ANUSARA-INSPIRED™ YOGA TEACHING - My Experience

FYI

2012-01-31T08:53:00.001-07:00

Effective yesterday, I no longer teach at the studio in Carlsbad.

It wasn't a tough decision; besides my inability to grow classes there, I had long been concerned about the lack of public awareness of the studio due to lack of advertising.

When I owned a studio, I quickly learned to let people go. I wished them well. In my 7 years of studio ownership, I only had one negative experience and that one still haunts me. It does no good to hold a teacher in a position he/she does not want to be in. The energy (or lack of) will show; no matter how good an actor they are. Their class attendance will dwindle as students realize they ought to attend classes with someone who will be around for a while. The studio does not benefit from this; the students do not benefit; fellow teachers do not benefit. And, I found, there were lots of teachers around to fill the void created, teachers who are energetic and enthusiastic, and eager to teach. Win, Win.

So, life goes on.

It has been a week fraught with illness (still that "darn" cold) and drama (above). I look forward to spending the next weekend with Sundari at a workshop -- fun, fun, fun!

Will write more (on a different topic) tomorrow.

Enjoy your Tuesday,

GOOD MORNING !!!

2012-01-26T07:10:00.001-07:00

I must admit there are not many mornings that I wake up, go through my routine, sit down to the computer and see this: A compliment, out of the blue, from a former student.

I'll take it, I need it, I want it. Thank you to the writer for taking the time to put your thoughts into typewritten form and send them to me. I appreciate it, more than you'll ever know.

Which brings up a thought I've been harboring for a few weeks. The affect my actions (or lack thereof) have on other people. Especially as a yoga teacher, as I stand in front of a room of people, spouting my words of wisdom and instructions. Are they listening? Or, does it go in one ear and out the other.

I remember one student who arrived in my class after a significant surgery. She was in her 60's, a bit out of shape, yet wanting to work -- wanting to 'un-congeal' a bit. Because the surgery happened in her ribcage, I watched her as I instructed students to take arms overhead, clasp their hands and bend to one side and then the other. The grimace on her face worried me; it was so expressive it made me think the pose was causing pain. So, I asked her, 'is something hurting?'. She answered 'no, I'm just thinking'. Whew! I was relieved I wasn't causing her pain.

However, I also learned a lesson -- you can not tell what a person is thinking from their facial expressions. They may sit in my class, expressionless or with an expression like I described above, yet they may still be hearing my message, my instructions. And, for some (maybe many) these thoughts, comments, jokes, instructions, information, etc., are sinking in and are affecting their lives as they go forward, off their mats and into their lives.

Here's the quote from which I created the 'un-congeal' comment: (if I've shared it before, please bear with me -- as one who was almost congealed when yoga 'happened', it says a ton):

‎"There are two kinds of people...One kind you can just tell by looking at them at what point they congealed into their final selves. It might be a very nice self, but you know you can expect no more surprises from it. Whereas, the other kind keep moving, changing...They are fluid, moving forward...making new trysts with life, and the motion of it keeps them young. In my opinion they are the only people who are still alive. You must be constantly on your guard, Justin, against congealing." — Gail Godwin, "The Finishing School"

Hope you have a great Thursday!

And, thank you, again, to the writer who started my morning off in a grand fashion! You know who you are and I always appreciated that I could see my teaching reflected in your eyes. Good stuff!

Quite the 4 days or, 3 Little Boys & A 'Performance'

2012-01-22T07:05:00.000-07:00

I left off last Wednesday, preparing to drive in to Encinitas for the kick-off practice of "Igniting The Center", title of the 2012 Anusara Tour. My drive in was uneventful, I was able to help a bit before the practice began, and - if you've been following anyone/thing on Facebook - you may have seen the 30 or so photos taken on day one. I'm in there somewhere -- perspiring, heart-racing, attempting to do things I've never done before (or, perhaps I did do them, but am horribly out of practice now).

In short, it was a great event -- 94 poses in 3.5 hours; broken into 4 sections, each ending with a 5-minute meditation. No breaks, tho. The expectation (which was stated in a pre-event e-mail) was that we would arrive prepared to stay on the mat for the full practice time. Discipline. I believe it may be an underlying theme for the year.

The following morning (Thursday), Howard and I were up early, cleaning & packing, preparing to fly to Spokane for my Dad's Memorial Service on Friday. All went smoothly, especially considering we were flying into the Pacific Northwest's biggest snowstorm of the year (and, largest for a number of years, I think). Runway was white, autos moving slowly thru deep snow, stressful beginning. Derek and his family (Jess, Jack, Brady & Carson) also flew up, but on a different airline -- their flight was also almost uneventful and the boys made it with flying colors.

What do you tell a 5- and 3-year-old about a memorial service? How do you describe what is happening and why? We (Howard and I) had never had to face it, so we asked Derek & Jessica. They had explained death (which the boys already had an idea about) and went on to tell the boys this would be a celebration of their great-grandfather's life. In their minds, they quickly turned the event into a 'performance'. From that moment on, the circumstances of this visit to Spokane were termed "great-grandpa's performance". And, a performance it was.

Friday morning, still snow on the ground, we all piled into one big SUV and made the drive out to the Veteran's Memorial Cemetery west of Spokane. That part of the state is a bit flatter, so the landscape looked cold and grey, flat and - as we approached - the American flag was seen waving over the barren, white ground. The service was short. We all gathered in a small service area (concrete and glass), with full view of the landscape, flag, and headstones. A chaplain offered prayer, condolences, and praise. We watched the flag ceremony conducted by 6 very cold USAF Airmen, heard Taps being played by a bugler standing outside, and - tho warned - were all startled as the 21-gun volley began. Impressive.

From there, we gathered as a family for lunch, then headed to the Presbyterian Church for a public service. Another moment to remember, as a brass quintet played two of Dad's favorite marches. My cousin, Dave, and I offered a few words, the minister asked if anyone would like to share - few did; however, one man did stand -- he was unknown to us -- and relayed stories of having known Dad 46 years ago, as Dad piloted KC-135's. Wow! That was impressive, to come to a ceremony where you are unknown to the family, to honor your fellow Air Force officer.

Service over, we headed to Dave's house. The boys were able to play in the snow, ride on a tractor with Dave as he fed the deer out back of his house. We stayed inside where it was warm and visited.

All in all, a great 'performance', Dad. We honored and we remembered, and I don't think anyone will forget that day for quite a while.

The next day (yesterday), it was up and off to the airport. This time, we all struggled with snowstorms and high winds to make it back to San Diego. Home safe and sound, all is well here. Life will go back to normal.

I hope you have a great Sunday!

UP EARLY & EXCITED - ABOUT TODAY & YESTERDAY

2012-01-18T06:40:00.000-07:00

First, about today -- in about 2 hours, I'll be ready and in my car on the way into Encinitas for the kick-off of "IGNITING THE CENTER"; Anusara's theme and John Friend's tour name for 2012. It will be a 4-hour practice with John on each day -- today, tomorrow and Friday, all mixed level so everyone can participate. Promises to be fun.

I will be able to participate today, then off to Spokane tomorrow for my Dad's memorial on Friday. I'll be sad to miss those two days, but there are so many people hoping to attend that it's o.k. that I'm just able to participate in the first day -- and, to think, I participated in purnahuti (the finish) of 2011 with John and now the first of 2012 -- auspicious, I think - don't you?

And, about yesterday: It was one of those days when privates and semi-privates were the norm -- meaning, in each of my classes I had either one or two students. Not setting the world on fire, attendance-wise, but - in each case - the teaching was fun, inspiring and helpful (for me and attendees).

First class of the day was attended by a fellow yoga instructor. She has appeared in my class several times over the last month, and I enjoy her personality and presence very much. (Not to mention, she pays me nice compliments about my teaching.) Her practice is beautiful and she will be attending Thursday's practice with John (her first exposure to him). This was an opportunity to offer her some refinements that I believe he will be looking for -- kind of a head start, you'd say (things like -- width of the hands on the mat, what to do with arms in uttanasana, not moving fingers, like that). Her primary practice has not been Anusara, but she is intrigued by it all. Then I offered her some suggestions from Doug Keller's recent webinar that will be helpful with an old pelvic injury. Good stuff.

From there (Carlsbad), it was off to Temecula. My first class (Therapeutic/Gentle), was almost a non-event; meaning that, at 2:15, no one had arrived. As I was helping in the studio, two women arrived at 2:16 hoping to take the "2:30 class". Well, they had the time a bit off, but we all decided a one-hour class would work and it was off to work we went. One struggles with knee pain, back pain and the residual effects of breast cancer surgery 4+ years ago. The other's major issue is osteoarthritis in both knees, so bad that going to the floor is a non-option. We used chairs, did some standing poses and balance work, used the wall, then back to the chairs, and finished with a seated meditation. As new students, I let them rest into the chair back during this short meditation -- just too much to ask new, compromised students to sit up straight without the support. I used much of the knowledge I've gained over the years through many therapeutic trainings, plus was - once again - thankful for that Doug Keller webinar.

Between this class and the next, I spoke at length with two 50-year-old women (who stopped by the studio) about what / which yoga would be best for them. One struggles with fibromyalgia and a bad hip (or SI joint?), the other with both rheumatoid and osteoarthritis plus back & neck surgery (rods, etc.). I mention this, because I think it is amazing there are so many people struggling with issues who want to do yoga. They just need to find the right class, not get discouraged, and not get hurt.

Prenatal turned into another private session. Good for me and good for her. The student is 20 weeks into her pregnancy and arrived complaining of a sore back. A beautiful young woman, she has neglected her posture -- hyper-extended knees, kyphosis, and the beginnings of a pretty good neck thrust. All this because she is tall and during high school, she wanted to be short like the other girls, so she slouched. Now, she wants to change it. No better time than the present, and it will be easier now than later. We worked the usual shoulder blade stuff, which did not make her happy. Then I remembered "lift your heart" -- I offered her that instruction and 'voila!', a taller, more relaxed person stood in front of me.

Then I really took a look at her knees -- since much of posture and alignment issues begin below the hips. The hyperextension was causing a large bulge behind one knee (which is a hallmark of locked knees), tho she was not having any discomfort and had never noticed it herself. I stood her on a rolled blanket (heels on floor, top of the foot - from arch forward - on the roll), asked her to soften her knees yet lift and spread toes, creating muscular energy through the legs. Another voila!, as that bulging tissue was 'sucked' back into it's home. We did some movement from this place, talked about the value of NOT locking knees, talked about effective stretching. I believe there were many 'Ah-Ha' moments for her in this private. Moments that might not have happened in a roomful of students. More good stuff.

So, you see, it doesn't take much to get me excited -- a few bad knees, a bad hip here and there, poor posture. Oh, and practicing with John Friend. It will be a great day!

I hope yours is the same -- GREAT!

SPEAKING OF COMPLIMENTS . . .

2012-01-16T10:37:00.002-07:00

I am a bit hooked on Facebook; I admit it. I have relied on it for connection, for quotes, for class ideas, etc., etc., etc. Despite it's flaws, it has been a good friend to me over the past 10 months.

Why just 10 months? That has been the length of time since we moved from Salt Lake to Fallbrook. It is also the length of time I've been uprooted from a pretty solid yoga community with a lot of connection. Therefore, it has served as a 'yoga lifeline' for me; keeping me connected to yoga friends I know (and, some I haven't met yet), and to friends who have never given yoga a try.

Some days, tho, despite all the benefits, I wonder about my emotional release valve when reading some entries. For example, this morning, I'm reading posts and came upon one where one 'chastised' another for a spelling error. I realize that the one doing the chastising might claim it was 'teasing', but I still wonder. What did I do? I called that person on it -- meaning I commented that despite the spelling error, the event mentioned would still be fun.

Necessary? No. Appropriate? Not sure. Nice? Certainly not. Did I feel better? Yes and No. Almost went back and erased it. Yet, I believe the chastising was unnecessary, so I vented.

Ah, well, I do believe age is releasing my inhibitions.

This week will be another busy one. Teaching in 2 hours in Temecula, then tomorrow, and - fun - we are practicing in Encinitas with John on Wednesday. And I am excited to begin a webinar with Eric Stoneberg this evening. An Anusara Yoga instructor and Tantric scholar whose blog I have read for quite a while.

Hope you have a great Monday and a nice week,

WOW, SUCH A GREAT COMPLIMENT!

2012-01-12T07:54:00.000-07:00

After yesterday's class, as I was cleaning up my paperwork and preparing to leave, the studio owner came over to me and said "you know, one of the students you taught yesterday came up to me after class and said 'she is no ordinary yoga teacher' about you.".

Now, I can take this comment one of two ways - good or not-so-good. I choose the good.

Why? Because I have seen this student repeatedly in classes over the past 2 weeks. And -- because someone comes to your class more than once doesn't necessarily mean they enjoy it -- her comments to me have been positive. She feels stronger, she is feeling more stable (on a very unstable knee), and (this is me speaking) she is smiling.

This is good for me to hear - a comment made to someone other than myself. I often have students thank me for a nice class, and indicate they'll be back. I don't see them again. That could just be due to the fact that my teaching schedule is not the most convenient for people (middle of the work day, or perhaps just as they need to be picking children up from school - like that). But, I wonder. Are they telling me the truth, or are they just saying something nice in order to get out of the room graciously? (Personally, I know I've done it -- just said 'thank you, nice class' and slipped out, never to return.)

I know that I am not the 'ordinary' yoga teacher. I'm not even the 'regular' yoga teacher. As Christina Sell once said about her teaching, "I'm an acquired taste.". I need to borrow that phrase for this blog post.

Another why?

It takes a long time for my classes to grow -- it's now been 8 months since I began teaching in California. Classes are spottily attended, at best. I know, I know -- not the best times, people don't know me, classes I teach are not what the majority of people want (basic, gentle). I do realize, however, that I teach differently from others -- I am slower, more deliberate (I take comfort in John's quote "to make the ordinary extraordinary, sometimes you have to slow things down a bit"). I am nit picky about alignment, and when I discover something I can go on ad nauseum about the benefits, contraindications, etc., of the movement or lack thereof (just ask me what I learned from Doug Keller's webinar last night, for example). I won't even talk about being 'older'; but I do think that's a factor -- I don't LOOK like a yoga teacher; people will often walk into a studio, look at me, and inquire "are YOU the instructor?", emphasis on YOU.

Enough about all this. But, I did want to share my great compliment -- what a wonderful way to end the day and to begin another -- thinking about this, "I am not an ordinary yoga teacher" and I am very happy with that.

Hope you have a great Thursday,

SUNDAY'S CLASS

2012-01-09T06:58:00.001-07:00

Sunday mornings are great at Living Yoga in Temecula -- receptive and welcoming students, good numbers, and - perhaps - an opportunity to video; which I did yesterday.

The situation was just too good -- enough people, in a big enough room, and well-schooled (maybe not everyone in Anusara, but that turned out to be o.k. for this group).

And, what's the rest of the story? Not sure it will fly -- why?

First, I always have a written out plan with me (not that I read from it verbatim, but I do refer to it just to make sure I'm covering all the bases) -- The plan I hoped to use I left in the car which Howard (husband) was driving to run errands as he waited for me. Duh!

Second, I found myself being too directive, not using linking words enough. Oh, I knew I was doing it (being directive) and I tried to get them in (linking words), but I am not sure I did it often enough or with the right placement to create the desired sense of flow in my sequence.

Third, I almost forgot to demo. When I remembered that I ought to do one (not sure if it is a 'requirement'), it was at 'apex time'. Therefore, I demo'd the apex, which was Warrior I (this was a Basic class). I demo'd the pose, talking as I did it. I didn't re-cap, reminding everyone of two things to remember in this pose, and I didn't ask if anyone had a question -- these are key inclusions.

Fourth, I used my alignment emphasis (IS/OS) enough, but am not sure the verbiage I used gives credit to that emphasis for how each of the related movements felt (if that makes sense). An example: "confidently take your thighs back and apart, into the space you've created scoop your tailbone; now from the stability created by the two actions of IS and OS, raise your arms extending into your personal, extraordinary Warrior I" (see #5 for explanation).

Fifth, I am worried I totally blanked on the heart quality. I used John's recent quote in my opening comments "To make the ordinary extraordinary, sometimes you have to slow things down a bit." I believe it is so applicable to our practices and can be used effectively to help bring home the point that tadasana is an extraordinary pose with the right attitude. I used that simile through the class but is "extraordinary" a heart quality? Not sure.

O.K., enough for 'true confessions' -- I'll watch it. I am not even sure that the camera captures much of the 13 students in the room; I set it up, hurriedly went back to signing people in, and never re-checked it. I do know that it was on, however. So, we'll see.

I wish I had some good reasons for all of the above (the only explainable one is the first -- that I left it in the car). And, my memory ought to be good enough to remember or create a sequence 'on the fly'. Obviously, it isn't. Or, the excitement of all the right elements coming together just overwhelmed me. Who knows?

Now, what's the good in this? That I can think about that class and even without watching it, know what I left out. That bodes well for including it next time. Wish me luck.

Today? Gentle Yoga, back in Temecula this morning; Library Class at 3pm in Fallbrook. More opportunities to practice, I'm thinking.

Have a great Monday,

GONE, BUT NOT FORGOTTEN (?)

2012-01-08T08:08:00.001-07:00

I haven't written for a while. In fact, it's the longest break I think I've taken since this blog's creation -- which is almost 3 years ago!?!?! Why?

First, I think the cold (which lasted 2+ weeks and symptoms still plague me) affected my creative sense -- it's challenging to come up with contemplative, funny, interesting things to write when your sinuses are screaming "open, open, open", or you are sneezing like a train, or the non-stop passage of tissues from box to nose is enough to draw you away from the keyboard. Many excuses.

Then, there was my mood (also affected by the cold, I'm sure). It was in the basement or cellar. And, just in the last 3 days, has been riding the slow escalator back to first floor. (HAHAHAHAHA -- making myself laugh here.)

Finally, I just wasn't making the time. Yes, MAKING the time. Because, like many activities, I can find lots of reasons to believe I am just too busy to get it done.

This morning, however, I read an inspiring blog by Livia Shapiro, also an Anusara-Inspired yoga instructor. Her topic: a rant that clearly supported and, in fact, cheered-on the practice of Anusara Yoga. Good stuff for me to read. I needed that.

Not that I've been doubting my yoga 'choice'; I just needed a reminder of how good it is. Of how much it has brought into my life and of how much it has changed my life. What I have been 'doubting' is my own ability to 'get it done'. Meaning 'get Certified'. Kind of stuck in the video process -- trying, but running into detours along the way (i.e. classes are too small or students not cooperative or I don't juggle all the balls needed). It's been a challenge and the last few weeks have only added to my frustration level.

My mood was sensed by a fellow teacher (Maria Cristina), and she suggested that I just teach for a while. Not worry about the video for a week or two. Just do what I love and work on the suggestions of my assessor (Sarah). Good advice. That I plan to follow.

Today? Guest-teaching for my friend Vicki in Temecula, then a movie, then the Grand-Dudes are coming for dinner (trying out a new recipe). As I wrote that, it occurred to me that maybe I've reached the first floor -- it's been ages since I've tried a new recipe; a sure sign that the mood and surrounding fog are lifting.

Enjoy your Sunday,

COINCIDENCE?

2011-12-28T07:28:00.000-07:00

Here's a confession -- I wrote a post yesterday, published it, left it up for about 9 hours, then deleted it. Why? As I wrote it, I kept thinking -- why? why write this? why turn this blog into your own personal 'whining post'? I did continue, tho; and was plagued for the next few hours with misgiving -- like, it wasn't right. So, I erased it. I felt better after erasing it, but notice that a few people had looked at it. If that was you, sorry about that.

Now to the coincidence part. On Monday, Howard and I ventured out to exchange some Christmas gifts. We actually drove north to South Coast Plaza (one of the larger malls, located in Costa Mesa), despite the warnings of traffic congestion, crowds in the mall, etc. We did leave home early, which helped with the traffic issue going north, and allowed us to shop for an hour or so without the massive crowds. As we were leaving the mall, it was definitely crowded -- not my choice of place to be. We passed a favorite store and slipped in (attracted by the 'SALE' signs). While there we bought some discounted Christmas decorations and a book.

What book? "The Happiness Project"

And, what coincidence? I began to read the book this morning. Got through the introduction and a bit into Chapter 1. It addresses the exact issues that I wrote about yesterday - that's the coincidence.

The author's dilemma -- she has a good life - loving husband, good children, nice home, job she enjoys, etc., etc., etc. While not exactly the same situation as me, this quote from the author describes my dilemma: "I have such a good life, I want to appreciate it more -- and live up to it better." ("Live up to it better" - interesting and challenging.)

And, she's not talking about changing her circumstances; she's talking about appreciating the ordinary day, setting some higher standards for her everyday life, and taking a broader view to let go of annoyances. (Those are her words, just re-organized into this blog.)

Perfect. Just what I need to do. I'll continue reading -- I think this will be good for me.

Library class today -- hoo-ray; love this class! Hope you have a good Wednesday.

I SURVIVED (but still have the cold)

2011-12-22T06:40:00.001-07:00

The Denver workshop was a good one -- tons of people, lots of laughter and chatter, seeing old friends, making new ones; and then, there was the yoga - inspiring and also sprinkled with laughter and - for me - perspiration (a result of the cold?).

I am glad I went, tho I struggled - so glad I decided to do just the Mixed Level practice. Colds are supposed to last 10 days (according to my doctor); this one is now on day 11 -- what's up with that?

So, it's almost Christmas. My husband has been like a busy 'elf' decorating this new-to-us house (lights, lighted wreath, etc.), and we put up a bigger tree this year. Looks at least a bit 'holiday-ish' around here. And, in our neighborhood, which is very dark, we stand out.

In my teaching, since Thanksgiving, I've stuck with balance as a theme. Partly because I want to be prepared for the class with six students in it, so I can turn the video camera on and use a familiar, well-prepared theme; and also because it is such an important theme off my mat. Staying balanced throughout the holidays, when everything seems to want to pull me OFF balance -- food (Love those cookies), drink (tho I don't drink anymore), spending on gifts, scheduling my time. For me, the spending is particularly important. For example, I shopped yesterday for some last minute things and kept wanting to buy more. It was hard to remember that I already had gifts, that I didn't need to buy that little extra something for so-and-so, that I had achieved balance. Always a practice.

Can't be sure I'll write again before Christmas, so I will take this opportunity to wish you all a wonderful holiday - no matter how you celebrate or not. I love that I can feel and share the peace, generosity and harmony of spirit that comes with this day.

Have a great Thursday!

OFF TO DENVER!

2011-12-15T07:04:00.000-07:00

Yes, I am -- off to Denver, that is. Tomorrow. Part of my birthday gift from Howard was to attend the weekend workshop with John Friend in Denver. Nice.

Not wanting to waste any of this valuable time with JF, I signed up for all sessions (I did this 2 years ago in Park City). This time it may have been a mistake; I'll see. One, my practice is not as strong as it was then (not enough classes with strong teachers like Adam Ballenger), and two, this week my body decided it was time for the 'annual cold'. I say 'annual cold' because, traditionally, that is all I ever get -- one cold each and every year. It comes in like a lion, hangs around for the full 7 days, then leaves me with a residual of gradually declining symptoms for the next few days.

The 'annual cold' arrived with a sore throat last Friday, shifted to stuffy and irritable by Saturday evening, and this morning - well, to describe my nose blowing is just TMI. That said, my computation is that this Saturday morning (day after tomorrow, the morning of John's first session in Denver), I will still have kleenex next to my mat for those residual symptoms I mentioned.

And, what has all this done to my strength and stamina? There hasn't been a lot of time on my mat this week. Did do a yogaglo one morning, have taught several classes, and I've spent a considerable amount of time with legs up the wall. We'll see. At workshops and trainings with JF, I find a wellspring of unknown-to-me capabilities. He brings out my best. But, doing 8 sessions? That may just be asking for a physical (and emotional) meltdown. Perhaps I'll observe some -- I'm thinking, in particular, of those morning Int/Adv. morning sessions.

The important thing is that I will be there. In good company, with people I love to do yoga with, laughing a bit (crying a bit), talking and sharing, all that good stuff. Great way to begin the countdown to Christmas and New years. I'll return to Fallbrook with some new ideas, some reminders of poses I forget (or avoid) teaching, and just generally renewed. No matter how much yoga I do, or how well I'm able to move on my mat, I will be happy just having gone. Thank you for this gift, Howard.

Today? Teaching in Carlsbad and in Temecula. I plan to extend the class time in Carlsbad by 15 minutes, and film it (that's always a question mark due to attendance; but, we'll see).

I hope you have a great Thursday!

Thank You

2011-12-09T07:29:00.001-07:00

A thank you to everyone who sent me a note, a FB message, an e-mail -- whatever -- thank you for taking the time to express your thoughts.

I taught two fairly respectable classes yesterday. Interestingly, the Carlsbad class was larger than the Temecula one -- that rarely happens. I noticed a bit of hoarseness during the morning class. Result: This morning, I am dealing with a sore throat; maybe the beginnings of a cold. After this week, that's not surprising -- a bit of sleep deprivation, stress, emotional upset, travel, etc.

And, I notice my writing is affected by my throat -- as in, I can't think of much to write about. I will leave it at 'Thank You'. Sometimes less is more.

Hope you have a great Friday and weekend!

Been A While

2011-12-08T07:19:00.001-07:00

since I've written or even looked at this blog. Seems life gets in the way of our routines once in a while.

My week was turned upside down with a phone call on Sunday telling me that my Dad had spiked a temp and was being given antibiotics. This might not seem consequential, unless you're 89 years old. That fact, plus the undertone of the caller's message, prompted me to make a plane reservation for Monday and fly to Spokane.

Upon arrival, I drove to the nursing home and was met by a site I had not encountered on previous visits -- Dad, in bed, with oxygen. The report from nurses: he had stopped eating earlier in the day, wouldn't talk (which he had been doing on previous days), was unresponsive. I sat for a while with him, talking about anything and everything (nurses advice: hearing is the last thing to go). I left for a while, but was called back when breathing became erratic. This calmed, and we were into Tuesday.

All this to say that my Father passed on December 6, 2011, 5:15 p.m.

All in all, he was a good Father; a bit stern and unemotional at times, but generous. One memory: I wrecked the family car at age 16 (hit a parked car -- how embarrassing). That resulted in my babysitting and allowance monies being garnished (as in, seized) until the repair was paid for. Upon Dad's departure for Vietnam (I was 17), he handed me the money, told me the debt was taken care of. Raised on the heels of the depression, his way of handling emotion was with money -- the better he felt about you and/or the situation, the money flowed. Interesting and challenging.

He had 89 years; the last 2 were not his happiest, but he was comfortable and well taken care of. I thank my cousin for sharing in his care, during his life and at the end.

So, life goes on. I spent the day with the Grand-Dudes yesterday (3 little boys = much work and patience). Today, back to teaching in Carlsbad and Temecula.

Hope you are having a great week!

THE FORUM (or my own personal mission)

2011-12-03T06:44:00.001-07:00

Have you seen it? The Forum? It is a page on the Anusara website where students and teachers are able to ask questions, offer suggestions/comments, etc.

Currently it is divided into categories of discussion. For example: General Questions, Not Related to Yoga Stuff, Event stuff, Therapeutics, and - I'm sure - a couple more (and, these are not exact titles). I loved when it appeared -- an opportunity to ask questions and get an answer, I thought. An opportunity to offer an opinion, I thought. My initial impression was that this would be one of the most actively-used pages on the Anusara webpage.

It started off actively. Then appears to have stagnated. I see a couple reasons for this. (Note, I've been watching this site for a couple months consistently, and off and on since it's inception.) One, if you ask a question (or answer one), you are pretty darn close to the head office and exposure of all you do AND don't know. That might discourage people; on the other hand, it might also encourage people who want to be seen. Not sure what can be done about that -- human nature is human nature.

The second reason, in my opinion, is lack of feedback or response from us in the community. People ask questions. To many of the submissions, there is no response (or, if there is one, it's not reflected on the page). Not even acknowledgement that the question / comment has been received. For example, last week I read a submission -- a yoga teacher introducing herself to the group (6-8 months ago). No one responded to her -- like, to say "Hi", "Welcome", "Glad to have you join us". None of that, it's like she just wrote her excited introduction into the air. So, I wrote a belated 'welcome' back to her. (Wish I had a really small font to write that last sentence in -- I was embarrassed, as I wrote that note.)

Now, I am not an activist. If you read my bio on the Anusara website (under Anusara-Inspired Instructors), one of the questions asked is "what title should you have received in high school?" (or something like that). My answer: "Least Likely to Make Waves". It's true. I will / have in many cases followed the path of least resistance, gone with the flow, kept up with the jones's. I am not one to make waves, but this - The Forum - has my attention.

Last night, I logged back into the Forum. One recent submission (2 weeks old), was from a student in Long Beach looking for Anusara Yoga in her area. No response reflected yet, so I offered one. I wrote her a reply in which I told her I didn't know the area well enough, but would give her the name of 2 Certified teachers to contact in the L.A. area (which I then did). Then, I notified the 2 teachers that I had given this person their names. It took 7-8 minutes, in all.

All this to say, a potentially vibrant page on our website is going virtually unused. Enough. It's frustrating, as are a lot of things in life. But, it just takes minutes - maybe even seconds - to help someone and to make them feel that we care. Why not do it? Enough, again. And, we all can do it -- help with the page. Respond to questions. Respond to comments. It's not too much to ask of us or for the community to do.

Today? Going to RIVERDANCE! Seen it before, but will love seeing it again. Then to Balboa Park in San Diego for a look at the Christmas lights. Then to spend the evening watching over the Grand-Dudes.

Hope your weekend is a great one!

A GOOD DAY

2011-11-30T07:08:00.001-07:00

Yesterday, very nice.

Left the house early to drive in to Carlsbad - teaching at 10:30am; a Basics class. I do believe I am finally developing a following -- same people each week, and they talk about coming back on Thursday. Doesn't take much to get me excited, does it?

From that class, I hit the roads to make a teaching staff lunch in Temecula hosted by the studio owner, Andrea. Great Indian food, not far from the studio -- make mental note of this.

The 2pm Gentle/Therapeutic was attended by just 2; but I'm not displeased with that. In this type of class, too many and the purpose is lost. Both students were in decent shape, one - however - had had both hips replaced; the other struggling with back pain 24/7, which she's had explored by physicians to no avail.

In this class we do keep it Gentle -- in fact, we started in savasana, moved to pelvic tilts, 'hip hikers' (Sundari's creation), and - finally - to standing. Talked a bit about posture. Did some moves. No pain or discomfort from either - score! I had taught the hip student once before; the back student was an unknown to me. After class, she commented that the back never felt compromised and that, now, she was standing with more curve in her lumbar spine. Yes!

Then, a Prenatal Class. Just one, but a new-to-yoga student who appeared really nervous. So nervous that I wanted to put my arm around her and say "it's all right". I resisted; we did some moves; she finally smiled, commented occasionally. We'll see if she comes back.

Dinner with Howard at a winery in the Temecula Valley capped the day. Beautiful restaurant, great food, good company -- need I say more?

Today? Breakfast Club in Fallbrook - working on getting myself known in this community. Then teaching a class in Temecula - 11:30 Gentle Yoga. Then?

Hope you have a good Wednesday!

THE SHIELDS WE PUT UP . . .

2011-11-29T07:20:00.001-07:00

Today is my birthday. 62 years old.

I remembered that 2 years ago (birthday #60), I actually did a countdown to that magic number. It was a bit traumatic -- kind of like crossing the line from middle-age to old (in my mind, anyway). By doing the countdown, I was able to ease into it. And, yes -- I know -- 60 is not 'old'; but, it is older.

I also had set a goal for myself at age 58. Jokingly with another now-Certified instructor, we coined the phrase "CBS - Certified By Sixty". We also thought about having t-shirts made up with this phrase on them (SO glad that didn't happen). Today -- well, he's 58 and Certified; I'm 62 and working on it (Good for him and good for me!).

The other day a friend asked me to post my birthday on Facebook so people could send me their well wishes. I didn't and won't do it. In fact, a year ago, I deliberately removed that feature from my page. Why? It's a shield.

You can tell that birthdays, now - for me - are a challenge.

Last night, the Grand-Dudes and their parents hosted us for a birthday celebration -- dinner, CAKE, fun family time. Today? Teaching, as usual, then dinner somewhere with Howard (he's made reservations). A nice, quiet evening.

BTW, yesterday's Library class was another 'goodie'. We worked on Virabhadrasana I (thanks to Noah's YogaGlo 60-minute class). Another 15 students. Would have been 16, but I lost one during the introduction -- I can only surmise that, when I began to explain the origin (story) of the pose name, she decided that this class was not for her. Too bad -- we did some good work after that intro, and I do believe that it's important to recognize the history of yoga; we don't have to believe all the 'stories', but it is of value to know where a pose's name comes from. In eight years of teaching, that's my first 'walk-out'; guess I ought to feel good about that, but I do hope she will return. We'll see.

Hope you have a great Tuesday!

'splain it to me', please!?!?!?

2011-11-28T10:00:00.001-07:00

Just a folksy way to start this post -- "splain it" -- who used to say that? Movie or TV show person, I think. Just 'googled' it -- it was Ricky Ricardo saying "splain it to me, Lucy" aka Lucille Ball.

So what do I need "splain"-ing?

Saturday, I tweaked something in my lower ribcage, left back. I made it thru my lunch with the Grand-dudes; the Jesus Christ Superstar production -- with a twinge or two; then came immediately home to the heating pad. Ibuprofen would not touch it (the discomfort). I slept o.k., woke feeling better on Sunday; only to have the pain return the longer I was awake and moving. Note: if it sat still, no discomfort; if I moved symmetrically, no discomfort; any twisting, severe sensation.

Went to bed last night feeling not much better than the night before; hoping that this wouldn't sideline my efforts to get in shape for JF in Denver in a few weeks.

Up this morning, same discomfort. Decided that a practice was in order, no matter what. Found one on YogaGlo by Noah -- a level 1, 60 minutes. Pushed and prodded myself out to the studio, onto my mat. As is many times the case, when I am engaged and practicing, painful sensations subside. It happened again, with a couple exceptions - twists being one.

I did the whole practice, not going quite as deep into twists as he (Noah) might have liked, but I did give my lengthening full power (remember, symmetrical). This practice culminated in Warrior I, which does involve a twisting action from the hips to shoulders (no problem). Then a couple cool down poses, savasana.

After, I put a couple loads of laundry in the washer, made the bed, put clothes away -- then I noticed. What? Very little discomfort in those ribs. Oh, I feel them when I twist, but the overall feeling is so much better.

Hence, the 'splain it to me', someone. I am convinced that movement with muscle engagement is key to helping injuries; but, I've been trying to move with engagement for the past 2 days and still having pain. Maybe it was the sequence. Maybe it was movement for an hour, where before I'd been sitting until absolutely necessary to get up and do something. No matter, I'll take it -- give me more of this magic.

Hope you have a great Monday!

I DON'T GO BACKWARDS . . .

2011-11-27T06:28:00.001-07:00

Yes, friends, that is what I heard as I taught yesterday. Just as I was to begin a demo offered me by Betsey Downing (see description later).

I was a bit taken back by that comment since this is a student I have seen many times in passing at the studio. I continued with the demo, but after class another student echoed the same sentiment -- that she doesn't go backwards, either.

Wow!

Well, they did yesterday. Ustrasana, to be exact. We began in a COLD studio (62 degrees outside, no more than 55 inside) -- small space heaters running full blast. Got them warming up (literally), opened shoulders, quads, hamstrings. Worked on inner and outer spiral (since I was subbing, this was not a group very familiar with Anusara 'lingo').

When it came time to 'go backwards' in the demo (which was a partner pose), they all did it. O.K., O.K. -- here's the demo:

2 partners stand face to face, Partner #1 with arms raised as tho they were lying on their bellies getting ready to move into cobra - elbows a bit to front plane of body. Partner #2 places her/his hands under upper arm, close to elbow. Partner #1 presses elbows down into Partner #2's hands, as the hands resist. Nobody's hands/arms are moving, but Partner #1 is able to lift their heart, bend ('go') backwards. Standing backbend - voila! Into the unknown and un-tread territory, as I was finding out.

So, we did a few more poses, then came Ustrasana. Each person went back; of seven in the room, just one had a tweaking in lower back -- fixed with more emphatic spiraling and lengthening (or, lifting of the heart). I think it went well and I believe they liked it also. Anything that goes o.k. and doesn't hurt is usually a keeper. Comments were overheard as they left the studio -- "I liked that going backward. I've never done that before." Be still my heart.

Class over, it was off to pick up the 2 older grand-dudes and take them to lunch. Their favorite restaurant, Ruby's, has a 50's feel with trains running on overhead tracks. Drawback: it's located in a huge outlet mall, and it's the Saturday after Thanksgiving which equals a parking challenge. Not just finding a space, but also parking their car which is a HUGE Suburban (easier to not change out car seats). But, we found one; had a nice lunch, then back to car and off to a park for 15 minutes of 'playtime'.

Took the boys home, changed my clothes and Howard was waiting to take me to "Jesus Christ Superstar". An amazing production that will go to Broadway in March.

Today? Nursing a sore left ribcage (something - I don't know what - that happened while encouraging 7 people to 'go backwards'). Knelt down to offer a thought and there it was -- pain. Still present this morning.

Hope your Sunday is a good one!

LET THE HOLIDAYS BEGIN (CONTINUE?)

2011-11-26T06:40:00.001-07:00

We (Howard and I) had a very nice Thanksgiving - as I'm sure many of you did. All the right things -- good company of family, wonderful food, laughter, sharing of gratitude. It even included six children, 'Grand-Dudes and Grand-Neices/Nephew', ages 1-6, at the table who are at an age to contribute to the merriment. It was a good day.

I mention laughter because Howard said to me yesterday: "When did Derek (son/stepson) become so funny; or, has he always been funny and we just didn't notice?"

FYI, Derek is 37 years old. We noticed the funny streak emerging a few years ago when he made a comment so off the wall that it made us both laugh harder than we had in a LONG time. And, over the years since, at dinners, family get-togethers, etc., more and more this funny streak emerges. Wonder why? or, has he always been this way and we just didn't notice?

Was he funny in a different way until recently? or, were we just too busy being 'serious about our parenting' -- allowing little time for laughter.

One thing you need to know about Derek, he has always been able to strike up a conversation with ANYONE. Doesn't matter age, status, limitations, gender -- anyone. I have always admired that about him, wondered where that skill comes from -- me? his Father? the Universe? As a blended family of 3, Howard, Derek and I traveled and moved a lot. Derek was routinely on planes, traveling from wherever back to visit his Father -- maybe that had something to do with his comfort level with people. We were always throwing him into situations that challenged him and he consistently stepped up.

No matter the source -- it is good to laugh and even better to see our son happy, relaxed, comfortable in his ability to walk in the world. Waxing a bit sentimental this morning.

As you've figured out, our Thanksgiving was, indeed, a good one. Yesterday, also good -- a full day at home; marred only by the presence of police officers on our street investigating a neighbor's possible criminal activity. Does make things interesting, however.

Today? Teaching in Carlsbad at 9am; then taking 'Grand-Dudes' to lunch, then Howard and I will go to see "Jesus Christ Superstar" at the LaJolla Playhouse. Full day, doing the things I love.

Hope your Saturday is a good one.

LIBRARY CLASS, ETC.

2011-11-22T06:28:00.001-07:00

I just re-read yesterday's post; I almost accomplished all of what I hoped to -- all except watching the video. Something is holding me back; perhaps I already know that it's not one to submit. If not, then what? Have to find a 90-minute class to teach with at least 6 people in attendance; not the easiest task in communities that have shifted to 75 minute class duration. Something will happen.

The library class was, once again, well attended. Each week I add in a bit more Anusara lingo and influence. This week, it was lining up the mats. With 15 people attending, it is important to be able to see down the rows quickly for any needed alignment enhancements. In previous classes, I have surreptitiously slid mats forward or back to create alignment; yesterday, I explained my rationale and asked students to line up into 3 rows, leaving space for a 4th row in case any late comers arrived (which they did -- HOO-RAY!).

After class, I received a nice compliment from one long-term student. Her take on my teaching? That I keep things casual and easy to accept (I'm paraphrasing here), noting that I don't add in a lot of 'pomp & circumstance', which can make people uncomfortable; that people new to the practice are easily turned away if we 'lay on' the yoga philosophy too heavily.

My first impression of Fallbrook is that the population, as a whole, is friendly yet kept-to-itself, down-to-earth. And, I'm still getting a feel for the 'personality' each day I live here. Why tell you this? One of the stories I remember from John Friend is how he began teaching in Texas. He observed his audience and taught from that observation. I see him do it to this day -- if we are in Los Angeles, you can count on a STRONG practice; if in a more laid-back community, he will ask for our best but in a less demanding format. As a result of observing him and the effectiveness of that teaching style, I look at my audience (my class), in how they live and function day-to-day (as much as I can), and teaching from that place. For me, humor is a great connector. And, in this Library class, we do laugh -- or, perhaps, they are just being kind. No matter, I'm having a good time and they're working (isn't this the way it's supposed to be?). More humor (???).

From Fallbrook, I headed to I-15 and north to Temecula. It's 10 miles once you get to the I-15. At 4pm, it's kind of a 'toss of the dice' as to what you'll experience. Once at I-15, you could be looking at a parking lot. Fortunately, that didn't happen last night, and I made it in plenty of time for Ashley's class.

One of the things I've picked up from Sarah (video assessor), is being able to participate in a class and see all the pieces and parts as the teacher (in this case, Ashley) juggles them for our pleasure. Ashley has the verbiage down and I love to listen to how she instructs - using her own lingo and voice to move us from pose to pose. Her enthusiasm and love of it all comes through loud and clear. Love it.

Also love that Howard called just as I was leaving the studio, offered to pick up dinner. No cooking - double nice!

Today? Teaching in Carlsbad at 10:30am, then back to Temecula for a 2pm Gentle/Therapeutic class and 4:30pm Prenatal.

Hope you have a great Tuesday!

NICE WEEKEND

2011-11-21T08:22:00.001-07:00

We left mid-day Friday for Kansas City to attend our daughter's wedding reception -- 2nd marriage for both, they eloped 2 weeks ago. Arrived at midnight Friday, up Saturday for a somewhat leisurely breakfast, then hit the road for 'the ranch'. Yes, she married a cattle rancher who lives outside of KC -- about a 90-minute drive from the airport hotel.

We arrived, got a tour of the ranch, some discussion of their plans for the future (building a house on recently acquired property), and a short 4-wheel ride with our oldest grandson, Jake. Then, they had chores, so we went into their small town for a bite of lunch. Met them at 4pm to set up tables, decorate, etc., for the reception at the 4H community hall.

It was fun - a chance to meet their friends; both from KC and from Burlington. Food was good too -- BBQ. Country music, cowboy boots -- relaxed and fun.

Drove back to the hotel, then up early Sunday morning to catch the first of 2 flights back to San Diego.

Congratulations to Gailyn, Bobby, Jake, Nick, Sydney and Ally -- a beautifully 'combined' family.

Friday's activities also included a bit of time in front of the video camera, filming a class in the morning. I am not so excited about this one as the previous, so need to watch it. It was a great group of students, however. Just not sure that I hit all the 'markers'.

My theme: staying calm/balanced during the holidays. Alignment emphasis: Inner/outer spiral. Apex pose: ardha hanumanasana (or full hanumanasana, if accomplishable). It was fun and comments were that getting to the pose was much less effort-filled than in previous attempts; so that tells me the sequence worked. Need to watch it, tho; 'proof's in the pudding', they say (whatever that means!?!?!)

Today: Watching video, teaching at the Library, perhaps I'll take in Ashley's class. Unpacking and house stuff.

Hope your day - this Monday before Thanksgiving - is a good one.

WHY GET CERTIFIED?

2011-11-17T07:24:00.001-07:00

Sometimes I wonder, myself. I heard the other day a teacher tell me that being Inspired was good enough, going through the process of Certification was not that person's 'cup of tea'.

I've heard that before and I trust that people know what's best for themselves.

However, let me point out a few of the benefits I've received from moving down the Certification path:

Applying -- what better way to explain myself than by filling out a questionnaire that asks 'why do you want to be Certified?' My answer? something like 'I want to be among the best, the most well trained.' Not a bad goal, and true.
Acceptance -- when I received my acceptance notice; the one that told me I could continue down the path towards Certification, it was a joy-filled moment. I knew, at that moment, that I was good enough. Why/how? Well, because others believed I could do it - I know that I should feel 'good enough' without others saying so, but it's still in my make-up to rely on other opinions. I loved knowing that people thought of me as 'certifiable' and I savored that feeling for a long time (continue to savor it, even).
Written Test -- a true test of your organizational skills. How to accomplish a test in 10 days, rumored to take 30 hours to complete (I also had heard from a scientist-also-certified-Anusara-instructor that she felt like she was writing her dissertation all over again!?!?!?!). I set up my space, I logged my time, I filled in all the answers, I mailed it off in time (on the 10th day), and I felt good. What a great learning experience that was, all that review and -- I did it!
Video -- or, better known as 'dreaded video'. It took me a while, between my and my mentor's activities, but we finally got one in to the Certification Committee. A reviewer was assigned (Sarah Faircloth). On moving day last Spring, I got the call regarding that assignment and a request to set up a one-hour conference call at a future date. We did the call. I was nervous, but this is what I got:

A comprehensive breakdown of almost every minute of the class I had submitted.
Many good, helpful comments about my teaching.
Many enhancements, for which Sarah offered clear guidance and a written homework assignment.
Follow-through on my homework response, with more enhancements.

On to Video #2 - similar experience. Great and helpful comments, encouragement and kudos about the progress I made from video #1, a bit more homework.
Now to Video #3 - preparation guided by homework; wait and see.

Each step has provided me with learning -- about myself and this yoga I've chosen to teach. I have not regretted a moment; I have even enjoyed each part of the experience. That's not saying it's easy, just saying that it has been a continual enhancement of my skills as a teacher. Worth every penny and each minute of work, effort and teaching.

No regret; on to video #3 (hopefully, tomorrow).

Enjoy your Thursday,

A NEW WEEK

2011-11-15T06:39:00.001-07:00

Isn't it interesting that the things that were so troublesome 2-3 days ago seem like vague memories today? I looked at my last post and thought, "well -- that was a 'whine-y' one, wasn't it!"

Today, I am feeling better. Granted I felt a bit down on Saturday afternoon/evening (just sat in my chair and looked blankly at the ceiling -- poor Howard!). Sunday was a new day - a message from Sarah (my Certification reviewer, I guess they're called), gave me some good advice and some refinements to consider and include in my homework. Something to think about other than my experience on Saturday -- which I needed.

We met old friends for brunch, then home for a bit, then off to the 'Grand-Dudes' for a raucous dinner (almost all dinners are raucous at their house -- so different from ours; that's a good shift every so often -- we (H & I) can be very quiet.

Monday morning was spent listening to the beginning of "Yoga for Osteoporosis" - a webcast by Ellen Saltonstall and Dr. L. Fishman. Wonderful information and I love listening to both of them -- she, calm; he, excited and finishing many comments with 'but that's enough about that' -- like he's reining himself in. I even got H (that's short for Howard) on the mat in vipariti karani and had him listen to a short portion. He's (H) ready for more!

Then house stuff, get ready and in to the library. Another nice group -- with a couple new-to-me students added to the mix. Interesting that I taught uttanasana (standing forward fold) as the peak pose. 3 months ago, I would have never dreamt of doing that; I would have felt that I needed to give them more. This (uttanasana) is what was needed today; even had them partner and help each other to move further into the pose after warming up a bit. The poses were beautiful and watching each person help another made it even more rewarding.

Today? Teaching in Carlsbad, 10:30am; then on to Temecula for the 2pm class (Gentle/Therapeutic) and the Prenatal at 4:30pm. Driving Day.

Hope your Tuesday goes well,

WARNING! THIS POST CONTAINS WHINING; read at your own risk!

2011-11-13T06:01:00.001-07:00

I taught a Basics class yesterday, 10am. Perfect for a video, I thought; tho, the 10 students were not familiar to me. I decided to go for it, anyway.

Set camera up - 9:55am, I asked everyone to hug in a bit for maximum camera coverage. I also explained the purpose of the camera briefly -- not too much, just enough that they would know it was there to film me, not them, and was needed for my progress towards Certification.

10am, I turned camera on and took my seat, asking everyone to do likewise. As I scanned the room, I felt the eyes on me -- eyes that didn't know me, but many eyes that said 'we're glad to be here' -- my interpretation, anyway. I also noticed 2 pairs of eyes - one more than the other - that said 'let's get moving, I'm bored'. I introduced my theme, mentioned that Hanumanasana would be our peak pose, and we would be preparing for the pose. (Note, there also was one new-to-yoga person in the room - a young man.)

We began, centering, chanting and warming up slowly. I paused when students were standing to briefly explain the sequence of a class to the new-to-yoga person (remember, this is a 'basic' class). We began to move through the surya namaskars I had planned. The 2 pairs of eyes mentioned above -- well, one of them moved as instructed (very seriously); the other, did likewise and continued to look bored.

Let me say this positive note -- of the 10 people in the room; in the end, 9 did a stellar job. There was no question that they were with me throughout the class.

Now, to the 10th (and the whining - you might want to stop reading now or skip to the last 2 paragraphs). As we moved from the surya's into some wide-legged standing poses (Parsvakonasana, Warrior II), she broke into her own routine -- doing many poses I had not requested yet. In one instance, I acknowledged it -- hoping she might realize the error of her ways -- and return to the fold of the class. It didn't work.

We continued -- student #10, as I'll call her, threw in variations, vinyasas, extra poses wherever possible. I tried to ignore her, until we came to a runner's stretch - one that I hoped to add some intricate instruction to in order to open the hamstrings. #10 took parsvottonasana (rather than back knee down), causing the student next to her to do the same thing. I came between them, asked them both to release their back knees to the floor -- 'we are doing a different pose here', I said, in a FIRM voice.

Class continues -- during my demos, #10 continued to do poses. All the while, I am thinking: toss this video, my anger rises and I lost focus, which I am sure is reflected in this video.

Savasana - finally. As I sit, eyes closed, I feel tears behind my closed lids and a feeling of almost-desperation -- like, when - where - how am I going to get this done? Perfect class, right numbers, 9 of 10 are giving me their best. This won't do, however. All 10 must give me their attention and respect me enough to stay with me throughout the class. Oh, I've seen other teachers have this happen; they ignore it; especially if it is a first-time encounter with a student (which this was). This happens in a yoga class. However, it won't fly in a Certification video. Taking the seat (being in command; having people do what you ask) is an important component of what my reviewer is looking at. It didn't happen. Not this class.

I left the room feeling let down, and, if I were to say to #10 how I feel, the response could very well be "well, this was my class and my practice; I didn't come to be video'd".

Right answer. Quandary. Enough.

Today? Meeting old friends for brunch. I have another opportunity to video this week. The good thing? It's all prepared, homework done and ready to go.

Hope your Sunday is a good one,

ON TO #3

2011-11-11T06:22:00.001-07:00

#3 video, to be more precise. I've done my homework, I've been practicing the recommended elements; now to video another class.

A challenge -- not that I am nervous or unprepared, but finding a class to teach that is 90 minutes long and occupied by more than 3-4 people is my task now. My own classes are either 75 minutes long, therapeutic/gentle in nature, or at odd periods of the day (in other words, not attended by the requisite six people). In response to this 'challenge', I've been volunteering like crazy when a sub request for a 90 minute class emerges.

Good plan. But, so far, not working. The instructor I subbed for this week (90 minute classes) has loyal students; students that have stayed away in light of her absence (I think/hope). So, classes have been 4-5 people rather than her usual 8-10. Bummer!

Next option: I signed up to teach 2 classes this Saturday morning. Saturday ought to be a well-attended class; at least, the 10 am class. The noon class - questionable for many people. It will be a double-pronged 'crap' shoot. First, the schedule at this studio is a rotation of instructors and styles for the class. Unusual for a Saturday morning (Saturday mornings are usually the territory of the strongest and most crowd-drawing instructor). The rotation here seems to work, tho; people do come, sometimes large numbers. So, we'll see.

And, second, the people who attend will not necessarily be Anusara devotees. They may have attended an Anusara class or two, but their preferred style may be something else.

I don't have much problem with the second issue -- what happens, happens; and the first, I can't control -- other than to set my own intention to teach a good class. I will have the camera available, see what happens, and go from there. Fingers crossed.

This week's pose emphasis has been hanumanasana. I attended Ashley's class on Monday, and she set the tone for all my teaching this week. Well, without the chocolate. Ashley celebrated her birthday on Monday; cupcakes in the studio, and one fired up instructor (was it the chocolate? or, can someone really get so excited and exuberant about their birthday? If it is the latter, good for her!) It was a great class and one in which we did ardha (or - some of us - 3/4 or even full) hanumanasana. Since then, each of my classes has been able to experience the pose (well, not the Gentle - that's another story); myself included, as I demo.

What else has happened for me? The moonwalk continues to be easier each time I do it. A great way to experience progress in the work we do. What is moonwalk, you ask? Experienced yogis: Begin in table, with feet at a bare wall, hands slightly in front of shoulders. Move to a short down dog, press your heart towards the wall and, staying strong in shoulders, lift feet onto the wall about hip height (your legs and arms are straight and you are in the shape of an "L"). Begin on right side, hugging a straight right leg back in towards your right hip (it will move 1/2 inch or so away from the wall). DON'T BEND THAT RIGHT KNEE! Allow the straight right leg to release towards the floor, as you bend the left knee, keeping left toes and foot firmly on the wall. Lifting the straight right leg towards the ceiling, straighten the left knee. Repeat once or twice, each side. What have you just done? A'la Betsey Downing, you have begun to imprint the kicking action needed to be a 'kicker' (great handstand prep) -- read one or two posts back. You are also strengthening your arms, shoulders, torso. Great work.

My gentle class was a private - a scenario of what damage can happen over time when awareness is not available. Beautiful woman, mid-60's, with a torn medial meniscus (no remarkable incident, just discomfort and pain over the past few years). As a model, she was reminded over and over to stand with her tailbone over-scooped and thighs moving forward. She also stands with feet turned out. As we worked together, it was obvious her body awareness is great and she is able to do all the things I asked of her. Her work will be to create the 'habit' of feet parallel and thighs back. The meniscus might still be intact, had this work begun years ago (or never been necessary).

Today? Haircut -- do I keep it short or let it get a bit longer. In SLC, longer was the pattern. After all, I wanted a bit of hair to show from under the ski hats and helmet. Here? Not so necessary. Decisions, Decisions!

Hope you have a great Friday!

PRECISION

2011-11-08T07:14:00.000-07:00

Interesting post title, isn't it? It comes from a student in a class that I guest-taught yesterday. As he thanked me for stepping in for his regular teacher, he noted that he has appreciated the 'precision' of my teaching each time he has encountered me.

Well, I like it. I'll take it. Just call me the 'precision princess', or some such name.

(As I re-read the previous paragraph, the staccato of the first 2 sentences remind me of a song from "Wicked" -- just an aside; comes from listening to the Broadway channel a bit too much, perhaps?)

Let's step back a couple days -- I've told you about Saturday, the no-urdhva backbend class day; but, not about Sunday, the 3-hour handstand day.

What fun, that was. My inclination: to stay away, to not put myself in a position of embarrassment because I don't kick up yet. Instead, I pushed and pushed and stepped through the door and into an amazing experience. Several levels of experience in the room, from non-kickers to the people trying to balance in the middle of the room (the kickers, I'll call them). How did she do it? How did she handle these different levels with so much skill -- practice, practice, practice.

First, Betsey watched the skilled kick to the wall. Then, she asked the rest of us to show her what we could do. And then, she paired each of the non-kickers with a kicker. (If you do yoga, this makes sense; if not, keep reading.) We went through a series of exercises, rotating time at the wall. This was great - why? Time for the wrists and arms to rest, as our partner worked. We would work on a task, and when finished get a demo of the next exercise or task -- one for the kicker; one for the non-kicker. Skillful teaching. Loved it.

FYI, I didn't kick up by myself, but I have tools now. Things to do to create strength and muscle memory for putting myself upside down, on my hands, against the wall (someday, without the wall) -- to be a 'kicker'.

We also were give homework -- to do random acts of kindness throughout our weeks. Yes!

Moving on to Monday -- a bit of yoga in the a.m. (on my own, practiced some things to make me a 'kicker'), some laundry and housework, then in to the Library for the BIGGEST class so far: 18! On to Temecula to participate in Ashley's class, then guest-taught (read first paragraph). Dinner with Howard, then home to our family of critters.

Today? Headed to my yoga room for a bit of practice, then to Carlsbad to teach, then to Temecula to teach. Busy driving day.

Hope you have a great Tuesday,

I DID IT

2011-11-06T08:00:00.001-07:00

The two sessions yesterday with Betsey, that is. Afternoons, backbends; evening, forward folds.

The good news: no urdhva dhanurasana; the bad news: no urdhva dhanurasana. But, what we did do in the way of backbends was pretty challenging, and perhaps a bit more technical. I found that I haven't lost all my backbending talent -- there were moments of revelation; like, wow -- I can do this (or, at least it felt like I was doing it).

The forward fold class was 'no easy matter', either. Some challenging stuff there that worked our hips.

I am enjoying this time with Betsey. She is VERY knowledgeable, and - being a bit closer to my age - I am hearing many of the things I say in class used in her languaging. Maybe it's an 'age-thing', the verbiage we choose to use; or maybe something else about our make-up that is a bit similar. Haven't figured that out, but I love having some of the phrases I use validated.

I am going to leave this training with some new stuff to try on students, as well. Betsey, with her 30+ years of teaching experience, has developed some great moves that help to prepare us for the more challenging poses of our practice.

Today? Handstands. Another nemesis or dvesha pose. I enjoy it once I'm in it; it's the kicking-up part that has me baffled, still. Betsey has lots of good experience in this realm -- let's see what I'm saying after 3 hours of whatever she throws at us.

I'll keep you 'posted'. And, thank you, Cindy for the 'kick-in-the-rear' reminder about urdhva.

Have a nice Sunday, be it upside-down or rightside-up,

TO PARTICIPATE OR NOT . . .

2011-11-05T08:24:00.000-06:00

I attended the first of 4 sessions with Betsey Downing last night. A nice potpourri class that was do-able and enjoyable. As we rolled up our mats, she announced that this afternoon's practice will be 'backbends', my nemesis, my dvesha poses.

So, as I sit here this morning, I am struggling with my desire (or lack thereof) to attend. Should I just skip it? I envision everyone reading this screaming (either out loud or to themselves), "NO!" Further, they are saying, "you need to get back in the backbend saddle". True dat.

I have circuitously avoided backbends (in particular, urdhva dhanurasana) for the many months I have been in Fallbrook. It's easy; I just don't practice them. In a class, I choose bridge; if asked, I would feign a sore shoulder, or some such malady (I really do have a sore right shoulder, at times.).

So now, here I am all signed up. Enthusiastic to study with Betsey. On the verge of 'chickening out' because of one pose.

For a few minutes, let's think about something else. Yesterday was one of the rainiest we've spent at this new home in Fallbrook. It was great to hear the rain hitting the ground and to know that our avocado and citrus trees will be soaking up all that moisture. It was also a day with lots of comings and goings: contractor here to install a couple lights; people picking up dog-loos we had sold on Craigslist; and a young woman picking up a box of classical music (also a Craigslist sale). What's left to sell? Probably lots of stuff, but right now the only listing that remains is the chandelier from our dining room (the one we replaced yesterday with our 'traveling' chandelier).

When we lived in Nashville, we purchased a solid brass chandelier -- simple design and HEAVY. Over the years, as we've bought and sold houses, down comes the chandelier to be replaced with something a future owner might like. We pack it up and it moves with us. For a few of those moves, I helped my husband install it. After a few, we figured out that our marital sanity deserved better - so, now we hire someone to take it down and re-install it. Brass is 'out' according to interior design magazines; I figured that much out during this last home sale and purchase. But, the 'traveling' chandelier has too many memories, it makes our house truly our home, it makes me happy to look at it. Besides what goes around, comes around -- brass will be 'in' again someday.

Now back to the workshop. I'll go; swallow my pride -- because that is really what's stopping me, my ego. To be a yoga teacher in a room of studied yogis and not be able to achieve a pose is really what holds me back. And, yes - I know, if I practiced the pose, it wouldn't be this way. But, it is. Maybe this is what it takes to kick my you-know-what back into action. We'll see.

And, tomorrow? Handstands. I may be writing the same post tomorrow -- just changing the words a bit.

Hope our Saturdays go well,

BEES & OTHER LITTLE CRITTERS (people) . . .

2011-11-03T06:48:00.000-06:00

I read sometime recently about a woman who purchased a home, moved in, got settled, then noticed a dripping brown goo running down her walls.

This, my friends, is the result of exterminating a hive of bees who have set up residence in your walls or roof. The bees die (or go away), the hive remains and begins to disintegrate. All that honey has to go somewhere -- so, it begins to seep through the walls, dripping down to the floor (or furniture) below. Eventually the dead bees, the rotting hive, and the honey will begin to smell.

The scenario I describe is now happening to me!?!?! A hive of bees, entry point right above the patio, which we had exterminated (this, I'm told, is the way -- no way to relocate the bees; they're too happy with this spot). So, the bee man came and sprayed. His evaluation: the hive is not too big; not enough bees swarming around, not to worry. Well, that was wrong. The hive is disintegrating and one day I saw a spot and, thinking it was a bug, took tissue to pick it up -- sticky! Looked up -- two large drips coming from a seam in the ceiling. No smell yet, but not going to even let this get to that point.

Ahh, home ownership and its challenges. Call bee man; he will open my wall and remove the hive tomorrow, spray the area with a light bleach to eliminate residual pheromone odor (which will attract them back), replace insulation, seal their entry CLOSED. Then, in comes the contractor to repair the hole in the drywall.

As happy as we are with this decision -- Fallbrook, an acre of land, smaller home, fruit trees, it comes with a price. That price -- property management and maintenance. We've always done it, nothing new; just a different kind of maintenance than we experienced in Salt Lake.

Oh, well -- we could be shoveling snow. Looking for the good here.

Yesterday was a home maintenance day, with a break in the afternoon to sub 2 classes for a fellow ill instructor. Kids classes. I now know my limitations -- kids classes are not my 'cup of tea'. Nice kids in attendance, but I had not a clue what to do with them to keep them interested and motivated. Well, they got a class, no one got hurt, they did move. I am sure they'll be happy to have their regular instructor back next week.

Today? Two classes -- one in Carlsbad this morning, 10:30am; second one in Temecula at 4pm. Adults.

Hope you have a great Thursday,

ACTIVE FEET

2011-11-01T08:22:00.000-06:00

I taught yesterday; an all-levels class at the Fallbrook Library. This is my volunteer class. I love teaching it. Not because it's volunteer, but because of the level of studentship in the room.

As I scanned the room, everyone in their best janu sirsasana, I noticed the feet. Of the 10 pairs of feet (20 in all - feet, that is), not one was 'flopping in the wind'. All were active - toes bright and pointing towards the ceiling on extended leg; on the other bent leg, toes were pressing to the floor. This is unusual; since, my experience has been that in a class of 10 students, I am bound to have one or two who forget, who don't see the value, who aren't 'in the class' enough to activate (and keep activated) the feet.

I believe I've commented before about this group, about their full participation in class. The last time was about 'full stretch', and the level of effort being expended to get into the 'full stretch' I had requested.

And, the longer I teach, the more convinced I am that this reflects how much students value being in the practice of yoga.

Not sure where I am headed with this. I could go off on a diatribe about studentship, or I could simply say this is a great group to teach, or I could stop and go off on another topic. Let's just say that I am impressed. A volunteer class, at the library, just 60 minutes long, all levels of experience, is not the place I expect to see this kind of dedication to the practice. But, I'm seeing it. They embrace, accept, carry out instructions; they don't forget.

Kudos to the Library Class!

Today? Teaching in Carlsbad - 10:30am; then to Temecula to teach at 2pm and again at 4:30. Busy day, lots of driving, fueled by memories of happy toes, active feet.

Hope your Tuesday is a good one,

NICE 'BIRTHDAY' DAY

2011-10-30T06:25:00.001-06:00

We had a bit of a rocky start, but Howard's Birthday Day went pretty well after that.

What rocky start? The class I was teaching in Carlsbad created a rush-rush aspect to the morning, which is not the way we like weekends to go. Hurry through the coffee & conversation aspect of the morning, rush to walk the dogs, scramble to find phone, race up the drive - like that. Then, as we drove a few blocks away from home, it became apparent he thought we were going to Temecula -- wrong! That added to the stress a bit, but - in the end - I made it to class, he made it to a 24-Hour Fitness somewhere, and we re-connected for coffee and grocery shopping after.

The class I taught was another small one -- I am getting superb at teaching small classes. This one, 4 people. I realized the other day that I hadn't taught ardha chandrasana (or chapasana) for a long time, so that was the apex pose for this class. It fit well with my theme (madhya - or middle/center - again), and I focused on muscular energy and organic extension as the alignment principles.

After rushing, teaching, shopping, we came home and I finished up some homework for my Certification mentor. You guessed it - the process continues. I received very good feedback from her on my video, yet there remain a couple things to get more of into my classes -- more going back to the theme and more linking instructions.

FYI, 2 years ago, I felt I was too 'soft' when teaching. I knew the stuff, but the transmission just didn't 'pack much punch'. At that time, Christina Sell was offering her first on-line mentoring program. She has 'punch', so I signed up immediately. My teaching expanded greatly and my 'punch' improved. Why tell you this? Well, now I have too much 'punch' -- as in I am pretty directive when teaching: "step your leg back", "move to plank", like that. I have gone so far into the 'punch' that I have eliminated much of the linking. Need to find the madhya (middle), more balance of 'punch' and linking to create flow.

Interesting to receive feedback. Feedback that isn't what you wanted, yet you still feel good about it. (FYI, I wanted her to say "yes, it's good enough, you're Certified"; didn't happen.)

I heard someone talking the other day about a friend who submitted a video and, when it wasn't approved, has become discouraged, 'hurt' and has stepped back from the process. I wonder what part of 'this is a learning process' was missed in the Immersions and Teacher Trainings that person attended. Didn't they hear that the video will be assessed and they might be asked to do more; or were they just sure the first one would pass? I don't know this person, or I might go to them and say "look at the video again with your assessor's comments in hand". Stay open and I'll bet you see what they saw -- enhance (correct) that; then do it again. This is training us, whether we want to think it or not. It will never be an immediate 'pass'. Enough on that. Oh, and I'd add: "you better get used to it, because every year someone will evaluate your classes, should you decide to return to the journey". There, that's enough.

Today? The formal Birthday Party. We've planned chocolate cake with vanilla ice cream (because chocolate and vanilla are our two grand-dudes' (Jack & Brady) favorites. Other 'fun' activities: pick up the yard a bit more, help put the shed back in order, laundry (no, that's done), housework - especially picking up pet hair (that's never done).

Have a great Sunday, or "enjoying the weather wherever you are, have a great day!" (practice linking, practice linking, practice linking),

AS WORRISOME AS IT SEEMS . . .

2011-10-29T07:05:00.000-06:00

this, too, shall pass; it has passed. A blip on the radar of life (not a little blip, but it's happened and it's over). Now to watch and see what happens. (This whole first paragraph relates to my last post; if you read it, it makes sense. If not, that's o.k. too.)

I think it's interesting to take a mental inventory this morning and see that I am not nearly so 'upset' or 'saddened' or whatever, as I was 2 days ago. It must be true, what they say, that 'life goes on', just a bit differently.

Thursday I taught two fun classes. The first, in Carlsbad, was a group of ladies - all with yoga experience, but new to Anusara. One had studied Iyengar, another Bikram; not sure about the rest. Interesting to work with a student who wants both worlds -- Bikram and Anusara. The questions like "In my Bikram classes, the instructor asks me to lock my knees; you say not to do that. Which is correct?" Questions like that cause me to 'plead the fifth' or to say "I believe the flow of prana is blocked when we 'lock' a joint. My advice: do what you feel is best for your body while being respectful of whatever style of class you're in.". How's that for walking the 'fine line'.

One of the first things I was taught, almost right after 'look for the good FIRST', was don't 'dis' another yoga style.

I had a very brief lunch with my son (he's a busy guy), then home to let dogs out for a bit, then up to Temecula to teach a 4pm 'Basic' class.

My 'regular' 3 were in attendance; the twins and their mother. The one who does not like yoga is coming along. I think there is bribery happening for that young person (I heard "you do this or no Halloween party"). Whatever. I try to stay in the madhya (middle) -- not being too nice, but not too unfeeling to teenage emotions. I had fun and I think - based on the laughter - that they all enjoyed the class, as well.

FYI, I have no problem with bribery or whatever it takes. I remember doing the same with my son -- he wanted to quit soccer, to skateboard and surf instead; I believed playing soccer would expose him to another type of friend and get him involved in team activities. Ended up soccer paid for a good portion of his college education and the 'team' aspect of the sport now supports his work ethic. Moms sometimes do know best. (BTW, he still plays soccer each week and surfs on occasion.)

No class on Friday; dog to vet, laundry, some long-overdue yardwork (taking out some truly ugly plants), homework for my Certification mentor, and then a drive to airport to pick up husband. The drive was rewarded with dinner out -- I love when that happens.

Got a last-minute request to sub this morning, so off to teach in a couple hours. It's also Howard's birthday today; we will celebrate formally tomorrow with dinner, cake, presents -- all at the Grand-Dudes' house.

Hope you have a great Saturday!

THE ELEPHANT . . .

2011-10-27T07:51:00.002-06:00

There's a phrase often heard when something disturbing happens, which refers to the "elephant in the middle of the room". As in, there are some things said, but the reasons (the real meat) are left for you to wonder about (hence, the elephant). There's 'something' out there that isn't being said or revealed.

That's my concern now, as I contemplate the resignation of two of Anusara's well-known Certified instructors. Why? And, why now? And, what changed? (Maybe there is more than one elephant in the room; there are certainly - in my mind - more questions.)

The announcement from John Friend told us what we needed to know -- they resigned, he accepted the resignation. Then comes a letter from one of the resignees, telling me that resigning Certification was simply tearing up a 'piece of paper' (paraphrasing here). Wait - hold the presses. That just doesn't gel. This person has been a big force in my movement towards that 'piece of paper', a major influence, a person I've quoted and complimented time and time again. Now, to casually drop a 'bomb' and to tell me that it's just a 'piece of paper' is not acceptable (to me).

Many are willing (based on comments on Facebook and responses to the above-mentioned letter) to live and let live, offer congratulations and well wishes. I want more. I want to know why. I want the 'elephant' to reveal itself. And, I want to know that what I've worked for for 7+ years (that 'piece of paper') is not just something to cast off with platitudes of 'friendship is stronger than a piece of paper'.

As I write this, I admit to myself that I am not close enough to any of the people involved to ever know the real reasons. They may reveal themselves over time, or maybe never. I'll just have to get used to it.

My journey to Certification continues. I still want that 'piece of paper' -- it has value, more than just as gilded paper -- it encapsulates a period of time in my life of growth and expansion, of pushing myself more than ever in the previous 50+ years, and - certainly - of new friendships. It's a BIG deal to me.

My best to John Friend and the two who have resigned.

Have a good Thursday,

DEFINE 'ADVANCED'

2011-10-26T06:48:00.004-06:00

Here is what my MacBook dictionary says:

Advanced: far on or ahead in development or progress, OR, new and not yet generally accepted.

I looked this up as a result of one person's comment yesterday evening. In what context? I was telling the person about the Sunday 'advanced' class I taught (see yesterday's post). I mentioned the pose, the students attending, their reaction to the sequence. And, what did this person say? "do you think you worked them hard enough?"

Wait, stop the presses, think (or not). Where in the definition above does it say anything about "work hard enough"? And, come to think of it, doesn't just thinking about the pose, vishvamitrasana, conjure up thoughts of hard work?

But, back to my original thought -- why, when people think of an 'advanced' class, do they automatically go to the words 'work hard', 'tough', 'brutal', 'sweat-producing' -- words that do not appear anywhere in the definition of 'advanced' (think progress, development, new). Maybe if you used the word 'work' in the right sentence, it could apply; something like "she worked hard to make progress".

So, I am seriously thinking about what people expect when they attend an 'advanced' yoga class. Do students get up in the morning and think "I want to get my rear-end kicked today, so I'll go to an 'advanced' class." or are they considering the new, the development, the progress they will make in a class labeled with the word 'advanced'?

Based on the comment I heard yesterday, I worry that we (yoga teachers, in general) have promoted an image of tough, brutal, sweat-producing when we recommend our 'advanced' classes. As in, how many chaturanga dandasana's can a class include, on top of handstands, backbends, twists, etc. Why?

Don't get me wrong, I enjoy a good sweat once in a while. What I enjoy even more is to work hard (with or without the sweat), and make progress in my yoga practice -- even if that progress is simply making an ordinary uttanasana extraordinary. To me, that is 'advanced'. (Can't seem to get off this ordinary/extraordinary train of thought.)

All this is a 'rant', as C. Sell so aptly labels some of her blog posts. This one may not be as eloquent as hers, but I think it's food for thought. I plan to promote 'advanced' classes as places to hone our yoga skills; truly embrace citananda -- awareness and the ability to create beauty through that awareness. 'Advanced' classes require I walk in with a beginner mind, just like every other class -- the ability to step back, be the student, embrace my strengths and weaknesses, learn and grow. Enough.

Today? House and yardwork, a meeting with our financial planner, pick up a light I've had re-wired, then - taking a cooking class on Indian cuisine.

Hope your Wednesday is a good one,

A FIRST - FOR ME AND THEM

2011-10-25T05:39:00.004-06:00

I was asked to 'guest-teach' a class this past weekend: Sunday morning's 9:30 Advanced/Intermediate Yoga Class at Living Yoga in Temecula.

This was a last-minute request, one laced with desperation, so I accepted. Normally I avoid 'advanced-intermediate' like the plague. Why? Not because I can't, but because I question my skills at teaching this level of student. As in, will they get what they came for? Will I be able to work them hard enough? There's also the fact that many of the poses taught in this level of class are not poses I normally practice (many dvesha poses here); how does one teach what one doesn't practice well?

I accepted anyway. Decided to kick myself out of my 'basic' comfort zone right into 'advanced'.

My worries began late Saturday; I procastinated, however -- which is my nature. Sunday morning (EARLY), I was up looking through tried-and-true lesson plans (all for 'basic' classes). How to make those 'advanced'? Nothing clicked.

Then I stumbled on an article written by Christina Sell which would take students to vishvamitrasana. It was an abbreviated plan -- meaning the valuable pieces were there; I had to add 'filler' -- a down dog here, a chaturanga dandasana there, instructions to get to the floor, like that. I began typing, including the sequence she suggested, adding poses I thought would be valuable, voila! Print it out and off to the studio.

Just 4 came to class on Sunday. We began. About 20 minutes into the class, a case of 'major misgivings' began to seep into my confidence reservoir -- as in "what do I think I'm doing, trying to teach these people ANYTHING"? My choices -- stick it out or walk out. Made the right decision to stick it out and continued. It got easier, students were welcoming, they laughed, they worked hard - following all instructions to the letter.

We reached the knee-down version of vishvamitrasana. One student, a yoga teacher herself, said "Oh, this is the pose I see in all the magazines. I've always wanted to do it, but have never been able to get to it." We continued. Knee-down went well; on to the full version. That also went well. Ecstatic laughter in the room, even from one 'not-quite-to-the-pose' student - who was cheering the rest on. Time almost up, a relaxed cool-down, a centering pose, savasana, and closing comments.

Then, an ovation -- from students to me.

I came clean about the article, and I've thanked Christina for helping me experience this grand moment -- a chance to teach a great class to attentive students. I also must acknowledge that I was able to transmit it all effectively. I still get goose bumps just thinking about the looks on their faces (and the giggles) when they came down from their poses. So great!

Today? Back to regular schedule -- 10:30 'basic' class in Carlsbad, 2pm Therepeutic/Gentle Class in Temecula, 4:30pm Pre/Postnatal Class in Temecula. Inbetween? A bit of driving.

Hope your Tuesday is great!

WHEW!

2011-10-21T07:36:00.003-06:00

Taking care of youngest Grand-Dude, Carson, for 2 days and nights was fun; enjoyable; good bonding; all that, but I am stiff and sore today. And, last night, I could not keep my eyes open past 7pm. Could it be that one 1yr old can have that affect on me? I suppose so.

Gives me expanded respect and admiration for Jessie & Derek (son & daughter-in-law) who do this every day with our 3 youngest Grand-dudes; all under the age of 5. Triple WHEW!

FYI, they took a 2-day 'vacation' with their 2 older sons (ages 4 and 3) to Disneyland; hooking up with the other set of grandparents in that experience. Carson, age 1, would have spent his days in a stroller, wanting to be out and enjoying things; but unable to due to his age, size, comprehension of the experience. Better that he remain at home with me (or, rather, that I spend a couple nights in his home).

All this rambling to tell you that I've been away from my regular routine.

Now, home and back to the routine stream of things -- teaching, house- and yardwork, study, etc.

I did teach yesterday -- continuing with my theme of 'mudhya' and working students into some arm balances. It was fun and I am developing a 'usual' group of 3 (the family I mentioned in an earlier blog). They, plus one, made up the class yesterday. Not only are poses looking more polished, there are more smiles and even a bit of laughter as they get to know me and, I guess, develop a comfort level that it's o.k. to express like that.

Even better was watching the effect of the 4th student's advanced practice on the other three. Everyone 'kicked it up a notch', thanks to David's presence in the class. Even hand placement changed, became more precise and dedicated.

Today? Not much, except to settle back in. The weekend holds promise for yoga with friends -- a heavy-duty practice on Saturday, teaching on Sunday, then a partner workshop. Fun!

Hope your Friday is a good one!

17 (count'em SEVENTEEN)

2011-10-18T07:25:00.003-06:00

The number of students in my Library yoga class yesterday -- 17. Be still my heart!

At 2:45, I sat with 2 students waiting (and chatting). I was beginning to worry; normally this class arrives early, with one or two sneaking in at the last minute. At 2:50, in walks a friend from the yoga classes I've been attending at the studio in Temecula. So, we're at 3. Then -- it was like the gates opened and in came the remaining 14. Amazing!

Many said they had seen my flier at the Library and were impressed with it. I'd better take a closer look at it. I didn't create it, but had glanced at it briefly. One of the repeated comments was that it is so simple, yet effective. Good work, flier-creator whoever you are!

What did we work on? Madhya, the Sanskrit word for middle. One of my favorite words. It kind of rolls off the tongue the more you say it (pronounced mud-ya). And, it so effectively describes the balance between effort and surrender. For this group, I especially wanted them to 'get' that, in our asymmetrical standing poses, we often feel discomfort in the front leg. In my experience, that happens because we are not asking both legs to share in the work of the pose. Usually the front leg takes the brunt of the work, and the back leg just kind of 'hangs out', waiting - for what, I don't know. I hoped to bring the madhya to their attention in these poses -- equally working both legs, embracing the midline, enjoying a more easeful, stable foundation.

What happened? At the completion of side one of a modified parsvakonasana, I asked for feedback (FYI, during the pose, I'd asked students to fire up the back leg, especially if the front leg was beginning to 'complain'.) One new-to-me student spoke up, saying that 'yes' the discomfort did go away. There were several nodding heads accompanying her comment. Yes!

I love moments like that -- when one student will speak up, validating what I had been trying to relay to them in my comments and instructions. Sometimes, I have to pry it out of people (shyness?); this time, there was little hesitation -- even better!

Today? I am taking care of youngest grand-dude (Carson) for 2 nights / 2.5 days. This is a biggie for me and his parents -- a first. I'm excited to experience it; not sure how he feels about it - tho, at 1yr, I doubt he will realize much is happening except that he won't see his parents and siblings for a couple nights. (We'll see; I'll keep you posted.)

Hope your Tuesday is a good one!

EXPECTATION

2011-10-16T06:33:00.004-06:00

"Students will rise to the level of expectation."

Another quote taken from Facebook (Thank you, Abby Tucker). She wrote it in quotation marks, but didn't credit anyone - not sure if it's hers or something she is relaying; perhaps the author is unknown. No matter, it's still a keeper (and, very true in my experience).

It's something that took a while for me, as a yoga teacher, to understand. For a long time, I played to the audience -- I surveyed the group and then only taught as much as the weakest (or most injured) could handle (in my mind). I noticed, while doing this, that other - more experienced and/or confident instructors - were asking classes with new or challenged-by-injury students to do poses I would never dream of asking for. Yet, it was working for them -- no one got hurt, everyone was happy - even if they worked their ____ off.

My theory, then -- I didn't want to overwork students, perhaps take them to places they might hurt themselves, or - worse - have them NOT like me. So, I kept it on the 'down low', meaning my volume of 'energetic output' in classes was modest (I'm being kind here). I kept the volume low for a long time - it seemed to work, but I didn't feel like I was 'hooking' anyone. You know, like that yoga teacher who has the almost cult-like following for her Tuesday/Thursday morning classes (I'm thinking of one particular friend; but it happens everywhere). What were they doing that I wasn't. I was being nice. I was teaching Anusara-Inspired™ yoga. I was including the principles. I was NOT challenging the students in my classes; my expectations were low.

This mirrors my life in many ways. Travel along the easeful path, don't get too 'out there', don't make waves, try to make people like me by being careful - in speech, mannerisms, appearance. I've never pushed the boundaries of my existence much, until yoga.

With yoga came a shift. That's a long blog in itself, and this one is about asking students to do more than I "think", for whatever reason, they are able to accomplish.

Yet, I want to be challenged. I grow when I'm challenged. I must give that gift to my students. I've realized that and - while teaching yesterday - I almost took a step back and briefly considered turning the volume down. But, to do so, would have meant no challenge, no expectation of greatness, no sense of accomplishment or fun. So, I worked in and around the sore knee and elbow/back issues. I challenged most; one might have taken more, but I still need to strike a balance. Too much of a good thing (in this case, my expectations and challenge), and I lose them. It's a balance -- always, a balance.

What was my theme yesterday? Ordinary becomes extraordinary, of course.

I teach again this morning -- what will the theme be this morning? Still working on that.

After that -- all the things I didn't get done yesterday.

Hope you have a wonderful Sunday!

ORDINARY BECOMES EXTRAORDINARY

2011-10-15T07:45:00.004-06:00

I've been enjoying the transmission of quotes from John Friend this week via Facebook (taken from his Teacher Intensive in New Jersey). I would love to be there listening myself, so I appreciate people sharing the meaningful statements coming from this training. One, in particular, caught my eye this morning (if you know me, personally, you'll know why). It goes like this:

"To be able to find the extraordinary in the ordinary, you have to slow things down." (per John Friend)

I wrote several months back about my dilemma, as a yoga teacher. That age projects an image to people that may or may not be accurate. Huh? One example I used was a fellow instructor who, when I mentioned people may avoid my class because of my age and the perceived lack of 'energetic output' I will demand of them, responded: "Oh, I don't think so, I love a slow class once in a while." This from someone who had never taken a class from me. It got me to thinking -- that I may project that image, or I may have that reputation, or - perhaps (thanks to JF) - I am finding the extraordinary in the ordinary and - in order to do that - I do slow things down (not always, but often).

I'll go with the last of those three statements - thank you, again, John.

Slowing things down, really feeling the movement and how it affects the body, the action, and the movement is NOT a negative. It truly brings another dimension of awareness to me. In particular, body parts - bones, muscles, nerves, brain - working together. I don't know about you, but I get really excited when I feel my inner thigh muscles fire and help me to hug in when moving in to poses. I love to feel the shoulder blades move onto my back and aid the opening in trichonasana, long before I extend the upper arm to the sky (think "icing on the cake"). And, activating my toes in any seated pose, brings such a feeling of stability. There's more, but I could get boring. Important to note that these things are easily overlooked, even if they are happening optimally.

They are all ordinary things. They are supposed to happen. The problem is that some students have not been given the gift of 'noticing' them or becoming 'aware' of them. When I teach, I bring it into their field of awareness. This may make a class seem slower, but I guarantee when they attend another instructor's class, they will remember and maybe they'll thank me for it.

How do I get out of this semi-rant? I don't; I'll just leave it to sit with, to let readers explore ordinary moments in order to experience the extraordinary, more slowly perhaps.

Today? Teaching a basic class at 10am this morning. Then, a few errands including grocery shopping, house stuff, etc.

Hope you have a good Saturday!

OSMOSIS

2011-10-14T06:22:00.006-06:00

OSMOSIS (figurative definition): the process of gradual or unconscious assimilation of ideas,knowledge, etc. : what she knows of the blue-blood set she learned not throughbirthright, not even through wealth, but through osmosis.

I think it's working -- that 'osmosis' stuff. What do I mean?

I taught yesterday -- first class in 9 days (because I was away helping in an Immersion). As I taught, I felt relaxed, free of scripts, yet juggling most of the 'balls' it takes when teaching an Anusara® or Anusara-Inspired™ class. I felt confident and attuned to many of the things happening in the class - though I realized I need to work on my ability to see individuals while taking in the whole room (I think there is a word for that; some kind of __?__ vision -- I want to say the word in the blank is a bird, like an owl or eagle. Anyone?)

Things went well, but I do need to work on that vision part. Example: In one instance, I was asking everyone to move through a modified chaturanga dandasana and I was looking specifically at the students' shoulder alignment and head position. It was very challenging to stay open to the entire room, to not focus too much on any one student -- when I focus on one student, it then means the entire class must to do it over again (and over again), so I am able to watch everyone. Get my drift?

Additionally, I have long known that when the shoulders and elbows are level to one another after lowering towards the floor, the transition from chaturanga dandasana to cobra is enhanced. Better yet, the strain on the shoulders is less. What I had not heard much of was the instruction to keep skull loop engaged and the cervical curve in place throughout the movement (admission here: I may have been told it in the past, I just didn't HEAR it.). How many times have I allowed students to do this transition, insisting that they keep shoulders and elbows level to one another, but not paying much attention to the head? Heads and necks could droop to the floor and I wasn't noticing. Too many, I fear.

So, I'm watching. My vision, however, was on individuals -- meaning that, in order to see all 7 students clearly, the poor students would need to do it 7 times! I realized after the first go-round what was happening, and I tried to open up my visual field - to see the whole room (kind of like JF does, or Sundari, or any number of experienced Anusara® instructors), while still seeing the individual. It's definitely a practice, one I need to hone.

Back to osmosis - why title this blog post in that way? Because, having spent 5 days with the grace and eloquent language of Sundari (plus her toughness - yes, she can be 'tough'), I felt some of it coming through me -- my vocabulary changed a bit AND I assumed my 'seat' with more confidence and knowing than I believe I was doing just 9 days ago. Good stuff.

Today's schedule? Big choice to make -- beach or housework? Grand-Dudes or dogs? I'm leaning towards beach and Grand-Dudes -- it's so warm here that a beach day would be a good thing and what fun to hang out with the 'Dudes' and their Mother for a couple hours.

Hope your Friday is a good one.

ALMOST TO 'THE BOILING POINT'

2011-10-12T08:30:00.009-06:00

Have you ever been in a situation where you became so upset, your breath was rapid yet there was a feeling of helplessness?

Recently I was; it was during my flight home (SLC to Orange County); and I found it's a scary feeling -- one that is challenging to control. What happened?

Recently, I purchased a small guitar (traveling size). Since I am just learning to play, I decided to take it with me and try to get in some practice time. On the flight out of Orange County, I asked if it could rest in the closet at the front of the plane -- no problem, flight attendants were more than happy to accommodate. On the flight home, I was told the closet was 'too small' and I should place it above my seat. I would normally not blink an eye at this, except the tone and mannerisms of the attendants were terse and less-than-helpful.

I found a spot for the guitar, said a small prayer that someone with a big roller bag wouldn't smash it, and settled into my window seat.

Along comes a gentleman (?) to take the middle seat. He sits and proceeds to take possession of the two middle armrests. Worse, he sat slouched in the seat, knees spread wide and into my 'space'. Now, I know that it's no fun to sit in the middle; so, I am more than happy to give that person two armrests -- they deserve it. However, draw a line from headrest to seat, along the space between the seats, and I consider the space on my side to be 'my space'. I do not want to rub shoulders or elbows with anyone (except my husband).

I sat and simmered, as his knee came into contact with mine, and his shoulder expanded beyond the boundaries of 'his space'. (What if this had been a large person, you ask? Well, he wasn't; he just didn't know how to 'hug the midline' -- he just sat and spread out, like jelly.)

In these situations, breathing helps. I felt, however, that it took a LOT of breathing to bring this under control and to relax. On a couple occasions, I deliberately bumped his knee, trying to get him to move it back to midline (didn't work). Finally, I moved closer to the window, breathed deeply, and decided to sleep my way to Orange County -- to try to ignore it.

I did, briefly, entertain the thought of asking him to hug the midline - to tell him that I was too old to rub shoulders or knees with him. As I remembered the recent incident on a plane where this same situation led to threats and someone being arrested, I decided to remain silent.

But, I will ask that question of the airline. First, tho, I sent them a nice 'complaint', asking why I am sent surveys to evaluate the performance of ground crews, but never in-flight crews. That, I fear to say something to these employees about their 'less-than' attitude is asking to be removed from the plane. Response from airline? An apology, a commitment to bring up the survey issue at their next meeting, and a $50 travel voucher -- all within 6 hours.

So, part of my steam has been let off; now, any thoughts on handling the space 'hoggers' on a plane?

I re-read this post and notice a pattern here -- one of being held 'hostage' by perceived threats. First threat, being booted off the plane if you say anything they don't like; the other coming from fellow passengers - which may be a result of the stress we all feel when flying these days. Interesting, isn't it?

Have a good Wednesday!

HEADED HOME

2011-10-10T06:26:00.004-06:00

It was a great 5 days, and I am forever grateful to my friend, Sundari, for inviting me to assist her in this Immersion. It was a great group of friends and practitioners and supporters of Sundari -- what a combination that leads to great heart-opening!

This was a new role for me -- to be an assistant; which, to me, felt like teacher and student combined, yet with less intense emphasis on one or the other. I was able to listen, to observe, to adjust where enhancement would help, to offer my insights -- all while like being like the 'fly on the wall'. Not too 'in there', if you get my drift.

And, at the end, to experience the gratitude for my 'efforts' was an unexpected and welcome surprise. I had to remember, at that moment, to just say 'thank you' and 'you are welcome'.

So, it's home I go; back to Fallbrook. Clean up this house, change the sheets (put the flannel ones on for a winter trip back -- FYI, this is not a warm house in the winter.). Call the gentleman who watches over the house for us and tell him I'm leaving, and drive away for my flights home, which begin in Idaho Falls. I'm enjoying a few last moments in front of a small fire, before kicking into gear and packing up.

Once home, I'm making some internal promises to myself; setting a couple intentions that will make me feel better about myself and my contributions. Ahhh! Another benefit of assisting in the Immersion -- I come away with tools and motivation.

I hope you all have a great day!

p.s. GO PONTEIR!!!

DAY 4

2011-10-08T05:36:00.002-06:00

Since I'm writing this (in the comfort of my great room, in front of a fire), you know that I survived the drive yesterday morning.

The roads were wet (probably slick in spots), and the snow had become packed down on the road at the top of the pass, but I and my little front-wheel-drive vehicle made it. Then, because I was heading out to the 'wilderness' and over that pass (which has very steep sides and small side rails), I had left the house prepared. A bag of warm clothes, bottle of water, apple, and I was wearing jacket, hat and boots.

The native Jacksonians laughed at me.

But, I remember the story of the man recently found off the side of a California road by his family - 6 days after his car had gone off the road over a steep embankment. He survived, but - sadly - the person in another vehicle that had gone off the same spot several weeks/months(?) before, had not. The 2 cars sat in the ravine side-by-side until family members arrived. Hence, my preparation. Enough said. Except: Always go prepared for anything!

Day 3 was another good one. Feeling a growing confidence in my skills to help teach in this type of situation (an Immersion), I offered a bit more. It's not my class, tho, and that's an important balance to remember. To offer, but not get too mouthy or too adjustment-happy. That's a learning opportunity, as well. These students know Sundari, they don't know (or trust) me yet. I can use the same analogy to braking while driving on snow/ice as I did yesterday - "Don't go too fast, yet don't be too on-the-brakes". That analogy works in a lot of situations, because it's a balance -- finding the middle spot, the mudhya (sp?).

Today? We'll see. It could have snowed a bit more at altitude, but I won't bore you with that. I made it yesterday, I ought to be able to make it today. I will take my bag of 'gear', tho; screw what the 'natives' may thing of my over-cautiousness.

Enjoy Saturday. And for Jack -- Go Soccer Star!

SNOW!?!?! (or, WHY DIDN'T I RENT A 4-WHEEL DRIVE???)

2011-10-07T06:07:00.003-06:00

Yes, friends -- SNOW.

I hear this is not unusual for the Driggs, ID, and Jackson, WY, communities - many times the first snowfall is in September. BUT, in fairness, I checked weather forecasts, I did my homework. Nowhere did it say "expect snow".

Having lived in Utah, and driven to Driggs (remember the book title, previous post) many times, I've driven in snow. But, I live in sunny California, now (which I hear is not so sunny this week). I had hoped for nice Fall weather, a bit of sunshine warming a crisp morning, looking at colorful aspens -- like that. Not snow; rain, maybe, NOT snow.

Snow means driving over the Driggs to Jackson pass (about 20 miles) on roads that are less-than-optimal, icy probably. That's the reason people here use 4-wheel drive vehicles. If you live here, you own at least one 4-wheel drive; maybe 2 if there's more than one driver in the household.

FYI, I rented an economy-sized auto -- nice enough, but NOT 4-wheel drive; front-wheel drive, I'm sure, but NOT 4-wheel drive. My confidence, without 4-wheels pulling the vehicle, is lacking. 4-wheel-drive does NOT help with stopping, I know that. There is just nothing worse than NOT being able to make forward momentum on a steep (or slight incline).

Oh well, enough whining -- I'll get in the front-wheel drive vehicle this morning and give it a go. Trust that there is enough traffic over the pass to have worn off this skiff (1" on our deck). Put my 'game face' on. Go slow, but not too slow; brake, but not brake too hard; give it a go -- that's all I can do.

I wrote once that I used that particular analogy as a theme in my yoga classes. That, when going downhill in the snow (in your car), if you brake too hard you will certainly slide. But, if you don't brake at all, then watch out. You have to find the balance. Similar to our yoga poses, right? We have to go for it, or we'll just sit on the sidelines and watch. But, we have to go for it with a modicum of attentiveness. Find the balance -- effort & surrender.

Now -- wish me luck!

BTW, day 2 went extremely well. Sundari had asked me to offer input; which I did in the morning. At lunch, I received the advice to offer my input without a caveat - like instead of saying "in my experience, I find using the outer spiral helpful in driving the knee . . .", say "use your outer spiral to drive the knee into the 90 degree angle, rather than thinking about bending the knee". Like that. So, in the afternoon, that's how it went -- and, I felt good; competent; like a teacher!

Have a great Friday,

WEDNESDAY MORNING

2011-10-06T06:11:00.005-06:00

Up early to get ready for Day 2 of assisting in Sundari's Immersion I, Jackson, WY, and I noticed it's been a few days since my last post. I've let life get in the way of my writing, once again.

Or, perhaps, the inspiration to write hasn't been there -- that may be the better reason. In any case, I'll bring you (whoever is reading out there) up-to-date on my past few days.

Monday turned into a somewhat hectic day -- EARLY appointment in Encinitas (which means I have to be on the road EXTRA EARLY to get to destination). We have placed ourselves back in the situation we thought we would love to be out of -- traffic. FYI, we lived in San Diego 18 years ago before moving to Salt Lake. Traffic is never predictable. You never know when something is going to happen on the roads; and - some days - there's not even a logical reason for the slowdown. I hit one of those non-logical slowdown on Monday; making me 10 minutes late for my appointment. Fortunately, it worked out. On with my day, I ran a couple errands, had lunch at home with Howard, then a few house things, before heading out to the Library for the Monday Yoga Class.

Wow! 14 in the room at 3pm on a Monday afternoon at the Library. It is a community class, but 14 at 3pm on a Monday? Who knew! And, I love it. There is something about people coming together, chatting, laughing, getting ready to do yoga that I love. Everyone smiling, everyone happy to be in the room, to be in good company. Good stuff. FYI, all levels are encouraged to attend this class, so - for now - I'm staying pretty basic in the teaching.

Home to pack and organize a bit for Tuesday -- my class in Carlsbad and then a flight out of Orange County to Idaho Falls. All that went well; made it to class on time, drive to airport/parking/flights -- all were on time. I arrived in Idaho Falls at 9pm, drove to Driggs (I am naming a book or a song "Driving to Driggs", someday; not sure what will be in it, but it will be good -- so, buy a copy.

Huh? Yes, I am in Driggs, sitting in our small home, enjoying a cup of coffee. In a few minutes I'll begin to get ready to assist in day 2 of Immersion I with Sundari. (Howard and dogs/cats are holding down the fort in Fallbrook.)

It's quiet here. So quiet, I can only hear the ticking of the cuckoo clock; nothing else.

Day one (yesterday) started well. I marvel at watching Sundari teach for 6+ hours. She has been so busy, that we hadn't really discussed my role (other than I knew it would include a lot of 'gophering'). 'Gophering' is fine with me -- I'm getting to hear all the Immersion content again (it's been 5 years since Martin & Jordan; and 2 years since John). And, I am getting to meet a group of wonderful people -- people from all walks of life coming together like my Libray group, because they love yoga. We talked last night and I was told to interject my thoughts/suggestions more; we'll see. Be careful what you wish (ask) for.

I love that I got a note from one of my Facebook friends wishing me luck on this new adventure. What a thoughtful and kind person. I will pay that one forward.

One other thing, Congratulations to Barbara Adams (Yoga Village, Scottsdale) on her Certification! I met Barbara at my trainings with Martin & Jordan, and we have kept in touch since then. Such an accomplishment!

Hope you have a wonderful Thursday!

NICE WEEKEND!

2011-10-03T06:05:00.003-06:00

It was -- a very nice weekend. And, warm -- having moved to So. Calif. from Utah, we'd gotten used to variations in weather at this time of year (thunderstorms, a chill in the air, like that). Here, it's just nice. Even had the A/C turn on a few times; in October, no less.

Add to the weather, we shared some fun activities with son and family -- Jack's soccer game Saturday morning (he scored at least one goal), followed by breakfast with all at a restaurant. I mention that because Derek commented that he believed it was the first time they had taken all 3 to a real restaurant as a family. All were well behaved and in good spirits -- fun and enjoyable.

Once home, laundry - sweeping (this new dog has added exponentially to the amount of critter hair floating around on our floors) - other misc. Saturday stuff.

Sunday, taught the 10am class at Living Yoga. Nice group of 10; some new-to-yoga, some experienced, some in-the-middle. We warmed up, without wearing out the arms, and went to the wall. At least 3 had never given handstand a try; so, that's where we went. Impressed with the level of adventuresome-ness in the room. All were willing to give it a go; several kicked up alone, the rest I gave a leg up. Good stuff! This is new for me - including handstand in my classes and I'm enjoying it. With smaller groups like this, I can control the mayhem that often breaks out when people are having fun - so, it's a good thing.

Today? An early appointment, then home to take care of more house stuff, then the library class from 3-4pm.

And later this week -- I'll travel north to Idaho (leaving husband with critters holding down the Fallbrook Fort). Why? I've been invited to assist Sundari in her Immerson I, beginning Wednesday. New experience for me; growth experience; out of the comfort zone -- a good thing.

Hope your Monday is a good one,

INTERESTING & INSPIRING READING (some not for the 'faint of heart')

2011-09-29T06:42:00.011-06:00

From my list of favorite blogs and websites, I check in almost daily with two: Christina Sell's and MariaCristina's. I also frequently read Bernadette Birney's. I'd be remiss if I didn't mention Karen Sprute-Francovich, whose writing is much less frequent but enriching and eloquent when it appears.

These women all write for my benefit (and yours), and each has a different style. Examples:

Christina's are filled with good teaching tips, sequences she has used, and - on occasion - rants that are entertaining to read and well thought out. Take her latest post - her topic was the benefit of all yoga styles (if taught well). A gentle reminder for those of us in the Anusara® world to not get too wrapped up in our 'video-qualified' mentality. I recommend reading it.
MariaCristina is inspiring, gracious, and over-the-top smart. Take her recent post comparing the development of the embryo to the Tattvas!?!?!? Who would have made that correlation? Now, I know who -- MC. And, as importantly, her writing continually reminds me that it's not just about how well I (we) can teach or do the poses, it's about the students - their needs, their desires; and my (our) relationship with them. Another way of pulling me (us) back from the 'video-qualified' precipice.
Bernadette Birney's blog is, to say the least, irreverent. Filled with spicey language (language I naively thought I'd never hear coming from a yogi's mouth); yet, also filled with lessons to be learned. One of her recent posts was a letter to me (us) as a 'wanna-be-Certified' teacher. A cautionary note from her, written in letter format, reminding me (us) to savor the process, not rush, not get too wrapped up in my (our) 'video-qualified' goals. This process of Certification is meant to teach me (us), as well as propel me (us) onto the next step of my (our) journey.

Are you noticing an energetic theme here?

And Karen's? All good stuff, from stories of her son's travels to how to build the pose, Garudasana. I've followed her through her last India journey, and, when I am visiting my family up north, I try my best to get to one of her classes in Coeur d'Alene. A teacher's teacher, happy to be where she is, enjoying what she is doing, loving her students; 'satisfied' would be a good adjective for Karen, I think.

Each is different. Each has chosen to share their knowledge with me (us). Their path has inspired me to write this blog, which - when compared to theirs - I might describe as 'comfort food'. I write the way I ask questions at a workshop. Huh? I ponder a question; hesitate to ask it; then remind myself that there are probably 15-30 people in the room all wondering the same thing; why not ask it? Why not write it?

Not sure if that makes sense, but my blog is my blog -- my thoughts, my correlations, the story of my journey. That's one of the reasons I try to stick with "I, my, me' rather than "you, ours, us" -- it might not apply to you and I certainly don't want to sound like I'm preaching to anyone. So, I read, I learn, I - in turn - share my thoughts.

It's a teaching day - 2 classes; one in Carlsbad, one in Temecula. Better plan.

Hope you have a nice Thursday,

THE WEEK, IN REVIEW

2011-09-28T06:26:00.003-06:00

Granted, it's only Wednesday, but a 'week in review' post seems in order. It seems it has been a full 5-6 days (that, plus, I haven't written for a few days).

You know about the dog. A brief update: he's perkier each day, still gets along with other dogs, still views cats from afar, eating more eagerly, and has even managed 2-hour stays at home alone with the other dogs without incident. As to bonding, he still stays close but I'm not so sure he won't 'go to the dark (husband) side'; there are signs -- just sayin'.

Step back, now, to the day before the dog was adopted - to Friday. Friday is a 'no class to teach' day; unless I'm subbing for someone. I did, however, travel in to Carlsbad to help with a little sprucing up of that studio (Carlsbad Wellness and Yoga). We have an influx of students and new-to-us teachers this month, and the place needed to look welcoming and warm. Thanks to Michele and Debra (and Robert, the owner), we knocked out some decent work in a couple hours. Increased mat space, wall space for our practices and general ambiance.

Saturday was 'Claus Adopted Day' - see previous post for that story.

Sunday was a lazy, lay around the house kind of day. That is, after a walk in the park with dogs and a pancake breakfast at a 'roadhouse' in Rainbow. I have always tolerated pancakes. After tasting the pancakes at this particular restaurant (a favorite of the motorcycle crowd), I found myself craving them (what's that about?). Let's just say, pancakes (of this type) at 9am mean there is no need for another meal until 6pm - after a long nap.

Monday, with dog following me everywhere, I did housework before heading into the Library for my community class at 3pm. This is the one volunteer class I teach since arriving in California, and it's growing! I am up to 10-11 in the last 3 classes! This is rewarding, and I love to see the effort being expended by students and the improvement and general enjoyment happening.

I decided my theme this week ought to be 'remembrance'. Why? Well, on Sunday morning, Howard walked into the room and announced that Claus (new dog) was our anniversary gift. What, I thought? As usual, he (Howard) and I had both forgotten that it was our anniversary Saturday. And, not just any Anniversary -- our 30-year Anniversary. So why remembrance -- shouldn't I be embarrassed to admit this? Yes, I should. It just goes to show you that you can make a theme out of just about anything, including forgotten anniversaries.

Step back many, many posts to one where I described banter between John Friend and Darren Rhodes about the topic of remembrance. John's message: that we remember the things that are important to us. Granted, our anniversary is important to us; more important, is remembering every day to be loving and kind to one another.

Yes, we do remember what's important; and remembering the anniversary is a good thing -- but only if we've remembered the other 364 days of the year to honor our commitment to one another. How does this relate to yoga? Teacher asks us to do something to improve our pose. We do it, it helps. The task now is to remember - not to come back next class and be reminded over and over of the same improvement tip. All these 'little things', like placing hands strongly and mindfully, having feet parallel, etc., add up to great poses! I used the same theme in yesterday morning's class -- as I said "Place your hands with commitment, don't forget to claw the floor. If I were to walk by and try to lift a finger, it won't budge!", one student looked up and smiled. I, of course, asked why -- to which she said "I heard John Friend say that on a video!" Well, he is one of my teachers.

Today? It's Wednesday, another 'no class to teach' day. That means housework, grocery shopping, computer work, practice - yoga and guitar (Yes, Leslie bought herself a guitar. Now let's see what happens -- will she learn to play? Let's hope so, that's the goal.)

Have a great day and thanks for reading!

ABOUT A DOG (not yoga)

2011-09-25T06:40:00.005-06:00

We own 2 dogs (that was yesterday). Today, we own 3.

I love dogs, and I would own many - if it were feasible. I have selected each of our dogs since our first, in 1983 or 84. Each has had it's good qualities and not-so-good. They have all been good dogs - calm and cooperative, friendly (except for one who didn't like little white dogs) and loving.

The problem? Each time I select a dog for me, the dog bonds with my husband. I see why. He loves them and his affection knows few boundaries. If the dog is nearby, he has his hand on it. He walks them each day (unless he is traveling), and most days feeds them. You might be thinking 'well, why don't you (Leslie) get in there and handle the dogs, walk them, feed them. I do. It's no use -- once a dog decides their preferred 'person', I've found it's useless to try to persuade them otherwise.

One caveat to this -- the dogs love him, they follow my instructions better (does that mean I'm the alpha?).

So, a few weeks ago, we began to think in terms of adding a 3rd dog to our 'pack'. We currently have a German Wirehaired Pointer (runt of a litter), and a Corgi/Australian Shepherd mix. After owning the hunting dog (named Tucker), we've decided 'no more hunters - too much desire to roam and run'. The shepherd mix (named Driggs) is smart as a whip, yet unassuming and undemanding. We decided another type of shepherd might be the dog for us.

We explored border collies. Nice, beautiful dogs, but with a different style of herding; one that often doesn't mix well with small, running grandchildren (not good for our situation). Then, we were sitting at a stoplight last week, looked ahead at the vehicle in front and noticed the man driving was carrying on a conversation with his dog in the passenger seat - a German Shepherd. I said "I think those dogs are beautiful. My husband agreed. The research and search began.

Found that the German Shepherd is loyal, good with children, and trainable (all good things). We (I, actually) hoped to give a home to an older dog; one that might have trouble finding a place, otherwise.

Well, we found Claus - an 8-year-old, who had been rescued 9 months ago with severe pneumonia, underfed, neglected. We took our dogs to meet him yesterday (on neutral territory). All went well; we brought him home with a short stop to drop off a birthday present. For being the new dog, nervous, etc., he handled himself well -- calm and unfazed by the 3 children (ages 2-5) moving around him.

Once home, he was equally unfazed (in fact, almost a bit leary) of our cats - as they were of them. Age has its benefits.

18 hours in -- this is a good thing. Oh, about that bonding thing -- so far, Claus follows me everywhere. Maybe this time . . .

Have a great Sunday!

IMAGINE (this is NOT a song)

2011-09-23T07:04:00.004-06:00

The classroom is quiet and dark. I am at the desk waiting for students for my 4pm class - almost worried that no one will show. Then . . .

In bounds a young girl followed by her sister and her mother. They sign in, remove shoes, head into the quiet classroom. I follow . . .

These will be the only students in my class today (Thursday). And, they set their mats up in a strange configuration -- 2 in back corner and the smaller girl in front. As we sat for a few moments, I struggle with that form and decide that the better set-up would be a circle; so, we switch things. Class begins.

Teaching young people is a challenge. I've discovered over the years that (in most cases) the 10-year-old is a more focused student than the 13-year-old. Why? Not sure. At age 10, they don't embarrass as easily; at age 13, they are becoming painfully aware of their 'image' and drama begins to enter their persona. Maybe that's the reason. No matter, on with my story . . .

This family has been coming to the studio for a while. I wonder if they are Korean or Chinese, and I am not sure that all I say is understood (I hear whispering in another language at times). I decided to begin with some easy banter - like 'do you like yoga?'. The younger-appearing girl answers 'no'. The other says 'yes', and the Mother clearly enjoys the practice. With this in mind, we begin. More questions about any pets they might have. The 'do you have a dog?' question brought giggles from all, so I pursued -- 'do you have a cat?', 'do you have a 'cow?', like that. (BTW, they don't have any of the animals mentioned.) More giggles from this up-to-now stoic group. My goal? To have the younger-appearing daughter at least look like she was enjoying something about the class.

Class proceeds. A little unorthodox sequencing - wanted them doing something fun, so we worked into some variations of vasisthasana (2 of 3 doing fine, the 3rd so-so). Got to "wild thing", more giggling. The girls are piano players -- the song 'wild thing' (of which I can do a crazy air band demo) is NOT in their repertoire. But, they had fun trying the pose, Mom & older-looking daughter doing great -- even the one who doesn't 'like' yoga was giving it a go.

Once that was over, then - knowing they spend a good deal of time each day at the piano - we did some stretches that they can do at home, at times when the back or the wrists/hands are tired and aching.

The class that began with a 'no' to my 'do you like yoga?' question, ended on a good note. Progress from the one who doesn't 'like' yoga, and the other two had fun, did some challenging work, learned some things to do at home when fatigue sets in. BTW, I found out as they left, both girls are 13 (tho one looks 13 and the other looks to be 10); they are fraternal twins.

They'll be back.

The Universe keeps throwing me curve balls -- it's fun trying to catch them; tho, some days, I wonder why. Don't get me wrong, I appreciate each and every one of them. And, I find in myself a gift to just 'roll with the punches' -- I actually enjoy these challenges.

Have a great Friday!

SHARING GRATITUDE

2011-09-21T08:26:00.007-06:00

There are many times I think "I sure appreciate what that person does/did for me." Few are the times I have stopped to verbalize or write my gratitude. I am changing that.

I recently took the opportunity to thank one of my teachers (Adam Ballenger) for his advice on accepting feedback. What was it? "Just listen. Don't be defensive, don't offer excuses; just listen." This advice has served me well. I use it every time one of my mentors or reviewers, a student, a fellow teacher -- anyone -- offers me feedback. I 'just listen'.

Interesting that, if the feedback is other-than-complimentary, I know what will be said. Tough to listen to it being verbalized, tho. Sometimes, like when I am told about my 'parrot words', I haven't a clue that I've been saying the word 'bring' or 'take' or 'gently' over and over, ad nauseum. Add to that the feedback moments when you get a gem handed to you; for example, 'just listen'. All good stuff, whether we want to hear it or not.

No matter the content -- good or otherwise, the next step is to say 'thank you', without offering explanations, excuses, reasons, etc. Example: Comment: "That's a nice outfit." My old response: "Oh, it's just something I've had forever." My new response: "Thank you". This is not easy for me. I am not very good at accepting compliments. This trait became painfully clear after the videotaping of my recent classes -- people telling me how good I was, how much they enjoyed the class, how much better they felt. My response? I said 'thank you', but inside my head there was a voice telling me this can't be for me. What's that about? Why is it so hard to accept praise? to accept this gift. A contemplation, for sure.

A contemplation that Sundari would like me to embrace more emphatically, accept the praise, accept that I am doing a good job. I am getting better at it, still some work to do. I thank Sundari for pointing that out to me and challenging me to just say 'thank you', to accept (and embrace) the praise.

So, 4 words to live by -- 'Thank You" and "just listen".

I have many more teachers (too many to name here) and each has offered me 'gems' of knowledge that I treasure. I pull them out frequently and share them with my classes. Sharing them is one way to honor my lineage of guides on this journey.

Thank you all!

Have a great Wednesday,

PEER PRESSURE

2011-09-20T07:34:00.007-06:00

I've felt it, that pressure to do more, be more, maybe act differently than my comfortable nature is willing to. It happens sometimes without my awareness, but often I know what's happening. Then the challenge is to keep moving in the direction I'm being moved (that is, if it's a healthy direction).

It's the reason I took my first teacher training with Desiree Rumbaugh (a good thing), 8 years ago. I succumbed to peer pressure from one of my friends and fellow teachers, Jen Hecht. She 'dragged' me to Arizona, to a week-long training with a woman I had never met, telling me that 'this is good for us; we need to do this'. It turned out to be one of the best weeks of my life, a time of expansion, a time of stepping out of my comfort zone to meet new people, the first time I have kicked up to headstand (thank you, whoever my partner was). And, thank you, Jen.

I started this post without a clear destination; therefore, I am going to take a slight detour, before coming back to the title's topic. Where are we going? To the land of quotes. It seems that every quote I read this week on Facebook is about comfort zones, meeting ourselves, not quitting -- not that I want to 'quit' anything, just all very relative to my thoughts on moving forward and change. The one shared recently from Gil Hedley is very appropriate:

"The tension and holding in our bodies reflect the tension and holding in our lives-at-large. To expand and open our bodies, it helps to open up your life a bit. This will mean something different to everybody of course. And if you open up your life a lot, your body may change so much you'll hardly recognize yourself~ It'll still be you though. And once you've done all that, you're still not done. There's always more."

For me, it's true -- I do hardly recognize myself. I think my family, at times, worries that I may change too much. Fortunately, Howard (my husband) sees the 'before and after of Leslie' and also sees that I've struck a balance. Perhaps that's because I do see people get too in one direction; forgetting the past or casting it aside for a new and 'better' life. The new 'better' life may not materialize, it's certainly different, but new and better? maybe not; just different issues to deal with. So, I work with the old Leslie (first 47 years) and the new Leslie (the recent 14 years). I'm still shedding things about old Leslie that are not appealing to me (hard work), and adding in new qualities that I've always wanted in my life, just didn't realize (also hard work). I would be remiss if I didn't thank my husband for accepting and pushing on occasion.

So, detour over -- what about peer pressure? It's visible in all my yoga classes -- the mother that brings her child/children to class; the friend who brings the friend; and - recently - seeing a student on the precipice of 'giving up' on a pose, only to look at her friend and become re-motivated when she observed that friend doing the pose.

What I see are great things, great exposures that people are offering their friends, family, loved ones. But, not all will 'take', not everyone will see the benefit of the practice, that's the plain truth. I have to accept that. That's a difficult pill to swallow, because I know the benefits, I know the beauty, I know the new awareness I have. I want that for everyone.

Enough with this. Some topics get to the precipice (love that word) of 'heavy' and I back off. Another growth moment? Out of the comfort zone and into the world! (New mantra material)

Enjoy your Tuesday,

THE THINGS WE TEACH (AND LEARN)

2011-09-18T06:39:00.003-06:00

I taught two classes yesterday - back to back - a basics, then a mixed level. The basics, because it was earlier (10am) was better attended; 11 in the room. The mixed level, because it started middle of the day (noon), suffers from that start time; just 6 attended.

As I wrote that last sentence, I thought "never should I write 'just 6 attended'". What I would give to have 6 consistently in my weekday classes! But, that's another subject.

Because neither class is named "Anusara®" or "Anusara-Inspired™", I am trying to figure out if I felt more free or if I felt more constricted (like, what do I teach?). Interesting dilemma. As I went into the room, I asked Ashley how she handles this situation -- response: "I always chant and teach Anusara®". So, that's what I did -- chanted and taught two pretty solid Anusara-Inspired™ classes, without getting too wrapped up in details about the UPA's or Anusara's® philosophy. Simply asked for the alignment elements we expect to see in our Anusara® classes -- feet parallel, fingers spread comfortably, hands shoulder width apart, like that.

The first class (the larger one) was impressive. Several were either new to the studio or new to yoga; yet, mid-way through the class, I took a minute to comment on two things I saw: (1) Each person had straight, strong back legs in their lunges and (2) When coming out of vrksasana (tree pose), each person calmly released foot to the floor and simply stood in tadasana -- no jumping around or ankle shaking. Be still my heart!

FYI, later in the evening, while going through a stack of papers, I found a set of notes from session #11 of Christina Sell's first on-line mentoring series. In that, I had written "In the warm-up, articulate what is going well; in the middle of class, articulate what everyone as a group is doing well; then move to what individuals are doing well". I was pleased that pausing to comment (above paragraph), fell in line with these notes -- and I know, I was doing the individual thing all along. I even remembered names!

Class #2 (smaller, but no less skilled), was attended by 6, 5 I had never met before. For some reason, it felt a bit more 'stilted'. I was not as relaxed with this group, even tho they were very nice people. (Maybe that's 'safety in numbers'.) One woman had practiced quite a bit and jumped right in, taking poses a bit farther than I intended. Her alignment was o.k., so I made a decision early on to just leave her alone. I think my tendency with these students is to jump in, try to fix everything; maybe to just show them that I see the places that need enhancement (ego?). This would be consistent with the 'testosterone' competitions you witness on freeways around the world -- like, who can drive the car faster, more adeptly, more daringly. I held back, we moved through the class. At the end, she spoke up, telling me that she had never attended a class like mine before. (How does one take that?) Fortunately, she went on to say that something about my teaching had propelled her to places she had not visited before in her practice. (Whew!) So, it was a win-win. By holding back, I didn't embarrass her or get in a 'battle of wills'; by letting her watch, listen, move with moderate guidance, she progressed.

We teach and learn; interesting, especially when you write it out.

Today? It's the big birthday celebration for my son (Derek) and Grand-Dude (Brady), who turns 3. But, first, I travel back to Temecula for another 2-hour Expansion Class. This time, the topic is "Contraction to Expansion". Hope to see some people there; so much to choose from right now at that studio, we'll see.

Have a great Sunday!

AHH, FRIDAY !!!

2011-09-16T07:55:00.003-06:00

One busy teaching week, this one has been! Taught two classes Monday; 3 classes Tuesday; no classes, but worked on getting video off camera on to a DVD, Wednesday; then 3 classes on Thursday.

No teaching today, taking son to lunch -- it's his birthday. 37 years old; oh my! Happy Birthday, Derek -- you make us proud!

Back to teaching. Lots of elements to enjoy, to think about, to learn from. Among them:

My library class in Fallbrook was attended by 7; 5 of whom were new-to-me students (one new-to-yoga). It will be a challenge to teach many different skill, age and ability levels. I think, tho, this is my kind of teaching. I do enjoy it.
Teaching meditation is interesting; never have done it formally, just as a sub. My practice has taught me that it is a slow learning process. However, students come to class (first class) expecting to reap immediate benefits. It is hard to sit for 2, 3 or 5 minutes; no matter how much yoga or exercise you've done. That's a fact; but, try explaining that to someone who is sleep-deprived due to stress and searching for an avenue to find relaxation -- NOW!
Tuesday's classes brought scoliosis into my vision -- 2 classes, both with young women who have the condition. Both very body aware and yet searching for ways to deal with this condition. I also got a chance to teach my first formal prenatal class. Whew! This will be a learning opportunity for me.
Wednesday - video off camera and on to DVD. Hooray!
Thursday - Subbed a gentle yoga class (truly 'gentle', not like I teach it), so I tried to stay in line with the regular instructor's format. New group; first comment "I do more movement stretching to get out of bed in the morning!" Whoaaa! I usually don't encounter such honesty and outspoken-ness; but, having heard that and re-evaluating the group -- I kicked it up a notch.
Also on Thursday - in my own morning class, I was able to help a newer-to-yoga student get her legs up the wall into "L" pose. Good, empowering move for her! And, also wonderful for me, was the fact that 7 attended my 4pm class! Once again, all different levels with a 10-year-old thrown in. Fun, even when the cell phones started ringing (including mine !?!?!)
Another Thursday Highlight: DVD in the overnight mail to Sarah. Waiting . . .
Friday - we'll see what lessons I have to learn from this day.

Hope your Friday is a great one!

FEELING 'INSPIRED' (and a little 'tired')

2011-09-14T06:46:00.004-06:00

So far, the week has been a good and busy one, and it's only Wednesday!

Monday's Library class was one that saw growth. There were 7 in the room - 2 repeaters & 5 new-to-me. All seemed to enjoy the class, despite the piano playing on the other side of the divided space we were occupying. The music, while nice, was a bit distracting. Each time I thought that, I wondered how he (the piano player) felt -- also competing with my voice. (FYI, the room has previously been devoted to this yoga class; Monday, however, the room was divided and on one side was the piano, on the other - us. I do admit that I found my voice accelerating in volume as the piano got louder.) Teaches us something - not sure what, but something. Perhaps the lesson is to hope this competition of noises doesn't happen next week!?!?!?

Hopped in the car and sped (drove carefully) up to Temecula, arriving in time to take Ashley's class, which I enjoyed -- a change of pace in that she offered a flowing with the breath type class, no handstands or urdhva's to deal with (tho there were a couple camels thrown in - but then, I like camel).

Then, wait and wonder if people will attend the evening meditation/basic yoga class that I had offered to sub. It's not the most well-attended class (hence the wondering). Be still my heart -- in walked one gentleman, then another young woman, then the man's wife, and - as we got started - a 4th student joined us. Only one had tried meditation before, so we did a blend of gentle movement, a short sit, then a restorative pose, another short sit, then some pranayama (supported by a bolster), and a final sit - which was a couple minutes longer (FYI, a 60 minute class). I think it went well. The experienced meditator may not have gotten what she hoped for, but she was smiling as she left. And, to ask 3 new-to-sitting students to sit for extended periods of time is just plain unreasonable (my opinion).

Tuesday -- in to Carlsbad for my 10:30 class. Still small -- just one young woman with scoliosis in attendance. She had yoga experience, none very detailed, so she was perfect to experience "Leslie's Nit-Picky Private Yoga Session". We lengthened, we talked, we moved, we refined. She left with some new knowledge; we'll see if she returns to my class.

The Therapeutic/Gentle class in Temecula also was attended by a young woman with scoliosis and a woman (almost 80!) with some joint issues. Wide age spectrum, but both with yoga experience. Interesting that, as we worked -- more and more came out about each, in terms of their physical stuff. Each time I turned around, there was something else that had been bothering them that they had forgotten to tell me! It did give us something to laugh about, tho.

My first formal Prenatal/Postpartum Class was also a private. 8 months and counting. Well-schooled (her); needing to become more confident (me). Another learning opportunity.

Today? In to Carlsbad to the Apple store. I did download my video to this computer; cannot get it to a DVD - I've forgotten, need a little help. Had hoped to have it in the mail on Monday, it's Wednesday, no DVD yet! Maybe today.

Add to the above a house to clean, a morning spent taking grand-dudes to karate, laundry to do, errands to run, and I'm feeling it -- a bit tired, that is, but it's been fun (except laundry and cleaning).

Hope your Wednesday is a great one!

"COWBOY UP!"

2011-09-13T07:03:00.003-06:00

The first time I heard "cowboy up!" was from the lips of a Wyoming yoga teacher -- as in 'let's do some yoga -- Wyoming style' !!! Laughed because it was so 'Wyoming' - so strong, so powerful, so fun in a quirky way. And, I have never forgotten.

Isn't it interesting the things I remember? I think I went through a short list many posts back. The things I remember that I only needed to hear once before they were clearly and forever embedded in my emotional and physical self. Things like:

How to move your wrist creases to parallel without losing your grip on the mat, or lifting fingertips.
Why feet parallel is so important, not just in yoga but in everyday life!
'Don't answer the question that hasn't been asked.' (Actually, this took a while to embed itself because I was so excited to share EVERYTHING I had learned. It's taken, and these days I wait. Thank you, John Friend)
Themes are seeds. Plant them and nurture them throughout the class. Be aware of the opposite of my theme and heart quality -- I will be able to more effectively carry through on transmission of my message.
Use hand to inner knee to draw a leg back to janu sirsasana. Why? Hip flexors stay more relaxed.
Cramps are often caused by too much muscular energy. When struggling with one, try to extend out organically from that painful spot -- it's hard, I know. Try it, anyway.
Each pose is a work of art (I frequently ask students to imagine their vrksasana is a painting they've created on the wall. Especially if they begin fidgeting, wiggling from foot to foot, shaking the ankle as soon as they come out of the pose. I ask "What if they took their hand and smeared that beautiful, imaginary painting on the wall?" Same thing. No remembrance of the beauty they created.) Stand still, take a breath instead, remember.
And, "Cowboy Up!"

These have been just a few. I actually went back through my notes from a level 2 Teacher Training with JF, and was reminded of some of these (imagine how many I could come up with if I went through all the notes!).

Why did "cowboy up" come to mind? As I taught a short meditation class last night, asking students new to meditation to create their seat, this phrase kept coming to mind -- not sure why, and I didn't use it. It just seemed to fit -- here they are creating their seat, their saddle. Now get on it and ride! Silly stuff, but some days are like that.

In this meditation class, I was queried after class by one student -- 'I hope to learn to relax, but I felt so tense as we sat. Is that how it's supposed to be?' I could tell by the comments and the look on his face that he was very intent on finding a way to relax, to sleep. Since he has not done much yoga (or any meditation, to date), I explained that everything we do is a practice. Sitting in meditation comfortably will take time. I offered them 3 short periods of meditation in this 60-minute class; interspersed with mild movement, a restorative pose, and some pranayama. After all, who can sit for 60 minutes during their first meditation experience? I hope he will accept my answer, accept that practice will give him access to the relaxation and calm he seeks. We'll see if he's in class next week.

Today? 3 classes to teach. A new one for me, prenatal yoga, which I have avoided (except to sub occasionally). Not sure why. Going to give it a shot.

Gonna 'cowboy up!'

Hope you have a great Tuesday.

HOME, SWEET HOME

2011-09-12T05:53:00.004-06:00

We arrived back in San Diego Saturday afternoon. Easy trip, no delays, no glitches, smooth sailing. Arrived a few minutes early, even. Retrieved our bags, our car and hit the highway. It was 4:30pm. I'm telling you this because the next paragraph will describe our feat of 'highway magic'.

We kennel'd our dogs at a nice facility in Murrieta (about 15 miles north of our house), and our house is about 45 miles north of the airport (60 miles in all). Our original plan was to pick the dogs upon Sunday during pick-up hours of 3-5:30pm. Well, we both had missed them; Howard had been away longer, so his desire to see them was a bit stronger. We hit the highway, drove with the flow (which, according to manuals is what we should do; it also means you are exceeding the speed limit a bit). I'm thinking 'we'll never make it'; he's driving with a determined gleam in his eye. Long story short, we made it. At 5:25pm, I called the kennel to tell them we were 3 blocks away; at 5:28pm, we pulled into the lot. Paid, loaded dogs, off to home. Whew!

Traffic rarely flows so smoothly on the San Diego freeways; we were lucky. We were also fortunate the plane arrived a bit early, the car was easy to get to and load, things just seemed to 'click along'. Some days are like that.

Home, and all is well. The cats survived (I have 2, who were visited on occasion by our son, Derek, who also watered plants for us and checked on the place). It's a bit dusty, but I can deal with that.

Sunday a.m., we walked dogs, then went for breakfast at a local eatery. Back at home to unpack, do a few other chores, then sat down at computer to download my video. Well, it's been over a year since I've done this part. Let's just say it took all of yesterday afternoon/evening to get the 'movie' ready; now, as soon as this is written, I'll burn it to the DVD (this is also a long process, if I remember correctly). My goal: get it in the mail today. Fingers Crossed.

This time, the video process has been done with much support -- people I knew attended the class, friends and people I've never met formally have been wishing me well over sites like Facebook or through this blog. Truly a great feeling to have that. I thank you all.

Today will be a busy one -- taking 'grand-dudes' to karate this morning; then run a few errands; then teach my class at the Fallbrook Library at 3pm. Maybe I'll take in Ashley's class after, we'll see.

While I love Driggs and our place there, it's good to be home. Hope you have a great Monday!

AND, HOW'D IT GO?

2011-09-09T05:57:00.003-06:00

I obviously have used this title before -- the typing popped into the box even before I was done. Oh, well . . . onward.

It went well. I did as yesterday's post mentioned -- the day was spent doing some house stuff, working on my computer, re-reading my plan. About 1:30, I got on my mat and talked (no, whispered) my way through the planned sequence. Then got ready, hopped in the car with Sundari, drove into town to pick up the 'loaner' tripod, then to the studio. Spent a few minutes setting up the camera, figuring out where it would best capture the room and students (thank you, Sundari, for helping with the camera); briefly reviewed my notes; then people began to arrive.

Eleven people attended this free basic 90-minute class. Of those eleven, five (yes, 5) were Anusara® instructors -- 3 Inspired™ and 2 Certified®. Fortunately, that was not something I thought about until AFTER the class was over and it was mentioned to me.

What can I say about the class, itself? It went very well. I feel much better about last night's teaching than the previous video. What comment comes to mind about the class? The sequence I designed had only ONE chaturanga dandasana (cd). Some might say that's unheard of. I rarely attend a class where there is only ONE cd (I also rarely teach one, unless it's a Gentle Yoga class). But, that's what I planned and that's what we did. Despite the lack of multiple cd's, it still went well -- no one complained openly, and perhaps a few were relieved -- especially those who had put in a long, stressful day at work.

Early in the class I noticed that everyone was doing decent uttanasanas (standing forward fold), but not everyone was maximizing their potential in the pose -- in other words, there were a few lazy hands/arms in the pose. As someone who has always been challenged by many poses, including uttanasana, my fire is stoked when I see the talented wasting their talent. I paused the class, explained that I was watching great uttanasanas (remember, look for the good first), but in several instances I saw room for enhancement. Then, I did an unplanned demo (silent). Hands active and placed outside the feet, elbows bent to the side. Came up, explained that every pose is important, every pose demands and deserves our complete attention. Now, would they do it for me and give me "the best uttanasana of their lives". It worked!

After that, we were off to the races. That demo broke the ice, people were involved, I was no longer nervous. Things flowed. It's a keeper. In fact, I kept the flier the studio had graciously had made up for the class. If this is the video that takes me to Certification, I'm putting that flier on the back of my framed Certificate, as a reminder of when/where/who helped me.

Today? Preparing to return to So. Cal. tomorrow. Hope you have a great Friday!

ANOTHER VIDEO

2011-09-08T06:49:00.005-06:00

Not sure if I wrote about this, but - upon review - I decided that the video I filmed 2 weeks ago will not work.

My teaching was strong, there were just some significant errors that will eliminate it from consideration. Your next question? What went wrong? Isn't it interesting that we want to know the negative first. I remember in my first teacher trainings that the emphasis on 'looking for the good' was one of the first things taught. For example, teacher: "What do you see in this pose?" Response from group: "legs too close together" or some other similar comment. Teacher: "Let's take another look at the pose -- tell me, first, what you see beautiful about the pose." Let's just say it didn't take long to absorb that lesson.

No matter what went wrong or right; after you do this for a while, you learn what will fly and what won't. Unfortunately, that video won't fly. So, what next? The class in Driggs. Tonight.

I brought camera, cords, notes; forgot the tripod. Called upon friends, they are bringing one. Not feeling quite so nervous as the last video; perhaps it's the fact that I am more familiar with this studio (after all, I've only studied in Temecula for 4 months; have been going to YogaTejas for infrequently 5+ years).

Will review notes, practice a bit, then head in to the studio with Sundari later today. Class starts at 6pm.

Hope you have a great Thursday. Oh, fishing was great! Animal sightings? Bald Eagle -- magnificent, and he was as curious about us as we were him.

THE BIRDS AND ANIMALS

2011-09-07T06:39:00.006-06:00

Sunday, it was an owl serenade as they kept us company. Monday, a moose (HUGE!) wandered into our yard. Tuesday, we were surrounded by buffalo - literally (but, we were in a car; which - to be honest - is not much comfort when one of those looks in the window at you).

I wonder what today will bring.

We are on vacation at our home in Idaho (Driggs, to be exact). Day 4 of 7, in a quiet house surrounded by fields of wheat (barley? hops?) and potatoes; the Teton River flows to the east of us; a panoramic view of the Teton mountains also further to the east. Great place. Love it. Miss it. (FYI, when living in Salt Lake City, we were able to get up here at least once every 6-8 weeks for a long weekend; now, from San Diego, it's a different story.)

Driggs is a comfortable little town -- one stoplight, but development and improvement are creeping in. It has an airport (I've heard Harrison Ford flies his planes in here, then 'copters' to his home in Jackson.); an up-and-coming golf course and resort (some of staff comes from the Del Mar Country Club in San Diego); a wonderful yoga studio, YogaTejas (www.yogatejas.com), owned by 2 Certified Anusara® yoga instructors - Cate Stillman and Bridget Lyons; a reasonable grocery store -- what more could one want? Oh, I forgot to mention the GREAT gift store run by Gooch - sister of . . . (I'm waiting for you to guess). Gooch is Primo Lombardi's sister - what a small world! (If you don't know Primo, he is a Certified Anusara® Yoga Instructor, who shares his teaching in workshops co-taught with Peter Goodman (aka 'THE BLISS BROTHERS').)

In fact, I took a class at YogaTejas on Monday (see yesterday's post). And, I'll film another video there on Thursday night - a free community class beginning at 6pm. When you say 'community class', one might worry about who would wander in. However, in this town, everyone who practices yoga has had an opportunity to study with many of the great ones from our Anusara® community. The studio was built and owned by Sundari for many years; Cate Stillman and Bridget Lyons bought it in 2007. During these years, I've made special trips up to attend workshops presented by Desiree Rumbaugh and Noah Maze (to name a couple). Lots of good teaching going on here.

I am pleased and flattered to be able to offer the class; another example of the communities of Anusara® supporting one another. Where else could you go to have a teacher from the Inland Empire Anusara® Kula teaching students of the Driggs Anusara® Kula; AND have students from the Jackson, Wyoming, Anusara® Kula making a 'road trip' to attend. Good stuff; I am so grateful.

Hope you have a good Wednesday; I'm going fishing!

TRANSFORMATION

2011-09-06T05:46:00.004-06:00

Each time I experience an Anusara® yoga teacher who has recently become Certified, I see such transformation. In each case, the instructor is more confident, creative, energetic, just plain GOOD!

I saw it again, yesterday, when I attended Bridget Lyons class at YogaTejas. Strong teaching, creative teaching, fun teaching. Bridget first came to my attention when she purchased YogaTejas, along with Cate Stillman, in 2007. Like me, she stepped into studio ownership with little if any teaching experience. She's moved quickly along the path, becoming Certified in 2010.

Yesterday's class was all about 'watery' hips. Seems a bit of an oxymoron, if you ask me. My hips have never been referred to as 'watery' -- more like sticky dry. Bridget's analogies were creative, the sequence opened and offered space for the hips to really move, and it was fun. I also had an opportunity to watch her skillfully offer individual attention throughout the room. I left feeling good.

We are always growing, even after we become Certified. Good to know -- I am loving this learning and growing part.

Short post - busy day. Hope you have a great Tuesday.

THE RED CAR

2011-09-03T05:46:00.003-06:00

We have a new car -- yes, another one. We are the people who are always excited to try the next, newer model. I'm not talking expensive cars, here, tho we have had a few I would have classified as 'expensive'. These days, we look for function, style, then we go to the price; if it's too much, we walk away. What's too much? Well, let's just say our newest member of the garage is a (drumroll, please) bright red Jetta Volkswagon (a station wagon version).

I have never owned (or driven) a red car. When I saw it at the dealership, first thought -- 'it's cute'. When I got in to drive it, the red exterior framed my vision of the road. But, Howard (husband) liked it and the only other option was black at the moment - definitely, no. And, after all, this was a 'spur of the moment purchase'. No waiting, or we might not get it. So, red it must be and is.

Maybe you have driven a red car and know what it feels like. To me, it feels a bit conspicuous at times. I look at other silver, white, tan, etc., autos, being drive by like-aged individuals, and I do wonder 'what am I doing in a red car'? I suppose you might say 'something you've never done before'. It's another growth opportunity, another chance to step out of the comfort zone of conforming to mine and other's expectations.

I must say - before you think otherwise - I am loving the car. Its 'redness' and all. It's fun to drive -- a peppy, yet sturdy, little vehicle that goes from point A to B with no complaints. It has many of the 'bells and whistles' of more expensive models. It has a great radio, my Broadway tunes come in clear at times I'm not listening to my favorite DJ's here in San Diego (Jeff & Jer, 96.5 FM).

What's the best part? So far, I am thrilled to be able to park in the specially-marked spots at the Fallbrook Library, designated for 'energy efficient vehicles'. (This little red car is a diesel, after all! 40+ miles to the gallon. Yes!)

It's a keeper, despite its 'redness'.

After Wednesday, the week calmed. Sundari went to stay with other San Diego friends Wednesday night. I taught 3 classes on Thursday, armed with the knowledge that it's o.k. to step out of the box (or 'off the leash', as she put it). Friday was spent in the yard, running a couple errands (in the white car, this time), and enjoying a fun dinner with Derek (son), Jessie (daughter-in-law), and the grand-dudes - Jack, Brady and Carson.

Have a great Saturday!

(p.s. This has been one of those posts that has nothing to do with yoga.)

ON FEEDBACK

2011-08-31T06:56:00.005-06:00

It's been two weeks of significant teaching feedback for me.

First, there was my video class. A good opportunity for me, teaching a group of well-schooled yoga students in a beautiful studio. Feedback to self: not the video to send in. I knew this before I ever watched it. Why? There was just a 'not right' feeling about how I taught the class. A few unsettling things happened at the start of class; I placed myself in an awkward spot (thinking it would be the best spot); and I knew I hadn't served everyone from my highest capability.

I pondered this for 6 days, delayed watching the video. Sundari came to town, offered to watch it with me; which we did on Sunday. We laughed, I grimaced, puzzled looks crossed her face on a few occasions. In the end, her assessment was the same as mine -- not the video to submit. Good teaching, for me, however, as she reviewed the positives and the not-so-positives. She also was generous enough to offer pointers to improve the next one.

Tuesday, we drove into Carlsbad for my 10:30 class, which Sundari planned to attend. Small class; in fact, only one person arrived. New to the studio, about my age, worried she wasn't dressed 'right', and - she admitted - a bit discouraged with her level of physical activity lately. She also noted that she had tried yoga several times, only to leave with a sore neck. We talked. She stayed. Sundari, the new student and I began the class.

When finished, student expressed appreciation and said she'd be back. Her reaction to the class was positive, I saw awareness blossom as she tried a few new things, and she exclaimed on more than one occasion that she had not received the level of explanation before that I had given her -- good stuff.

Sundari and I went to lunch. During that short lunch, I got more than I bargained for (perhaps, to be honest, even wanted). A gift, Sundari began -- this student was a gift. She will teach me so much about my teaching and I need to embrace that. (I agree.) She went on to explain how she might have worked with this student -- pointing out helpful things and not-so-helpful things for a student struggling with a flat neck and a heel spur. I may have heard it before, but had forgotten that there is a connection between the two -- people who have flat necks may develop heel spurs. The feedback was a bit sobering -- not that I did anything really wrong, but that she saw I could have done so much more!. Her role at lunch was to cheerlead and not by telling me how great I had done (false praise), but by telling me how much more I could do. At one point, she said: 'you need to take off the leash, get out of your head, get on your mat, feel your body, then teach from what you have learned from your time on the mat by yourself, feeling the impact of the practice on your body'. Ouch, in a good way.

On to Temecula, where I teach an afternoon Therapeutics/Gentle Class. 4 in the room - 2 with neck issues, one with a need to relax, and Sundari. I was under the gun, so to speak. Remembering what Sundari had said at lunch, I approached the class differently. As she had done for Saturday's workshop, we began in savasana, then went to the wall for shoulder and leg work, returned to the mat for some standing and balance poses. Emphasis - legs and muscular energy; from that extending up through the crown of the head. To the floor, a few twists. Then, using a folded blanket, we moved through two pranayama exercises (don't like that word - exercise, but lacking any other right now). Savasana.

Tea and discussion with one of the students after class. Then the drive home. Anticipating feedback. "Better", she said, "better."

I was relieved, and it felt good to change it up a bit; to look at these students with a fresh eye, and to teach them from the perspective of what would help them, not just from a template of what people expect. Different, and better.

Ahhh, feedback -- gotta receive and accept it; gotta love it; it is a good thing.

Next video opportunity? Next week. All positive vibes will be welcome!

Hope you have a great Wednesday.

SMILING

2011-08-30T07:24:00.002-06:00

"Don't cry because it's over, smile because it happened." - Dr. Seuss

Nice. Love it. Even posted my love for this quote on Facebook. It reminded me of my students yesterday.

My one-hour class at the Fallbrook Library is clicking right along. I had 9 the first week; 4 of those returned the second week; the other 4 returned yesterday (third week). I view this as a good sign -- everyone (except one) returning for another class -- just not at the same time. Still a positive. I'm on the schedule for the Fall in this same time slot -- looking for more and more as word gets out.

My alignment emphasis in yesterday's Library class was muscular energy (some of the sequence borrowed from Noah's 60-minute class on YogaGlo - same emphasis). With 4 in the room, it's easy to keep track of what everyone is doing, offer enhancements, even get down next to a student and do a pose where there is a language barrier. One student in particular, no language barrier, kept smiling and laughing softly.

I could take this one of two ways. The old Leslie might have been offended -- assuming she was laughing at my verbiage or, worse, my teaching. The new Leslie looks at this as a compliment. I choose to believe that she was truly enjoying the class, happy to be in the room, moving her body, with people who have a like-minded desire. That's what I choose to believe and I'm sticking to it! Because I believe it to be true. That's why I smile and laugh in a yoga class. Because I am happy to be there.

Oh sure, the first few minutes my muscles might ache, I wonder why I bothered, I worry I'm too 'something' to be there. But, as I move, these negative thoughts go away, and I'm left to move without thinking too much. Afterwards, I feel good. Glad I stuck it out. Proud of myself, even.

When my 4 students lifted their hips in eka hasta bhujasana, there were smiles around the room. No matter how high the hips went (or, even if they got off the ground), simply making the effort brought a level of joy into the room. I wonder when or if any of them had ever tried to get their leg on top of their shoulder!?!?! Fun stuff. I smiled, too.

Today? Teaching in Carlsbad, 10:30 am, Intro to Anusara Class; then to Temecula for my 2pm Therapeutic/Gentle Class.

Hope your Tuesday is great!

SUNDARI IN FALLBROOK

2011-08-28T06:59:00.004-06:00

Friday, my good friend and mentor - Sundari - arrived in Fallbrook.

Actually, she arrived in San Diego, took the Coaster (a commuter train that runs up the coastline) to Oceanside, where I picked her up. It is so good to see her after several months (and, that was a brief 2 hours). This is planned to be a longer visit.

What have (will) we done (do)? Well, yesterday afternoon was spent at Living Yoga in Temecula, where Sundari offered a 4-hour mini-workshop on therapeutics to us (fellow instructors and students). I was blanketed in remembrance as she began to speak -- such a voice, such great verbiage. I can strive to speak like that, not identically, but still so inspiringly. Then, there were the cues she offered -- memories of classes/times past. The overall tempo of the session was soft (not easy, but soft); using our breath and our inner voice to access the desired movement.

We began with the pelvis, hips and thighs -- Sundari skillfully took us through the anatomy and into the importance of thighs back, seated in hip socket. After this portion, I now have a new tool that offers me a clear sense of inner spiral of the back leg in poses like parsvakonasana, pidgeon, etc. AND, of outer spiral of the front leg. Great psoas work, healthy psoas work. When done, I was almost able to straighten my leg (with hand to foot) in supta padangusthasana AND keep the leg on the floor rooted and strong. Progress in a pose I thought may always require a strap; maybe not (YES!).

Moving on, shoulders, upper back, neck. All good work and valuable to me, posture-wise, and as I work with students.

How was this work received by those attending. One example: Andrea (studio owner), attended and noted in the beginning that she needed to leave at 4:30 (30 minutes early). At 4:45, she was still in the room and Sundari generously reminded her that her departure time had passed. The response? "I know; I don't want to leave." Nice.

Then, each person had questions after the end of our session; we left Temecula at 6 (it was still almost 100 degrees there), drove back to Fallbrook and enjoyed a bit (maybe a lot) of Mexican food on the patio of a local restaurant.

Today? Watching the video together -- will get her input before sending it to Sarah, my Certification reviewer. I am not averse to doing another one if this is not the right video. Then a drive to the beach, where we plan to walk and enjoy the ocean. Maybe lunch somewhere.

Hope your Sunday is a great one!

MOTIVATION

2011-08-24T07:40:00.004-06:00

My therapeutic / gentle yoga class is a great forum to experience motivation and it can also be a place to watch a quick decline in motivation. My job just got tougher as the teacher. Huh?

Yesterday's class included 4 students -- H (fibromyalgia), A (recovering from car accident injuries, including a broken neck), C (recently hurt her back, bulging disc, L4-5), and M (similar back issue, but not so recent).

Students arrive in class appearing motivated and ready to work on their 'issues'. Often, tho, when faced with movement, movement that might create discomfort (fear working its magic), their motivation fizzles. Imagine a candle struggling to light, but being overwhelmed by the wax at the base of the wick -- sputtering, needing a bit of coaxing, like that -- this is my analogy to struggling motivation, at this stage.

I think this is especially true for students with back issues -- the pain can/is so severe that to risk re-injuring or re-creating that pain is a prospect they will avoid at all costs. I don't blame them - I have hurt my back and I know how much it hurt; fortunately, mine lasted only 2-3 days (yoga's benefits?). And, my experience in yoga made me well-prepared to return to my practice with a full toolbox of ideas/things to do to further strengthen the core and avoid future 'stuff'. The students coming to this class are often new to yoga, haven't seen the magic happen with a dedicated practice, and are - sometimes - so fearful they will give up at the least little muscle tug in the back.

Yesterday, I worried this was happening for one student -- she began enthusiastically, realized her arms were sore and tired (her explanation: lack of activity because of the back injury), a couple times I heard the comment - 'I better stop now, or I won't come back'. At that point, I began to slow the movement for everyone; we switched gears to restorative mode and I set everyone up in some enjoyable supported poses. The next 30 minutes, students simply focused on their breath, allowing the bolsters, blankets and blocks to support their bodies.

Class over, everyone appeared relaxed and refreshed. I heard everyone say 'see you next week'. I hope so.

Hope you have a great Wednesday,

IT'S A WRAP . . . (I hope)

2011-08-23T07:13:00.002-06:00

The video class happened. I had many fears and misgivings about this one; which was a new experience for me -- previously, video'ing didn't make me nervous (I didn't like watching the finished product, however.). What was I nervous about? Here's a short list:

1. My 3-4pm class at the Fallbrook Library would, for some reason, hold me up and I'd get stuck in the Fallbrook traffic (which for a small town can be daunting, especially between 4-6pm)

2. I would escape Fallbrook, only to get to I-15 and see a parking lot. This does happen, not a lot (knock on wood), but it does. Alternate routes are few and feel even slower.

3. I would forget all my well-laid and scripted plans.

4. No one would come to the class.

5. Mid-way through the video, I'd make a HUGE mistake, throw up my arms, have a mini hissy fit, and turn the camera off.

Well, fortunately, none of this happened. I discovered a new route out of Fallbrook - still traffic, but not so heavy. I-15 was moving right along. I didn't forget the sequence, but did improvise the script. 12 people were in class. No HUGE mistakes; a couple missteps, none that would require a 'hissy fit'.

I am not saying that it is a wonderful video. That is yet to be determined -- I have to watch it. My least favorite part, the part where I initially look only at myself, my posture, how I look (vanity). There may be some 'gaffs' in there that will eliminate this video from the running. I hope not. But, I won't know until I watch it (maybe later today).

What I can say about it is that I did carry the theme and alignment emphasis throughout the class. I did look at foundations, enhancing where needed. I laughed a bit (students too, tho quietly). I got one demo in - not sure I was in the best spot of the room, and I forgot to ask them to gather round -- just asked them to watch from their mats. The most remarkable element of the class -- not one chaturanga dandasana. This was a Basic level class, tho many were skilled practitioners; just taught the poses (surya's) without the vinyasa element (chaturanga dandasana, cobra, down dog, second side).

What was my theme? Shradda (trust). I changed up my opening comments to telling students how grateful I was that Ashley had enough trust in me to graciously allow me to teach her class. Wow! Some days themes just fit right in. My heart quality was confidence -- when we trust, we are more confident. My alignment emphasis was shoulder loop. My apex pose was Ustrasana (camel).

It was fun. If I have to do it over, I think I'll feel less nervous -- this hiatus between the previous video and this one has not helped. I really need the camera in the room, reminding me.

Hope your Tuesday is GREAT!

READY, SET, VIDEO!

2011-08-21T08:40:00.004-06:00

Yes, my second video will be created tomorrow. Am I nervous? Am I worried? Am I whatever? Not really. And, not sure why.

I have video'd a lot -- this is a tip for those of you fearing the video process. It really does get easier the more you do, so video a LOT; even if you do nothing with those videos but erase them. Watch some, tho; this takes practice, as well -- hard to look at ourselves without looking at outfit, posture, mannerisms. It takes a while to just be comfortable watching with an objective eye.

Video'ing for Certification in Anusara® yoga teaching is a BIG deal. It's the final bridge to a long, long stream of work and study. My Certification reviewer has reviewed my plan for the class -- theme, heart quality, apex, alignment focus -- has given me the 'go'. So, I'll 'go'. Tomorrow.

Ashley, who regularly teaches at 5pm on Mondays, has graciously turned over her classroom to me for this video opportunity. Not really an 'invitation' class, but a well-schooled group of people who love Ashley, yet are willing to allow me into the room for this chance to teach them, all the while the video camera will be running.

My plan to supplement my preparation -- write out a list of words (thesaurus comes in VERY handy at these times), so I don't repeat the same instructions/feelings over and over ad nauseum. I also will go back to my reviewer's notes from the one video she has seen and read them again -- I know what she wanted me to improve; I may pick up other 'pearls', previously un-noticed by me. I will do one more run-thru of the entire class -- practicing it myself, guiding myself through the sequence. Still not entirely comfortable with this -- talking to myself (out loud, no less), as I practice, alone. Perhaps it's o.k. to ask a question of myself as I do this? Really role play the experience. This may be the one time it is all right to answer when I'm talking to myself.

I hope to do all this early in the day, today. Then, I will try NOT to think about it too much; at least, until tomorrow afternoon.

Mental note to self: take the camera and all needed paraphernalia.

Wish me luck!

THE SPECTRUM OF GENTLE/THERAPEUTIC YOGA

2011-08-17T07:40:00.003-06:00

First, let me say, it was a great day for me yesterday -- both of my classes were well attended and my teaching felt confident and energetic.

This is in contrast to Monday, when my practice had a bit of a 'struggle-edge' to it (huh?). I am hopeful this corresponds to the fact that I am recovering from the surprise cold I've been dealing with -- two weeks ago, a mild sore throat; then, sore throat followed by the cough; then, into hiding (the cold); until my plane landed in Spokane for my visit with my parents -- then all 'heck' broke lose -- sneezing, nose running, stuffy for 3 days -- so pleasant!

On the mend, I went to class Monday, but felt 'weary' -- no oomph in my get-along, if you know what I mean. I did feel better at the end of the class I participated in, but I was not pleased with my energy level.

Now, to the topic referenced in the title.

My Tuesday afternoon class is attended by students struggling with 'stuff', and is titled "Therapeutic/Gentle Yoga". Whoever shows, gets a practice that I modify to whatever they are dealing with and - hopefully - gives them some insight to finding stability, more movement, less discomfort, etc. I believe I have a knack for working with this population; and I am very aware and thankful of the information passed to me from my teachers (too many to mention here), and also to the Principles of Alignment that I believe work magic.

Yesterday was no different - 3 students in the room (not a problem if this class is small; in fact, it is probably a good thing). The spectrum of physical abilities and knowledge was what I marvel at this morning. K, with a bit of back pain (and who has been in before with regards to his hamstrings - remember '5 Minutes'?); H, suffering from generalized fibromyalgia (meaning it affects the whole body); and D, with a problematic shoulder. While each had a valid reason for being in the class, each also possesses a different level of yoga expertise. This, in itself, could be daunting.

I dove in; laughing at my jokes (very important), trying to offer variations that would challenge, but not over-challenge, observing the outcome - asking for feedback (because otherwise, people tend to be very quiet during yoga class, and - in this setting - feedback is critical; I need to know if they are feeling what I am conveying and also what the result of that is - does it feel good, or hurt, or feel manageable, like that). So, the class becomes a conversation and - hopefully - no one is too shy to share -- which, in this group, was not a problem.

Three people, two of whom had met in passing at other classes, thrown together in my class to work on different issues; all with different levels of yoga expertise. Interesting! And. Fun. Loved. It.

Have a great Wednesday!

FULL STRETCH !!!

2011-08-16T06:11:00.006-06:00

Readers who have attended one of John Friend's workshops or trainings know this phrase well. "Full stretch!" is heard several times during a class, especially the morning sessions when standing poses are the emphasis.

Funny how I find those phrases working their way into my vocabulary, as well. Think about it, tho. What better way to get my students to max out their stretching potential than a well-modulated "full stretch!".

Sometimes, tho -- and this will depend on the students' interpretation or my lack of modulation -- it falls flat. I say it. I look into the room. What do I see? Floppy fingers, bent elbows, hands in front plane of body, side body 'short' -- not the things a 'full stretch' is made of. Now, you wonder, where is she headed with all this?

Yesterday, I began a new class -- a volunteer teaching opportunity at the Fallbrook Library. A brand new one-hour class of students new to me, in a strange place. Of the nine students in the room, only 4 had yoga experience (and just one of those had practiced over a period of time; everyone else had limited prior experience). This would be the type of environment to be prepared for the floppy finger'd, bent elbow'd, side body 'short' example of 'full stretch'.

But NO -- it didn't happen. Everyone in that room, from the 12-year-old to the 60-year-old (guessing at exact years), stretched FULLY -- applying great muscular energy in response to my request (command?) of 'full stretch!'. My theme? Courage; Why? it takes courage to try something new (there's that risk of failure or feeling out of place).

Once set up with a firm foundation and heart's lifted, the 'full stretch!' was just these student's next step on our courage journey.

Nine students for a brand-new class and a 'full stretch!' -- be still my heart!

From this class, I jetted (drove, actually) up to Temecula for a 5pm class (this is the class I will teach in the next couple weeks for my second video). I was torn between this class and attending the Beach Party Anusara® Birthday Celebration with John Friend and the local Anusara Kula. Instead, I felt making my presence known was important for this group of students -- after all, I need six people in the room when filming. Choices. Gotta love/hate 'em. There will be other opportunities for 'beach celebrations'.

Today? Teaching in Carlsbad (10:30 am Intro class at Carlsbad Wellness); then in Temecula (2 pm Therapeutic/Gentle Class at Living Yoga). I'll be 'full stretching' right along with them!

Have a great Tuesday,

DID I MENTION EXPANSION?

2011-08-13T07:59:00.004-06:00

I think I did. And, it just goes to show you that if you think about it enough, it just may come round to let you experience it -- expansion, that is.

And, what you ask, am I expanding into? Teaching a demographic (right word?) of students new to me -- the student who is pregnant, has just delivered her baby, or - maybe - wants to be in one of those categories.

I have avoided this demographic for the 8+ years I have taught yoga. Why? Not sure - I guess, to be honest, it makes me a bit nervous. Perhaps because I feel responsible for the student standing in front of me, AND for her unborn child growing sight-unseen to me.

And, what has avoiding this demographic done for my skills in teaching them? Not much. I now must spend the next few weeks studying appropriate poses, how to adapt to different levels of pregnancy or post-pregnancy, and - as importantly - make everyone feel as though what they have done in class is a good and heart-felt experience.

So, after contracting back into avoidance for 8+ years, it's time for a bit of expansion; seems to be a theme here, doesn't there? I will assume the prenatal class in mid-September; if I don't procrastinate, I should have time to become book-ready to teach the class and will have practiced my teaching some.

In the interim, I also will begin a new class next week in my own neighborhood of Fallbrook -- a class for whoever shows at the Fallbrook Library. I'm anxious to do this, to teach in my own neck of the woods and to offer Anusara® yoga to the community. It will, however, be interesting to see who shows for a 3pm class (60 minutes) class. I may end up with a class of adults, teens and pre-teens, or both. Add onto that, their yoga experience and any physical limitations (thinking of the adults, here), I could be looking at a most excellent teaching adventure.

Preparation time! Enjoy your Saturday!

CHANGING 'GEARS'

2011-08-08T08:00:00.003-06:00

I planned a 'mini-workshop' (called it an Expansion Class) for yesterday afternoon.

Granted, Sunday afternoons are a hard sell -- everyone enjoying the final weekend (at least, here) before school registrations begin; or, just staying inside, avoiding the heat. But, I decided to go for it, anyway -- these are things I must do to get out of my 'comfort' zone from time to time.

My topic? 'Re-Muster Your Power'. Why? The word 'power' keeps popping into my field of awareness lately. Like, in every book I pick up, many of the quotes I'm reading, and the discussions I've been involved in. Not 'power' like strength or vigor, but 'power' as in ability, capacity, potential, confidence -- like that.

Why 'Re-Muster'? Mainly because I was tired of using the word remember; but look up the word 'muster' and you'll find a definition of 'to assemble'. Which, I think is what we have to do; we have to 'assemble' all of our skills in order to re-claim some. And, the 'Re-' part? well, many of us had all those skills assembled at one time in our lives (maybe during childhood), and we've camouflaged, concealed, hidden, or simply forgot, them as we grew to adulthood. Now we are busy taking care of children, working, doing the things we think we 'should' do; 'power' got set aside as we moved into this stage of our lives.

The Universe threw me a challenge. Earlier in the week, I started with a sore throat, that expanded to a feeling like a rock in my lungs, which escalated to a cough that was in full bloom by Sunday. Fun to try to talk, throat tickling, coughing like a person who has smoked one too many cigarettes (BTW, I've never smoked).

Well, there was no way out -- I had to do it; so I prepared, gathered my materials, made my way to the studio, placed my seat with Hanuman at my side. Then I waited for the crowd to arrive for this expansion class, scheduled to being at 1pm. At 12:58pm, in walked one student; at 1pm - on the dot - in walked the second.

Sometimes, things are perfect; this was perfect. Both students were struggling with issues - physical and emotional. The last thing either needed was a 'kick-butt' 2-hour yoga class; and the last thing I could teach effectively, considering my cough, was such a class. Instead, we talked, we shared thoughts about 'power' in our lives, we did move - but it wasn't the backbend class I'd planned -- instead we opened all parts, then spent time in a restorative pose, pranayama, and meditation.

Expansion Classes will become part of my repertoire -- interesting that, during the Wanderlust experience, one of the philosophy scholars noted that almost every expansion (growth) we've experienced has come out of a period of contraction (tightness, dwindling, small). If we look back at our individual history's, that becomes evident. Maybe that will be my next topic!?!??!

Have a great Monday!

EXPLAINING TANTRA

2011-08-04T06:56:00.005-06:00

This week, I've been attending classes taught by others who attended the Anusara-Inspired™ Gathering with me in Wanderlust. Why? First reason, because I want to; ulterior motive? to see how they communicate the teachings they came away with.

Kudos to them -- they are keeping it simple; trying not to bombard their students with each detail they learned in the 3 intense days, simply opening a door here and there and allowing a glimpse inside.

One of the expanding moments for me was a forthright discussion of the word 'tantra'. Our (Anusara®'s) philosophy is based on tantra. Knowing that, put yourself in my shoes when I explain to students the 3 differentiating factors of Anusara® yoga from other styles:

Teaching of alignment principles (our UPA's)
Strong kula (community of the heart)
A tantric philosophy supporting the practice (WHAT? TANTRA? -- at least, that's what I worry my students are thinking when I say the word "TANTRA")

What happened at Wanderlust was good for me - a forthright and clear discussion of Tantra, it's roots, etc. Not that I hadn't heard it before; I had, many times. This time, tho, I came away with a clearer way to explain to students that "no, Tantra doesn't mean we practice our yoga with an emphasis on sex". In fact, the word 'tantra' means 'the system' -- a means of doing something. So, we can know that it is not a religion and the word tantra can be an adjective for anything we believe in -- i.e. Tantric Christianity or Tantric Islam; meaning that I am able to practice those two religions - if I choose to - with fullness present in every moment. Using Tantra, I am able to bridge the two aspects so present in my life -- one, money and possessions; the other, spirituality and goodness.

A most clear and primary message: "do not 'google' Tantra on your computer". Why? You will get every website that does give people the message it's all about sex. You have to go back, way back, into the texts and have someone like these scholars define what was really said; not what some people want them to say -- like a blank check to do anything we want; that's not what it's about. It's about living my life, enjoying my life, looking for the good in my life, a 'tantric' way of living.

I did just google 'Tantra' -- Wikipedia does a pretty good job of defining (at least the first 2 paragraphs, which is all I've read this morning):

An important characteristic of this movement was that it is a radically positive, world-embracing vision of the whole of reality as an expression of a joyous Divine Consciousness (for example, as the divine play of Shakti and Shiva.^[1]). Tantric spiritual practices and rituals aim to bring about an inner realization of this truth, bringing freedom from ignorance and rebirth in the process.

As I am not a philosophy scholar, if anything here doesn't make sense -- don't call me on it. I am still learning.

Have a great Thursday!

SHARING THE 'PEARLS'

2011-08-02T08:12:00.003-06:00

I used to hold my 'pearls' close. Not sharing. I was 'selfish' (ouch). That was then, this is now; that time is history.

Today, I share my 'pearls'; as yoga teachers, we are here not only to teach our students, but to also teach our peers (and to be taught by them), to even teach our teachers on occasion. (A recent issue of YogaJournal addressed this - when it chronicled the relationships of several well-known yoga instructors.)

We keep our knowledge 'close to the vest' when we feel insecure and threatened. Maybe it's age, maybe it's a change of attitude, whatever it is -- it is now much easier for me to share.

Now, that doesn't mean that I'm going to spend $100, $200, or more for a training, then turn around and give all of my hard-earned notes to someone who didn't spend the money or time to participate in the same training. But, I will share 'pearls', dropping them along the way, sharing appropriate pearls with my peers. There are also some trainings I've participated in that are 'closed', meaning - especially in webinar situations - that the teacher leading the webinar has asked we not share the downloaded webinar contents with others who have not signed up. Of course, as I practice what I've learned (and, if people pay attention), the 'pearls' may become apparent. But, that's different.

Anyway, I've come a long way -- I enjoy sharing the teachings I feel are appropriate to be shared. No more do I hoard and keep my knowledge secret. It just feels better.

Have a great Tuesday!

SO MANY 'PEARLS'

2011-07-30T07:11:00.005-06:00

I still vibrate with the inspiration offered me at the Gathering, earlier this week (seems it was longer ago, but - no, it was just this week). And, I find myself going back to my notebook over and over, looking for quotes, 'pearls' of wisdom, offered by the philosophers, the instructors, and by John during those 3 days.

Now, I wish I had taken more detailed notes. At the time, tho, it seemed important to just listen. Each time I would begin to write, I'd miss the next 'pearl'. A dual-edged decision to stop writing; leaving my memory in charge of remembering.

Well, remembering will be important in this post also -- the computer or the blog program decided to NOT save my entire post; leaving me to rely on memory to re-write it. Here goes:

I finished yesterday's post with the quote "Lean into your edge." Why? Because, for me, it is a great example for Monday's philosophy topic: Darshan / Sadhana. The sanskrit word, darshan, means 'the view' or 'sight'; sadhana means practice (meditation, asana/poses, spiritual practices, etc.). Think of darshan as the attitude, sadhana is the action, what I do in between is to align.

The best example I came up with in my previous post (now lost somewhere in 'cyberspace') was that every now and then I become stale -- perhaps it's a sign of boredom with teaching the same poses, using similar themes, or practicing the same sequence over and over. Fortunately, it is at those times that a training or workshop comes along. I attend, I learn, I push myself a bit farther than I have been doing on my own, I walk away re-invigorated, with a new 'view' of my practice, my goals, my abilities. Like that.

Darshan - the view - precedes sadhana. Why? Because it is darshan that empowers our sadhana. The view helps me avoid pitfalls; I take the philosophy / teachings in, let them vibrate, and they become the embodiment of my view. My darshan refreshes my sadhana.

So, darshan = attitude, the setting of the foundation. I align through my study. And, my sadhana is the action that comes from setting my foundation and aligning.

My opportunities for study have expanded, as well. These three scholars, Hareesh Wallis, Christopher Tompkins, and Eric Shaw, all offer on-line and in-person opportunities to study with them. I'll be checking them out -- each of them was down-to-earth, approachable, 'regular guys' (just really smart 'regular guys'), who each had a sense of humor. Those are the kind I need -- approachable, down-to-earth, regular, with some humor thrown in. I deal with the smart part more easily if the other qualities are there. Not to put 'smart' philosophers down, but philosophy, at times, goes right over my head -- I need to be able to connect; once connected, the understanding comes more easily.

Hope you have a great Saturday!

BACK TO NORMAL (?)

2011-07-29T06:33:00.008-06:00

Yes, in Fallbrook, enjoying my early morning quiet time -- time to sit, time to have a cup of coffee, time to write, and time to contemplate the rest of this day.

I apologize for not posting during the remaining 2 days of the Inspired Gathering at Wanderlust; just too much to do every day (beginning at 7 am and concluding at 6 pm). Early mornings (5 am) were dedicated to quiet time, a bit of computer work, and getting ready for the day. By the end of the day, my greatest desire was to sit, contemplate, and sleep. The time in between went like this:

7 am Meditation / Pranayama with John Friend

9 am 90-Minute Yoga Class, also with John

11 am Roundtable Philosophy Discussion with John,

Christopher Tompkins, Eric Shaw, and Hareesh Wallis

Noon Lunch

2-4 pm Breakout sessions (sequencing, theming/languaging,

adjustments, or therapeutics)

4:30 Philosophy with Hareesh (Mon), Eric (Tues), Christopher (Weds)

The campus for this curriculum is a cluster of hotels, restaurants, and retail businesses called The Village at Squaw. It rests at the bottom of great ski mountains, and is surrounded on one side by needed parking lots; on the other by open space leading to the base of several ski runs. On this open side, was located our 'school' - a cluster of tents, bamboo structures, artists' displays. I'm telling you this because, in three days of schlepping bag, blanket, hat, mat, whatever, back and forth -- we not only exercised our minds, but our bodies got a good feeling for being a bellman in a hotel. Enough on that.

As I mentioned on Monday, the camaraderie was EXCEPTIONAL. Everyone so grateful to be together in this first gathering of Anusara-Inspired™ instructors, and so appreciative of the learning opportunities presented to us during the 3 days.

My learning opportunities took a slight detour during the time at the gathering. I had planned a diverse curriculum; however, Monday's session on sequencing left me yearning for more on this topic, so I continued on that vein. Monday was with Denise Benitez; Tuesday, Christina Sell; and Wednesday, Noah Maze. All exceptional instructors and all with their own styles of teaching (and sequencing). Interesting that there was no repetition of information -- Denise offered a sampling of her method and her knowledge in a discussion format; Christina offered us a hands-on, teach-by-example sequencing class, with us the students and her the teacher (duh!), then gave us some opportunity to ask questions; Noah got out his big paper and easel, showing us the method he uses when sequencing, peppered with some teaching examples which we acted out. From each I took nuggets of information to add to my 'toolbag'.

I also had opportunities to connect and re-connect with friends old and new. And, as I mentioned on Monday, I did carry out my intention -- introducing myself whenever I found myself in awkward silence with another instructor not yet known to me; or starting up conversations with people I had met in the past, but - perhaps - didn't know very well. There also were opportunities to approach instructors who I've admired from a distance and actually talk to them! (That's stepping out of my comfort zone for sure.)

We drove all night on Wednesday to get home early on Thursday. 2 hours of sleep does not make for a very social or invigorated Leslie, so I rested most of the day yesterday. Then, it was in to Carlsbad for dinner with the Grand-Dudes and their parents. A wonderful way to end the day.

Things go back to regular schedule now. Teaching, studying, and video'ing (yes, I am ready to do another video). That's another blog topic.

Hope you have a great Friday! My mantra for this (and future) days:

"LEAN INTO YOUR EDGE"

(compliments of the Wallis, Tompkins and Shaw)

WE'VE ARRIVED; WATCH OUT WANDERLUST!

2011-07-25T06:05:00.008-06:00

I rode up from San Diego to Squaw Valley yesterday with two newer friends -- women I've met through my teaching in Temecula (Doreen and Elissa, for you Temecula students). Elissa's daughter rode 97% of the way with us, leaving us to spend the weekend with her Aunt, Uncle and 'big' cousins outside of Sacramento.

It is always amazing to me to witness the camaraderie that develops between people who barely know each other but share this love for yoga, Anusara® yoga in particular. We shared driving, tho thanks to Elissa, Doreen and I spent shorter stints at the wheel. Within minutes of us entering the car, we fell into an easy banter than continued all the way to Squaw (that would be about 11 hours later!). Yoga, life in general, all were discussed. Interesting that there was no negative, it was all good talk; uplifting and, at times, peppered with laughter. Good stuff.

Once in Squaw Valley, we found my room, then walked the grounds which were being set up in anticipation of this big week of Wanderlust. FYI, Wanderlust is a festival featuring the many styles of yoga and is held several times each year at varying locations around the U.S. If you were to attend the entire festival, you would be able to experience several styles of yoga and the many well-known instructors who teach them. This year, Anusara-Inspired™ yoga instructors are gathering for the 3 days prior to the official start of Wanderlust for our first-ever Inspired Gathering; fortunately, for us, Certified Instructors were invited (in addition to those teaching formally), and we will all benefit from their presence and knowledge.

Once we had done our tour, we parted company -- Doreen and Elissa off to meet Shannon -- me off to take a well-deserved nap (did I mention that we had left my house in Fallbrook at 3:30 a.m.?

Rested up, it was time to clean up and head down for the Opening Ceremony. Everyone gathered under the canopy (looks like about 250-300 people, including the entire corps of instructors (Anusara® Certified and Inspired™) from Temecula, Riverside, etc. -- Ashley, Shannon, Lisa, Elissa, Doreen and me). John talked about the evolution of the training process for Anusara® teachers, introduced the Certified instructors who are attending and who will offer their knowledge over the 3 days. What did I notice? A relaxed and congenial attitude among the crowd -- this is good; I set my intention to help foster that over the 3 days. The learning will be intense, but that doesn't mean I have to be intense, as well. I need to relax, learn, have fun, enjoy my friends - new and old, and leave on Wednesday feeling rejuvenated and with lots of great information to influence my teaching and practice. (watch out!)

Today? Meditation at 7 am, followed by breakfast, followed by a 90-minute practice, followed by a philosophy discussion -- these activities all happen with John. Lunch. Then, I go to the breakout classes I've selected on topics like sequencing, therapeutics, philosophy (more?), languaging. Will write more as I go along.

Hope you have a great Monday!

AND NEXT, WANDERLUST INSPIRED GATHERING

2011-07-23T07:47:00.004-06:00

I love to be in John Friend's presence; truly love it -- so inspiring, so heart-warming, so fun, etc. And, I find I do things in his presence that I can't (or won't) outside of it (i.e. when in his presence, I rarely go to my knees before lowering to chaturanga dandasana; I will always go to my knees with other instructors or when practicing alone). Why, I wonder? Perhaps because, somewhere deep, I want to do my best, impress, or -- I'd rather think -- that this happens because he is just that motivating.

No matter the reason, I know it happens; just not sure of the reason.

So, here comes Wanderlust and THE FIRST formal gathering of Anusara-Inspired™ Yoga Instructors. 3 days filled with practice and study with John in the mornings; afternoons scheduled with other instructors - teachers I have long hoped to study with and who will offer me different paths to understand and embrace theming, therapeutics, philosophy, etc.

I would be lying if I said I was over-the-top excited. I am happy to be going; glad I can participate; I feel it's important to participate. However, excited? Not much. And, as I sit here, I wonder why.

The only reason I can come up with is that, as much as I enjoy any opportunity to study with John, I have become a bit spoiled over the years with opportunities to do that in settings with 60-100 people in attendance. This promises 300, 500, maybe 700 co-participants. Way too many, in my mind. Why? too many opportunities to look at the younger, thinner, more skilled; this will be my anava mala's playground multipled x several hundred.

Perhaps now that I've said it, admitted it, I'll go with a lighter heart. Kind of like when you speak it, it loses it's power. Let's hope that's the truth of the matter.

Tomorrow morning, I'll join friends for the drive north to Lake Tahoe. I am glad for that (had initially thought I'd be driving alone). We'll study, practice, meditate, hang out, for 3 days, then climb in the car for the drive home on Wednesday afternoon.

So, now that I've said it out loud -- at least in 'blog' land, perhaps I will get excited. I am good enough. As a small pin BJ Galvan selected for Martin & Jordan Kirk's Immersion graduates many years ago says: "Accept Your Greatness". I have that pin in a safe spot, a spot that I look at every day. To remind myself, I am great. It's the 'remind' part I need to get rid of (hope that makes sense). I am great.

Hope your Saturday is a 'great' one!

USE THOSE GLUTES!

2011-07-20T06:55:00.003-06:00

Several years ago, I attended a weekend workshop in Springdale, UT (Ann Rutz' community of Anusara yogis), for which Desiree Rumbaugh was our guide. In fact, I think her theme for the weekend had something to do with GPS; tho, this morning, I can't remember the exact title (it was a good one, however).

Springdale is a unique community in Southern Utah (almost down I-15 to St. George); off the beaten path and at the entrance to Zions National Park. If you know anything of Utah and the terrain of this park, you have an idea of Springdale's beauty. Small town, geography making it difficult for the population to get out-of-control. I've traveled down there for several workshops and have learned the people are passionate about their community, their politics and having fun! I even participated in a "Green Jello Eating Contest" one year when a workshop fell on the weekend of St Patrick's day celebrations (I lost).

Enough with the memory lane journey, and back to Desiree's workshop.

As we practiced that weekend, I think her main emphasis was kidney loop. She did, however, take us on a brief journey to the glutes and that, my friends, has changed my yoga life.

Paraphrasing here: "In neutral table, extend your right leg hip height, straight and strong, heel reaching to wall behind you. Hold this, 5 minutes." What? 5 (as in FIVE) minutes?!?!?!? Yes, 5 (as in FIVE).

Once that 5 minutes was done, my right glutes were quivering, screaming, painfully making their presence known. Well, once that FIVE minutes was finished, we released, took a breath and lifted the left leg. For another 5 (as in FIVE) minutes.

This, she explained, was going to do wonders for our hamstrings. Strengthening and then using the glutes in our yoga poses would alleviate the need for our hamstrings to do all the work.

It's hard work, and it's something I'd never thought of before -- glutes working? Don't they just kind of hang out back there? No, they need to work. Look at this image:

Notice that the gluteus maximus (gm) covers the upper hamstring muscle connections. When the muscles of the backside are healthily strong, I am able to activate them, I imagine the gm (and it's associated muscles) caressing those connections and assisting in all the forward folding, lengthening, hamstring-activating poses I can think of. Ahhh, be still my heart.

Life, with this added knowledge, has never been the same. I literally very rarely (if at all) experience those twinges of pain at the top of the hamstrings that used to plague my practice.

Why do I think of this today? Yesterday, in class, a student asked for some help with painful upper hamstring 'stuff'. What did we do? Not 5 (as in FIVE) minutes, but at least 10 breaths on each side to wake them up. (Remember, I am trying to grow class populations here, not decimate them!) Then we stood with balls of feet on a roll, heels on floor, and moved slowly through several uttanasanas, and then to parsvottonasana on each side. Then slowly through several simple surya's, All the while I'm reminding students 'engage your glutes', 'don't let go, keep them active through the entire movement', like that. Broken record stuff.

So, that's the story of 'use those glutes'. If you haven't heard it or tried it, do so. Marvelous, underused muscles on the backside, just waiting for their opportunity to shine!

Hope your Wednesday is a good one (getting my hair cut; after all, Wanderlust is just around the corner)!

THANKS TO LOOPS & SPIRALS . . .

2011-07-17T07:45:00.003-06:00

July 2011, will be remembered as a month of re-connecting. I've already written about Lesley and my old/new friendship (go back to this past Wednesday's post). Out of the blue yesterday came an e-mail from another 'old' friend.

This friend I met in Miami six years ago at the first Teacher Training I attended with JF (John Friend). She and I neighbor'd in the first morning's session, and got to know each other through conversations and partnering.

One important thing to know about Teacher Trainings is that they are challenging. Not simply because I am trying to learn everything being said by the instructor, but add to that the many personalities, egos (yes, egos, including mine) in the room, and differing expectations. It (the training) can come right up to my face and give me a good 'slap', no matter what level of instructor/student I am at that point in time. And, it doesn't even have to be my 'stuff' I'm worried about.

This 'old/new' friend (first name, Lisa) and I both had our share of challenges that week - physical and emotional; fortunately, we had become acquainted that first morning and could bolster each other through the moments that threatened to make a 'train wreck' of the experience. We both survived that first training with JF and, for me, the rest is history you (the reader) may know.

This week, in doing research on loops & spirals, Lisa came upon a blog I wrote about the topic many months ago. She sent me an e-mail, I responded, and we are now Facebook friends -- I look forward to getting reacquainted in the time ahead.

BTW, carpet is in and it looks and feels great. Now dusting off furniture, and unpacking more boxes that had been waiting for this to be accomplished.

Hope your Sunday is a good one!

EVERYONE IS MY TEACHER

2011-07-16T07:15:00.002-06:00

The waxing and full moon offered up many opportunities this week -- just looking at it could have been enough; but, I took it a bit further and used it (and the associated holiday, Guru Purnima - when we honor and celebrate our teachers) as theme for classes. I also loved reading how friends wrote about the 'holiday' -- in this case more of an old world definition is applied (holy day).

A short re-cap of the week is in order:

Tuesday's class in Carlsbad turned into a private for one lucky lady. Good stuff, tho, since the more I question, the more I find out about people; and the more I observe, the more I see. Not bad stuff, just stuff that might benefit from a bit of enhancing. In a private class situation, it's easier to do this as you just focus on one person and this gives you opportunities (and excuses) to really dive deep. Once, a student said to me "you notice everything!". Why? She was the only one in the room, the one I was paying attention to and 'seeing' everything about - the good and the rest.

The afternoon Therapeutic/Gentle class in Temecula was small, as well. I was bolstered by the inquiry of one student into doing some private work with her. She is recovering from a very serious car accident, feels yoga is helping her, and cleared it with her physician. Good stuff. This will be my first private client work in California.

Wednesday, well I wrote about my new/old friend. If you have an opportunity, check out her blog (listed to the right, Lesley DuTemple). I am loving her ability to communicate through her writing. I also must admit it's nice to reflect on things other than yoga for a few minutes during my morning computer time.

Thursday -- I received a note from my Certification evaluator (is that what they're called?). Homework is signed off on, next step - create a class plan, get her approval, video! This news, plus the fact that 5 showed for my Carlsbad class, was great support to my theme of honoring and celebration (using Guru Purnima as the basis). I carried the same theme to the Temecula class, switched up the apex based on the student's in the room.

What's happening with my teaching, now that the homework is completed? Well, I have 'connected the dots'. I do go back to the theme, emphasize the heart quality and UPA, tell people 'why'. I can feel and hear myself doing it. It's kind of scary and 'out of the box' for me. I just finished reading "The Gifts of Imperfection". Teaching this way is somewhat like the contents of the second-to-last chapter, called "Letting Go Of Being Cool and Always in 'Control'". That's how I've always been - 'in control' - at least as long as I can remember. Teaching from my heart, adding in motivating adjectives, raising my voice to convey excitement, all these things go right up to my imprinted pattern of 'in control' and scream in its face (there's a story to demo this, too much to write, maybe another time). Scary stuff; GOOD STUFF!

And, Friday -- well the carpet people were to have arrived, change of plans - they are coming today. That throws my yoga plan off; but, will love new carpet without wine stains (from previous owners).

Hope you have a great Saturday. I'll be dodging carpet layers most of the day -- won't be hard to look for the good in that, however.

THE SMALL WORLD WE LIVE IN

2011-07-13T06:59:00.003-06:00

I am reminded repeatedly that it truly is a small world. Talking to people, questioning, discussing, I discover a connection -- somewhere, somehow -- with many of them.

One example has been at the forefront of my awareness lately: Perhaps you've seen my Facebook posts about our work with Cate Stillman, Certified Anusara® Yoga instructor and Certified Ayurveda Specialist, who lives and practices both her Certified occupations out of Driggs, Idaho. I met Cate several (many?) years ago, when I began attending classes at Yoga Tejas (now, her studio, but - at that time - owned by Sundari). I loved her classes, and each time we would arrive at our home in Driggs, I'd check the shedule for opportunities to practice with either Cate or Sundari. Over the years, we've connected at trainings and workshops - including two at the studio I owned in Salt Lake City, in addition to our continued relationship through her studio. I also have recently been using her Ayurvedic advice, with success I ought to add.

When I posted my comments on Facebook, I put the @ symbol before Cate's name, which causes comments to go to her page and to be broadcast to her friends and fans (I think that's how it works, anyway). Reading her page and comments was a long-lost friend who (whom?) I had met in Salt Lake City 15+ years ago, and who I had lost touch with after our initial meetings. She and her husband have built their dream home in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan; so, we really lost touch when that happened. When we did occasionally cross paths, we discovered our mutual Michigan connections (mine was through my Dad's last Air Force assignment there and the home of my late brother and his family).

This 'long-lost' friend "facebook'd" me when she saw my name on Cate's page and asked me to be her 'friend'. It took me a few minutes to realize just who she was. Once I figured it out, I quickly responded 'yes' to the friend request and a very nice dialogue has begun.

Besides Michigan, what else do we have in common?

We both share the first name, Leslie (Lesley, in her case)
We both practice Anusara Yoga
We have mutual friends through Anusara Yoga, including Cate and Jamie Allison
We have mutual friends from our Salt Lake City days
We both enjoy writing. Lesley is an author of children's books, has recently formed her own publishing company, and writes a great blog (see link at right)

So, one example of what a small world we live in and how Facebook and blogging bring us closer together.

Hope you have a great Wednesday!

THE WEEK IN REVIEW

2011-07-11T07:09:00.003-06:00

Not sure if I forgot or just kept getting distracted after Thursday's post -- guess it was a bit of both.

It was a busy week - teaching, unpacking (again), cleaning, spending time with Grand-Dudes. I'll just spend a few lines on both the teaching and the Grand-Dudes.

On teaching -- I find that I am attracting an experienced set of students. That is good; I take it to mean that my teaching is going deep into what some people are looking for. What is that, besides feeling good about themselves at the end of the class? I think it is feeling good, plus knowing why you are feeling good. An observation on this group of students: Many have done yoga for years, some teach, and they have developed habits. Here and there, I see ways of doing things that have become their 'habit', yet not quite an 'optimal' habit. As a new-to-them instructor, I have been pointing out those 'less-than-optimal' habits. Oops! I am sure I have my own set of habits, i.e. hyperextending knees, when I forget (or ignore) shin loop; not taking legs quite wide enough for some of the standing poses; like that. So, I understand. That is one of the major reasons to come into a class - to have an instructor look at our pose, embellish it, offer us kudos on a job well done - feel good about our efforts and the outcome.

And, about the Grand-Dudes. Gratitude - the practice of Gratitude. I know their parents share this goal - to give their children the gift of a Gratitude practice. We (Howard and I) took them to the Birch Aquarium on Saturday. After moving quickly thru the Aquarium (4 and 2 year old attention spans are SHORT, we are finding), we climbed in the car to go get some lunch. First thing out of the 2-year-old's mouth -- 'I had so much fun at the quarium' (not a typo - that's how he says 'aquarium' at this point in his life). Howard and I asked the two boys (and ourselves) to share our favorite parts of this excursion -- a fun practice; one that we plan to keep going -- what we are grateful for and enjoy most about our experiences together.

We made it to the lunch location, one boy voraciously hungry - the other, quickly divebombing into a case of something (flu?). We found ourselves with one who wanted to go home, the other who wanted his 'dilla' (his word for quesadilla), NOW. We quickly satisfied the 'dilla' need and headed for home, to Mother and to their beds; one for a nap, the other to recover. Things are better today. Ahhh, the balancing act.

This week? Going to set a goal to go to class as many times as possible. Inspired Gathering at Wanderlust is on the horizon -- need to kick my ____ (backside)!

Hope your Monday is a good one!

GETTING ORGANIZED

2011-07-07T06:40:00.003-06:00

The 'good' of moving. Yesterday, I did not have a formal schedule, so spent the day doing odds & ends - laundry, housework, some reading, some unpacking.

We may be closing in on the last of the boxes -- the books. We have more books than any 'normal' two people should be allowed to own. Granted, there was a valid reason for the acquisition of each book. However, many have never been read - just set on the shelf to wait. Now, months or years after purchase, some we've forgotten 'why' we bought them or, their stated contents are no longer of interest to us. We are 'culling' the collection as the boxes are opened.

In our house there are categories of books, the majority of which my husband, Howard, has bought over the years. My collection leans to yoga (what else?), and - while proportionately much smaller - it still fills two cabinets, along with training notebooks, journals, articles, lesson plans, cd's and dvd's. I pulled all from the cabinets yesterday, sorted them by category - philosophy, asana, poetry, training publications. I also gathered up several manila folders filled with 'who knows what'.

The 'who knows what' turned out to be articles I've collected, plus lesson plan printouts. I sorted one from the other, then began to sort the articles by topic. This morning, I have 2 binders; one, filled with articles about specific poses, the other with articles related to 'what to do for specific body parts, conditions, philosophy'. The articles, upon review, will be helpful -- they aren't all written by Anusara® instructors, but many by respected yoga educators with strong backgrounds in body mechanics. I set a goal to read 1-2 articles each day (I can tell by the check I've made in the upper corner that some have been read; re-reading never hurts.). Next task, sort the lesson plans.

Organizing like this makes me feel good, like I've accomplished something, like I've taken control of the clutter. I now know what is in those two cabinets and will remember as I use the books where to go to find needed information. Cool!

I am scheduled to teach this morning in Carlsbad, am setting an intention for people to show. Then, my regular afternoon class in Temecula. Inbetween, finalize the 'deal' on our new carpet - we had the house measured yesterday; ordered the carpet; now wait for it's arrival from Georgia. Excited - this last interior improvement (for now) will help me settle in, to feel truly at home.

Hope you have a good Thursday!

YESTERDAY (TUESDAY)

2011-07-06T07:57:00.004-06:00

A good day; tho, no one came to the class in Carlsbad. Hard to admit -- that no one comes to your class; there's an element of 'shame' in it, like the repeating mantra 'I'm not good enough'. But, the new book I'm reading "The Gifts of Imperfection", advises that owning our shame is one of the first steps to worthiness. That, the less we talk about shame, the more control it has over our lives. I don't plan to let that happen.

So, yesterday - no one in Carlsbad. The good? An opportunity for a fellow teacher to ask me some questions about foot pain, knee placement and hip discomfort. JF tells us that many issues of legs, hips, back, begin with the feet. I asked her to stand in tadasana for me and observed that her tendency in the foot was to roll out (away from the foot discomfort in the ball of the big toe) - tho she was giving it her best effort to stay well grounded, her knee turned slightly in on the same leg and the hip pain is on the same side. We talked for a bit, as I watched her stand -- both from front, back and side views. The back of her knees bulged slightly, indicating hyperextension. I asked her to create more shin loop. The result? She feels like she's standing in utkatasana - chair pose (tho the legs look straight to me); and her inwardly-turned knee straightened itself out. The work, sometimes, is hard -- to control her wonderful flexibility, to make it flexibility created by strength rather than by loose ligaments. I was reminded of JF's strong admonition: when you see hyperextension, move that student out of the pose and re-align her/him before proceeding.

The Temecula class, however, was attended -- not a ton of people (like Sunday), but enough - especially since it is a Gentle/Therapeutic Class. One of the students was a nurse. A challenge, in itself, when I begin to spout the facts I know (and have read) about the physical attributes and benefits of, for example, standing with feet parallel. (How can I purport to know more than the nurse standing in front of me? Certainly confronts my belief in my knowledge - see paragraph 1.) I stood my ground on that one, even tho she'd had 30 years of dance instruction behind her that taught her to stand with toes pointing out. And, best part, she was accepting of it -- it changes her perception of her body at this point, so it is tough work; but I watched as she repeatedly brought the feet back to parallel without being prompted. Love. It.

Today? House stuff -- got to get some lingering projects taken care of, plus excited to see the man coming to measure for new carpet -- YES! Let me just say that 20-year-old carpet, while clean, leaves a lot to be desired.

Hope your Wednesday is a good one!

WHY IS IT SO HARD?

2011-07-04T11:06:00.003-06:00

What, you ask. Why is it so hard to accept a compliment with a simple 'thank you'; no excuses, no jokes, no sidestepping, just 'thank you'.

I received a wonderful compliment today, fought back the urge to do all of the above, and simply responded 'thank you'. It was tough! And, as I told the giver of the compliment, I hope a new book I'm reading will help me get over this tendency. The book? "The Gifts of Imperfection", by Brene Brown (an author with many letters after her name). Preface and two chapters in, and I think it's a keeper.

Guest taught in Temecula yesterday (Living Yoga), had 14 in class -- what fun! A basic class, most of the students were well-versed in yoga. I tried something I hadn't for a while -- the silent demo. A suggestion of Christina Sell, I asked everyone to simply watch me. Then, the hard part - to keep my mouth shut as I moved into a modified parsvakonasana (hand on a block). Silent demos are effective, in that there is a part of the brain that receives the information more completely than if I were chattering along with the demo (perhaps distracting them?). I did demo it again, pointing out my theme and the actions I wanted to emphasize. And, upon completion and when everyone was in the pose, they all looked great!

Today, we are going about the day kind of normally -- I'm cleaning, laundering, yard-working; Howard is walking dogs, running a couple errands, and - now - in the garage puttering. We'll leave in about 3 hours for the "Grand-Dude's" house. Will be great to enjoy the 4th of July with them this year.

Hope you have a great holiday and be safe!

FINALLY, WE MEET . . .

2011-07-03T07:44:00.004-06:00

Sometime in late 2009, I began reading Christina Sell's blog (see blog list on the right). I was voracious for blogs, for commentary on the practice of Anusara Yoga. One day, looking for more, I scrolled down the list of her favorite blogs and came upon MariaCristina's. Clicked on it. Read it. Good stuff; so I went back a few posts and landed on a November 2009 post titled "The hardest class ever" (her blog link is also to the right).

Read it, laughed, re-read it, laughed even harder, told my friends about it. Not that her other posts weren't funny or entertaining, this one struck a cord -- here was a person with a sense of humor, an ability to poke some fun at herself publicly, be human. I liked that, and have read 98% of her posts since that day (being honest here - to say 100% might be stretching it).

During that time her posts have been inspirational, educational, celebratory, a bit sad (thinking of her Grandmother, here), always human. And, I love the way she ends many of them with the phrase "may we remember to . . . (whatever the blog topic relates to)".

As a result, we struck up a dialogue; can't remember the first contact - MariaCristina reminds me that I commented on the post, "The hardest class ever". And, I continued to comment on her posts, and she would always graciously send a 'thank you'. She began to read my blog and comment, when appropriate. When I blogged about my Certification exam, she gave me one bit of advice (no answer, just advice), which I followed and which helped me immensely! We continued to e-mail and look forward to meeting each other one day. My move to So. Calif. made that possible; and when the b-day celebration for JF was held, we were both there -- just at different times.

So, when she knew she would be coming south for the 4th of July weekend, she e-mailed me. We constructed a plan to meet for a class, meal, whatever. The plan in motion, 3 of us converged in Del Mar yesterday. Marlene Bullock (a friend who has moved here from Phoenix) joined us. We finally met, face to face. And, it was good.

We have a plan to meet again: if not before, she hopes to come back south for my 'expansion' class in August (plug: August 7, 1-3 pm, Expansion Class, "Re-Muster Your Power", at Living Yoga Center in Temecula).

Good stuff -- the kind good and lasting memories are made of.

Hope you have a happy and safe 4th of July!

JUNE 30, ALREADY!

2011-06-30T07:01:00.002-06:00

3 months, 9 days, we have been in our home in Fallbrook. Impressions? We are happy. We aren't unpacked yet, but we are happy. Very content with the decision to move, not missing too much about the home we left behind (except the 'unpacked-ness'), and settling in to new routines quite nicely.

The one constant for me has been my practice and my connection to the world of Anusara® yoga. How? Well, for me, Facebook was a strong conduit in the beginning; keeping me up-t0-date on who was doing what, even if they were formally unknown to me (like you, I have a number of 'friends' I haven't met yet).

Within Facebook, I discovered "90 Minutes to Change the World", led by Amy Ippoliti. This is an on-line webinar series designed to help us re-discover and re-claim our power as the 'local yoga teacher' (as opposed to the superstar who comes to town to do a workshop or training). Not that I have anything against the superstar -- I'm right there in class with everyone else when they arrive. It does make sense, tho, for some of us to 'hold the fort', and Amy wisely saw the need to bolster our confidence, our business acumen, and even touches on mechanics of a well-designed class (tho everyone participating does not teach Anusara® yoga).

She offered us a deal to repeat the 'new and improved' course, which I did. Then, she went on to offer 'Superheroes' -- more in-depth sharing. Needless to say, I did that one, as well. I've learned a lot. The best part? The connection to fellow yoga teachers from all over the country (and world). Since joining the group, there hasn't been a morning that someone (or many) from the group are posting within our own "private" FB page, asking questions, generating discussion -- great brain food for us all. Now that the formal webinar has ended, conversation continues -- new friends, even tho I haven't 'formally' met them yet.

Besides my Facebook endeavors, my teaching continues -- the two classes in Carlsbad are holding steady in small numbers; I'm hoping this is a similar phenomenon to one I experienced in Salt Lake. I had a class there that lingered at 2-3 for one year; then magically jumped to 9-10 attendees -- hope I can wait a year. Temecula is certainly a more vibrant studio; more established in the community; more success there - which is a good thing; keeps me from feeling too discouraged. As in SLC, the Gentle/Therapeutic class is very rewarding to me and appears a direction I'll move towards.

Then, there's the connection to Anusara® in general -- much stronger here with the establishment of the center in Encinitas, scheduled to open in October.

Besides yoga, we love being close to Derek, Jess and the 3 calif. grand-dudes. We are having fun coming up with ideas of things to do with them that they might not have done yet (i.e. 'orchestra night').

So, a bit caught up on the blog. No intention to stop writing in it, just many things to do here in sunny So. Cal.

Have a great Thursday,

WHERE, OH WHERE, HAVE YOU BEEN, LESLIE?

2011-06-20T08:52:00.004-06:00

Around, here and there, doing this and that. Busy, busy, busy and somewhat distracted.

The distracted part is what has pulled me away from the blog, because I've been busy before and still found time to blog. This time, tho, the distraction has been too powerful and too unresistable -- so, I've been falling prey to it.

Here I am, tho - still around, still unpacking, still working on growing my classes, still working towards Certification, still enjoying 'grand-dudes' and family.

We are pleased to announce that we can now almost get one car into our 3-car garage. Can you imagine 2 people having so much 'stuff' that they can't get one car into a 3-car garage? Well, look no further. I am reading "Life Is A Verb" -- this will be a favorite, if only for this one sentence: "It is stuff that keeps us from participating fully, from saying 'yes'." Our life for the past 3 months has been controlled by 'stuff' - what to do with this, do we sell that?, do we give away this other thing? or, do we just put something in a cabinet, thinking we'll use it someday - better not get rid of it. "Stuff" -- I could write a whole post on this topic.

I am, in the midst of 'stuff', still working towards Certification. A second phase of homework from my mentor arrived last week. I responded yesterday. I love this work. Why? Because there are lessons in the completed work that garnered a 'great' or a 'nice' from my mentor. I look at that work and I learn that it met the objectives and I have a model for moving forward. And, the work that needs enhancement? Well, it's a challenge, but I enjoy re-thinking, re-writing, re-submitting it. It's in, now I wait.

I received a very nice comment from a student who regularly attends my classes. She teaches yoga, and - from what I gather - is always striving to learn more by attending classes in the area. What did she say? That my classes are like attending mini-workshops. She went on to say that she was impressed with how I looked at the group, assessed what I saw, then taught to that. Wow! What can you say to such a nice comment? "Thank you" (then, when alone, jump up and down and stomp my feet with happiness).

A new week - we've invited family out for dinner; not sure if they're coming yet, but still a motivating factor for housework. Once I know their plan, I'll either be cooking/cleaning or going to a class. Need to get to an "Ashley" class (Ashley Lombardo-Fiala, Certified Anusara Instructor).

Hope you have a great Monday!

A FULL WEEK

2011-06-11T06:47:00.003-06:00

Taught a lot this week, a good thing. Subbing (guest teaching) will increase my visibility in the two communities where I currently teach, so I am volunteering where possible and needed. Also, I finalized a brochure to leave at the 2 studios -- basically telling people who I am and giving them contact info, schedule, etc. Business cards are next.

My 2 classes in Carlsbad went well -- granted, there was just one student on Tuesday, but - she is new to yoga, enthusiastic, and very thoughtful about the practice. It was very gratifying to be her teacher on that morning. In fact, something I said or did (or, perhaps it's just under the surface) caused her to shed a few tears at the end of savasana. I know I've cried in past classes and I know others experience similar moments. It's just that I rarely have experienced it in the classes I teach. So, what to do -- I simply sat and we talked for a few moments after class -- nothing real personal, like - "why are you crying?". Instead, talked about yoga, her attentiveness and her obvious enthusiasm for the practice. I could speculate why she was teary, but until I know her better, there is no way I can know her story.

Good news - the Tuesday student returned on Thursday, as did a few others. More experience in the room; so my new-to-yoga person got to experience 'kicking it up a notch'. I was also happy that she had good examples in the room to pay attention to. And, even when offered a modification, she gave 'Wild Thing' a shot from down dog (a' la Christina Sell).

In Temecula, classes also went well. Tuesday's, which is a Gentle/Therapeutic, is doing it's job: drawing in the new-to-yoga, the students dealing with physical 'stuff' or just wanting a more gentle practice on that day. So fulfilling to work with a new student recovering from a serious car accident (fractured C1&C7 - no surgery, tho; fractured collar bone and breast bone; broken wrist stabilized by a metal plate). She came with a friend; both indicated they'd buy a pass AFTER class, once they saw how things went (in other words, did I do my job well). No pressure! And, they both bought continuing passes after the class. Whew!

Thursday's is a basic Anusara-Inspired™ class which also attracts the new-to-yoga. Fun to introduce the practice to this group.

And, on Friday, I subbed (guest taught) a class. 9 in the room, be still my heart. Challenges, tho, follow me -- 4 of the 9 were new to the practice; of the remaining 5, just one had significant yoga experience. Talk about teaching to the entire spectrum! It was fun and offered me a chance to teach to a fuller room, which takes the energy up to another level. It also required that I watch 9 foundations, instead of 2-3, and that I remember to acknowledge 9 people - not just the new-to-yoga; remember everyone wants to be noticed.

That was my yoga week. Inbetween, housework, computer work, errands, garage organization, continue unpacking (will it ever end? not if I / we don't get busy!)

Today - off to a friend's son's bride's wedding shower - an opportunity to dress up a bit, see some old friends, meet some new friends.

Hope you have a great Saturday,

ON LISTENING, AGAIN . . .

2011-06-05T09:26:00.002-06:00

"Remember that silence is sometimes the best answer." - Tenzin Gyatso, the 14th Dalai Lama

Friend, Jenny Otto, posted this quote on her Facebook page this morning. It is so appropriate, since I was in conversation yesterday, but I didn't feel part of it. Why? Because it didn't seem the people I was talking to were listening.

Huh? Ever talk to someone and find them finishing your sentences? That's what I mean.

Several months ago (or longer), I wrote a blog post on just this topic of listening; relating them to the 3 A's of Anusara® Yoga. They go like this:

Attitude - Open, receive

Alignment - Eye contact, ears open, mouth shut

Action - Listen to ENTIRE sentence or phrase; respond, if appropriate.

As in our practice of Anusara® yoga, the first 'A' (Attitude) is the key. Without an open, receiving attitude, the other two are like sails without the wind -- listless and drooping.

And, that's all I have to say about that.

Enjoy your Sunday,

THE WEEK IN REVIEW

2011-06-03T09:46:00.004-06:00

It's been a busy week; and, as I sit here 'blogging' away, I'm struck by and enjoying the feeling of no appointments, nowhere I have to be, no one to wait for -- just time to take care of house stuff, do some grocery shopping, enjoy the sunshine.

Stepping back to Monday -- remember the picnic. There are pics on Facebook now. Just one of me that I've found, taken with my friend Debra Hodgen. We're the ones NOT in bikini tops or dressed as mermaids, in case you're wondering.

Tuesday, I think I've written about -- teaching.

Wednesday, Grand-Dude Jack came out for the afternoon, and it went great. He helped me pull out some old plants, plant some new ones, water the new ones (and himself). We then 'harvested' some oranges for him to take home. Our most significant activity, however, was walking the dogs. My Grand-Dudes are not used to dogs; so there is a lot of trepidation on their part (and likewise for the dogs). So, when he asked to walk the dogs, I was happy. He took the little one (name: Driggs); I took the big one (name: Tucker). We walked at least one-half mile, up to our corner and back, lingered a while before going into the yard. That was a big deal moment for him and me, and the dogs.

After all this, he and 'Grandpa RJ' (their name for Howard) still had time to go to the sports store to buy a 'Kan Jam' game, and Jack's first baseball mit and a soft ball. When they returned, there was time to play Frisbee (Kan Jam) for a while before the rest of the family arrived for dinner. Wonderful day.

Thursday, another day of teaching -- my theme for the day was a take-off on Christina Sell's blog about community. Small classes again, but a nice blend of students -- very experienced in Carlsbad; in Temecula, one new student in the group, one 'angry' shoulder, and one with hip issues. My kind of classes!

And, now, today -- which I've already described, and has yet to evolve.

I also spent a lot of time during the week on the computer, listening to teleseminars (wonderful stuff), writing plans and articles / blog entries, reading. I even stuck my neck out and answered a query on the Anusara Inspired Yoga Teacher & Student Discussion Board Facebook page. What, you ask? A question re: Urdhva Dhanurasana; student with a sore shoulder and unable to straighten that same elbow. If you're a Facebook'er, you can log on to the page and read my answer, and the answers of other very experienced teachers. What was remarkable about this? That I stepped out of the comfort zone of just thinking and actually wrote it down to allow all the world to see. She's back!

Hope your Friday and weekend are great!

FUN WEEKEND

2011-06-01T06:19:00.004-06:00

This past Memorial Day weekend, we put away the unpacking tools and simply enjoyed the three days. Howard had traveled most of the previous 3 weeks, so it was time to just spend time together.

Saturday was spent running errands - an essential part of most of our weekends. Sunday, we re-traced our old patterns when we attended a matinee production at the LaJolla Playhouse (A Dram of Drumhaccit), followed by a trip to CostCo and then the garden store, followed by dinner at a local eatery.

Monday, Memorial Day, we enjoyed the beach celebration for JF's birthday and welcome to California. We arrived early (party was scheduled for 10-4; we were there at 10:30), and were joined shortly after by our son and his family. Beautiful weather, complimented by family, and connecting faces to names (remember, I'm new to this kula). I also re-connected with old workshop buddies and my new kula of instructors from the Inland Empire. Highlight of the few hours we were there: playing with and enjoying Grand-Dudes (and being able to show them off a bit) and presentation of the 'board' to John (see pic, below). FYI, many donated a few (or many) dollars to this gift, so it has a special meaning for all of us; truly a gift from the Anusara kula's heart.

I am sorry we didn't stay at the 'party' longer; I missed meeting MariaCristina -- so sorry about that.

And, this week? Well, it's off to a good start. I taught in both Carlsbad and Temecula yesterday. The Carlsbad class is still small, but I enjoy having strong students (including one faithful instructor) in attendance. Growth will happen, just takes time. In Temecula, the class was also smaller (it's a Gentle/Therapeutic Class). In attendance were three; one, new to yoga and struggling with a stressed shoulder; another, coming back from joint replacement surgery; and the third, exerienced and looking for a gentle yoga practice. I appreciate the diversity of 'stuff' in this class; it's teaching me to look at everyone, pay attention to everyone, appreciate everyone.

Today? Planting some flowers, cleaning the house a bit, preparing dinner for the family. Then I'll go into town and pick up senior California Grand-Dude (Jack), and bring him out here for some time exploring on his own. The rest of the group will come out for the dinner I'm preparing. I'm loving this new life!

Hope you have a great day,

THERE'S NO 'ROUTINE' - YET

2011-05-27T07:10:00.005-06:00

In Salt Lake, after 17+ years in one place, I had a very set and (most of the time) comfortable routine. Each day had a rhythm, with a few blips here and there.

Now, I am in Fallbrook and 'routine' is a word I have yet to encounter. Oh, I have a teaching schedule and that helps, but the rest of my days/evenings remain very fluid and unpredictable. This week was no different, here's the re-cap:

Saturday, I did follow through and attend Ashley's (Ashley Lombardo-Fiala) practice on Saturday afternoon -- a 3-hour, "Eye of the Tiger" practice. Though very out-of-shape for this level of yoga, I gave everything a try, and even found feet lifting from the floor in some arm balances, where never before that has happened. Interesting! The best part? Spending time with new yoga friends, laughing, groaning, etc. Even a couple timed handstands and pinchas. The not-so-good? Well, my urdhva has suffered from lack of attention; not surprising, tho.

On Sunday, Ashley (our Certified Anusara® instructor in the area) hosted the 5 Inspired™ instructors at her home. Another shorter practice, a few photos, and a great salad and meeting. The "Inland Empire Anusara® Kula" (the six of us, plus students and any new Anusara® instructors yet-to-arrive, from Riverside, San Bernardino, and NE San Diego Counties) was born -- plans for Facebooking our presence and offerings, a newsletter, getting the word out, etc., were made. We'll all get together again this weekend -- a Memorial Day Anusara® Beach Party, hosted by John Friend.

Mondays are taking the form of a day of rest from whatever weekend activities we participate in. This week was no different. (FYI, our Salt Lake routine was very laid back on weekends, so rest was not needed.) I spent time listening on-line to Amy Ippoliti's SuperHeroes series (catching up), and Tal Rachleff's 'Yoga Teachers Telesummit'. I highly recommend both. Amy's is a continuation of her '90-minutes to change the world' - a 4-week series of webinars designed to give us nuts & bolts advice and guidance for the business side of teaching yoga and being a 'yoga magnet'. Tal's is a compilation of many different yoga teachers, different styles, speaking on various topics (a good part - participation is free). You can find info on both programs through Facebook or their websites (Amy - Wildspirityoga.com; Tal - facebook.com/trachleff).

Tuesday - teaching in Carlsbad and Temecula; basically becoming a day of teaching and driving. Not much time for other stuff.

Wednesday - More contractors at the house. We now have a beautiful set of garage closets/cabinets and that means we can begin to empty more boxes, continue to organize, with storage space, galore! I also was invited to guest teach a noon Gentle Yoga class in Temecula -- guest teaching is the best way to become known here, so all opportunities are accepted - if possible.

Thursday - another teaching day. Carlsbad class is growing! I've created a flier and left it at that studio in hopes it will spark some interest. Patience.

In Temecula, I subbed (guest taught) an early evening class. It is a flow class. Tho, with me teaching, I confessed from the outset that we'd be working on breaking down some poses, rather than flowing. Not a bad thing once in a while; but not always what some students want to hear. Fortunately, this was a very accepting group. We ventured into Ardha Chandra Chapasana, celebrating our journey. (Vijaya -- incremental celebration)

And, today? Need a haircut, have an appointment. Do you know how scary that is after 17 years with the same hair stylist? Once again, out of the comfort zone. Then workmen at the house in the afternoon.

Everyone here is looking forward to the 'Beach Party' I mentioned earlier in this post. Nice weekend; hope the weather holds.

May you, also, enjoy your Memorial Day weekend, whatever your plans include.

HOMEWORK, TEACHING & HOUSEWORK

2011-05-21T06:12:00.004-06:00

Those were major activities of this week -- oh, and lunch with a good friend who also has relocated to the San Diego area within the 2 years. A great way to spend a few hours on Friday.

I enjoyed my first voice-to-voice encounter with my Certification mentor last week. We shared a phone call, in which she offered comments on the video I've submitted. I have to say I was impressed and pleased with what I heard -- the good and the lacking (for lack of a better word). Her work had been thorough and she hit the nail on the head when she offered her thoughts for improvement. The same things I'd been thinking of and worrying about and trying to work on over the last months.

Then, she gave me homework. Not easy homework. Usually, when given something to answer in writing, I can knock it out pretty rapidly -- not this. After thinking about the questions asked for a few days, I began typing - thoughts began to flow - ideas to germinate. All said, the 3-part homework assignment was finished this week - on Thursday - and I sent it in; all 5 pages of single-spaced, typed text. My comment to her: Whew!

And, it was a good exercise for me and will help me as I move forward. Because now, the things I typed I am to put into practice as I teach. Another 'whew', as I contemplate that.

Speaking of teaching, it was a good week. My new student in Carlsbad returned, along with two instructors from the studio. Fun to have people coming to class; it was a lonely first few weeks. As summer begins, I'll be on the lookout for guest teaching opportunities to familiarize myself with the community and increase my exposure.

And, in Temecula, the energy stays good -- more people are coming in to the classes I teach; new-to-me and a few 'repeaters'. In both classes -- the Gentle and the Basics -- we used the wall to experience more opening.

Though I'm hardly in shape these days for a 3-hour practice (that's an admission that I have not been pushing myself very hard, yoga-wise, during this transition period), I think I'll venture out to one led by Ashley later today. Tomorrow, the Anusara (Certified and Inspired) teachers of the 'Inland Empire' (not sure there are very many of us in the Temecula/Riverside/??? area) will meet -- a first! Love it. We will do some yoga and spend time getting to know one another.

The house? It's been a quiet week on the acre -- no painters, no contractor, no window covering person, no gate builders. Even I took a break. I had signed up to go to Tucson for the Intensive with Darren, Amy & Christina; once the decision was made to not follow through on that, the weight lifted and it was as though I was on vacation, I guess. I feel badly I didn't go; however, the good? Reading that participants are now convinced that Hanumanasana is a pose to rest in -- that, to me, means they are working, HARD!

Today - a practice in Temecula. 3 hours of yoga, plus travel time, is a good chunk of the day around here.

Hope your Saturday is a good one!

HERE WE ARE - SATURDAY, AGAIN

2011-05-14T07:03:00.004-06:00

Boy, look back one year and you saw Leslie (me) diligently posting in her blog almost every day, without fail. Gradually, this has shifted; maybe that's a good thing. We'll see.

Home life remains much the same -- still unpacking, still have contractors & gate builders & sprinkler people & painters scheduled to work or working on the house. Progress, slow but sure. This weekend we must attack the garage -- clear out one bay and make it presentable and ready for the shifting of older storage cabinets into that space, making space for the new ones.

I had a good week of teaching. The Temecula classes are going well -- for being an unknown commodity, people are coming to experience my classes and returning for more. The Carlsbad classes; well, at least the 'zero' barrier was broken this week. That's what it takes, tho -- one person, then another, and another; and - positive thinking - the word will spread and the classes will grow.

I found it interesting and exciting that the experienced student who joined me this week (Carlsbad) enjoyed a couple of 'ah-ha' moments. One of those included simply softening the elbows in her bhujangasana (cobra pose), allowing her shoulders to glide towards the back plane of the body. Her comment: 'totally different, but good, feeling'. Love it!

This weekend? Like I said, more house stuff.

And next week? I was registered for a training with Darren Rhodes, Christina Sell & Amy Ippoliti. Logistically, considering the move, the work we are having done and Howard's work travel, it just is not going to happen. I believe they will have no trouble filling my space, however -- sounds like that is going to be one great training. But, for me, another time.

How does all this fit with the theme I used this week in my classes? Well, lots of effort + a bit of surrender = freedom. When I reflect on my decision about the training next week, I can see that I over-efforted to even register; I clung to that decision until yesterday (effort). When I made the decision to forego the training (surrender), my mood lifted (freedom). There will be other opportunities. (In fact, Ashley Fiala is offering a one-day workshop in Riverside the next weekend -- that one I can happily manage 'logistically'.)

Hope you have a great weekend,

AN OLD-STYLE FRIDAY TYPE POST ON SATURDAY

2011-05-07T05:47:00.005-06:00

As I did regularly several months ago, this post will be a bullet-point summation of my week (each day's high- and low-lights); and then I'll sift through my notes and offer a 'tip'. This was a Friday tradition for a long time in my blog, and I've missed the routine of it. Unfortunately, yesterday (Friday) I wasn't missing it as much as this morning (Saturday). So here goes:

Monday began with a blog entry detailing my excited expectations for the week, as I began my teaching schedule here in sunny So. Cal. After my own moving, and my week helping my Mother move, it also turned into a day of catching up on rest.
The big day (first day of teaching) was Tuesday -- a 10:30 am class in Carlsbad, named simply "Anusara-Inspired Yoga". Unfortunately, the class was posted to the studio's schedule just 2 days before, leaving precious little time for people to see it and work it into their schedule. In other words, no one came. I've offered some ideas for marketing for the studio as a whole, and I'll do my part. On to Temecula, where several students attended my Therapeutic/Gentle Yoga class. To be truthful, none needed therapy, but they were looking for a more gentle class, as each was somewhat new to yoga.
Wow! Wednesday arrived and with it a burst of energy. Lots of our artwork got sorted and hung, a few pieces of furniture re-arranged, the bed - which had been missing it's formal attire - was put right. A very productive day! Best of all, it concluded with time spent with 'grand-dudes' and dinner with the family at their home.
Thursday -- my second day of teaching in the week. Another 'bust' in Carlsbad; patience, patience, patience (and marketing). Thursdays I have several hours between classes, so I used it to run an errand, then home for some lunch before I headed up to Temecula. The class on Thursdays begins at 4pm and is a 'basics/intermediate' class. Once again, students in attendance -- a good thing.
Friday fell apart, schedule-wise -- several things I had planned to happen (deliveries, etc.) didn't happen. The big one did, tho -- delivery of the elliptical that will share my yoga space at home. Howard arrived home from his week-long work travels, and we critiqued another Fallbrook dining establishment (we went to dinner).

So, now it's early Saturday morning. Several things to accomplish today, including work on a class plan for tomorrow (I'm guest teaching in Temecula in the morning). And, where's that tip? Be right back.

- tic toc - tic toc - tic toc -

On Thursday, I had the opportunity to demo twice in class -- not having taught for a while, I had to go back to my memory bank and pull out the 'instructions' for demo'ing effectively. As I perused notes, I came across this brief description of a demo -- I'll add my 2-cents in italics:

Demos should include 2 key alignment points. Format for demo:

Ask all students to move closer to view the demo (Temptation is for students to stay on their mats; take the seat - call them over. If it's a large class, ask the students closest to kneel so that those behind are able to see.)
Do pose (silence is best -- there is something about the brain's ability to see and absorb without words that is beneficial; per Christina Sell)
Repeat, pointing out 2 key points (Keep it to 2 points, easier for students to understand. These 2 points should relate to our theme and alignment focus.)
Repeat again (Yes, repeat; perhaps on the second side or at a different angle so everyone can see.)
Any questions? (Ask if there are any questions about the pose or the elements being pointed out.)

I hope you all have a great weekend. Enjoy Mother's Day!

CLIMBING INTO THE SADDLE - FINALLY!

2011-05-02T07:30:00.003-06:00

What, now you have a horse? No -- that is just my 'catchy' title for my first week of teaching yoga in So. California. Tomorrow is the day - first class at 10:30 am, a basic Anusara-Inspired™ class in Carlsbad. Then, up to Temecula for a 2 pm class, titled "Therapeutic/Gentle Yoga" (I understand there were people trying to attend last week -- a good thing, even tho I wasn't there.).

On Thursday, the morning will be the same - 10:30 am, basic Anusara-Inspired™ in Carlsbad. The afternoon, however, will change a bit -- 4 pm, basic Anusara-Inspired™, back in Temecula.

I think I mentioned in an earlier blog that I'm going to stick with this Tues/Thurs schedule for a while, see how it feels, and - perhaps - fill in around it. When I left Salt Lake, I had built a pretty crazy schedule for myself -- several regular private clients, plus 4 classes each week, everything on a different day/time. I felt like I was always running, and - even - forgetting at times. This will be an opportunity to start fresh and keep it simple.

Just to catch you up on my family 'stuff' - my Mother is moved. She was not happy about the smaller apartment and let us know it in her signature style -- I'd call it passive-aggressive, you might call it stomping your feet while saying "I'll just get used to it". No matter what I (or you) call it, by Friday morning she was in a better humor -- planning where to hang some pictures (something she never did at the previous apartment), and going down to the dining hall for her meals (also something she never did at the previous apartment). Everything was moved by late afternoon on Friday, some pictures were hung, and much of the moved 'stuff' was unpacked.

Saturday morning (early) I was on a plane back to Orange County (via SLC). All going smooth as silk, until I discovered I had forgotten to turn headlights off and had a dead battery. Fortunately, the tow truck arrived quickly and I was on the road south to Fallbrook by 2:30 pm (instead of 1, as I had planned). Double fortunate -- traffic was light and the drive took just an hour.

Dinner Saturday night was out with Howard - nice. And Sunday, was our first opportunity to have the grand-dudes and their cousins out for dinner (plus their parents). We have a great space outside, but no patio furniture to speak of. Instead I suggested a picnic on the grass for the kids -- you'd have thought I offered them gold or something. So fun to see that excitement.

Now, back to my post title -- about the saddle. What will my theme be? What will I teach these new-to-me (and possibly new-to-yoga) students? I think I'll need a couple plans, since they are very different populations on Tuesdays. And, even with plans, I'll need to stay flexible; teach to what appears in the room. But then, I like doing that.

Today? Carpet to be installed in our combination yoga / workout space (I've worked a deal with husband to share the room -- he gets half for his equipment; I get half for my mat. Since it's a decent sized room, I think that's a pretty good deal, considering the size of yoga mats vs. ellipticals and spin cycles.) I'll also work on ideas for tomorrow's teaching, and rest a bit. Might even take in a yoga class later today.

Hope you have a great Monday!

MOVING DAY, AGAIN

2011-04-28T07:11:00.003-06:00

This seems like a 'groundhog day' type of title, doesn't it. If you are a regular reader, you are wondering "didn't she already move?", and you are right - I did. Now, tho, I am helping my mother move and today's the day.

This is a move necessitated by finances and by a desire to have her closer to extended family. Not a move of her choice. And, I know she is not happy with the choices ahead of her. Mainly about belongings -- some can stay with her and some have to go to storage due to lack of space.

There it is, again -- aparigraha, staring me in the face. Another reminder to let go of the 'stuff' in my life.

As much as she wants the 'nice' stuff, she also wants her memories. One memory is a wood-bound scrapbook with leather lacing (that she made herself). It's about a foot thick - the leather straps allowed it to grow with time and accumulation of memories. I had seen it throughout my life, but never paid much attention to it. For her, it will offer hours of reminiscence I'm sure. As I moved it into the apartment last night, I took the opportunity to open it and look at the contents -- old news articles, old corsages, high school and lower school memorabilia, etc. All part of another life for her. As she looks through it in the coming months/years, I think it will transport her to another time of her life - when all things were happy, possible and achievable. Hopefully, it will help make this transition more easeful.

I am looking for the good in all this -- she's taken care of, she hasn't used much of the 'stuff' that's been with her during the past year, she'll be closer to people who will visit and care for her. She, unhappily, is looking at all this moving and downsizing as us taking her 'stuff' away from her. Perhaps as she settles in, with scrapbook at her side, she will appreciate some good. I can only hope and do my best.

Howard is holding down the fort in Fallbrook -- getting bids for needed projects, having little things taken care of (Bose system hooked up to TV -- things like that), working (very important to fund all these projects), running errands. Staying busy.

I will return on Saturday and will begin teaching on Tuesday -- so excited. Already thinking about what themes to use -- I've generated a lot over the past 2 months. And, I'm looking forward to Tucson in late May -- going to YogaOasis for Darren, Christina and Amy -- total TSS (Triple Shot of Shakti).

So, time to sign off and get on with the day. Wish me luck and hope you have a great Thursday!

AND, THE NEXT CHAPTER?

2011-04-24T07:45:00.003-06:00

I leave tomorrow for Spokane; going up to help my Mother move from one assisted living facility to another (closer to family). More moving! The good? It's not my 'stuff' I'll be moving, and she has already substantially down-sized. But, there will be emotion -- she, despite being reclusive, has become acquainted with all her caregivers and leaving them for new ones, will be challenging. My plan is to move both parents into one facility (different areas, however), so they are closer to each other and family. I am hopeful that this will bring some calm to both their situations - which has kind of been like a train wreck so far. Nothing has gone according to plan.

Our original plan? Move both into assisted and skilled nursing at the same facility (which we did). Once Dad had recovered from the stroke, he would move into the apartment in assisted living (that has not happened - he has not made the level of recovery needed for that move - and, therefore moved to a nearby VA skilled care facility). What does that leave? Two people (married to one another), living in separate facilities, with huge strain on their emotions and at big financial consequences.

With this revised plan, both will be together, closer to most family members, in a facility that will offer care and will accept financial aid plans. Fingers crossed.

And my week in Fallbrook? Productive, though you might not think so if you hadn't been here watching the day-to-day activities (in other words, it's still a work in progress).

Painters are done with the inside - looks good and clean.
We have 80% of the blinds installed - nice.
A kitchen table and chairs was purchased and delivered - comfy and 'chic' looking.
More boxes unpacked, more arranging of furnishings accomplished - love the spaciousness that gives us.
One large piece of furniture sold - yes!
Previous owners' leftovers disposed of - either to garbage or to thrift stores.
Dishwasher in and working -- double yes!!
Garage organization begun - thank you, Howard (husband).

Excited to return from Spokane to begin teaching. Gearing up by sending studios pics and bios - I really need to have a few pictures taken; later, I guess. Anxious to begin connecting with students and the yoga community more fully. In Spokane, I'll try to do a couple classes; tho, no guarantees there either. Stay fluid.

Hope you have a good week!