana. We did do a couple of the things I had planned, then to savasana. My consolation -- reflecting on the work we had done, I could truly see why Martin Kirk says 'every pose is a hip opening pose'.
Response from students was positive. The best one? "It hardly seemed like 2 hours." That's good. I'll take it.
Maybe I'll do another one -- "Happy Hips, Part Deux, II, or 2".
Hope your Monday is a good one. Library, here I come!
THE 'FRIEND' COUNT
As we muddle through the Anusara upheaval, what is one good thing? My Facebook "Friend" count has gone up -- like, by 31 people!
31 people I might have met somewhere, or may never have met; nevertheless, they want to be my 'friend'. As one who always hoped to be the 'popular' girl (but never was), this is great fun. People wanting to hang out with me, if only on Facebook.
Be still my heart.
But, don't get too cocky, Leslie. They could just as easily 'unfriend' me -- in the Facebook world, you're just a 'click' away from being cut off, de-friended, asked to leave a group.
It's happened, to me -- that being 'asked to leave a group' part. During all the mess of the past 3 weeks, three groups formed on Facebook -- one for teachers, another for teachers (only), and a third for those who were not sure what the future holds (at least that was the stated intention in the beginning). I joined all three; I wanted to hear it all, everyone's position. It's been challenging (as I wrote a bit earlier this week), holding my tongue (or keyboard fingers).
Then came 'the' message. A request on the third site (I call it the 'on the fence' site), asking that those of us who were not resigning to please leave the group. A bit offended, I decided to 'sign off'; used just those terms - 'signing off', and left the group.
It's easier now -- just two pages to check in on and many of the comments I read are duplicates, so the second time thru I can usually skim. Saves time.
What rankles me a bit is when I see a comment on one of MY 2 pages from someone who has resigned. Not that I don't want to hear what they have to say, but they asked ME to leave their group. What's that about? What makes it worse is that the person asking ME to leave the group had been my friend (not Facebook but real friend); at least I thought she was. We had spent an entire week together in Boston at the last Level 2 Teacher Training John did there - partnering, chatting, sharing info. Then she asks ME (and a few hundred others, I'm sure) to leave the group. Well! Let's just say I won't be sending her a 'friend request' any time soon.
So, onward. Enough about my desire to be popular, well-liked. Those who know me, like me or not. I often use Christina's saying of "I'm an acquired taste". Just look at my classes. If you want more information that you ever hoped possible, if you want to move more slowly, if you want the question answered that you didn't ask, if you want someone to nitpick at you; then, come to my class. OOOH, I better read that and learn from some of my mistakes.
Workshop today -- Happy, Healthy Hips -- and I already have people signed up. Hoo-Ray!
Hope your Saturday is a good one,
PREPARATION
I am in the final stages of preparing for a 2-hour workshop that I will present tomorrow (Saturday, 2-4pm), in Temecula at Living Yoga (plug for you locals). Topic of the workshop: "Happy, Healthy Hip Opening".
Let me begin by saying my hips are tight. I am not the yoga teacher who effortlessly slides in Hanumanasana (forward splits) and Upavista Konasana (seated with legs spread laterally) is a dvesha, or to-be-avoided, pose no matter what.
((Someday, when all the JF upheaval has died down, I'll tell you my own personal UK and John Friend story.))
So, last month, I signed up for Doug Kellar's webinar on YogaUOnline, called Safe Hip Opening. I had two reasons. One, I want to be able to do Hanumanasana, and UK with ease. And, two, when I first began Anusara Yoga, I read Mr. Kellar's book, "Hatha Yoga in the Anusara Style". After reading that book, I clearly understood muscular energy, inner and outer spiral, the loops, and gained a ton of anatomy info that had previously been a mystery to me (as in, not covered in the college anatomy classes I'd taken 30 years ago). His ability to write all this out speaks to me, to the way I learn best, so why wouldn't I take the course?
I had also recently purchased 3 books of his -- 2 on therapeutics and 1 on pranayama, rekindling my interest in his offerings.
Curled on the sofa, laptop in hand, I listened to the first of the two webinar sessions. Jaw-dropping information. The next week, I listened again -- tho, not live (something got in the way). Fortunately, these are recorded so you can listen at any time. More info that left me wanting more; and also left me knowing that the two poses mentioned above may never be easeful for me, depending on the bone structure of my femurs. So long as I know why, it becomes an easier acceptance.
I continued, after those webinars, to read -- I'm now 3/4 of the way through the Therapeutics books. As I read, the temptation to skip parts is not there. I read every word. I might not remember every word, but as I read, I visualize and - hopefully - some of the info is trapped in my memory bank. That's the affect his writing has on me -- the ability to visualize.
Then, I offered to present the workshop mentioned in para 1. Why? Because hip opening has sometimes been presented to me as 'violent' work -- like 'get them open', now hold or keep them there (if you struggle with fire log pose, reflect on how you feel when in that pose!). Hip opening, rather, appears to me to be gentle work, feeling work; not just inner spiral and scoop, but movement that strengthens and lengthens the ligature and muscles on all sides of the hips - glutes, adductors, abductors, psoas, iliacus, etc. -- and these are all affected by the feet, knees, back, not just the joint itself.
Whens students indicate they want 'hip-opening' poses, I remember Martin Kirk's response: "EVERY pose is a hip opener!"
Wow! 2 hours will certainly not be long enough. But, it will be a start.
Hope you have a great Friday!
Let me begin by saying my hips are tight. I am not the yoga teacher who effortlessly slides in Hanumanasana (forward splits) and Upavista Konasana (seated with legs spread laterally) is a dvesha, or to-be-avoided, pose no matter what.
((Someday, when all the JF upheaval has died down, I'll tell you my own personal UK and John Friend story.))
So, last month, I signed up for Doug Kellar's webinar on YogaUOnline, called Safe Hip Opening. I had two reasons. One, I want to be able to do Hanumanasana, and UK with ease. And, two, when I first began Anusara Yoga, I read Mr. Kellar's book, "Hatha Yoga in the Anusara Style". After reading that book, I clearly understood muscular energy, inner and outer spiral, the loops, and gained a ton of anatomy info that had previously been a mystery to me (as in, not covered in the college anatomy classes I'd taken 30 years ago). His ability to write all this out speaks to me, to the way I learn best, so why wouldn't I take the course?
I had also recently purchased 3 books of his -- 2 on therapeutics and 1 on pranayama, rekindling my interest in his offerings.
Curled on the sofa, laptop in hand, I listened to the first of the two webinar sessions. Jaw-dropping information. The next week, I listened again -- tho, not live (something got in the way). Fortunately, these are recorded so you can listen at any time. More info that left me wanting more; and also left me knowing that the two poses mentioned above may never be easeful for me, depending on the bone structure of my femurs. So long as I know why, it becomes an easier acceptance.
I continued, after those webinars, to read -- I'm now 3/4 of the way through the Therapeutics books. As I read, the temptation to skip parts is not there. I read every word. I might not remember every word, but as I read, I visualize and - hopefully - some of the info is trapped in my memory bank. That's the affect his writing has on me -- the ability to visualize.
Then, I offered to present the workshop mentioned in para 1. Why? Because hip opening has sometimes been presented to me as 'violent' work -- like 'get them open', now hold or keep them there (if you struggle with fire log pose, reflect on how you feel when in that pose!). Hip opening, rather, appears to me to be gentle work, feeling work; not just inner spiral and scoop, but movement that strengthens and lengthens the ligature and muscles on all sides of the hips - glutes, adductors, abductors, psoas, iliacus, etc. -- and these are all affected by the feet, knees, back, not just the joint itself.
Whens students indicate they want 'hip-opening' poses, I remember Martin Kirk's response: "EVERY pose is a hip opener!"
Wow! 2 hours will certainly not be long enough. But, it will be a start.
Hope you have a great Friday!
THE CHALLENGES OF THIS DISCUSSION
As we move through the Anusara upheaval, Facebook has provided lots of information - good and not-so-good. It is a source of connection, however, to the greater community; which, right now is fractured and waiting (at least, many of us are waiting).
There is a promise of a re-structuring of the organization (and some other promises). A task that is not easy in any 'business' -- re-structuring. It takes time. Fortunately, I've had enough experience in the world of business to know this, so waiting is not a problem or a sign or non-action to me. It all takes time -- weeks, maybe months.
As I wait, however, I would not be telling the truth if I said 'all this is easy'. It's not. Each time I look at Facebook and read something I disagree with, I am tempted to comment; perhaps to say something I will regret (you can only push me so far and then I 'bite'). Some days it is just NOT possible to keep my mouth shut (or my fingers from typing). Each time I give way to the temptation, I am careful tho.
It is important, at these weak moments, to remember that these people are my friends -- whether I have met them or not. We might have partnered in a workshop somewhere and I've forgotten; or we may have met in a line waiting to use the restroom somewhere; or, we could have participated in a webinar or teleseminar together. In my 10+ years of practicing Anusara Yoga, I've met hundreds of people. Besides, civility dictates, in my book. And, as my wise husband had said many times, 'don't burn your bridges'.
I am learning to read comments, and to step back and take a breath. This is a good lesson for me. I do know how to do it in class (remember my experience with 'it's slower' -- I didn't react there, did I?). I am not so sure I know how to do it very well in life outside the classroom, workshop, training, etc. This is good training.
Today? Cleaning.
Yesterday? Classes went well - Gentle/therapeutic and Prenatal - using chairs, learning from the students; from their physical stuff and from their experiences.
And, my study? Wow, I read, I practice, I experience and understand. Amazing!
Hope you have a great Wednesday,
There is a promise of a re-structuring of the organization (and some other promises). A task that is not easy in any 'business' -- re-structuring. It takes time. Fortunately, I've had enough experience in the world of business to know this, so waiting is not a problem or a sign or non-action to me. It all takes time -- weeks, maybe months.
As I wait, however, I would not be telling the truth if I said 'all this is easy'. It's not. Each time I look at Facebook and read something I disagree with, I am tempted to comment; perhaps to say something I will regret (you can only push me so far and then I 'bite'). Some days it is just NOT possible to keep my mouth shut (or my fingers from typing). Each time I give way to the temptation, I am careful tho.
It is important, at these weak moments, to remember that these people are my friends -- whether I have met them or not. We might have partnered in a workshop somewhere and I've forgotten; or we may have met in a line waiting to use the restroom somewhere; or, we could have participated in a webinar or teleseminar together. In my 10+ years of practicing Anusara Yoga, I've met hundreds of people. Besides, civility dictates, in my book. And, as my wise husband had said many times, 'don't burn your bridges'.
I am learning to read comments, and to step back and take a breath. This is a good lesson for me. I do know how to do it in class (remember my experience with 'it's slower' -- I didn't react there, did I?). I am not so sure I know how to do it very well in life outside the classroom, workshop, training, etc. This is good training.
Today? Cleaning.
Yesterday? Classes went well - Gentle/therapeutic and Prenatal - using chairs, learning from the students; from their physical stuff and from their experiences.
And, my study? Wow, I read, I practice, I experience and understand. Amazing!
Hope you have a great Wednesday,
THINGS HAVE CHANGED BUT THEY HAVEN'T
HUH?
What do I mean by that title? That things are different. Anusara Yoga is in the throes of change -- many of us hope the change will be for the good and that we will move forward as a strong system, tho with a different management style. There is the possibility that it all may come apart; we will splinter, still friends but studying with different groups/schools, teaching with Anusara in our history but different verbiage. All still good yoga teachers, just not within the community we've grown accustomed to.
I look back on the week and what hasn't changed? My thirst for knowledge. I am still reading Doug Kellar's Yoga as Therapy book, and - when the house is quiet - I'm listening to Eric Stoneberg's teleseminars; current topic is Ganesh.
Another difference: I've been on the elliptical trainer three times in three days. Just getting in 10 minutes, with 2 to warm up and 2 to cool down (14 in all !). Then, going to my mat, working on the exercises outlined in Mr. Kellar's book, experimenting with balls, blocks, rolls, movement. I've even tried jump roping -- just once, tho. Maybe I'll give it another try.
I've been teaching - that hasn't changed, either. (Just read yesterday's post.) I filled in last night and taught a Hatha & Meditation Class - 60 minutes (how do you teach ANYTHING in 60 minutes). My plan was to move students for 20 minutes, do 5 minutes of meditation, and repeat. I got stuck focusing on one student's back issue -- which reminds me that I need to go back to Mr Kellar's book and re-read the section on the psoas and the effect of trauma on it's functioning. My initial reaction to her description of the back pain, cause, lack of definitive diagnosis, and recent hip discomfort make me think there may be a connection. We'll see.
Back to the class -- we did one meditation, but ran out of time - so, just did a supported savasana; a little longer than usual. They appeared to like it; who wouldn't?
Today? Teaching Gentle/Restorative at 2pm; then Prenatal at 4:30pm. Housework inbetween. Probably will check in on Facebook, tho the vitriol there is getting tough to handle. Maybe I'll just stay on my own page, rather than venture into the discussion groups formed as a result of the upheaval.
I hope you have a great Tuesday,
What do I mean by that title? That things are different. Anusara Yoga is in the throes of change -- many of us hope the change will be for the good and that we will move forward as a strong system, tho with a different management style. There is the possibility that it all may come apart; we will splinter, still friends but studying with different groups/schools, teaching with Anusara in our history but different verbiage. All still good yoga teachers, just not within the community we've grown accustomed to.
I look back on the week and what hasn't changed? My thirst for knowledge. I am still reading Doug Kellar's Yoga as Therapy book, and - when the house is quiet - I'm listening to Eric Stoneberg's teleseminars; current topic is Ganesh.
Another difference: I've been on the elliptical trainer three times in three days. Just getting in 10 minutes, with 2 to warm up and 2 to cool down (14 in all !). Then, going to my mat, working on the exercises outlined in Mr. Kellar's book, experimenting with balls, blocks, rolls, movement. I've even tried jump roping -- just once, tho. Maybe I'll give it another try.
I've been teaching - that hasn't changed, either. (Just read yesterday's post.) I filled in last night and taught a Hatha & Meditation Class - 60 minutes (how do you teach ANYTHING in 60 minutes). My plan was to move students for 20 minutes, do 5 minutes of meditation, and repeat. I got stuck focusing on one student's back issue -- which reminds me that I need to go back to Mr Kellar's book and re-read the section on the psoas and the effect of trauma on it's functioning. My initial reaction to her description of the back pain, cause, lack of definitive diagnosis, and recent hip discomfort make me think there may be a connection. We'll see.
Back to the class -- we did one meditation, but ran out of time - so, just did a supported savasana; a little longer than usual. They appeared to like it; who wouldn't?
Today? Teaching Gentle/Restorative at 2pm; then Prenatal at 4:30pm. Housework inbetween. Probably will check in on Facebook, tho the vitriol there is getting tough to handle. Maybe I'll just stay on my own page, rather than venture into the discussion groups formed as a result of the upheaval.
I hope you have a great Tuesday,