Ama Yoga

inertia

2009-05-22T10:45:00.000-07:00

it's been a long time since i happily rolled out of bed and onto my mat. i admit it. i look at my mat, and think "do i have to?" then my back, shoulders, and hamstrings tell me "yes! you have to!" so i do. amazing that once the mat is actually rolled out and i start to move my body how instantly happy i feel. every time.

image by cig harvey.

2009-05-21T11:00:00.000-07:00

my standing backbend is not like this. maybe some day it will. maybe it will never be so. either way, i LOVE back bends. which is why i was oh so glad when Gwen "prescribed" lots of backbends for me in order to open my heart every day. this morning i needed it. discouragement bombarded me last night as i began the search for a job. ugh. the list is grim--in so many ways. i have a feeling i'll be doing lots of backbends in the next few weeks and months as i try to make my way in this capitalist world.

missing...

2009-04-23T22:06:00.001-07:00

photo by me. april 2009.

yes...i have been missing from this blog.

school has consumed me.

barely enough to stop by here anymore.

but that will all change

when i graduate may 8th.

stay tuned.

things are going to get really good here...

can't wait!

fyi: love teaching, love practicing, love breathing and feeling!

Compassion

2009-03-20T09:54:00.001-07:00

This morning's mantra:

om mani padme hum

it means: om-the jewel in the lotus-hum

"It calls on the bodhisattva Avalokiteshwara, whose name means "the cosmic being of pure consciousness who looks down in loving compassion on the world." He exists within each of us in our potential to feel heart-melting compassion for ourselves and all other living beings." - Christopher D. Wallis

have a compassionate weekend.

Taking It Easy...

2009-03-19T08:05:00.000-07:00

image via yoga journal

i spent about half an hour in supta baddha konasana this morning. The cycle continues! Hooray for being a woman!

Too Short...

2009-03-18T09:57:00.000-07:00

I'm feeling like I ended my yoga practice a little too soon this morning...I can't quite figure it out. So I'm making it a goal today to truly practice yoga in the rest of my day's activities...even as I type I am finding the meditation in that...I will find a connection with the water in my shower to the water that flows through me. I will find breath and movement united as I ride my bike to meet my husband for a picnic. I am extending my yoga practice more deliberately today into ALL that I do. You might like to try it too!

Still Here!

2009-03-17T14:17:00.000-07:00

photo by me. 3.15.09

Yes. I'm still practicing and teaching yoga everyday. I'm loving teaching at my mom's home and at the University of Utah as well. I continue to learn oh so much.

Lately, my personal practice has taken on a mind of its own...it acts much like a river. Sometimes I feel as if I am just sitting back and watching my body move and flow. Some movements feel thai-chi-like. My practice just gets more and more fulfilling!!

We Are the Ones We've Been Waiting For

2009-02-20T08:24:00.000-08:00

This morning's classes were awe-some. We did a very yin, restorative class. To an observer, it would have looked like we weren't doing much of anything at all. But we went deep. We tapped in to what we were really feeling...and we let it go. We went deep. There were tears of relief, and bright eyes filled with hope. You never know how much you feel until you take time to listen and to be still. Read more about it here.

I LOVE TEACHING!

2009-02-17T19:11:00.001-08:00

I am oh so grateful to be able to be teaching yoga right now. It truly is a gift. It's also nice to teach in my own home. Sometimes I wonder if I'd like teaching at a studio...I guess it would depend on what was "expected" of me. There are some wonderful women who come to my classes. They are so open to learning and trying new things. I wish I knew more people in Sacramento so that I could do something similar when I move back in May. I love charging only $3. And I love teaching in such an intimate and safe setting. I am oh so blessed.

$3-Dollar-Yoga

2009-01-25T13:07:00.001-08:00

Starting Monday January 26, 2009 I will be teaching yoga for $3 per person per class. Below are the details.

WHERE: My mom's basement

SCHEDULE:

Mon, Wed, Fri 6:00 AM, 7:15 AM, and 8:30 AM

Tues and Thurs 7:00 PM

Each class is 60 minutes long. We'll practice astanga vinyasa, flow, and restorative yoga styles. Email me at lady.of.lorien9@gmail.com if you're interested and would like more details.

Plans

2009-01-08T10:04:00.000-08:00

I've been thinking this morning of a conversation I had a couple weeks ago with a dear friend and fellow yoga instructor. We discussed our feelings about not being able to find a yoga studio that really quenches our thirst for learning and progressing (among other things). I am hoping that things open up, and that I am able to find a place to teach and to learn as well. Until then, I'll just keep doing teacher trainings year after year, and workshops month after month. I truly enjoy the journey of learning.

Found: Studio

2009-01-07T09:38:00.000-08:00

So we've lived in our current apartment for just over 2 months now. And I'm now just finding out that there's a yoga studio just around the corner from me. Sheesh. Where have I been? When I come back to Sacramento in May I'll have to attend a couple classes to see what it's all about. Looks good so far.

Present

2009-01-06T09:32:00.001-08:00

I find that I am most present in my practice when I am in a difficult pose, or when I am asked to stay in a pose for a long period of time...which made me think: Often in life, I am most present when things are difficult or uncomfortable. I am not concerned with what is going to happen. I am concerned with my broken heart, my confused brain, etc. Why is it that when things are going so-so in life that we tend to get distracted, and lose focus? Interesting. I am oh so grateful for difficult and uncomfortable moments.

Short, But Deep

2008-12-19T09:14:00.000-08:00

Today I only practiced for 70 minutes. But it was deep, and nourishing. It got me thinking...how can I use yoga to heal the entire earth, and those who live upon it? It seems like there are too many choices...which way do I go? I will let that go unanswered, and go about my day-to-day living. I am grateful for my yoga practice, though it has oh so long to go (and I'm grateful for that too).

photo of Seane Corn via www.seanecorn.com

Today's Practice Felt Like:

2008-12-18T09:22:00.001-08:00

Letting Go

2008-12-17T08:35:00.000-08:00

This morning I did not do my asana practice...I slept in after a restless night. I've let go of all expectations in my life. We'll see where this leads.

photo by dan heller

Arms & Back

2008-12-16T08:42:00.000-08:00

Lately I've been so very much into a slow, meditative, and loosening practice that I've lost a bit of strength in my arms and back. So this morning I came up with a flow that brings attention to upper body strength and bhandas as well as continuing to loosen me up. I was quite pleased with this new sequence. Hopefully I can remember it!

Jivamukti Yoga

2008-12-15T13:48:00.000-08:00

Jivamukti Yoga, "practices for liberating body and soul." I would love to practice jivamukti yoga, and teach it. I love how it focuses on study & understanding of the history, etc of yoga as well as promoting a deep asana practice. Too bad there's no studios anywhere near me. They have studios in NYC, Toronto, Munich, London, and Charleston. I hope to do a teacher training through them one day. For now, I'll read the book, and do as much on my own as possible.

Off the Mat

2008-12-11T17:50:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow, Friday, I will be driving with my husband to Salt Lake City to attend a fundraiser we helped put together to help SUWA fight legal battles against the BLM who is auctioning off land to big oil business.

One of the biggest lessons I have learned from doing my yoga practice is that everything is connected...EVERYTHING. Our treatment of the earth has a direct affect on us. So I am an adament environmentalist and anti-consumer. This is part of my yoga practice..."90% of yoga is practiced off the mat" according to him.

Hope you will join us in this endeavor.

Unusual Gratitude

2008-12-11T08:58:00.000-08:00

This morning I realized I was grateful for my inflexibility in some poses. There are some poses that come naturally to me, others that don't. I am grateful that I don't just fall easily into every posture...where would be the journey in that? I was grateful to be tight this morning while working in Hanumanasana...it felt good to sit and breathe, and to feel the muscles softening over a few minutes time...until I finally got it. I loved that little journey!

New Day, New Person

2008-12-10T10:35:00.000-08:00

This morning I woke up late (8:00 AM) because of a restless night. I took my time getting up, crossed everything off my to-do list, then started my yoga practice. Usually I put a time limit on my practice, but today I decided I would practice until I felt full. And, oh how full my soul is! When I entered into my pranayama practice near the end I felt very strongly that I am not the same person I was yesterday...that everyday I am a new person, free to be great, beautiful, and compassionate. Now, everyday I will look forward to the new person I am--able to make this a beautiful world.

I'm Back, More Dedicated

2008-12-09T19:46:00.000-08:00

Since my last post, my practice has been so very distracted. I have been so concerned with the future. My practiced has showed this. I have often lost track of where I was in a sun salutation, and my practice was shortened to one hour instead of 2.5 because I couldn't wait to get to my "to-do" list for the day. I filled my life with too many good things...to the point to where things weren't happening as slowly and deliberately as I'd like. So today I start anew...crossing things off of my "to-do" list without even attempting them...the only thing on my list now is to "simplify." Hope to be blogging here daily again.

2008-12-09T19:38:00.000-08:00

I've been reading through this little book for the past few days. I'm hoping to get some insight on how to break some of my not-so-great habits in life. There are some passages that are more clear than others, but I look forward to the journey this presents. Here's little taste:

Whatever pain you feel, take it in, wishing for all others to be free of it. Whatever pleasure you feel, send it out to others. In this way, our personal problems and delights become a stepping-stone for understanding the suffering and happiness of all beings.

Suryanamaskar A

2008-11-17T07:53:00.000-08:00

Today I needed a new beginning, a clean slate. So I spent an hour and a half slowly going through the ritual of suryanamaskar A--with some little variations as my body instructed. I took long, deliberate breaths, and closed my eyes. I loved raising my arms to the skies in gratitude, and bowing to the earth with awe. I am seeking a new way to approach the things I am oh so passionate about. This morning was refreshing. Now, if only I could have an entire week of ritual.

Left First

2008-11-11T15:23:00.000-08:00

Lately I have been trying something new in my yoga practice: left side first. It sounds simple, but it really changes the whole feeling. It seems more introspective for sure. Try it out in your own flow. See what happens.

Solitude

2008-10-18T21:05:00.000-07:00

Yoga is becoming more and more something I love to do either alone or in small, intimate groups. I feel more freedom to invite reverence, sacredness, and joy. I'm really enjoying practicing at home by myself, with my husband, or with a friend.

Rain for Music

2008-09-22T15:57:00.000-07:00

This morning it was raining. I opened the window and did my morning practice as I listened to that beautiful sound. I wish I had that accompaniment more often. Love rain.

The Space Between

2008-09-10T10:45:00.000-07:00

It seems to be more about transistions these days for me, rather than the poses themselves. The dance between each posture is fascinating to me. It is in the transitions that we find grace and our fullest potential. I love the movement and the fluidity of the spaces between. I'd love a class that focused more on the transitions than the poses. Some day, yes?

photo via: www.infin8yoga.com

Exhaustion

2008-09-08T12:13:00.000-07:00

I am giving up yoga classes that break me down to exhaustion. I found in my yoga practice this morning that I am stronger and more present when I can have a practice focused on endurance rather than complete fatigue. I can hold poses longer, and balance like I've never balanced. It really is all about slowing down, the breath, and the bandhas.

Rest

2008-09-05T09:57:00.000-07:00

"We need to learn to make rest a part of our practice, and we need to take that rest long before we feel exhausted or frustrated." -Rolf Gates

"90% of our yoga practice is off the mat." -Pattabhi Jois

Lately I have been feeling the need to rest more in my yoga practice. But I also need to remember to rest in the rest of my life. I like this picture of a couple just sitting on their porch relaxing. This weekend I hope we can slow down our yoga practice as well as our lives to refresh ourselves before we have a breakdown.

Neglected

2008-09-04T09:06:00.000-07:00

Bandhas. My practice as of late has neglected the bandhas for the most part. There is some attention given to uddiyana, but not enough. I need to bring back my bandha practice. When I really use them it is only then that I've been able to float into challenging balances. I really feel that no matter how much muscle I build I won't be able to have a graceful yoga practice without the bandhas.

What are the bandhas? They are most often referred to as "energy locks." I like to think of them as an "energy bind"...used to seal in life energy as I practice yoga. There are three major bandhas: mula (my favorite), uddiyana, and jalamdhara. Respectively the perineum (Kegel muscles for women), the navel, and the chin tucked in towards the chest. I really believe that the bandhas are the secret to a graceful practice.

Visionary

2008-09-03T08:26:00.000-07:00

This morning after my practice I spoke briefly with a dear friend about the beauties of practicing on one's own. I mentioned that I often like to practice at home with classical music in the background...especially the music of Estonian compser, Arvo Part. My favorite album is Tabula Rasa with Gil Shaham on the violin. It's intense. But what I love most are the points of hesitation, the brief moments of silence before the storm. Whenever I compliment my practice with Arvo Part I am bound to have some sort of profound insight into my practice, my heart, the earth, and the universe. Try it.

Yoga To Open

2008-08-21T10:00:00.000-07:00

I love that part of the Ashtanga tradition is the belief that ancient holy men "invented" the yoga flow to strengthen them and open them up so that they could sit comfortably and with ease as they meditated. I love doing Ashtanga in the morning and ending with an extra long period of meditation and pranayama. There's nothing like it.

Home Again

2008-08-18T10:28:00.000-07:00

After three months of going to a studio just about everyday, I am finding that I am longing for my own practice again. I need the freedom to explore and to ask questions in my own practice. So I will be cancelling my studio membership for the time being (and saving some $$ while I'm at it!)

Yoga Job! Glory, Hallelujah!

2008-07-24T10:00:00.000-07:00

If you haven't heard via my other blog, I've got myself a job teaching yoga. It really is a miracle. Amazing how moments of light immediately follow moments of doubt. I will start teaching a couple time a week, and then as more people start coming I will be able to teach full time. It's at a health & wellness spa, and they're just beginning to bring yoga into the scheme of things. I'm excited about this job because it will allow me to teach in a way that is intuitive and personal. It will allow me to continue to learn and grow as I teach. Blessed be.

photo via: danusunt, flickr, see it here.

Gratitude & Reverence

2008-07-23T10:31:00.000-07:00

Last night I did my own yoga practice at home. It's been too long since I've done this. I've been going everyday to a studio. After last night, I think I will do more personal practicing at home...there is nothing that compares to solitary exploration.

Anyway, last night I practiced a sequence that went back and forth between postures that opened my heart in gratitude and postures that brought me bowing forward with reverence. I think I held uttanasana for 25 minutes. An experience that was undescribable. I needed that reverence. You should give this a try.

photo via: www.davidsanger.com

Hoping

2008-07-22T09:33:00.000-07:00

I just got news that Syl will doing an encore Thai Yoga workshop in September! I was so bummed to miss it this month because I was already signed up for the one I am currently in. I'm hoping that the stars will align and I will be able to attend. This would be a fantastic learning experience!

photo via: White Mountain Yoga

1 Weekend Down, 25 Hours To Go

2008-07-21T09:37:00.000-07:00

This weekend I spent most of my waking hours at Zuda. I'm completing their teacher assisting and anatomy training. It's been an interesting experience, full of learning. I am definitely learning some things about assisting and anatomy. But more importantly I am further defining what direction I want to go in as I work towards teaching full time. I am meeting lots of yoga teachers, and finding that the way I want to go in is not the norm. I am feeling strongly that I will be doing a lot of study on my own...but that doesn't mean I will stop going to teacher trainings...I hope to attend more. I also am feeling that I need to get my Yoga education from more than just studios...I need to take University classes that teach me about Hinduism, the history of Yoga, Hinduism, and other Eastern Religions. I need to get another degree from a University. Can you get a second degree once you've already graduated? Anyway, I'm happy to be learning a lot.
photo via: www.zudayoga.com (Anne Marie & Bill)

Guru Purnima

2008-07-19T07:48:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was a holy, faith-renewing day for Hindus. The day is Guru Purnima. It is the day that you honor your guru(s)...your teachers. It can be anyone who you have learned greath things from: a mother, a friend, a teacher, etc. It is also a day to honor the lineage of great teachers all the way back to the ancients and those who took time to pass on tradition. I was introduced to this day by a wonderful yoga teacher, Gangotri. She led us through some chanting and kirtan. When she sang it was so other-worldly. Truly, sound is the quickest way to the divine.

This is a story Gangotri shared with me in relation to Guru Purnima.
There is a beautiful story told about a man who wanted to walk on water. He begged his guru to give him a secret mantra or a special boon so he could complete this remarkable feat. The man was extremely pious and devoted, and he had been in his guru's service for many years. Therefore, the guru gave him a leaf, folded many times until is was very small. He told his disciple, "Within this leaf is a secret formula which will enable you to walk on water. However, you must not open it because the formula inside is a secret."
So the man agreed, and he takes the folded leaf carefully in his hands and begins his journey across the river. He is walking fine when suddenly he is overcome by curiosity. What could be this secret formula? Is there really a secret inside? Is it a powder or a stone or some holy mantra printed? Where did his guru get it? His doubts get the best of him and he begins slowly to open the leaf as he walks, careful lest any of the secret formula should spill out into the water. As soon as he unfolds the last piece to unveil the secret, he suddenly sinks into the water and drowns. Inside the leaf was written the simple word, "faith."
It was not the leaf, nor any secret powder or mantra that enabled the devotee to accomplish a miracle. It was the strength of his faith in his guru and in the "boon" his guru had given him. As soon as that faith wavered and doubt crept in, his life was lost. This is the power of faith.

photo via http://jeffreykishner.com

Ubiquitous

2008-07-18T09:03:00.000-07:00

I can't go anywhere without hearing about Eckhart Tolle and his fix-everything books. I've been hearing about him for over a year now, but the past few months it seems everyone is talking about him at all times. I hesitantly bought The Power of Now book last week and have read the first fifty pages. It's good. Why the hesitancy? It feels too much like a fad. Yes, I'm being way too judgemental here. What I've read so far is good. He words some things very nicely and with clarity. I guess I am uncomfortable with the unquestioning attitude that everyone seems to have. It is a bit irksome that if Tolle says it, it is truth. I think that a lot of what he says is truth...at least it feels that way to me. But there are some things that don't sit as well. How come no one else is questioning? I know a lot of you have read his stuff...what do you think about him? What do you think about my thoughts on him?

Ready to Just Watch

2008-07-17T09:43:00.000-07:00

When it comes to Yoga these days I'm feeling like I just want to watch it. I want to read words from my yoga books, and not worry about memorizing anything. I want to attend my workshop and just absorb and observe...not worrying about "performing". This thought is very liberating.

Nervous. Very.

2008-07-16T10:05:00.000-07:00

I am feeling very nervous for my Anatomy workshop that starts tomorrow. Why? It's only a workshop...I'm there to learn, right? My ego has kicked into hyper-gear, and I'm worried I'll look like an amateur. Duh. That's what I am, right? I've only been practicing yoga for 3.5 years. I did my first teacher training only two years ago. Of course, I'm not going to know as much as the people who are hosting the workshop. They're there to teach me, and I'm there to learn. I've got to let this nervousness flow through me.

Can anyone explain to me the "science" behind the feeling of nervousness? What happens to our bodies when we are nervous? I would be very interested.

Variety

2008-07-15T09:21:00.000-07:00

I tried a new yoga studio yesterday here in Sacramento. It's All Yoga. It is a lovely little studio. I felt very welcomed and felt that I would be taken care of during class. This studio emits love like crazy. The studio I have been going to most regularly, Zuda, is good in its own way too. One word for Zuda would be "invigorating". I think I like variety in my practice though. So I think I'll have to go to both regularly now. Looking forward to it.

Crossing My Fingers...

2008-07-14T09:56:00.001-07:00

This weekend I decided to go to a Saturday morning class last minute. Glad I did. I talked with the owner of the studio, and they are in need of some more help. She wants to meet with me this week to see if they want to hire me to work for them! Hooray! I don't have to work in an office afterall! I am seeing that my patience is paying off.

Weekend Homework

2008-07-11T08:51:00.001-07:00

Next week I begin my Anatomy Teacher Training at Zuda Yoga here in Sacramento. I can't believe it's coming so quickly. I've got to get through these books before next Thursday (I just found out about this assignment this morning!). I'm looking forward to learning more.

This Weekend: Veggie Burgers

2008-07-11T08:45:00.001-07:00

I love veggie burgers, and would eat them everyday if I could. Since reading In Defense of Food I have not consumed a veggie burger because I cannot comfortably classify them as "food" because of all the unknown ingredients in the store-bought, frozen patties. Fortunately for me good ol' Martha has supplied me with a recipe to make my own out of yummy vegetables and quinoa. Looking forward to it. I'll let you know how it goes!

Too Hot & Polluted

2008-07-10T10:43:00.000-07:00

I have cut back my 2.5 hour a day practice to only 1 hour. Why? Because it is oh so hot here and the air is filled with smoke from forest fires. It's suffocating. I think my body needs some down time. Hopefully this heat and smoke don't stay too long.

Om. Namah. Shiva.

2008-07-09T10:12:00.000-07:00

One of my very favorite things about yoga is chanting. My favorite chant these days is a prayer to Lord Shiva...the goddess of destruction. Through destruction comes change. I love change. It is oh so liberating. Om Namah Shiva.

Goal: One Week

2008-07-08T09:52:00.001-07:00

I just purchased my own copy of the Bhagavad Gita, finally. I have read excerpts and commentaries, but never the text in full. I am going to have it read cover to cover by next Tuesday.

The Bhagavad Gita is an epic poem...a conversation between a warrior and a god. It is a good source to learn Hindu philosophy, as well as good philosophies for life. At least, that is what I am told. The excerpts I've read have been beautiful and enlightening. I'll let you know what I think next Tuesday.

Yoga Outside

2008-07-07T10:48:00.000-07:00

For the last few days I woke early to do yoga on a dock at Hayden Lake in northern Idaho. It was truly peaceful and awe-some at the same time. It was so great to feel and hear the water so near. To hear birds singing and water tapping the dock. I hope to do yoga on a dock more often.

Going Away To Breathe

2008-07-02T08:52:00.001-07:00

We're going away for a few days to northern Idaho. Should be refreshing to breathe some mountain air, and feel the cool lake water. See you next week.

Ujjayi Breath

2008-07-01T08:20:00.000-07:00

The Ujjayi breath is the heart of a yoga practice. It calms the mind, and helps in meditation. For me, the inhale is usually more shallow than the exhale. But when I really concentrate on the inhale I find that I have more strength and will power to get through challenging postures and flows. Truly the breath is like ocean waves. Think of when the waves come into the shore, they have great power and force. When they recede they completely relax, but they relax with power as well. So next time you do your yoga practice really pay attention to the power of inhaling and exhaling.

Balance

2008-06-30T07:59:00.000-07:00

"Yoga is the study of balance, and balance is the aim of all living creatuers; it is our home." - from Meditations From the Mat written by Rolf Gates and Katrina Kenison.

When we feel balanced it is true that we also feel at home. Through a practice of yoga there are many aspects that will aid in bringing balance. Pranayama, breath control/practice, is a wonderful way to bring balance to your day. Sitting in a comfortable position, closing the eyes, and simply watching the breath come in and go out...working toward equalizing the length of each inhale with each exhale. The asana practice also brings balance...each pose asks you to lift up while rooting down while breathing in and out. Each transition also requires a simultaneous lift and grounding.

In our daily lives there must be sadness and happiness to bring balance. We are always looking for happiness, and if we are sad one day we feel it is a "bad" day. Not so. Feeling sad is part of it all. My sad days are just as "good" as my happy days.

Holistic Anatomy: Zuda Yoga

2008-06-27T09:13:00.000-07:00

I just signed up for a Holistic Anatomy 50-hour workshop at Zuda Yoga here in Sacramento. It will be taking place the last two weekends of July. Can hardly wait!

The Most Ignored Posture

2008-06-26T16:12:00.000-07:00

Savasana is the most ignored posture, but it is also the most important. I find that all too often I attend a class where we work our mind, body, and spirit very hard only to take a two-minute savasana, if that. I like the advice I got from Syl that for every 20 minutes of asana practice we should take a 5-minute savasana. That means if I am in an hour class that I should take a 15-minute savasana at the end of the class. This pose is a place for the body (and mind and spirit) to re-align itself and to absorb all the work that has just been done. I truly believe that we practice yoga in order to meditate and slow down. As a teacher, I also understand that there is an un-spoken pressure from students...many people are uncomfortable lying still for soooo long. We feel that people will get anxious and not come back because they were lying down for too long. I also think that many people simply overlook the benefits of savasana. They'd rather spend their "workout" time doing situps or backbends. My vote is for longer savasanas.

Why I Love Yoga: a reason

2008-06-24T15:14:00.000-07:00

My mom loves to read the paper. But there's something she loves even more: clipping out certain articles and mailing them to me. She mailed me this very story.

It's Yoga in Provo, UT is where I did my very first teacher training...so it is dear to my heart. Monica (a teacher there, and in this photo...you have to find her) was with me in my second teacher training...she is a real joy. It's Yoga is now offering classes for people with MS. The story is here. I love yoga because it truly helps people...it is life changing.

Yet Another First: My First Real Injury

2008-06-23T09:54:00.001-07:00

Remember my first fall? I have finally pegged it as the culprit for my incredibly sore deltoids. Since my fall out of handstand I have barely been able to do chaturanga...I'm lucky if I can do it with my knees on the ground for support. So I must have overlooked my shouler injury at first because I was taking care of my nose bleed. It's been two weeks since that fateful day. It's hard to be patient. I want to do chaturanga oh so badly, but just when I think I'm feeling better I give it a go, but I end up wincing with pain. This is what I am constantly telling my students to look for: pain versus discomfort. Chaturanga can be very uncomfortable when you are fatigued or just learning, but this is a sharp pain I am experiencing...no matter how energized I feel.

So for now I will work on practicing patience.

My First Love: Astanga Vinyasa

2008-06-20T17:06:00.001-07:00

The first yoga class I ever went to was a Astanga Vinyasa class at It's Yoga in Provo, UT. I was a faithful student there for 1.5 years before I did my first teacher training with them. During our training we were privileged to have a couple days with the founder of It's Yoga (in San Francisco), Larry Schultz.

These past few days I have noticed that Power Yoga does indeed have its benefits, but I've had to add my own Astanga practice in each day because I found I am getting quite tight. I LOVE the Astanga system. I know I'm not supposed to have favorites or attachments, but for now I do. It is what it is. Below are some paraphrased things I remember Larry teaching us about Yoga.

Yoga is a purification system. Our training begins when we leave it. Learn the heart of the practice (the breath). Breathe off the mat. The power of the practice is transformation. The breath is food for the spirit. Yoga is about liberation. Breathe out your pain. Place your mind in your bandhas. Astanga is the art of sequencing. Create a relationship with your mat. Go slow with your life. You are a being machine, not a doing machine. Say it, do it, move. Should be stronger at the end of a class. Become light by doing the exercises. Sun Salutations are about a ritual. Everyone's gotta do Triangle differently. Study transitions, not the pose. All movement is good movement. ONLY TEACH WHAT YOU LOVE.

Firsts

2008-06-10T15:48:00.000-07:00

Last night in class I hit my first ever away-from-a-wall handstand. I was so shocked to be up that I didn't know what to do...then I started thinking too hard...then I started freaking out...then I felt myself falling, but didn't know how to do it gracefully...so I fell on my face. Nose Bleed. Embarassment. Bruised Knee. Bruised Elbow. Empathy.

I will now practice falling.

You Know You Want To

2008-05-30T21:31:00.000-07:00

So I know there's a lot of you out there who want to start doing yoga. Why haven't you started? Are yoga studios intimidating with their handstands and toe-touches? Do you feel that you have to be flexible or stronger than you are to do yoga? What is holding you back?

I feel that often we don't take action when it comes to living healthier, more aware lives. I was talking to my husband about how I try to get women to start doing yoga by gathering a group of friends in their home/apartment for regular yoga classes. That way they can split the cost, and it's very affordable. But few people make the little effort to start. Why?

I wish I knew a magical chant/spell/prayer to make you all feel how beautiful and capable you are. I wish I knew how to connect us all.

For now I will say a prayer and breathe it out into the Universe and patiently wait.

A Bit Overwhelmed

2008-05-30T16:01:00.001-07:00

Before I moved to Sacramento I was confident I could find a teaching job within a couple of months. Now that I'm here I'm feeling a little doubtful. As I've researched all the yoga studios in the area I realize what an infant I am in the world of yoga. Most teachers have at least a decade of experience under their belts as well as multiple teacher trainings (I've done a measly two).

I am trying not to get down about it, and have tried to readjust my expectations. Perhaps my time in Sacramento should be a time for me to be a full-time yoga student. To learn all I can from as many different schools as possible.

When I am honest with myself I admit that I am not as into the journey as I would like to be. I'm constantly planning ahead and looking to the future. I want to be perfect now. Obviously I am not quite ready to teach at the level I want to. That takes years...for everyone. For now I will be happy being a student, and teaching in a more casual atmosphere when the opportunity arises.

Dharma

2008-05-05T20:16:00.001-07:00

Dharma: it's what you were born to do. As my husband and I are about to move to a new place, I have come to terms with that my purpose here is to teach yoga. So I've given up the office jobs! No more will I let the fear of failure rule my decisions. Office jobs were so predictable and safe. That's old new now. I'm looking forward to my new life as 100% yoga instructor. This will be better than I ever could have imagined.

Chakra Exercise

2008-05-05T10:47:00.001-07:00

Below is what we went through for the Women's event last Friday that was hosted by Liz McCleery (Our Glass Slippers).

For further information on chakras visit Syl Carson's website White Mountain Yoga. Look for her book, CD, and DVD titled " Seven Sacred Centers."

1. 1st Chakra, Muldahara, "I have", place your hand on your lower back, or underneath your sit bones.
I am my true identity, I love being here, I love my body, I am beauty, I am healthy

2. 2nd Chakra, Svadhisthana, "I feel", place your hand(s) on your lower abdomen.
I am worthy of love, I am grateful to be a woman, I am the right one, my life is right and good.

3. 3rd Chakra, Manipura, "I can", place your hand(s) at your navel/solar plexus.
I am powerful, I am strong enough, I am rested, I am moving forward with my life, I am fulfiilled.

4. 4th Chakra, Anahata, "I love", place your hand(s) over your heart.
I am loved because I was born, I am enough, I am fulfilling my heart's desire, I am compassion.

5. 5th Chakra, Visuddha, "I speak", place your hand(s) lightly over your throat.
I hear and speak truth, I am the authority in my world, I am the creator of my life, I am honest, I am honored.

6. 6th Chakra, Ajna, "I see", place your hand(s) at your forehead, between the brows.
I am intuitive, I am perceptive, I am insightful, I am clear, I am a healthy mind.

7. 7th Chakra, "I know", place your hand(s) at the top of your head, at the crown.
My life is my teacher, I am important to God, I am seeing my true self, I am knowing my inner voice.

Remember to take some quiet, still time everyday. Even if it's only 60 seconds. Start with 60 seconds, and increase it daily, weekly, or whatever you can make time for.

Thanks again for all of your lovely comments and support. It was a lot of fun.

Women's Event: Our Glass Slippers

2008-05-02T17:41:00.000-07:00

I'll be posting all the info I gave at the women's event on Monday. So stay tuned...

Thanks to Liz for hosting such a lovely day, and thanks to all who came! You were a generous and wise crowd!

Namaste.

Doshas

2008-04-16T14:41:00.000-07:00

Today I am finalizing my project for my Tai Chi Yoga Movement class. I will be teaching the class about the doshas. I only get 20 minutes...which is a HUGE problem. I'll just do what I can. Understanding the doshas is an integral part of Ayurvedic medicine. Air, Fire, Water/Earth are the universal elements that combine to create the doshas. When the doshas are not in equilibrium disease will manifest in the body. Through our life practices we can bring the doshas into harmony to avoid disease. Each dosha corresponds with an element: Kapha (water, earth), Vata (Air), and Pitta (Fire). Our diet, yoga, and daily activities can harmonize or throw the doshas out of wack. I hope to continue to learn more about the doshas. In another life I would be an Ayurvedic doctor.

The Power of Ten

2008-04-11T07:11:00.000-07:00

Do any of you remember watching this 8 minute film in elementary school? It's decades old, but still interesting to watch and to think about. It explores the vastness of our universe as well as the enormity of each one of our own cells. It's really quite amazing to think about how there is literally a universe in each cell. Incredible. I love moments like this. I love moments of awe.

If you haven't seen the short film, watch it here.

What Is It About Classical Music?

2008-04-07T15:05:00.000-07:00

What is it about classical music, especially the cello, that truly feeds and guides my yoga practice. Whenever it accompanies my morning practice it seriously triggers my sixth chakra, my third eye, my intuition. I LOVE IT! I always feel so nourished and alive after a classical-yoga session. Try it. Today I ended with Claire de Lune in svasana. Beautiful indeed.

My Yoga Needs Some Joy

2008-04-02T07:31:00.000-07:00

I went with my husband last night to see the Alvin Ailey Dance Company perform at Kingsbury Hall. It was absolutely inspiring and incredible. As I watched the dancers move in a way that was unreserved and powerful, I realized what I was missing in my own yoga practice: joy. I have no problem being deliberate, compassionate, or mindful in my practice...but I am usually all too serious. I need to make my yoga a dance, and something from the most joy-filled parts of my whole being. This morning I tried some "joy" yoga...it was oh so fantastic! I'm also signing up for a few dance classes to get my body moving and to tap into that flow.

Yoga In Every Moment

2008-03-31T18:14:00.000-07:00

This morning brought a few inches of new, slushy, heavy snow. So we had to shovel the parking area and sidewalks of our apartment building. I enjoyed the sound of the shovel on the wet pavement, the collecting of snow in my shovel as I moved forward, and the clear blue skies overhead. This was my morning yoga...to feel connected to the snow that brings the earth nourishment as it melts. I too hope that I bring nourishment to the earth. I hope I bring nourishment to all those I know, and to those I will never meet.

Spring Cleaning

2008-03-26T11:47:00.001-07:00

Started a three-day liquids only cleanse today. This fast from solid foods will get rid of acid, toxins, and mucus that has built up in my digestive system...it will create space (literally) for reflection. After three days my energy will begin to free itself.

I'll be drinking juices, teas, and water. Usually there is a natural inclination to slow down so I will modify my yoga practice, go for casual walks, read books, and write.

When I am done, I'll start by eating whole grains and steamed vegetables.

My Kind of Anatomy

2008-03-25T08:51:00.001-07:00

I am currently reading this book. It is so enlightening and revealing. I love her approach to healing and the fact that she mentions over and over that healing is proactive. It also brings out repeatedly that our bodies, minds, and spirits are linked...what we do with one affects the other.

This book has been great on a personal level and has helped me to see why my body experiences certain pains, restrictions, liberations, etc. I can't wait to read it through, and then again.

A Journey

2008-03-24T20:10:00.001-07:00

Vrschikasana, Scorpion, is my newest journey. Why? I want to feel my body fly and relax into this pose...it seems so liberating and empowering. I like this photo because the woman has slim arms...there is hope for those of us with small muscles! Who knows when I'll get there, but right now I'm having fun exploring the possibilities.

Vernal Equinox: Rebirth

2008-03-21T12:45:00.001-07:00

Who doesn't like the symbols of and literal rebirths? Well we are upon our Spring equinox, where the flowers, grass, and animals start a new life cycle.

The very first time I attended a yoga class I was overcome with the beauty of the sybolic and literal rebirth I experienced after svasana (corpse pose, a symbol of death), then entered into a fetal positions as I woke my body again at the end of the practice. Yoga is about rebirth again and again on so many levels.

Dedicate your practice this weekend to the renewal of your body, mind, and spirit. Namaste.

Nightstand Reading

2008-03-10T16:49:00.000-07:00

I picked up this little book, The Couple's Tao Te Ching, at the spa last week. It's been a lovely little treat to read before bed the past few nights. Last night I read the following:

Paradoxes abound in love

and they must be fully lived.

Being wounded is the only way to healing.

Being at fault is the only path to forgiveness.

Feeling empty allows for satisfaction.

Longing for another brings passion's fulfillment.

This goes right along with my deep belief that there must be opposition in ALL things. I wouldn't have it any other way.

The New Moon

2008-03-07T12:02:00.000-08:00

The moon and feminine energy go hand-in-hand. The New Moon corresponds directly to the Oracle/Crone feminine archetype. This is a Re-birth phase. Once we reach this stage in our lives it means we have overcome the other stereotypes: Maiden, Mother, and Enchantress. I think I am a far way off from reaching the Oracle stage in my life. I sometimes wonder if I ever lived my Maiden archetype...and if I didn't, how can I do that now? The thing is I have to live the Maiden archetype before I can move forward. Any suggestions on how to fully embrace the Maiden in me?

Ritual

2008-03-05T14:22:00.000-08:00

This morning I needed to come back to a ritual...the Primary Series. I needed to connect to something that has been on the earth hundreds of years longer than I. There is something about participating in a ritual that is oh so comforting. Perhaps because we know we are not alone - we are aware that these same movements have been explored by thousands, even millions, of people. I am indeed grateful today for my foundation in Astanga Yoga. It has allowed me a firm place to spring from.

Intuition

2008-03-04T12:12:00.000-08:00

The sixth chakra is located between the eyebrows. It is your third eye. It is your intuition. My intention with my yoga practice today has been to fine-tune my intuition with every movement. Using my mind's eye to feel the pose, rather than forcing myself into what the pose looks like for other yogis. This morning I was made aware of how rusty this chakra is for me. Tonight when I practice again we'll see if there is any difference.

Relax!

2008-03-03T13:55:00.000-08:00

Today I had my first ever Thai Massage at the Kura Door (courtesy, my Valentine). This is what I've been looking for to add to my personal yoga practice. I mentioned to a friend only a few days ago that I felt that I had hit a wall in my yoga. During and after my massage I realized what I need to implement more into my practice: relaxation. And I'm not talking savasana for 90 minutes (though that's not a bad idea). I need to RELAX in each pose...forget about what it looks like. Stop straining. I know I've heard all that before, but during my massage I realized just how tense I was. My massage therapist kept telling me to relax over and over. My muscles were kicking in without my mind even knowing it. This week I will get over what my asanas look like or where they should be going. It's time to relax, and give into my body and intuition.

If you go for a Thai Massage, ask for Celeste.

Bhakti Yoga

2008-03-02T07:22:00.000-08:00

"The yoga of devotion...Bhakti Yoga is the path to self-realization and union with the ultimate force of the universe...in which a parctitioner cultivates faith and devotion, surrendering to the Divine. This is achieved by channeling one's energy and devotion through posture, chanting, singing, scriptural study, ritual, and service to one's particular divinity. Sanskrit is central to this path, as it is the language of the sacred scriptures, chants, and mantras, used for devotional practice...Bhakti Yoga is based on complete faith and surrender to God, but it is not a passive surrender; indeed, one's whole being is active in the process." Sacred Sanskrit Words, Leza Lowitz & Reema Datta, pp. 53-54

Each Sunday will be my blog day for Bhakti Yoga. I want to share with you chants, rituals, scriptural study (that will come from all religions), and of my journey to surrender completely to the Divine.

Today I have two thoughts to share

My heart holds within it every form,

It contains a pasture for gazelles,

A monastery for Christian monks.

There is a temple for idol-worshipers,

A holy shrine for pilgrims;

There is the table of the Torah,

And the Book of the Koran.

I follow the religion of LOVE

And go whichever way his camel leads me.

This is the true faith; This is the true religion.

-Ibn Arabi

Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy, But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil AND the good, and sendeth rain on the just AND on the unjust. For if ye love them which love you, what reward have ye? do not even the publicans the same? And if ye salute your brethren only, what do ye more than others? do not even the publicans so? BE YE THEREFORE PERFECT, EVEN AS YOUR FATHER WHICH IS IN HEAVEN IS PERFECT.

-Jesus

(My thoughts on this command to be perfect: the passages that I have written here speak of loving EVERYONE...this is how we become perfect, it's about LOVE.)

Suryanamaskara: The Sun Salutations

2008-03-01T00:59:00.000-08:00

One morning this week I spent 90 minutes working through Suryanamaskara A & B. The ritual came alive in a new way that was so nourishing and informative. I think I will do this more often to continue exploring the benefits.