Different = AWESOME
I heard it again this week -- that phrase that I have come to re-define.
Every once in a while, especially when I sub a class, I hear this line as one comes out of a pose: "Well, that was different." There was a time when I would feel crushed, feel that I had failed; that feeling of being 'different' would overwhelm me and my teaching.
But, since finding the cute little cartoon on Facebook (the one with the Unicorn, captioned "different is awesome"), my reaction/response has shifted. I think I am really coming to believe in the title of this post (at least when it applies to my teaching).
I was subbing this week when I heard the phrase, and I quickly responded "as in AWESOME". I went on to explain the origin of my shift towards the definition of 'different' to the students in class. They chuckled.
I just looked up the definition of 'awesome' - interesting that this is what it says: extremely impressive or daunting; inspiring great admiration, apprehension or fear. And, there is the answer -- different is sometimes scary, daunting, without comfort zone -- it is awesome. Wow!
Never ceases to amaze me when I re-frame something (a move, a phrase, a thought) and my whole attitude towards it changes.
I am going to Spokane tomorrow, to visit family AND to do a workshop with my long-time teacher, Adam Ballenger -- a great believer in AWESOME. The young man who somewhere, somehow taught me how to work with different and embrace its awesome-ness when I practice yoga. Looking forward to seeing him, meeting some new yoga friends, and visiting family.
But, first, I must write about Wisdom Warriors. It's been different. Desiree is traveling -- off to Europe, I think -- for six weeks. In her stead is Mary, whose teaching style is different (think awesome). Oh, I'd be lying if I didn't say that the first week, I wished for Desiree, for the familiar. The second week, a shift. For one, we did a bunch of more manageable poses (for me), and - two - I am becoming familiar with Mary's style. What does that tell me? Different takes some getting used to, even if it is awesome.
We did tons of backbending and shoulder opening stuff. My right shoulder, which has been bothering me the past weeks (months?) took a day off. I did not push it, however, choosing to keep right arm on my hip at times when others were extending theirs up to the ceiling. I also resisted 'wild thing' on the right side. In the back of my mind was the thought: 'I don't want a sore right shoulder when I practice this coming weekend.', so, I took it easy on that arm. We'll see if my theory pans out.
It was fun. It was more relaxed than the first week. We laughed and talked a bit. And, I have to give Mary credit -- who would want to step into Desiree Rumbaugh's shoes (for six weeks, no less), and risk the wrath of many 50+ year old WisdomWarriors. Good on, Mary!
Today? Teaching Gentle Yoga at Yoga for Life at 12:30, then Temecula's Wisdom Warriors will meet at Living Yoga Center.
I just finished reading Karen Sprute-Francovich's blog. She is an amazing writer and perhaps I'll see her this weekend. She ended hers with this poem -- perfect.
You see, I want a lot.
Perhaps I want everything:
the darkness that comes with every infinite fall
and the shivering blaze of every step up.
So many live on and want nothing,
and are raised to the rank of prince
by the slippery ease of their light judgemnts.
But what you love to see are faces
that do work and feel thirst.
You love most of all those who need you
as they need a crowbar or a hoe.
You have not grown old, and it is not too late
to dive into your increasing depths
where life calmly gives out its own secret.
Rainer Maria Rilke / from The Book of the Hours
(Translated by Robert Bly)
Every once in a while, especially when I sub a class, I hear this line as one comes out of a pose: "Well, that was different." There was a time when I would feel crushed, feel that I had failed; that feeling of being 'different' would overwhelm me and my teaching.
But, since finding the cute little cartoon on Facebook (the one with the Unicorn, captioned "different is awesome"), my reaction/response has shifted. I think I am really coming to believe in the title of this post (at least when it applies to my teaching).
I was subbing this week when I heard the phrase, and I quickly responded "as in AWESOME". I went on to explain the origin of my shift towards the definition of 'different' to the students in class. They chuckled.
I just looked up the definition of 'awesome' - interesting that this is what it says: extremely impressive or daunting; inspiring great admiration, apprehension or fear. And, there is the answer -- different is sometimes scary, daunting, without comfort zone -- it is awesome. Wow!
Never ceases to amaze me when I re-frame something (a move, a phrase, a thought) and my whole attitude towards it changes.
I am going to Spokane tomorrow, to visit family AND to do a workshop with my long-time teacher, Adam Ballenger -- a great believer in AWESOME. The young man who somewhere, somehow taught me how to work with different and embrace its awesome-ness when I practice yoga. Looking forward to seeing him, meeting some new yoga friends, and visiting family.
But, first, I must write about Wisdom Warriors. It's been different. Desiree is traveling -- off to Europe, I think -- for six weeks. In her stead is Mary, whose teaching style is different (think awesome). Oh, I'd be lying if I didn't say that the first week, I wished for Desiree, for the familiar. The second week, a shift. For one, we did a bunch of more manageable poses (for me), and - two - I am becoming familiar with Mary's style. What does that tell me? Different takes some getting used to, even if it is awesome.
We did tons of backbending and shoulder opening stuff. My right shoulder, which has been bothering me the past weeks (months?) took a day off. I did not push it, however, choosing to keep right arm on my hip at times when others were extending theirs up to the ceiling. I also resisted 'wild thing' on the right side. In the back of my mind was the thought: 'I don't want a sore right shoulder when I practice this coming weekend.', so, I took it easy on that arm. We'll see if my theory pans out.
It was fun. It was more relaxed than the first week. We laughed and talked a bit. And, I have to give Mary credit -- who would want to step into Desiree Rumbaugh's shoes (for six weeks, no less), and risk the wrath of many 50+ year old WisdomWarriors. Good on, Mary!
Today? Teaching Gentle Yoga at Yoga for Life at 12:30, then Temecula's Wisdom Warriors will meet at Living Yoga Center.
I just finished reading Karen Sprute-Francovich's blog. She is an amazing writer and perhaps I'll see her this weekend. She ended hers with this poem -- perfect.
You see, I want a lot.
Perhaps I want everything:
the darkness that comes with every infinite fall
and the shivering blaze of every step up.
So many live on and want nothing,
and are raised to the rank of prince
by the slippery ease of their light judgemnts.
But what you love to see are faces
that do work and feel thirst.
You love most of all those who need you
as they need a crowbar or a hoe.
You have not grown old, and it is not too late
to dive into your increasing depths
where life calmly gives out its own secret.
Rainer Maria Rilke / from The Book of the Hours
(Translated by Robert Bly)
A LITTLE R&R TO RE-CHARGE
I returned Monday from a long weekend in Idaho -- a little R&R to re-charge the batteries, so to speak.
It's interesting that many times the 'return' from such a trip is laced with challenges. I choose to believe that's simply to remind us that it is really nice to be home. This trip, I had a short connection time in Salt Lake City. When we left Idaho Falls, we were delayed by 20 minutes as the flight crew asked for more gas and for air traffic to clear. That meant that I would have 25 minutes in SLC to get to the next flight. Once on approach to SLC, the airport put us in a holding pattern due to weather (this also delayed us another 15 minutes). Now, I have 10 minutes to get to my connecting flight. Once off the plane, I waited 2-3 minutes for my bag and, once on my way, I looked at the clock -- 4 minutes until departure.
Fortunately, the connecting gate was reasonably close, other planes had been delayed, and I made it onto my flight. SO GLAD TO BE HOME!
When I leave town, I also leave my students in the care of substitute teachers. I've been hearing that all had a good experience, and enjoyed the teaching they received. Many teachers will tell their students when they are leaving; I choose not to (unless circumstances warrant). Why? Some students will 'skip' their classes if their regular teacher is absent. They may also 'skip' some great teaching. Hence, my way of handling a guest teacher's presence.
Since my return, I've been teaching, teaching, teaching. And, practicing.
Wisdom Warriors Del Mar, yesterday, was fun -- so good to see and work with the friends I've cultivated through that practice. We are experiencing a 'sub' situation for the next 6 weeks, as Desiree is in Europe teaching. In her absence, Mary has taken the helm (with some help from Geri, I think). We had fun, and I am wondering what poses we didn't do -- well, I watched at times. It was a challenging practice - physically and mentally. I was able to really relate to my own students, as I worked to maintain my 'beginner' mind. That doesn't mean I didn't enjoy it (the practice), it means that I had to remind myself that Desiree wasn't there and, instead, Mary is our guide -- her teaching is different, no less challenging or skilled, just different. I am glad I was in the class; good to see how others teach, practice some different poses, sweat a bit, have fun.
So, today? Teaching at 12:30 at Yoga For Life; then Wisdom Warriors at Living Yoga (2:30).
Hope you all have a great Thursday,
It's interesting that many times the 'return' from such a trip is laced with challenges. I choose to believe that's simply to remind us that it is really nice to be home. This trip, I had a short connection time in Salt Lake City. When we left Idaho Falls, we were delayed by 20 minutes as the flight crew asked for more gas and for air traffic to clear. That meant that I would have 25 minutes in SLC to get to the next flight. Once on approach to SLC, the airport put us in a holding pattern due to weather (this also delayed us another 15 minutes). Now, I have 10 minutes to get to my connecting flight. Once off the plane, I waited 2-3 minutes for my bag and, once on my way, I looked at the clock -- 4 minutes until departure.
Fortunately, the connecting gate was reasonably close, other planes had been delayed, and I made it onto my flight. SO GLAD TO BE HOME!
When I leave town, I also leave my students in the care of substitute teachers. I've been hearing that all had a good experience, and enjoyed the teaching they received. Many teachers will tell their students when they are leaving; I choose not to (unless circumstances warrant). Why? Some students will 'skip' their classes if their regular teacher is absent. They may also 'skip' some great teaching. Hence, my way of handling a guest teacher's presence.
Since my return, I've been teaching, teaching, teaching. And, practicing.
Wisdom Warriors Del Mar, yesterday, was fun -- so good to see and work with the friends I've cultivated through that practice. We are experiencing a 'sub' situation for the next 6 weeks, as Desiree is in Europe teaching. In her absence, Mary has taken the helm (with some help from Geri, I think). We had fun, and I am wondering what poses we didn't do -- well, I watched at times. It was a challenging practice - physically and mentally. I was able to really relate to my own students, as I worked to maintain my 'beginner' mind. That doesn't mean I didn't enjoy it (the practice), it means that I had to remind myself that Desiree wasn't there and, instead, Mary is our guide -- her teaching is different, no less challenging or skilled, just different. I am glad I was in the class; good to see how others teach, practice some different poses, sweat a bit, have fun.
So, today? Teaching at 12:30 at Yoga For Life; then Wisdom Warriors at Living Yoga (2:30).
Hope you all have a great Thursday,
FLIP SIDE OF 'CHAIR YOGA'
I have taught Gentle Yoga classes for 10 years now. The longer I am in one spot, the classes grow and flourish -- even when I bring out the props. The one 'prop' that can send people running, however, is the CHAIR.
The CHAIR denotes something to some people that is truly unacceptable.
For me, it brings up a vision of a chair yoga video I purchased many years ago - when I was looking for ideas. That video included about 10 people in a circle, seated on chairs, flapping their arms in the air. I looked at those 10 80-year-olds and thought, 'oh my, what is that doing to their shoulders' and immediately turned the video OFF. Maybe that's what other people visualize, as well, ya think?
Well, I have news for those 'some people' and myself -- CHAIR yoga with Desiree Rumbaugh is as hard, if not harder, than many yoga classes I have tried. And, I saw 50+ year olds in yesterday's practice working on the chair, doing poses like urdhva dhanurasana (with feet on the chair); scorpion (bring feet down to the chair); and shoulder stand (shoulders on a stack on blankets; hips on the chair seat).
We spent 2 hours, in which almost every pose involved the CHAIR.
I need to quickly sit down and write a list of the creative ways we used the CHAIRS, so that I can once again bring them out, bar the doors, and give students a dose of this fun way to open, align and support themselves in their yoga practice. Interestingly, as hard as we worked, I am not sore this morning - yet. We'll see as the day goes on and I move around a little more aggressively.
What else have I been up to since writing 21 days ago in this blog? Teaching, teaching and more teaching. I also am still taking guitar lessons, and I have squeaked in a workshop with Doug Keller, as well.
Wow! I thought Doug's books were good; he, in person, is great! I'm going to go back to the books and re-read them -- much of what I read will have greater impact/meaning now that I've seen things in action.
Today? Teaching Gentle Yoga at Yoga For Life; then Temecula's Wisdom Warriors will gather at Living Yoga Center. For both classes, there may be CHAIRS involved. Fair warning.
Hope you all have a great Thursday!
BUSY, BUSY, BUSY
I have often been heard to scorn the person who tells me they are 'too busy' when asked to do something important to their journey. I might have to eat some words here (stale words), since I've been using the exact phrase on many occasions in the past month or two. Why? Well, let me tell you:
About a month ago, my Certification with the Anusara School of Hatha Yoga was finalized. This monumental accomplishment, while tarnished by the antics of JF, has me standing taller and more confidently in my teaching. I am good at what I do and completing the Certification is living proof! (just needed to say that . . . )
Since then I've taken on a couple more classes to teach, including an Intro to Yoga. Teaching 20+ new students how to 'do' yoga is a challenge. Not that I need to know how to teach them poses, but I also want to instill an enthusiasm -- how do I do that? I decided that one of the things I valued most in my early years was feeling noticed. With that in mind, I did a number of things differently from prior Intros, which has certainly kept me 'busy'. Not sure what I will do for the final class, but I'm thinking about it. I could easily say 'busy' after this.
Then, there are my 'regular' classes - which are up to 8 each week. I never thought I'd teach that much, but it's now or never, I'm thinking. And, at the ripe age of 63, I need to get busy and cram a lot of teaching and learning into the next years. So 'busy' again.
My personal practice has gone up and down; fortunately, I have Wisdom Warriors to keep me motivated and stimulated. I missed two weeks (how can one miss 4 hours of practice with Desiree Riumbaugh - DUMB!). Nevertheless, the damage was done. I returned yesterday, wondering how I would do; could I keep up? I did pretty well. I'm not saying everyone should take 2 weeks off from their practice with Desiree, but sometimes a few days away gives us an unexpected boost when we return.
What did we do? Rather, what didn't we do? Standing poses, backbends, balance, upside down, plus an experiment or two -- all part of 2 hours spent with Wisdom Warriors. Our motto -- keep moving while you keep your ribs contained, your belly engaged, your tailbone moving towards your heels, and your gaze lifted -- something like that. (actually, I just made that up -- early morning mind unravelings).
On the home front, we just returned from our cabin in Idaho. Had planned this 4-day trip for a long time, but didn't realize that it would coincide with the replacement of our roof. Poor dogs, had to stay here with a house sitter, who endured the pounding and stomping on the roof for those days. We are back, roof is almost done (as with many house projects, it took longer and more $$$$$$$ than expected, but what can you say about that). Life might be back to normal at the Fallbrook house soon.
And, Idaho -- wonderful 4 days spent in front of the wood stove reading. I even cooked every night we were there (a remarkable accomplishment). Nice to get away, nice to be home.
Today, up to Temecula to teach -- Gentle at Yoga for Life; Temecula Wisdom Warriors at Living Yoga Center.
Hope you have a great Thursday!
About a month ago, my Certification with the Anusara School of Hatha Yoga was finalized. This monumental accomplishment, while tarnished by the antics of JF, has me standing taller and more confidently in my teaching. I am good at what I do and completing the Certification is living proof! (just needed to say that . . . )
Since then I've taken on a couple more classes to teach, including an Intro to Yoga. Teaching 20+ new students how to 'do' yoga is a challenge. Not that I need to know how to teach them poses, but I also want to instill an enthusiasm -- how do I do that? I decided that one of the things I valued most in my early years was feeling noticed. With that in mind, I did a number of things differently from prior Intros, which has certainly kept me 'busy'. Not sure what I will do for the final class, but I'm thinking about it. I could easily say 'busy' after this.
Then, there are my 'regular' classes - which are up to 8 each week. I never thought I'd teach that much, but it's now or never, I'm thinking. And, at the ripe age of 63, I need to get busy and cram a lot of teaching and learning into the next years. So 'busy' again.
My personal practice has gone up and down; fortunately, I have Wisdom Warriors to keep me motivated and stimulated. I missed two weeks (how can one miss 4 hours of practice with Desiree Riumbaugh - DUMB!). Nevertheless, the damage was done. I returned yesterday, wondering how I would do; could I keep up? I did pretty well. I'm not saying everyone should take 2 weeks off from their practice with Desiree, but sometimes a few days away gives us an unexpected boost when we return.
What did we do? Rather, what didn't we do? Standing poses, backbends, balance, upside down, plus an experiment or two -- all part of 2 hours spent with Wisdom Warriors. Our motto -- keep moving while you keep your ribs contained, your belly engaged, your tailbone moving towards your heels, and your gaze lifted -- something like that. (actually, I just made that up -- early morning mind unravelings).
On the home front, we just returned from our cabin in Idaho. Had planned this 4-day trip for a long time, but didn't realize that it would coincide with the replacement of our roof. Poor dogs, had to stay here with a house sitter, who endured the pounding and stomping on the roof for those days. We are back, roof is almost done (as with many house projects, it took longer and more $$$$$$$ than expected, but what can you say about that). Life might be back to normal at the Fallbrook house soon.
And, Idaho -- wonderful 4 days spent in front of the wood stove reading. I even cooked every night we were there (a remarkable accomplishment). Nice to get away, nice to be home.
Today, up to Temecula to teach -- Gentle at Yoga for Life; Temecula Wisdom Warriors at Living Yoga Center.
Hope you have a great Thursday!
HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!
First thought this morning was it's Valentine's Day -- need to write in the card I bought and write in my blog. Interesting. Two very different processes, but both valuable.
I've taken care of the first, now the blog which has been sorely neglected over the past weeks/months.
Not sure why. Busy, I guess. Doing what, you ask? Teaching yoga, reading about yoga, preparing for and presenting workshops on yoga, marketing yoga, and - on the side - learning to play the guitar (lessons, even), spending time with family, cleaning house (literally; lots of dog hair in this place), and trying to finalize an important segment of my life - Certification as an Anusara Yoga Instructor.
That last task - achieving Certification - was completed yesterday. A nice phone call, a flurry of internet 'paperwork', a welcome e-mail in my inbox, and - TaDa - I'm Certified. I wish this had happened 14 months ago, prior to the Anusara debacle, but it didn't. It happened 2/13/13. The process, which had been ongoing for several years, went into 'hold' mode over the past 12 months, was awakened 2 months ago, and finished, finally.
Certification is quite an achievement. Not only does it mean I've really finished something, but along the way I've learned so much about the body, life, people; that, to have missed it, would have meant you'd be looking at the old Leslie (this blog probably wouldn't exist). I'd still be concerned with cars, clothes, status. And, still feel a bit 'lacking'. No more. Today and yesterday, and the day before, and the day before - I know I have more to do and be than what I was. Certification is "icing on the cake" (if you are a student of mine, this phrase sounds very familiar, right?) So enough. It's done. I'm Certified. And I'm proud of it.
You know what? I just realized a correlation. On Tuesday, 2/12/13, I taught the second class of my Intro series with 25+ students in the room. I boldly decided to ask them to chant with me, to 'name' Ganesh, to call him into the room, to help cross a threshhold to this new movement practice called yoga. I prepared a handout with Ganesh's history and the chant taught me by Eric Stoneberg, in a past workshop series. Participants repeat the short chant 11 times, breaking old habits and crossing a threshold. I demo'd it to this new group, asking them to chant with me. I took a deep breath (tip from Adam, here) and began. From beginning to end, I heard voices chanting with me. Ganesh joined us (and perhaps was helpful to me, even, as that last little 'push' to cross my threshold). Just thinking here.
NOW, ABOUT WISDOM WARRIORS -- that part of my life and teaching you've really been waiting to hear about. Trekked (drove, actually) to Del Mar. I'd missed last week, so was not feeling particularly 'strong'. I did want to share my Certification news with Desiree, who had encouraged me to finish (along with Sundari). Arrived, settled in. "We're going to take care of ourselves today." she says. We think, oh good, gentle practice. It was, in some ways. It was also challenging and opening, in many others -- hips, hamstrings, twisting, arm balancing, to name some.
One thing I've learned from this Lady (Desiree), is that the great teachers are not afraid to wander away from the 'script'. To teach to the energy room; pushing where necessary, asking for more if needed, leaving alone if that's called for.
Result: I felt strong the entire practice; got a good neck adjustment (neck was stiff, no longer). And, I was surprised by how much I was able to do.
Today? Teaching in Temecula. Gentle at Yoga For Life, 12:30; Temecula Wisdom Warriors at 2:30pm at Living Yoga Center. Looking forward to it!
Have a great Thursday!
I've taken care of the first, now the blog which has been sorely neglected over the past weeks/months.
Not sure why. Busy, I guess. Doing what, you ask? Teaching yoga, reading about yoga, preparing for and presenting workshops on yoga, marketing yoga, and - on the side - learning to play the guitar (lessons, even), spending time with family, cleaning house (literally; lots of dog hair in this place), and trying to finalize an important segment of my life - Certification as an Anusara Yoga Instructor.
That last task - achieving Certification - was completed yesterday. A nice phone call, a flurry of internet 'paperwork', a welcome e-mail in my inbox, and - TaDa - I'm Certified. I wish this had happened 14 months ago, prior to the Anusara debacle, but it didn't. It happened 2/13/13. The process, which had been ongoing for several years, went into 'hold' mode over the past 12 months, was awakened 2 months ago, and finished, finally.
Certification is quite an achievement. Not only does it mean I've really finished something, but along the way I've learned so much about the body, life, people; that, to have missed it, would have meant you'd be looking at the old Leslie (this blog probably wouldn't exist). I'd still be concerned with cars, clothes, status. And, still feel a bit 'lacking'. No more. Today and yesterday, and the day before, and the day before - I know I have more to do and be than what I was. Certification is "icing on the cake" (if you are a student of mine, this phrase sounds very familiar, right?) So enough. It's done. I'm Certified. And I'm proud of it.
You know what? I just realized a correlation. On Tuesday, 2/12/13, I taught the second class of my Intro series with 25+ students in the room. I boldly decided to ask them to chant with me, to 'name' Ganesh, to call him into the room, to help cross a threshhold to this new movement practice called yoga. I prepared a handout with Ganesh's history and the chant taught me by Eric Stoneberg, in a past workshop series. Participants repeat the short chant 11 times, breaking old habits and crossing a threshold. I demo'd it to this new group, asking them to chant with me. I took a deep breath (tip from Adam, here) and began. From beginning to end, I heard voices chanting with me. Ganesh joined us (and perhaps was helpful to me, even, as that last little 'push' to cross my threshold). Just thinking here.
NOW, ABOUT WISDOM WARRIORS -- that part of my life and teaching you've really been waiting to hear about. Trekked (drove, actually) to Del Mar. I'd missed last week, so was not feeling particularly 'strong'. I did want to share my Certification news with Desiree, who had encouraged me to finish (along with Sundari). Arrived, settled in. "We're going to take care of ourselves today." she says. We think, oh good, gentle practice. It was, in some ways. It was also challenging and opening, in many others -- hips, hamstrings, twisting, arm balancing, to name some.
One thing I've learned from this Lady (Desiree), is that the great teachers are not afraid to wander away from the 'script'. To teach to the energy room; pushing where necessary, asking for more if needed, leaving alone if that's called for.
Result: I felt strong the entire practice; got a good neck adjustment (neck was stiff, no longer). And, I was surprised by how much I was able to do.
Today? Teaching in Temecula. Gentle at Yoga For Life, 12:30; Temecula Wisdom Warriors at 2:30pm at Living Yoga Center. Looking forward to it!
Have a great Thursday!
TEMECULA'S WISDOM WARRIORS
Each week, since April, I have chronicled the activities of the 'flagship' Wisdom Warriors in Del Mar. You see, that group is guided by Desiree Rumbaugh (with some help from Geri Portnoy & others), and I have made the trek (40 minutes to and fro) almost every week.
Today, tho, I'd like to focus my writing on the Temecula Wisdom Warriors -- a practice I began to guide about 8 weeks ago. It's an offshoot of the Del Mar Group (Wisdom Warriors is now trademarked by Desiree, due to its popularity and a growing awareness.).
Eight weeks ago, the first Temecula meet-up happened with about six in attendance. It was fun and I thought "wow, good turnout; this is gonna be great". After that first class, attendance wax'd and waned; never reaching the original attendance number, once there was no one! I'm about to think 'throw in the towel'. Then comes 2013.
Attendance begins to grow - first six, then seven. Who knows what the future will bring. What am I thinking now? Hang in there for a bit, see what happens.
I think the shift happened when students realized that it wasn't a class for 'old' people (something like chair yoga), but rather a class for students, aged 50 and older, to come together, refine their yoga skills and push their 'envelopes' a bit.
So, who does attend Wisdom Warriors Temecula at this point -- 50-, 60- and 70-year-olds. And, what does the practice look like? Warm-up, sun salutations, standing poses, twists, balance poses (arm and leg), some backbends, some inversions. Sound familiar? Sound like a 'regular' class? It is -- it's just attended by 'older' students, willing to laugh, groan, etc., together.
Today? To Temecula to teach.
Hope you have a great Thursday!
Oh, and what happened at the Del Mar Wisdom Warriors? Well, a full spectrum of poses; focusing on balance. Not just standing on one leg, but also balancing energy between left and right. Always fun, always challenging (Desiree is on a mission -- urdhva dhanurasana is her goal for me; I better get used to it, and practice it!)
Today, tho, I'd like to focus my writing on the Temecula Wisdom Warriors -- a practice I began to guide about 8 weeks ago. It's an offshoot of the Del Mar Group (Wisdom Warriors is now trademarked by Desiree, due to its popularity and a growing awareness.).
Eight weeks ago, the first Temecula meet-up happened with about six in attendance. It was fun and I thought "wow, good turnout; this is gonna be great". After that first class, attendance wax'd and waned; never reaching the original attendance number, once there was no one! I'm about to think 'throw in the towel'. Then comes 2013.
Attendance begins to grow - first six, then seven. Who knows what the future will bring. What am I thinking now? Hang in there for a bit, see what happens.
I think the shift happened when students realized that it wasn't a class for 'old' people (something like chair yoga), but rather a class for students, aged 50 and older, to come together, refine their yoga skills and push their 'envelopes' a bit.
So, who does attend Wisdom Warriors Temecula at this point -- 50-, 60- and 70-year-olds. And, what does the practice look like? Warm-up, sun salutations, standing poses, twists, balance poses (arm and leg), some backbends, some inversions. Sound familiar? Sound like a 'regular' class? It is -- it's just attended by 'older' students, willing to laugh, groan, etc., together.
Today? To Temecula to teach.
Hope you have a great Thursday!
Oh, and what happened at the Del Mar Wisdom Warriors? Well, a full spectrum of poses; focusing on balance. Not just standing on one leg, but also balancing energy between left and right. Always fun, always challenging (Desiree is on a mission -- urdhva dhanurasana is her goal for me; I better get used to it, and practice it!)
EVERMORE WONDERS . . .
Many blog posts ago, I wrote about the correlation of effective listening to the 3A's of Anusara Yoga -- attitude, alignment and action. At the time, I thought that was a pretty good comparison and I could make a good case for using those A's for many of the things I do. I still can.
Though these days, I'm a bit less vocal about shouting the wonders of Anusara from the rooftops. I still reflect on all the good lessons and happy times I shared in the almost-fifteen years I've studied Anusara.
Today, I include different stuff in my study. Carefully evaluating a presenter's qualifications and material before making a decision to invest. And, I've found the webinars are a great way to go in this new world. No packing, no airports to traverse, no husband (or pets) to leave behind. It's just a more comfortable, yet still effective way of study, and a way to explore new and previously-unknown-to-me instructors.
I've wandered -- back to the title; which comes from this quote:
"If you’re really listening, if you’re awake to the poignant beauty of the world, your heart breaks regularly. In fact, your heart is made to break; its purpose is to burst open again and again so that it can hold evermore wonders."
~ Andrew Harvey
So, for 2013, I've decided to use the word 'listen' as one of my guides. I will continue to learn, I will absorb more, and my heart will hold 'evermore wonders' (LOVE those two words).
Oh, and I was listening yesterday during Wisdom Warriors, as we prepped our way into some backbends. Comes the dreaded phrase, 'lie on your backs'; which always happens before the dreaded pose -- urdhva dhanurasana (aka backbend or wheel). I gave it good effort for the first one, and got on top of my head. Then, she (Desiree Rumbaugh) says: "give me a number between 5 and 10." We do. She picks 13. I know, it doesn't make sense, but it's Desiree; who are we to argue? 13 what? You got it, 13 Urdhva's.
So, we begin. A roomful of 50+ year olds (and three 60+ year olds and one 70+ year old) counting down 13 urdhva's. Each one, my friend (Desiree) is standing over me. Each one, she grabs my shoulders (and shoulder blades) and helps me up. Each one, she directs by heart (which is about to hold 13 EVERMORE WONDERS), over my hands.
I'm not tired, I'm not even thinking about NOT doing all 13, and we finish. 13 Urdhva Dhanurasanas, with some help from a friend. Be still my heart.
Today? Teaching in Temecula: Gentle/Therapeutic at Yoga For Life at 12:30pm; then practicing with my own group of Wisdom Warriors (which is growing!) at Living Yoga, 2:30pm.
Hope your Thursday is a great one,
Though these days, I'm a bit less vocal about shouting the wonders of Anusara from the rooftops. I still reflect on all the good lessons and happy times I shared in the almost-fifteen years I've studied Anusara.
Today, I include different stuff in my study. Carefully evaluating a presenter's qualifications and material before making a decision to invest. And, I've found the webinars are a great way to go in this new world. No packing, no airports to traverse, no husband (or pets) to leave behind. It's just a more comfortable, yet still effective way of study, and a way to explore new and previously-unknown-to-me instructors.
I've wandered -- back to the title; which comes from this quote:
"If you’re really listening, if you’re awake to the poignant beauty of the world, your heart breaks regularly. In fact, your heart is made to break; its purpose is to burst open again and again so that it can hold evermore wonders."
~ Andrew Harvey
So, for 2013, I've decided to use the word 'listen' as one of my guides. I will continue to learn, I will absorb more, and my heart will hold 'evermore wonders' (LOVE those two words).
Oh, and I was listening yesterday during Wisdom Warriors, as we prepped our way into some backbends. Comes the dreaded phrase, 'lie on your backs'; which always happens before the dreaded pose -- urdhva dhanurasana (aka backbend or wheel). I gave it good effort for the first one, and got on top of my head. Then, she (Desiree Rumbaugh) says: "give me a number between 5 and 10." We do. She picks 13. I know, it doesn't make sense, but it's Desiree; who are we to argue? 13 what? You got it, 13 Urdhva's.
So, we begin. A roomful of 50+ year olds (and three 60+ year olds and one 70+ year old) counting down 13 urdhva's. Each one, my friend (Desiree) is standing over me. Each one, she grabs my shoulders (and shoulder blades) and helps me up. Each one, she directs by heart (which is about to hold 13 EVERMORE WONDERS), over my hands.
I'm not tired, I'm not even thinking about NOT doing all 13, and we finish. 13 Urdhva Dhanurasanas, with some help from a friend. Be still my heart.
Today? Teaching in Temecula: Gentle/Therapeutic at Yoga For Life at 12:30pm; then practicing with my own group of Wisdom Warriors (which is growing!) at Living Yoga, 2:30pm.
Hope your Thursday is a great one,
WE WILL ROLL WITH THE POSES . . .
I know that title phrase works better with the word 'punches'; however, it would not have adequately described our Wisdom Warriors' practice yesterday.
Our guide, while Desiree is on holiday, was Geri -- the YogaDelMar studio owner, a wonderful yoga teacher, and - now - a MELT(r) instructor. Lucky us -- we got a practice that blended our yoga with some "MELTing".
What is MELT(r)? The letters stand for Myofascial Energetic Lengthening Technique. Our muscles, organs, tendons -- everything has a layer of connective tissue that basically holds everything in place and ready to work. It used to be that this layer of fascia (connective tissue) was thought to be just that, nothing more; and it was often discarded and/or overlooked when working with clients and patients. In recent months/years, there has been an awakening to the power of the fascia.
With that awakening has come some innovative and effective ways of massaging, re-hydrating, re-enlivening the fascial layers of our bodies. One of those is MELT(r), and Geri introduced us to it in yesterday's practice (along with some good yoga).
We began with the hands, squeezing small balls with our fingers, then rolling the balls on top of and underneath the entire hand. We compared how our hands and fingers felt before and after -- interesting and powerful.
Then, some yoga -- standing poses, a few handstands, some balance work.
And, back to MELT(r) -- this time with a long cylinder (but somewhat squishy) roll that we maneuvered along our hamstrings, then along the IT band (a tough group of fibers that runs from gluteal muscles to knee on lateral aspect of thigh), and then a bit of work on the TFL (tensor fasciae latae - a muscle that begins at our pelvis and connects to the IT band). ISN'T IT FUN HOW ALL THIS FITS TOGETHER!?!?!?)
So, there you have it -- yesterday's Wisdom Warriors practice; finished off with a wonderful savasana.
On my schedule today -- back to teaching. First, to Yoga For Life for a Gentle Class; then to Living Yoga for Temecula's Wisdom Warrior practice.
I wish everyone a Happy and Safe 2013! Keep track of the good things that happen; re-frame the rest.
p.s. I use "re-frame" a lot, both in teaching and in life. I took a moment to look it up:
re-frame: frame or express (words or concept or plan) differently.
It's a keeper.
Our guide, while Desiree is on holiday, was Geri -- the YogaDelMar studio owner, a wonderful yoga teacher, and - now - a MELT(r) instructor. Lucky us -- we got a practice that blended our yoga with some "MELTing".
What is MELT(r)? The letters stand for Myofascial Energetic Lengthening Technique. Our muscles, organs, tendons -- everything has a layer of connective tissue that basically holds everything in place and ready to work. It used to be that this layer of fascia (connective tissue) was thought to be just that, nothing more; and it was often discarded and/or overlooked when working with clients and patients. In recent months/years, there has been an awakening to the power of the fascia.
With that awakening has come some innovative and effective ways of massaging, re-hydrating, re-enlivening the fascial layers of our bodies. One of those is MELT(r), and Geri introduced us to it in yesterday's practice (along with some good yoga).
We began with the hands, squeezing small balls with our fingers, then rolling the balls on top of and underneath the entire hand. We compared how our hands and fingers felt before and after -- interesting and powerful.
Then, some yoga -- standing poses, a few handstands, some balance work.
And, back to MELT(r) -- this time with a long cylinder (but somewhat squishy) roll that we maneuvered along our hamstrings, then along the IT band (a tough group of fibers that runs from gluteal muscles to knee on lateral aspect of thigh), and then a bit of work on the TFL (tensor fasciae latae - a muscle that begins at our pelvis and connects to the IT band). ISN'T IT FUN HOW ALL THIS FITS TOGETHER!?!?!?)
So, there you have it -- yesterday's Wisdom Warriors practice; finished off with a wonderful savasana.
On my schedule today -- back to teaching. First, to Yoga For Life for a Gentle Class; then to Living Yoga for Temecula's Wisdom Warrior practice.
I wish everyone a Happy and Safe 2013! Keep track of the good things that happen; re-frame the rest.
p.s. I use "re-frame" a lot, both in teaching and in life. I took a moment to look it up:
re-frame: frame or express (words or concept or plan) differently.
It's a keeper.
BABY, IT'S COLD OUTSIDE (here in so. cal., even)
The outside temperature reads 42.1 -- warmer than the weatherman predicted on last night's news, but cold for southern california. So glad we didn't ship all our fleece and cold-weather gear to Idaho. Time to layer up!
Speaking of layering up -- these segue's just come out of nowhere sometimes. We layered in Wisdom Warriors yesterday. Three 30-minute 'classes' -- standing poses, forward folds, backbends -- each consisting of about 20 poses. Do the math -- 60 poses in 90 minutes.
NEVER CALL A 'WISDOM WARRIORS' CLASS THE 'OLD PEOPLES' CLASS' !!!
Why would Desiree plan such a class. It actually was a 'dress rehearsal' for a video she's putting together to share with students who don't have access to a Wisdom Warriors practice (currently there are 3 offered in the U.S. -- Del Mar (Desiree) and Temecula, CA (Me - Leslie); and Denver, CO (Michelle Berman Marchildon).
She wanted to 'see' if we could cram 20 poses into 30 minutes and look o.k. doing it (not perfect, mind you; but o.k. -- intermediate level poses, mind you). We succeeded. No one collapsed in exhaustion, no one whined, no one tried to distract her with mindless banter. We did the work and we did it well, if I do say so myself!
I also must thank Desiree for arranging for us to meet with a young man (yes, he was under age 50, by 20+ years, I'd say), whose specialty is "Functional Manual Physical Therapist". Very interesting. Dispelled a few myths and also offered some insights I'd not heard before.
One, I had heard before, but was a great reminder -- look at the whole person when they appear in class complaining of a sore knee. His example: A knee-replacement client still struggling with the same pain as before surgery. Turns out that this client (upon further diagnostic work) has a L2 disc issue, referring pain to the knee -- no real need for a knee-replacement. His mantra: "don't follow the pain".
We've been celebrating Christmas all week. It began Sunday with dinner and some gift opening at our son's home (they will spend actual Christmas Day with other family members); then, last night, the same crew came out for Chinese food at our house. Turns out that the grand-dudes (ages 2, 4, 6), enjoy Chinese food -- who knew? Comment heard from the 2-year-old, upon biting into an egg roll: "Yummy". Then he ate the whole thing, plus another half. Guess he really did like it.
Today? Traveling to Temecula to teach two classes.
Hope you have a great Thursday!
Speaking of layering up -- these segue's just come out of nowhere sometimes. We layered in Wisdom Warriors yesterday. Three 30-minute 'classes' -- standing poses, forward folds, backbends -- each consisting of about 20 poses. Do the math -- 60 poses in 90 minutes.
NEVER CALL A 'WISDOM WARRIORS' CLASS THE 'OLD PEOPLES' CLASS' !!!
Why would Desiree plan such a class. It actually was a 'dress rehearsal' for a video she's putting together to share with students who don't have access to a Wisdom Warriors practice (currently there are 3 offered in the U.S. -- Del Mar (Desiree) and Temecula, CA (Me - Leslie); and Denver, CO (Michelle Berman Marchildon).
She wanted to 'see' if we could cram 20 poses into 30 minutes and look o.k. doing it (not perfect, mind you; but o.k. -- intermediate level poses, mind you). We succeeded. No one collapsed in exhaustion, no one whined, no one tried to distract her with mindless banter. We did the work and we did it well, if I do say so myself!
I also must thank Desiree for arranging for us to meet with a young man (yes, he was under age 50, by 20+ years, I'd say), whose specialty is "Functional Manual Physical Therapist". Very interesting. Dispelled a few myths and also offered some insights I'd not heard before.
One, I had heard before, but was a great reminder -- look at the whole person when they appear in class complaining of a sore knee. His example: A knee-replacement client still struggling with the same pain as before surgery. Turns out that this client (upon further diagnostic work) has a L2 disc issue, referring pain to the knee -- no real need for a knee-replacement. His mantra: "don't follow the pain".
We've been celebrating Christmas all week. It began Sunday with dinner and some gift opening at our son's home (they will spend actual Christmas Day with other family members); then, last night, the same crew came out for Chinese food at our house. Turns out that the grand-dudes (ages 2, 4, 6), enjoy Chinese food -- who knew? Comment heard from the 2-year-old, upon biting into an egg roll: "Yummy". Then he ate the whole thing, plus another half. Guess he really did like it.
Today? Traveling to Temecula to teach two classes.
Hope you have a great Thursday!
TOO MANY THINGS . . .
If I have too many things to write about, doesn't that beg the question: 'why not write more often?'. It does, and I have no good answer so I'll ignore it and continue . . .
First -- Wisdom Warriors, aptly nicknamed "oh, the places you'll go" (whether you ever imagined you'd go there or not). Me? I found myself, supported by Desiree, trying to drop from a headstand into a variation of the pose pictured below. I didn't make it, but I tried. Trying is the value of this type of work.
The rest of the practice? Challenging, a lot of breakthroughs in the room, a lot of watching. Strong core work, carried over into inversions, arm balances, backbends -- just a few poses.
For all of it, I feel great this a.m. and felt great last night. No residual 'stuff'. Love it.
I drove home from Del Mar, grabbed a quick bite, changed into jeans, and got back in the car to drive to Temecula for a kirtan with Daniel Paul and Gina Sala. Wow! After the WW practice, I could have easily said 'I'm too tired'; I didn't and am I glad I didn't. Daniel Paul plays the tabla (small cylinder-shaped hand drums); and is a master at it -- having studied and played with most of the great kirtan groups in the world. Gina -- well, what a voice. And, her joyful personality came through in both her singing and her 'patter' (isn't that what they call chit-chat?) with the audience.
As with kirtans, there was chanting, and dancing. Best parts for me? Hearing their stories - his, an honoring of his teachers and friends, including Ravi Shankar (who passed on Tuesday), plus a bit of education about the tabla. Hers, a smattering of "Christmas Caroling with Friends" meets her Guruji's molecules in India. Such interesting histories!
So glad I made the effort to get there.
Hope you have a great Thursday; hard to believe it's just 12 days til Christmas!
First -- Wisdom Warriors, aptly nicknamed "oh, the places you'll go" (whether you ever imagined you'd go there or not). Me? I found myself, supported by Desiree, trying to drop from a headstand into a variation of the pose pictured below. I didn't make it, but I tried. Trying is the value of this type of work.
 |
| Dwi Pada Viparita Dandasana |
The rest of the practice? Challenging, a lot of breakthroughs in the room, a lot of watching. Strong core work, carried over into inversions, arm balances, backbends -- just a few poses.
For all of it, I feel great this a.m. and felt great last night. No residual 'stuff'. Love it.
I drove home from Del Mar, grabbed a quick bite, changed into jeans, and got back in the car to drive to Temecula for a kirtan with Daniel Paul and Gina Sala. Wow! After the WW practice, I could have easily said 'I'm too tired'; I didn't and am I glad I didn't. Daniel Paul plays the tabla (small cylinder-shaped hand drums); and is a master at it -- having studied and played with most of the great kirtan groups in the world. Gina -- well, what a voice. And, her joyful personality came through in both her singing and her 'patter' (isn't that what they call chit-chat?) with the audience.
As with kirtans, there was chanting, and dancing. Best parts for me? Hearing their stories - his, an honoring of his teachers and friends, including Ravi Shankar (who passed on Tuesday), plus a bit of education about the tabla. Hers, a smattering of "Christmas Caroling with Friends" meets her Guruji's molecules in India. Such interesting histories!
So glad I made the effort to get there.
Hope you have a great Thursday; hard to believe it's just 12 days til Christmas!
THE LITTLE THINGS MAKE MY HEART SING!
Yes, the little things.
This harkens back to a blog I read once (written by Christina Sell). In it, she wrote that - to her - the sign of an advanced practitioner is not how many really hard poses he/she can accomplish; but, rather, how do they place their hands on the mat? do their hands remain on the mat or are they fidgeting? stuff like that. The little things that form the basis of our 'advanced' or even 'basic' poses.
I got a good dose of that thought process over the weekend during the slow movement Bo Forbes asked us to participate in. Could I stay aware enough to slowly transition from one pose to another (slow meaning 4-8 seconds in each transition)? As I mentioned yesterday, this was a teaching I'd experienced before and was, therefore, in a head start position as we did the practice (this doesn't happen for me often -- the head start, that is).
Yesterday at the Fallbrook Library there were 30 people in attendance at the one-hour class I teach. All levels, many ages, many body shapes, and a number of people with injuries or limitations. Let me say that, first, I was truly excited and honored to have 30 in the room. Granted it's a 'free' class, however all but 4 of these people had come to my class over the months. Even 'free' doesn't guarantee people will return. Therefore, I choose to believe that they are finding value in the class -- other than it's 'free'.
So, back to the little things:
I offered the Library crew a brief warm-up; centering - baseline - cat/cow (modified to the way Bo taught us over the weekend) and then asked everyone to come to standing. Standing in mountain pose and moving with the breath, I asked everyone to raise and lower their arms. As I looked at the students assembled, I noticed how straight everyone's arms appeared from the front of the room. I walked the rows to see what was happening in their shoulders -- were their arms moving to front plane or were they next to the ears. Goodness gracious!!! Everyone, and I mean everyone, was standing with arms overhead, no elbows bent, and biceps next to ears -- arms lined up just like railroad tracks. Be still my heart.
It is the little things that reflect studentship in the room. Wow!
Today? Taking a day off to spend with my husband. Looking forward to it.
Hope you have a good Tuesday,
This harkens back to a blog I read once (written by Christina Sell). In it, she wrote that - to her - the sign of an advanced practitioner is not how many really hard poses he/she can accomplish; but, rather, how do they place their hands on the mat? do their hands remain on the mat or are they fidgeting? stuff like that. The little things that form the basis of our 'advanced' or even 'basic' poses.
I got a good dose of that thought process over the weekend during the slow movement Bo Forbes asked us to participate in. Could I stay aware enough to slowly transition from one pose to another (slow meaning 4-8 seconds in each transition)? As I mentioned yesterday, this was a teaching I'd experienced before and was, therefore, in a head start position as we did the practice (this doesn't happen for me often -- the head start, that is).
Yesterday at the Fallbrook Library there were 30 people in attendance at the one-hour class I teach. All levels, many ages, many body shapes, and a number of people with injuries or limitations. Let me say that, first, I was truly excited and honored to have 30 in the room. Granted it's a 'free' class, however all but 4 of these people had come to my class over the months. Even 'free' doesn't guarantee people will return. Therefore, I choose to believe that they are finding value in the class -- other than it's 'free'.
So, back to the little things:
I offered the Library crew a brief warm-up; centering - baseline - cat/cow (modified to the way Bo taught us over the weekend) and then asked everyone to come to standing. Standing in mountain pose and moving with the breath, I asked everyone to raise and lower their arms. As I looked at the students assembled, I noticed how straight everyone's arms appeared from the front of the room. I walked the rows to see what was happening in their shoulders -- were their arms moving to front plane or were they next to the ears. Goodness gracious!!! Everyone, and I mean everyone, was standing with arms overhead, no elbows bent, and biceps next to ears -- arms lined up just like railroad tracks. Be still my heart.
It is the little things that reflect studentship in the room. Wow!
Today? Taking a day off to spend with my husband. Looking forward to it.
Hope you have a good Tuesday,
STEPPING OUT . . .
Since I began yoga, I'd say 95% of the events/workshops/trainings had an Anusara tag (name/topic) to them. (It's called 'comfort zone' - I began yoga late, Anusara spoke to me, and I stuck with it.)
Oh, I read a lot of articles and books, watched a few webinars that were from different orientations. And, some of that stuff slipped into my teaching. The point is, I was Anusara thru and thru (almost). Then Anusara hit rough water (JF debacle) last February, tossing and turning, throwing many into the water, some clinging to the hull, others in life rafts. Not sure where I went, just have been watching the action, maybe I was in a life raft -- who knows, I just have drifted away from the wreckage.
So, over the past 10 months, I have thought long and hard about my yoga's future -- what to study, who to study with, what to do with my teaching. One month ago, I signed up for my first workshop in a year and it was with a teacher totally non-Anusara. Unheard of, for me.
Thursday night, I drove from Fallbrook to LaJolla (about a 60 minute drive if traffic 'gods' are happy), and was introduced to Bo Forbes, Founder and Director of The New England School of Integrative Yoga Therapeutics; and author of the book "Yoga for Emotional Balance". I totally stepped OUT of the box, OUT of my comfort zone and into the world.
This was a workshop for all - teachers and students - and the subject matter was emotional wellness (title: Yoga as Mind-Body Medicine). For the next 3 days, I made the same drive - arriving in LaJolla at noon for 7 hours of talk, demonstration, practice.
What did I learn? Too much to write here and, to be honest, I have a lot to digest and practice before I venture out to teach what I experienced.
I did realize, however, that one of my teachers (Adam) had prepared me well for the practice Bo introduced to us -- slow, intentioned movement. What else? That the breath is a major pathway to emotional wellness. What else? That my 'buddha' belly is o.k. (something Sundari has told me, but not something I've accepted very graciously).
Back to routine today (with a small 'hitch'). I'll be subbing 2 classes this morning at Yoga For Life in Temecula, then back to Fallbrook and the Library crew. Busy day, but happy NOT to be driving to La Jolla again (not that I didn't like the end result, and fortunately the traffic 'gods' were with me all the way, but -- it is a long journey).
Hope you have a great Monday and week!
Oh, I read a lot of articles and books, watched a few webinars that were from different orientations. And, some of that stuff slipped into my teaching. The point is, I was Anusara thru and thru (almost). Then Anusara hit rough water (JF debacle) last February, tossing and turning, throwing many into the water, some clinging to the hull, others in life rafts. Not sure where I went, just have been watching the action, maybe I was in a life raft -- who knows, I just have drifted away from the wreckage.
So, over the past 10 months, I have thought long and hard about my yoga's future -- what to study, who to study with, what to do with my teaching. One month ago, I signed up for my first workshop in a year and it was with a teacher totally non-Anusara. Unheard of, for me.
Thursday night, I drove from Fallbrook to LaJolla (about a 60 minute drive if traffic 'gods' are happy), and was introduced to Bo Forbes, Founder and Director of The New England School of Integrative Yoga Therapeutics; and author of the book "Yoga for Emotional Balance". I totally stepped OUT of the box, OUT of my comfort zone and into the world.
This was a workshop for all - teachers and students - and the subject matter was emotional wellness (title: Yoga as Mind-Body Medicine). For the next 3 days, I made the same drive - arriving in LaJolla at noon for 7 hours of talk, demonstration, practice.
What did I learn? Too much to write here and, to be honest, I have a lot to digest and practice before I venture out to teach what I experienced.
I did realize, however, that one of my teachers (Adam) had prepared me well for the practice Bo introduced to us -- slow, intentioned movement. What else? That the breath is a major pathway to emotional wellness. What else? That my 'buddha' belly is o.k. (something Sundari has told me, but not something I've accepted very graciously).
Back to routine today (with a small 'hitch'). I'll be subbing 2 classes this morning at Yoga For Life in Temecula, then back to Fallbrook and the Library crew. Busy day, but happy NOT to be driving to La Jolla again (not that I didn't like the end result, and fortunately the traffic 'gods' were with me all the way, but -- it is a long journey).
Hope you have a great Monday and week!
MISSED MY THIRD . . .
Since April 2012, I have traveled each Wednesday to Del Mar (about a 40-minute freeway drive, if the 'traffic gods' are with me). That is, excepting 3 Wednesdays -- yesterday was the third.
Why? Well, you can only drive so much and living in So. Calif. requires a LOT of driving. I have a workshop this weekend, which will require I drive to LaJolla (maybe 70-minutes, on a REALLY good day) tonight and each of the next 3 days. I'm excited to do it, tho; drive, that is -- this will be the second more intensive workshop I've done since December 2011.
Now that I've piqued your curiosity, I'll give you the goods: the workshop presenter is Bo Forbes (for those of you who don't know her, neither do I). But, the topic is great (therapeutic yoga), and her credentials are stellar (clinical psychologist and yoga instructor/therapist), and she comes highly recommended. I also did a bit of research on the internet and watched a clip of her teaching before I signed up -- just to be sure what I was getting myself in to.
Why her? and why this topic? Well, in my teaching, there has been a shift to the more therapeutic (my choice - I love figuring out why something is not working at its optimal state). And, I remember a statement from one of my teachers -- that the injury/condition will sometimes become a part of a student's identity. Meaning: take it away or cure it and what have they got to deal with, worry about, talk about; like that.
Example: One day, waiting for my Mother at the beauty shop, when a couple came in (her, for a haircut; him, to wait). He and I acknowledged one another in the small waiting room, and it wasn't long (like 2 minutes) before he was telling me all about his back problems -- how many procedures he'd had, what his limitations were, how bad the pain was. I had noticed a cane, but I had not said word one to unleash his comments -- just 'hello'. That single moment became proof positive of what my teacher had said -- this man's identity was clearly entwined with his back issues. What would happen if someone 'fixed' him; what would he have to think, talk, worry about?
The psychologist part of this presenter promises to unravel just how to deal with students who are tightly connected to their 'stuff'. Promising isn't it? I'll keep you posted.
It's also my birthday -- 63 today. Remember 3 years ago, when I did the dumb countdown to my 60th? That was back when I was posting to this blog every day and - clearly - was searching for stuff to write about. My gift from my husband? A stool specifically designed with the guitarist in mind -- not only can you sit on it, but it has a foot rest, and is shaped so that you can lower two levers and it becomes a guitar stand!!! You must own a guitar to understand how valuable this is. I have two guitars that I play each day. One already had a stand, the other I kept in it's case. How nice it will be to have each guitar out and ready to be played at will. I also got artwork from the Grand-Dudes (special!), and a gift certificate from Nordstrom's (watch out!).
So, what happens today? Taking one of the dogs for a longer walk, then teaching one class, then home until time to drive to the first session of the above-mentioned workshop.
I hope you have a great Thursday!
Why? Well, you can only drive so much and living in So. Calif. requires a LOT of driving. I have a workshop this weekend, which will require I drive to LaJolla (maybe 70-minutes, on a REALLY good day) tonight and each of the next 3 days. I'm excited to do it, tho; drive, that is -- this will be the second more intensive workshop I've done since December 2011.
Now that I've piqued your curiosity, I'll give you the goods: the workshop presenter is Bo Forbes (for those of you who don't know her, neither do I). But, the topic is great (therapeutic yoga), and her credentials are stellar (clinical psychologist and yoga instructor/therapist), and she comes highly recommended. I also did a bit of research on the internet and watched a clip of her teaching before I signed up -- just to be sure what I was getting myself in to.
Why her? and why this topic? Well, in my teaching, there has been a shift to the more therapeutic (my choice - I love figuring out why something is not working at its optimal state). And, I remember a statement from one of my teachers -- that the injury/condition will sometimes become a part of a student's identity. Meaning: take it away or cure it and what have they got to deal with, worry about, talk about; like that.
Example: One day, waiting for my Mother at the beauty shop, when a couple came in (her, for a haircut; him, to wait). He and I acknowledged one another in the small waiting room, and it wasn't long (like 2 minutes) before he was telling me all about his back problems -- how many procedures he'd had, what his limitations were, how bad the pain was. I had noticed a cane, but I had not said word one to unleash his comments -- just 'hello'. That single moment became proof positive of what my teacher had said -- this man's identity was clearly entwined with his back issues. What would happen if someone 'fixed' him; what would he have to think, talk, worry about?
The psychologist part of this presenter promises to unravel just how to deal with students who are tightly connected to their 'stuff'. Promising isn't it? I'll keep you posted.
It's also my birthday -- 63 today. Remember 3 years ago, when I did the dumb countdown to my 60th? That was back when I was posting to this blog every day and - clearly - was searching for stuff to write about. My gift from my husband? A stool specifically designed with the guitarist in mind -- not only can you sit on it, but it has a foot rest, and is shaped so that you can lower two levers and it becomes a guitar stand!!! You must own a guitar to understand how valuable this is. I have two guitars that I play each day. One already had a stand, the other I kept in it's case. How nice it will be to have each guitar out and ready to be played at will. I also got artwork from the Grand-Dudes (special!), and a gift certificate from Nordstrom's (watch out!).
So, what happens today? Taking one of the dogs for a longer walk, then teaching one class, then home until time to drive to the first session of the above-mentioned workshop.
I hope you have a great Thursday!
Wisdom Warriors, "Hot, Power Yoga" and Gratitude
It's been a busy week. So happy, first, to have my laptop back. Not sure its totally fixed, but it's better and it is a lot easier to do typing on than the iPad.
Holidays always bring more subbing into the picture; yoga teachers have families and friends who want them to visit, and so -- we go. I stayed home this year and, as a result, have been able to help my friends by subbing their classes ('guest teach' in some vernaculars).
I began with subbing the Basic class on Sunday morning, then taught a Gentle class Monday morning, returning to Fallbrook to my beloved Library class (25 in the room, with laughter all around). Tuesday, I planned to sub one class then teach my own. I received an unusual request, however -- would I sub the 'hot power' class earlier in the morning -- then teach the following two classes. Me? Teach 'hot power'? I've taken one or two in my 15+ years, but teach? It's a stretch! I said 'yes' with the caveat 'it may not be as hot as they like it'. I ended up in an 85 degree room with 8 beautiful students - all wanting to SWEAT (two even left their hoodies on!?!?!?) Then it was on to the community class -- one hour, two students. And, finally, my own Gentle/Therapeutic. Fortunately, for me and them, they were ready to restore a bit.
Wednesday -- well, we all know what Wednesdays are -- Wisdom Warriors Day! In Desiree's mind -- Backbends Day. Lots of emphasis on our upper back -- getting heart to soften between strong shoulders; armbones seated in shoulder sockets. Many minutes of this work - hard work - to get to one or two backbends! But, that's just me whining, and that doesn't hold much weight. I did do one full urdhva; it's been a long time since that's happened. The BEST moment -- watching (and photographing) Debra in full Hanumanasana with arms stretched to the max! What a pose! So good, I've plastered it all over Facebook and put it here, in case you haven't seen it:
And, then there was Lonnie -- giving us a beautiful version of Ardha Chandrasana:
Remember, you must be 60+ years old to do the Hanumanasana with such expression, and 70+ to do a smiling ardha chandrasana. It's the rule!
Today? Spending it with my son and his family, Jessie's (daughter-in-law) parents are here from Lodi, and a host of friends. Looking forward to a peaceful, harmonious day -- with a bit of grand-dude energy thrown in (that may mean loud and raucous).
May you have a great day!
Holidays always bring more subbing into the picture; yoga teachers have families and friends who want them to visit, and so -- we go. I stayed home this year and, as a result, have been able to help my friends by subbing their classes ('guest teach' in some vernaculars).
I began with subbing the Basic class on Sunday morning, then taught a Gentle class Monday morning, returning to Fallbrook to my beloved Library class (25 in the room, with laughter all around). Tuesday, I planned to sub one class then teach my own. I received an unusual request, however -- would I sub the 'hot power' class earlier in the morning -- then teach the following two classes. Me? Teach 'hot power'? I've taken one or two in my 15+ years, but teach? It's a stretch! I said 'yes' with the caveat 'it may not be as hot as they like it'. I ended up in an 85 degree room with 8 beautiful students - all wanting to SWEAT (two even left their hoodies on!?!?!?) Then it was on to the community class -- one hour, two students. And, finally, my own Gentle/Therapeutic. Fortunately, for me and them, they were ready to restore a bit.
Wednesday -- well, we all know what Wednesdays are -- Wisdom Warriors Day! In Desiree's mind -- Backbends Day. Lots of emphasis on our upper back -- getting heart to soften between strong shoulders; armbones seated in shoulder sockets. Many minutes of this work - hard work - to get to one or two backbends! But, that's just me whining, and that doesn't hold much weight. I did do one full urdhva; it's been a long time since that's happened. The BEST moment -- watching (and photographing) Debra in full Hanumanasana with arms stretched to the max! What a pose! So good, I've plastered it all over Facebook and put it here, in case you haven't seen it:
And, then there was Lonnie -- giving us a beautiful version of Ardha Chandrasana:
Remember, you must be 60+ years old to do the Hanumanasana with such expression, and 70+ to do a smiling ardha chandrasana. It's the rule!
Today? Spending it with my son and his family, Jessie's (daughter-in-law) parents are here from Lodi, and a host of friends. Looking forward to a peaceful, harmonious day -- with a bit of grand-dude energy thrown in (that may mean loud and raucous).
May you have a great day!
SOMETIMES, WE JUST WATCH. . .
This is being typed on my 'new' iPad, so it may be short (not used to it yet). Long story short, took laptop into apple store, they are running some tests, fortunately I have an alternate 'machine'.
My 'new' iPad is actually almost 2 years old ( yes, one of the first), but sat unused in my cabinet until about 2 months ago. So, here goes:
Wisdom warriors, 11/14/12, starring Desiree Rumbaugh, co-starring Geri Portnoy, supporting cast Debra Hodgson and others - too numerous to name. The scene opens, we see a crowd of beautiful women with several men breaking up the sea of glamour. All eyes are directed to the center of the room (stage) where our star is balancing on her hands moving from tittibasana to bakasana with ease.
Imagine the cast's wonder, disbelief, and fear when she suggests we all try! Some of us do (try), some with success. Many, however, watch and smile -- yes, she is the leader And she is the BEST!
Our scene closes, we are resting now; feeling good about our efforts, our camaraderie, our sharing. So much gratitude in the room. We'll be back next week.
This cast member travels to Temecula today; guiding 2 classes. May not include the two poses mentioned above, but I have a lot of other material to work with and offer.
Hope you have a great Thursday !
Contemplation: what are you grateful for?
My 'new' iPad is actually almost 2 years old ( yes, one of the first), but sat unused in my cabinet until about 2 months ago. So, here goes:
Wisdom warriors, 11/14/12, starring Desiree Rumbaugh, co-starring Geri Portnoy, supporting cast Debra Hodgson and others - too numerous to name. The scene opens, we see a crowd of beautiful women with several men breaking up the sea of glamour. All eyes are directed to the center of the room (stage) where our star is balancing on her hands moving from tittibasana to bakasana with ease.
Imagine the cast's wonder, disbelief, and fear when she suggests we all try! Some of us do (try), some with success. Many, however, watch and smile -- yes, she is the leader And she is the BEST!
Our scene closes, we are resting now; feeling good about our efforts, our camaraderie, our sharing. So much gratitude in the room. We'll be back next week.
This cast member travels to Temecula today; guiding 2 classes. May not include the two poses mentioned above, but I have a lot of other material to work with and offer.
Hope you have a great Thursday !
Contemplation: what are you grateful for?
DID SOMEONE SAY 'LUNCH'?
I've been in So. Cal. for 18+ months now and today will be one of less-than-five times I've gone to 'lunch'. And - better part - it is with my 'Wisdom Warrior' buddies. Ought to be fun.
As to teaching today at the Library -- well Federal holidays usually mean the Library is closed; as it is today. So, no class. I announced it last week, just hope people were paying attention. When they arrive and the doors are locked, I guess they'll get the message. Sorry!
I finished up a 4-session workshop series this past Saturday. It began in August with a 2-hour session on the feet; September, the knees; October, the hips; and November - the finale, 'puttin it all together'. The workshop was held at the smaller of the two studios in Temecula, but it has a demographic more interested in these topics. Funny how that works. A studio atmosphere can attract a certain type of student . . .
I guess I learned that in Salt Lake; but it is a recurring theme, not just applicable to the studio I owned.
On a personal note, I am still practicing (guitar). It's great to 'make' music, as opposed to just listening to others. So glad I made myself do this. Lessons and all !
This is short; excited for lunch and wanted to share. Hope you all have a great Monday and holiday.
Thank you to all the who have served and are serving in our military! You have my deepest respect and gratitude.
As to teaching today at the Library -- well Federal holidays usually mean the Library is closed; as it is today. So, no class. I announced it last week, just hope people were paying attention. When they arrive and the doors are locked, I guess they'll get the message. Sorry!
I finished up a 4-session workshop series this past Saturday. It began in August with a 2-hour session on the feet; September, the knees; October, the hips; and November - the finale, 'puttin it all together'. The workshop was held at the smaller of the two studios in Temecula, but it has a demographic more interested in these topics. Funny how that works. A studio atmosphere can attract a certain type of student . . .
I guess I learned that in Salt Lake; but it is a recurring theme, not just applicable to the studio I owned.
On a personal note, I am still practicing (guitar). It's great to 'make' music, as opposed to just listening to others. So glad I made myself do this. Lessons and all !
This is short; excited for lunch and wanted to share. Hope you all have a great Monday and holiday.
Thank you to all the who have served and are serving in our military! You have my deepest respect and gratitude.
CREATIVE YOGA (A new class name?)
Wednesday (yesterday) was Wisdom Warriors day -- the practice with Desiree Rumbaugh reserved for those of us who practice yoga AND are over the age of 50. By now, most of the dedicated readers of this blog are used to the idea of my writing about experiences -- if you're new, however, you will learn more about Wisdom Warriors here.
As I've mentioned before, the inception of this class has been a 'hallelujah moment' for my yoga practice. Giving me inspiration, support, fun -- in a year fraught with disappointment for my advanced yoga certification aspirations. Long sentence to say 'I was pretty upset about the time Des started Wisdom Warriors and now I feel better'. It's also been savior to this blog -- offering me something to write about when my own teaching and writing felt 'less than'. So much for the 'poor me'.
So yesterday, as I've done almost every Wednesday since April 2012, I loaded into my RED Volkswagen and headed into Del Mar (after getting my hair trimmed and colored - one must look good for this practice). I met a friend in Carlsbad and we carpooled leisurely down the 101 (coast highway) to Del Mar, arriving early, ready to begin (this was Anne's first WW practice).
We set our mats across from one another, waited; Desiree began by talking about an article she read recently that speaks to the lack of creativity being encouraged in public education these days - a result of budget constraints, etc. Anyway, this article encouraged her to speak to us and to work with us on a 'creative' way of getting into poses -- right up my alley -- specifically, backbends.
Chairs were pulled out, as were blocks and blankets. The creative work began. Exploring poses -- hands flat then up on fingertips, more opening -- ribs and belly engaged, more strength -- glutes engaged, hamstrings happier. Like that.
Fun stuff -- rolling around on chairs, blocks, blankets -- feeling our shoulderblades against the cold aluminum of a chair seat is not the usual yoga class encounter, BUT it is creative. So, that's how we went.
My friend survived and says she enjoyed it -- even sent me a thank you note last night. I enjoyed having someone to chat with during the drive to and fro, and to laugh with during the practice.
We all supported one another in some pretty challenging positions. And, that's one of the main reasons we do this practice.
LOVE WISDOM WARRIORS !!!!
Today -- Teaching Gentle/Therapeutic at Yoga for Life in Temecula at 12:30; then guiding the Temecula Wisdom Warriors at 2:30pm at Living Yoga.
Hope you enjoy your Thursday!
As I've mentioned before, the inception of this class has been a 'hallelujah moment' for my yoga practice. Giving me inspiration, support, fun -- in a year fraught with disappointment for my advanced yoga certification aspirations. Long sentence to say 'I was pretty upset about the time Des started Wisdom Warriors and now I feel better'. It's also been savior to this blog -- offering me something to write about when my own teaching and writing felt 'less than'. So much for the 'poor me'.
So yesterday, as I've done almost every Wednesday since April 2012, I loaded into my RED Volkswagen and headed into Del Mar (after getting my hair trimmed and colored - one must look good for this practice). I met a friend in Carlsbad and we carpooled leisurely down the 101 (coast highway) to Del Mar, arriving early, ready to begin (this was Anne's first WW practice).
We set our mats across from one another, waited; Desiree began by talking about an article she read recently that speaks to the lack of creativity being encouraged in public education these days - a result of budget constraints, etc. Anyway, this article encouraged her to speak to us and to work with us on a 'creative' way of getting into poses -- right up my alley -- specifically, backbends.
Chairs were pulled out, as were blocks and blankets. The creative work began. Exploring poses -- hands flat then up on fingertips, more opening -- ribs and belly engaged, more strength -- glutes engaged, hamstrings happier. Like that.
Fun stuff -- rolling around on chairs, blocks, blankets -- feeling our shoulderblades against the cold aluminum of a chair seat is not the usual yoga class encounter, BUT it is creative. So, that's how we went.
My friend survived and says she enjoyed it -- even sent me a thank you note last night. I enjoyed having someone to chat with during the drive to and fro, and to laugh with during the practice.
We all supported one another in some pretty challenging positions. And, that's one of the main reasons we do this practice.
LOVE WISDOM WARRIORS !!!!
Today -- Teaching Gentle/Therapeutic at Yoga for Life in Temecula at 12:30; then guiding the Temecula Wisdom Warriors at 2:30pm at Living Yoga.
Hope you enjoy your Thursday!
EXPLORING THE LAND OF GUITARS . . .
And, I teach yoga. What's that about?
I recently started playing the guitar (not sure I can call it playing yet; practicing is more like it). Anyway, for 3 months, I've been strumming and plucking away. Putting my fingers into little known shapes, trying to make music. Re-shaping, so to speak (kind of like our yoga practice at times).
So far, I have 3 guitars (a sign of my enthusiasm and e-bay's draw). The first one I bought last year, but haven't given much attention -- it's small, more of a traveling guitar. So, I bought another, larger one, began practicing in more earnest and even began lessons (taken 4, so far). Then, the lure of the acoustic and electric guitar got me, so I bought another -- bringing my arsenal to 3. (This is a family trait, learned well from my Father.)
I took the favored guitar in to Carlsbad yesterday, where I was to spend time with youngest grandson - Carson (age 2). He was excited to see it arrive (tho he had never seen me with a guitar before), wanted to 'play' it (pull the strings is a more apt description). After brothers and Mom left, Carson and I loaded into the car, and went to the 'eetar' store, where Grandma did her 'grandma' thing -- buying him a bright green ukulele (his very own 'eetar'). We then walked a bit, had lunch at a local cafe, and it was back to the house to play the 'eetars'.
Hold on, I'm getting to the yoga.
Once Mom & brothers arrived home, I was off to Wisdom Warriors in Del Mar. It made me very happy that Carson excitedly ran to the door to show Mom his 'eetar' (the pick given to him by the 'eetar' store owner, was also a big hit).
And, about Wisdom Warriors? A certain someone returned after a few weeks of resting her hip. And, as a result, the practice focused on a more therapeutic hip and lower back practice. Plus lots of ribs in and abs energized. And, what do I have to say about that? It was all good -- my inner thighs are a bit tender with certain movements this morning, but in a good way.
I'll transmit much of what we worked on to my own Wisdom Warriors group this afternoon. I say 'group' with a bit of tongue in cheek. Been holding this class for 8 weeks now -- biggest attendance was 7 in session 2; since then it's fluctuated. Growth takes time. Worried that some may think it's the 'old ladies' class' -- something one student said when she attended her first practice. Just keep plugging.
What else will happen today? I teach a gentle/therapeutic class before the WW practice; I'm sure I'll use much of what Desiree showed us with that group, also.
Hope you have a great Thursday!
I recently started playing the guitar (not sure I can call it playing yet; practicing is more like it). Anyway, for 3 months, I've been strumming and plucking away. Putting my fingers into little known shapes, trying to make music. Re-shaping, so to speak (kind of like our yoga practice at times).
So far, I have 3 guitars (a sign of my enthusiasm and e-bay's draw). The first one I bought last year, but haven't given much attention -- it's small, more of a traveling guitar. So, I bought another, larger one, began practicing in more earnest and even began lessons (taken 4, so far). Then, the lure of the acoustic and electric guitar got me, so I bought another -- bringing my arsenal to 3. (This is a family trait, learned well from my Father.)
I took the favored guitar in to Carlsbad yesterday, where I was to spend time with youngest grandson - Carson (age 2). He was excited to see it arrive (tho he had never seen me with a guitar before), wanted to 'play' it (pull the strings is a more apt description). After brothers and Mom left, Carson and I loaded into the car, and went to the 'eetar' store, where Grandma did her 'grandma' thing -- buying him a bright green ukulele (his very own 'eetar'). We then walked a bit, had lunch at a local cafe, and it was back to the house to play the 'eetars'.
Hold on, I'm getting to the yoga.
Once Mom & brothers arrived home, I was off to Wisdom Warriors in Del Mar. It made me very happy that Carson excitedly ran to the door to show Mom his 'eetar' (the pick given to him by the 'eetar' store owner, was also a big hit).
And, about Wisdom Warriors? A certain someone returned after a few weeks of resting her hip. And, as a result, the practice focused on a more therapeutic hip and lower back practice. Plus lots of ribs in and abs energized. And, what do I have to say about that? It was all good -- my inner thighs are a bit tender with certain movements this morning, but in a good way.
I'll transmit much of what we worked on to my own Wisdom Warriors group this afternoon. I say 'group' with a bit of tongue in cheek. Been holding this class for 8 weeks now -- biggest attendance was 7 in session 2; since then it's fluctuated. Growth takes time. Worried that some may think it's the 'old ladies' class' -- something one student said when she attended her first practice. Just keep plugging.
What else will happen today? I teach a gentle/therapeutic class before the WW practice; I'm sure I'll use much of what Desiree showed us with that group, also.
Hope you have a great Thursday!
FAVORITE LINE?
Of course, this post is triggered by the Wisdom Warriors practice yesterday (Wednesday) with Desiree Rumbaugh. And, as I searched my memory bank for 'cute, catchy' titles, up came the chosen one; which refers to the line I remember vividly from this practice.
I have always struggled with padangusthasana. Call it tight hamstrings, call it lack of desire or giving up, call it whatever-you-want; it just has always been a challenge. And, it was one I knew I would always face when entering a workshop/training with John Friend. Unfortunately, that didn't make me work any harder towards perfecting it; in fact, I avoid it -- like the plague. I don't even ask my students to give it a try.
Reel back to yesterday, a practice focusing on bending -- forward, sideways, and - yes - backwards. A demo: Come to standing, balance on one leg a bit. Reach down for the foot - engage ribs and belly - hold the foot - begin to stand extending the leg. Here is the point for the favorite line of the practice: "once you get this far (leg extended), it's just a short trip to standing tall". OK. Got it. Giving it a try. What happens?
With a little verbal chatter in the room, I stood with right ankle on left knee (think the number 4). I pulled in my ribs and belly - energizing the midsection. I reached down with right hand to hold the outer edge of the right foot. Keeping belly engaged, even slightly hunched, I lifted foot away. Pressing hand into foot, foot into hand, belly engaged, I began to (tentatively) straighten the leg. Whoa -- it did it! It straightened, with my hand still holding the foot!
And, it probably is a short journey to standing tall. I'm happy with straightening the leg and slightly lifting my torso, looking across the aisle at a fellow 'Warrior'.
I must admit there was no hamstring issue; they felt fine. No more excuses.
And, my teaching? Library class still going strong - averaging 20 loyal, fun-loving students in the room every Monday. Therapeutics/Gentle classes also going well -- still small, but I think that will always be the case (and, perhaps, that's for the best). My 'Wisdom Warriors' practice will happen today. Looking forward to sharing some of what we did yesterday with them.
Hope you have a great Thursday,
I have always struggled with padangusthasana. Call it tight hamstrings, call it lack of desire or giving up, call it whatever-you-want; it just has always been a challenge. And, it was one I knew I would always face when entering a workshop/training with John Friend. Unfortunately, that didn't make me work any harder towards perfecting it; in fact, I avoid it -- like the plague. I don't even ask my students to give it a try.
Reel back to yesterday, a practice focusing on bending -- forward, sideways, and - yes - backwards. A demo: Come to standing, balance on one leg a bit. Reach down for the foot - engage ribs and belly - hold the foot - begin to stand extending the leg. Here is the point for the favorite line of the practice: "once you get this far (leg extended), it's just a short trip to standing tall". OK. Got it. Giving it a try. What happens?
With a little verbal chatter in the room, I stood with right ankle on left knee (think the number 4). I pulled in my ribs and belly - energizing the midsection. I reached down with right hand to hold the outer edge of the right foot. Keeping belly engaged, even slightly hunched, I lifted foot away. Pressing hand into foot, foot into hand, belly engaged, I began to (tentatively) straighten the leg. Whoa -- it did it! It straightened, with my hand still holding the foot!
And, it probably is a short journey to standing tall. I'm happy with straightening the leg and slightly lifting my torso, looking across the aisle at a fellow 'Warrior'.
I must admit there was no hamstring issue; they felt fine. No more excuses.
And, my teaching? Library class still going strong - averaging 20 loyal, fun-loving students in the room every Monday. Therapeutics/Gentle classes also going well -- still small, but I think that will always be the case (and, perhaps, that's for the best). My 'Wisdom Warriors' practice will happen today. Looking forward to sharing some of what we did yesterday with them.
Hope you have a great Thursday,
DON'T MISS A PRACTICE . . .
Yesterday, was our Wisdom Warriors practice. I had missed the previous week, not something I'll do again (if I can help it). I still felt strong, but clearly she is on a mission to have us create a container of stability onto which our poses will build. Seemingly simple poses, but complex and challenging under Desiree's guidance.
While keeping ribs knitted (lowest ribs moving to midline and towards spine), belly energized, tailbone moving towards heels; then we were asked to work the muscles supporting our our shoulders and shoulder blades(!?!?!). IN EVERY POSE.
Now, I am not complaining. This is work I need to do. When I began my yoga practice, I was 48 years old and quickly moving into the family pattern of rounded posture. To this day, I still get the comment from BJ Galvan each time I see her "My god I can't believe your back! So different!" That's a great compliment, by the way. It means that all this work is working!
And, a good moment -- welcoming Bob into our fold. Bob is 74; that means I am no longer the oldest. YES! Plus, he's a great yogi, with a wonderful spirit.
About my teaching -- I had a very rewarding Therapeutic Class on Tuesday. A student who had struggled thru 4 surgeries in the span of one month to correct issues with her back (L4-5). This had happened one year ago, and she had finally gotten up the nerve/gumption/whatever to step into a yoga class (first one ever). She came to my class!
To be honest, when someone comes into my class after back surgery I get nervous - nervous about just what they will be willing/able to do, nervous about whether what I am suggesting is appropriate, nervous about whether the student will 'like' it (the yoga).
We moved, she did everything I asked. There was a bit of tentative movement; especially when it came to twisting. I was glad I was there and attentive enough to offer her a helping hand as she brought knees back to center after twisting off to one side. It all went very well.
Afterwards, she made the effort to spend a few minutes, and to tell me that she was very happy with the class, that - despite the fear - everything she did felt good and beneficial for her. I thanked her. Love hearing about a positive experience.
A good day.
Today? Another therapeutic class at Yoga For Life; then, Wisdom Warriors at Living Yoga Center.
While keeping ribs knitted (lowest ribs moving to midline and towards spine), belly energized, tailbone moving towards heels; then we were asked to work the muscles supporting our our shoulders and shoulder blades(!?!?!). IN EVERY POSE.
Now, I am not complaining. This is work I need to do. When I began my yoga practice, I was 48 years old and quickly moving into the family pattern of rounded posture. To this day, I still get the comment from BJ Galvan each time I see her "My god I can't believe your back! So different!" That's a great compliment, by the way. It means that all this work is working!
And, a good moment -- welcoming Bob into our fold. Bob is 74; that means I am no longer the oldest. YES! Plus, he's a great yogi, with a wonderful spirit.
About my teaching -- I had a very rewarding Therapeutic Class on Tuesday. A student who had struggled thru 4 surgeries in the span of one month to correct issues with her back (L4-5). This had happened one year ago, and she had finally gotten up the nerve/gumption/whatever to step into a yoga class (first one ever). She came to my class!
To be honest, when someone comes into my class after back surgery I get nervous - nervous about just what they will be willing/able to do, nervous about whether what I am suggesting is appropriate, nervous about whether the student will 'like' it (the yoga).
We moved, she did everything I asked. There was a bit of tentative movement; especially when it came to twisting. I was glad I was there and attentive enough to offer her a helping hand as she brought knees back to center after twisting off to one side. It all went very well.
Afterwards, she made the effort to spend a few minutes, and to tell me that she was very happy with the class, that - despite the fear - everything she did felt good and beneficial for her. I thanked her. Love hearing about a positive experience.
A good day.
Today? Another therapeutic class at Yoga For Life; then, Wisdom Warriors at Living Yoga Center.